Federal Program Guides
Comprehensive, plain-language explainers for every major federal energy rebate and tax credit program. Each guide covers eligibility requirements, dollar amounts, how to apply, and common pitfalls to avoid.
Tax Credit Programs
Section 25C — Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit
Up to $3,200 per year for heat pumps, insulation, windows, doors, electrical panels, water heaters, and energy audits. Available to all homeowners regardless of income. Covers 30% of costs through 2032.
Section 25D — Residential Clean Energy Credit
30% tax credit with no dollar cap for solar panels, battery storage, geothermal heat pumps, solar water heaters, wind turbines, and fuel cells. Available for both new and existing homes through 2032, then phases down to 26% in 2033 and 22% in 2034.
Section 30C — EV Charger Tax Credit
Up to $1,000 (30% of cost) for residential Level 2 EV charger installation. Must be located in an eligible census tract — low-income community or rural area. Includes bidirectional charging equipment. Available through 2032.
Rebate Programs
HOMES — Home Owner Managing Energy Savings Rebate
Whole-home performance-based rebates of $2,000 to $8,000 based on measured or modeled energy savings. Enhanced rebates for households below 80% AMI. State-administered with rolling launch dates. Two pathways: modeled and measured.
HEAR — High-Efficiency Electric Home Rebate
Point-of-sale rebates up to $14,000 per household for electrification upgrades. Income-qualified only (under 150% AMI). Covers heat pumps ($8,000), water heaters ($1,750), electric stoves ($840), electrical panels ($4,000), wiring ($2,500), and insulation ($1,600).
Assistance Programs
WAP — Weatherization Assistance Program
Free weatherization services for low-income households (below 200% of federal poverty level). DOE-funded since 1976. Includes insulation, air sealing, furnace repair, window repair, and health and safety improvements. No cost to the homeowner. Average savings of $283 per year.
Comparison Guides
Heat Pump vs Furnace — Which Should You Choose?
Compare cost, efficiency, climate suitability, and available rebates to decide between a heat pump and a furnace for your home.
Water Heater Comparison — Heat Pump vs Tankless vs Standard
Compare water heater types by cost, energy savings, and rebate eligibility. Heat pump water heaters qualify for the most incentives.
Solar vs Battery Storage — Which to Install First
Understand the trade-offs between solar panels and battery storage, including how to maximize the 30% federal tax credit.
Eligibility & Strategy Guides
How to Stack Rebates — Maximize Your Total Savings
Learn how to legally combine federal, state, and utility programs. Some households save $10,000+ by stacking.
Low-Income Energy Rebates — Free & Discounted Upgrades
Households below 80% AMI qualify for the highest rebate amounts, plus free WAP weatherization services.
Moderate-Income Eligibility — 80%–150% AMI
Moderate-income households qualify for enhanced HOMES rebates and 50% HEAR rebate amounts.
Renter vs Homeowner — Which Rebates Apply to You?
Renters and homeowners qualify for different programs. Find out which credits and rebates fit your living situation.
Manufactured Home Rebates — Special Programs Available
Manufactured and mobile home owners have access to special rebate programs with enhanced eligibility.
2026 Rebate Deadlines — Key Dates to Remember
Important dates for tax credit filings, HOMES/HEAR program launches, and utility rebate expirations in 2026.
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