North Carolina launched Energy Saver NC, a $208 million rebate program designed to reduce energy costs, create jobs, and enhance resilience through home efficiency upgrades and appliance incentives.

Energy Saver NC includes two key programs: Homeowners Managing Efficiency Savings (HOMES) and Home Electrification and Appliance Rebates (HEAR).

Eligible homeowners can receive up to $16,000 for home efficiency improvements, such as insulation, air sealing, or upgrading HVAC systems to reduce emissions. The rebates also cover up to $14,000 for purchasing and installing electric appliances like heat-pump water heaters and electric stoves. For example, HEAR offers up to $8,000 for heat pumps used for heating and cooling.

Eligibility:

• Up to 100% of project cost covered (up to certain amounts): Household income less than 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI)
• Up to 50% of project cost covered (up to certain amounts): Household income between 80% and 150% of AMI
• Not eligible: Household income more than 150% of AMI

Single-family homeowners, multifamily property owners, and tenants (with the owner’s permission) are eligible to apply.

Low-income applicants must complete a free home assessment as part of the application process, while moderate-income applicants will receive a discounted home assessment. All applicants are required to work with a state-approved contractor for the improvements—DIY projects are not permitted.

Applications for Energy Saver NC rebates are now open. For more information, visit the program’s website at www.energysavernc.org. Eligible homeowners will receive a detailed list of all the programs they qualify for.

The program will be available until 2031, or until funds are exhausted.

The Department of Environmental Quality is hosting informational sessions across the state for homeowners seeking assistance or more details about the program. Lumbee River EMC is partnering with them and will provide additional updates as they become available.