With rebates of up to $16,000 for home energy efficiency improvements and $14,000 for high-efficiency appliances, the program addresses energy burdens faced by low- and moderate-income households. Eligible upgrades include insulation, heat pumps, and electrical panels, creating both immediate and long-term savings on utility bills. Notably, North Carolina is the first state to fully launch both the Homeowners Managing Efficiency Savings (HOMES) and Home Electrification and Appliance Rebates (HEAR) programs.
Governor Josh Stein emphasized the dual benefits of this initiative, noting its role in advancing a clean energy economy while reducing costs for families. "Energy Saver NC will create job opportunities and put money back in hard-working North Carolinians’ pockets," Stein remarked. These upgrades also promise healthier, more comfortable living conditions and reduced greenhouse gas emissions, according to DEQ Secretary Reid Wilson.
For regions in Western North Carolina recovering from the devastation of storms like Hurricane Helene, Energy Saver NC could be a game-changer. By integrating energy-efficient upgrades into rebuilding efforts, residents can lower utility costs while enhancing resilience against future disruptions. Julie Woosley, director of North Carolina’s State Energy Office, highlighted the program’s focus on underserved areas, saying, “When you’re rebuilding with insurance money, you may not be focused on energy efficiency, but this program ensures that savings and sustainability become part of the process.”
Moreover, the program supports over 2,300 jobs statewide, boosting local economies and providing work for contractors specializing in energy-efficient installations. As energy demands continue to rise, initiatives like Energy Saver NC play a critical role in balancing the grid while advancing North Carolina’s clean energy goals.
Residents can apply online or through other accessible methods, with additional support available for low-income households. As the program extends through 2031 or until funds are exhausted, it stands as a vital step towards a more sustainable and equitable future for communities across the state. For Western North Carolina, this initiative is not just about rebuilding—it’s about building smarter and stronger.
