How much can I get from Energy Saver NC for a heat pump?

The HEAR program provides up to $8,000 for an eligible ENERGY STAR heat pump. Your exact rebate level is determined by household income — families below 80% of Area Median Income qualify for the maximum amount.

Do I qualify for Energy Saver NC rebates?

Qualification hinges on household income. If your household falls below 150% of Area Median Income, you may be eligible. Current LIEAP or Medicaid enrollment provides automatic qualification. Verify your status at energysavernc.org.

Can I use Energy Saver NC and Duke Energy rebates together?

You can. Energy Saver NC rebates layer with Duke Energy Smart $aver rebates and federal tax credits, provided combined incentives do not exceed the total project cost. Quality Mechanical identifies and files for every program you qualify for.

Energy Saver NC Rebates

Energy Saver NC can put up to $8,000 toward your heat pump — see whether your WNC household qualifies.

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Professional Energy Saver NC Rebates in Asheville & Western NC

Energy Saver North Carolina is a state-administered rebate initiative designed to help income-eligible homeowners and renters offset the cost of energy-efficient upgrades — with heat pump rebates reaching $8,000. Quality Mechanical is a registered participating contractor.

About the Energy Saver NC Program

Energy Saver NC is the state's official HOMES and HEAR rebate program, run by the NC Department of Environmental Quality. Federal Inflation Reduction Act dollars fund the program, and it is open in all 100 North Carolina counties. Funds are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis through 2031.

HEAR Program — Up to $14,000 for Electrification Upgrades

The Home Electrification and Appliance Rebates (HEAR) track provides: ENERGY STAR heat pump (heating and cooling): up to $8,000. ENERGY STAR heat pump water heater: up to $1,750. Electrical panel upgrade: up to $4,000. Electrical wiring improvements: up to $2,500. Insulation, air sealing, and ventilation: up to $1,600. The per-household HEAR cap is $14,000. This track is most relevant if you are exploring a new heat pump or transitioning from gas to electric.

HOMES Program — Up to $16,000 for Whole-Home Performance

The Homeowners Managing Efficiency Savings (HOMES) track funds bundled improvements that achieve a minimum 20% reduction in energy use. Qualifying packages can combine air sealing, insulation, and HVAC replacement. The per-household cap is $16,000. A free home energy assessment determines which upgrades qualify.

Who Is Eligible

Rebate levels are tied to your household income as a percentage of Area Median Income (AMI): Below 80% AMI: maximum rebate tiers (up to 100% of project cost). 80%–150% AMI: mid-level rebates (up to 50% of project cost). Above 150% AMI: not eligible for this program, though Duke Energy rebates and federal tax credits may still apply. Active LIEAP or Medicaid enrollment can automatically qualify you for higher rebate levels.

Application Process

Visit energysavernc.org to confirm your eligibility. Select the HEAR pathway for individual equipment upgrades (such as a heat pump) or the HOMES pathway for comprehensive efficiency projects. Then schedule an estimate with a registered contractor. Quality Mechanical handles the entire workflow — from the initial estimate through installation and rebate filing.

Layering Multiple Incentives

Energy Saver NC rebates combine with Duke Energy Smart $aver rebates and federal tax credits (up to $2,000 on qualifying heat pumps). Eligible households can see total incentives on a heat pump installation exceed $10,000. Call (828) 845-1974 or request a free quote to find out what programs apply to you.