Delaware Energy Rebates 2026
Delaware homeowners in 2026 can access federal HEAR and HOMES rebates administered by the Delaware Division of Energy & Climate, plus the Green Energy Program which provides rebates for solar, heat pumps, and efficiency upgrades. Delaware is one of the smallest states but has well-organized state efficiency programs. The 25C and 25D federal tax credits expired December 31, 2025. Delaware's primary electric utility is Delmarva Power (an Exelon subsidiary), serving most of the state.
HOMES Rebate Program in Delaware
| Income Level | Max Rebate | Cost Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| Low income (≤80% AMI) | Up to $8,000 | 80% of project cost |
| Moderate income (80-150% AMI) | Up to $4,000 | 50% of project cost |
| Above 150% AMI | Not eligible | N/A |
HOMES rebates are administered by the Delaware Division of Energy & Climate. Provides up to $4,000 for 20–35% whole-home energy savings and up to $8,000 for 35%+ savings. Income-qualified households (≤80% AMI) receive doubled amounts.
HEAR (HEEHRA) Rebates in Delaware
| Equipment | Max Rebate |
|---|---|
| Heat Pump HVAC | Up to $8,000 |
| Electrical Panel | Up to $4,000 |
| Wiring Upgrade | Up to $2,500 |
| Heat Pump Water Heater | Up to $1,750 |
| Insulation & Weatherization | Up to $1,600 |
| Electric Stove/Cooktop | Up to $840 |
Maximum total: $14,000 per household (low-income, ≤80% AMI). Moderate income (80-150% AMI) can receive up to $7,000.
Delaware State Incentive Programs
Delaware Green Energy Program
The Delaware Green Energy Program provides rebates for solar installations, heat pumps, and energy efficiency improvements for Delaware residents. Funded through Delaware's Renewable Energy Portfolio Standard surcharge. Programs include rebates for solar photovoltaic, solar water heating, small wind, geothermal, and fuel cells.
Learn moreEnergize Delaware
Energize Delaware offers low-interest loans and financing for home energy improvement projects including heat pumps, insulation, windows, and other efficiency upgrades. This can complement HEAR and HOMES rebates by financing the portion of project costs not covered by rebates.
Learn moreDelaware Weatherization Assistance Program
Federally funded weatherization services for income-qualified Delaware households (at or below 200% of federal poverty level), delivered through local agencies. Delaware's small size allows for relatively efficient weatherization program administration.
Learn moreArea Median Income (AMI) in Delaware
HOMES and HEAR rebate amounts depend on your household income relative to the Area Median Income in your area. AMI varies by county and household size.
| Area | 80% AMI (Family of 4) | 150% AMI (Family of 4) |
|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington MSA (Delaware portion) | $93,840 | $175,950 |
| Dover MSA / Non-metro Delaware | $71,520 | $134,100 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What energy rebates are available in Delaware in 2026?
Delaware homeowners in 2026 can access: (1) Federal HEAR rebates for heat pumps (up to $8,000), heat pump water heaters ($1,750), insulation ($1,600), and electrical panels ($4,000) for income-qualified households (≤150% AMI); (2) HOMES whole-home performance rebates up to $8,000; (3) Delaware Green Energy Program rebates; (4) Energize Delaware low-interest loans; (5) Free weatherization for income-qualified households. The 25C and 25D federal tax credits expired December 31, 2025.
Are federal tax credits still available in Delaware?
No. The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA, P.L. 119-21, signed July 4, 2025) terminated the Section 25C and 25D federal energy tax credits for installations after December 31, 2025. If you installed qualifying equipment before that date, you can still claim the credit on your 2025 tax return. For 2026 installations, HEAR, HOMES, and the Delaware Green Energy Program are the primary incentive paths.
Does Delaware still have solar incentives without the 25D federal credit?
Yes. Delaware's Green Energy Program provides rebates for solar installations, and Delaware has net metering allowing solar customers to receive bill credits for excess generation sent to the grid. Delaware also participates in SRECs (Solar Renewable Energy Certificates) — solar system owners can earn and sell SRECs based on their production. While the federal 25D credit expired, these state and utility programs maintain solar economics in Delaware.
What is the Energize Delaware loan program?
Energize Delaware offers low-interest financing for home energy improvements including heat pumps, insulation, windows, and other qualifying upgrades. These loans can bridge the gap between rebate amounts and total project costs. For example, if a heat pump installation costs $12,000 and you receive $8,000 in HEAR rebates, an Energize Delaware loan could cover the remaining $4,000 at a low interest rate.
Who administers HEAR and HOMES rebates in Delaware?
The Delaware Division of Energy & Climate (within the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control, DNREC) administers both the HEAR and HOMES programs. Contact DNREC or visit the Delaware energy website to find participating contractors and current program details.