North Carolina Energy Rebates 2026
North Carolina homeowners in 2026 can access federal HEAR and HOMES rebates administered by the NC Department of Environmental Quality (NCDEQ), plus utility rebates from Duke Energy's Smart Saver program (the state's largest utility). The 25C and 25D federal tax credits expired December 31, 2025. Duke Energy serves approximately 4 million customers across both Carolinas, making the Smart Saver program one of the most widely available utility rebate options in the state.
HOMES Rebate Program in North Carolina
| 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 NCDEQ. Provides up to $4,000 for modeled savings of 20–35% whole-home energy reduction, and up to $8,000 for 35%+ savings. Income-qualified households (≤80% AMI) receive doubled rebate amounts. A qualifying whole-home energy audit is required to determine projected savings and rebate eligibility.
HEAR (HEEHRA) Rebates in North Carolina
| 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.
North Carolina State Incentive Programs
NC Weatherization Assistance Program
Federally funded through the DOE WAP program and administered by NCDEQ, weatherization services are delivered through local community action agencies. Serves income-qualified households (typically at or below 200% of federal poverty level) with free insulation, air sealing, HVAC improvements, and health and safety upgrades.
Learn moreDuke Energy Smart Saver Program
Duke Energy's flagship residential rebate program covers heat pumps, smart thermostats, attic insulation, duct sealing, and heat pump water heaters. Available across Duke Energy Carolinas and Duke Energy Progress service territories, which cover the majority of North Carolina.
Learn moreUtility Rebate Programs in North Carolina
Area Median Income (AMI) in North Carolina
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) |
|---|---|---|
| Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia MSA | $86,400 | $162,000 |
| Raleigh-Cary MSA | $98,480 | $184,650 |
| Durham-Chapel Hill MSA | $84,480 | $158,400 |
| Greensboro-High Point MSA | $71,120 | $133,350 |
| Asheville MSA | $69,680 | $130,650 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What energy rebates are available in North Carolina in 2026?
North Carolina homeowners in 2026 can access: (1) HEAR rebates for heat pumps (up to $8,000), heat pump water heaters (up to $1,750), insulation (up to $1,600), and electrical panels (up to $4,000) — administered by NCDEQ; (2) HOMES whole-home performance rebates up to $8,000; (3) Duke Energy Smart Saver utility rebates for heat pumps (up to $400), insulation (up to $400), and smart thermostats ($75). The 25C and 25D federal tax credits expired December 31, 2025.
Are federal tax credits still available in North Carolina?
No. The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA, P.L. 119-21, signed July 4, 2025) terminated the Section 25C Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit and the Section 25D Residential Clean Energy Credit 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 and HOMES rebates are the primary federal incentive paths.
How do I check if I qualify for HOMES or HEAR rebates in North Carolina?
HEAR rebates use Area Median Income (AMI) thresholds. At or below 80% AMI: 100% of appliance cost covered up to the cap. Between 80–150% AMI: 50% of cost covered. Above 150% AMI: not eligible for HEAR but may qualify for HOMES based on energy savings performance. AMI limits vary by metro area — Charlotte-area 80% AMI is approximately $86,400 for a 4-person household; Raleigh-area is approximately $98,480. Use our calculator for a personalized estimate.
Can I combine Duke Energy rebates with HEAR in North Carolina?
Yes. Duke Energy Smart Saver utility rebates can generally be stacked with federal HEAR rebates. A heat pump project could earn up to $400 from Duke Energy's Smart Saver program plus up to $8,000 from HEAR (for income-qualifying households), plus up to $400 from Smart Saver for insulation and up to $1,600 from HEAR for insulation. Total potential: $10,400+ on a combined heat pump + insulation project.
Does North Carolina have any state-level energy tax credits in 2026?
No. North Carolina does not currently have a state income tax credit for residential energy efficiency improvements. The primary incentive paths in 2026 are federal HEAR and HOMES rebates (administered by NCDEQ) and Duke Energy's Smart Saver utility rebate program.
How to Claim Your North Carolina Rebates
