Home energy rebates in 2026 (after federal tax credit changes)
Federal 25C/25D tax credits are largely gone for new 2026 installs, but state HEAR/HOMES rebates and utility incentives remain where programs are live. This guide maps what to check before you buy—not what a contractor promises on a quote.
Programs that still matter in 2026
| Program | What it covers | WattRebate tool |
|---|---|---|
| HEAR (electrification) | Heat pumps, HPWH, induction, wiring, panel—subject to $14,000 household cap | Whole-home planner |
| HOMES (efficiency) | Whole-home performance rebates tied to modeled or measured savings | State guides |
| Utility rebates | Territory-specific electrification offers from your electric or gas utility | Utility guides |
| 30C EV charging credit | For qualifying residential EV charging property placed in service from January 1, 2023, to June 30, 2026, subject to location and other IRS rules. | EV charger calculator |
| 25C tax credit | Do not count by default for 2026 installs. IRS guidance says qualifying improvements were claimable for improvements made through December 31, 2025. | Methodology |
Where to start
- Check whether HEAR is live in your state (14 states in WattRebate data as of 2026-06-04) on the HEAR rollout tracker.
- Pre-check your utility with the ZIP tool or utility catalog.
- Model federal caps in a calculator, then run the stacking checklist before signing.
Common questions
Did all federal home energy tax credits end in 2026?
The Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit (25C) and Residential Clean Energy Credit (25D) generally ended for qualifying property placed in service after December 31, 2025. Some credits such as 30C for residential EV charging may still apply through June 30, 2026, subject to IRS rules.
What replaced the federal tax credits for most homeowners?
State-administered Home Electrification and Appliance Rebates (HEAR) and Home Efficiency Rebates (HOMES) use IRA funding distributed to states and tribes. Utility electrification programs continue separately in many territories.
How much can HEAR pay per household?
HEAR caps total electrification rebates at $14,000 per household for qualifying income tiers where the state program is active, with per-measure caps such as $8,000 for heat pumps.
Should I trust a contractor's rebate number?
Treat contractor quotes as estimates until you confirm launch status, pre-approval, equipment lists, and income verification on official program portals. Use WattRebate checklists and calculators for pre-quote research only.