New program lets Wake County homeowners slash utility bills. Here’s how
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- Program is statewide; applications open through 2031 or until funds run out.
- Energy Saver NC expands statewide; Wake County now eligible for rebates.
- Income-based rebates cover up to 100% under 80% AMI; apply online.
Wake County residents can now join a statewide program meant to cover the costs of making homes more energy efficient and lowering utility bills.
The Energy Saver NC program is now open to all 100 counties, which offers eligible households a chance to make efficiency upgrades to their homes or adding high-efficiency electrical appliances.
“Energy Saver NC will help Wake County families who need it most save money on utility bills, make their homes healthier and more comfortable, reduce pollution emissions and improve our air quality,” said Department of Environmental Quality Secretary Reid Wilson. “This vital program will improve North Carolinians’ lives on a daily basis, from efficient new electric appliances to installation of new heating and cooling systems.”
Utility companies, like Duke Energy and Enbridge Gas, both warned customers the prolonged cold in January could lead to higher bills, The News & Observer reported previously. Still, many were surprised when those pricey bills came.
How do the programs work?
There are two ways for people to make improvements to their homes.
- Homeowners Managing Efficiency Savings (HOMES): This program provides an up to $16,000 rebate for home efficiency upgrades like air sealing or energy-efficient HVAC units.
- Home Electrification and Appliance Rebates (HEAR): This program provides an up to $14,000 rebate for high-efficiency electrical appliances like a heat pump water heaters and electric stoves.
Who qualifies for the program?
Rebates are offered based on household income and the projected energy savings. The program is open to all 100 counties.
Up to 100% of costs could be covered by the rebate for households making less than 80% of the area median income. For example, a four-person household in Wake County earning up to $104,200 or a one-person household earning up to $72,950 may qualify for a full rebate, program documents say.
Up to 50% of the costs could be covered by the rebate for household making between 80% and 150% of the area median income.
How can I apply?
People can apply online at energysavernc.org.
And you can call 866-998-8555 between 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday for help confirming if you qualify based on your income.
Applications are open until 2031 or until funds are used up, and this program is first come-first served.
This story was originally published February 23, 2026 at 3:46 PM with the headline "New program lets Wake County homeowners slash utility bills. Here’s how."
