Accessing Energy-Saving Insulation Benefits

Accessing energy-saving insulation benefits starts with understanding the rebate programs available to North Carolina homeowners. Working with an experienced insulation contractor can simplify the process of navigating these programs, including federal tax credits, state initiatives like Energy Saver NC, and incentives from Duke Energy. These programs collectively aim to enhance energy efficiency and lower costs through various rebates and credits.

Standard Insulating Company’s team of experts is dedicated to helping Charlotte homeowners access every rebate they qualify for. As a trusted local contractor with decades of experience, we understand how each program works and what documentation is required. We handle the details—from income verification to rebate submissions—so you can focus on making your home more comfortable and energy efficient.

North Carolina Energy Rebates

Energy Saver North Carolina

The Energy Saver NC program provides up to $16,000 per home for whole-house energy improvements. Standard Insulating Company is a prequalified contractor for this initiative, covering Mecklenburg, Cabarrus, Gaston, Union, and surrounding counties.

Energy Saver North Carolina Benefits

• Up to $1,600 for insulation and air sealing upgrades, including attic, wall, floor, and crawl space insulation.
• Rebates tiered by income: households at or below 80% AMI receive full rebates; those at 80–150% AMI receive partial rebates.
• Combined measures (e.g., insulation plus efficient HVAC) can push total incentives toward the $16,000 cap.

Energy Saver North Carolina Eligibility

• Focuses on low- and moderate-income households in North Carolina.
• Rebates vary by households income
• Open to single-family homeowners and renters with approval.
• Requires income verification for rebate eligibility.
• Must use DEQ-registered contractors for installations.

North Carolina Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)

The North Carolina Weatherization Assistance Program, initiated in the 1970s, aims to improve energy efficiency in homes of low-income families. Administered locally by Mecklenburg County DSS, WAP delivers free weatherization services to income-qualified households (up to 200% federal poverty level).

Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)Benefits

• No-cost installation of insulation, air sealing, and HVAC repairs.
• Focus on the elderly, disabled, and families with children.

Weatherization Assistance Program Eligibility

• Open to North Carolina residents, homeowners, renters.
• Recipients of SSI, TANF, or Work First qualify.
• Requires landlord approval for renters participating.
• High-energy-burden households receive prioritization.
• Possible waitlists due to high demand.

Federal Home Energy Rebates Programs

Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) Tax Credits

The IRA Tax Credit Program encourages homeowners to work with insulation contractors to make energy-efficient home upgrades by offering federal tax credits to offset initial costs. These credits make sustainable improvements more affordable and help reduce energy use and carbon footprints. Homeowners can save on energy bills long-term and aid in fighting climate change by participating in the program.

The Energy Efficiency Home Improvement tax credit reduces what you owe in federal income tax by 30% of your insulation and air sealing material costs, up to $1,200. It can be applied to:

• Attic insulation
• Crawl space insulation
• Wall insulation
• Floor insulation
• Air sealing

Home Electrification and Appliance Rebate (HEAR)

Launched in January 2025, the Home Electrification and Appliance Rebate (HEAR) program offers point-of-sale rebates for energy-efficient appliances and electrification upgrades. With benefits up to $14,000 per household, including $8,000 for heat pumps and $1,600 for insulation, it’s designed to assist low- and moderate-income households below 150% of the Area Median Income, promoting energy efficiency.

Home Electrification and Appliance Rebate (HEAR) Eligibility

• Household income must be below 150% of Area Median Income.
• Property must be a primary residence within North Carolina.
• Rebates apply to energy-efficient projects such as attic insulation upgrades.
• Applicant must provide proof of income eligibility.
• Rebates apply only to new installations or replacements.

Homeowner Managing Efficiency Savings (HOMES)

Launched in 2023, the Homeowner Managing Efficiency Savings (HOMES) program offers incentives for homeowners to undertake energy-efficient upgrades in their residences. Focusing on lowering energy bills and enhancing home comfort, the program benefits all income levels, with greater support for low- and moderate-income households, encouraging sustainable living and reducing carbon emissions.

Homeowner Managing Efficiency Savings (HOMES) Eligibility

• Homeowner Managing Efficiency Savings (HOMES)
• Must be a primary residence in North Carolina.
• Home must achieve at least 20% energy savings.
• Applications must include comprehensive energy audit results.
• Income documentation required for low-income rebate eligibility.
• Upgrades must be performed by certified insulation contractors.

Who manages the HEAR and HOMES programs?

Both the Home Electrification and Appliance Rebate (HEAR) and Homeowner Managing Energy Savings (HOMES) programs are active in North Carolina under the Energy Saver North Carolina initiative. Both programs are federally funded through the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) but administered by the DEQ. North Carolina was the first state to fully launch both programs simultaneously.