Home Efficiency Rebates Program

Home Energy Rebates Program Solicitation of Written Comment

The NHDOE has requested written comment from residential contractors and retailers on topics and program design elements that the Department should consider as it continues to develop both the Home Efficiency Rebates Program and the Home Electrification and Appliance Rebates Program. The solicitation continues to be open for comment. View the solicitation below for more information.

• Home Energy Rebates Solicitation of Written Comment
   

Home Efficiency Rebates Program Information

This rebate program was created as part of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). The IRA offers $4.3 billion in formula grants to states to reduce the upfront cost of whole-home energy efficiency upgrades in single-family and multi-family homes. Under this program, the New Hampshire Department of Energy (NHDOE) is slated to receive $34,882,819 through September 2031. 

Rebate amounts for consumers will be dependent on the modeled energy savings of the project and the income of the household.

The United States Department of Energy (USDOE) issued revised guidance in October 2023 with additional resources given in November 2023. This guidance indicated that projects begun on or after August 16, 2022, that meet state and federal Home Efficiency Rebates Program requirements qualify to receive a rebate.

Currently, Home Efficiency Rebates Program funding is not available to NH consumers. NHDOE has hired staff to oversee this program and has submitted its application on August 16, 2024 for the state’s formula allocation. NHDOE reiterates to consumers that federal guidance remains fluid, and they should be cautious about undertaking projects before NHDOE has received funding and all final approvals from USDOE and NHDOE has established its program. 

Single and multi-family: 

The Department plans to allow the lesser of the following rebate amounts* per unit:

• 20-34% modeled energy savings: 
  • % of project cost: 100% OR
  • $ amount of project cost: $15,000
• At least 35% of modeled energy savings:
  • % of project cost: 100% OR
  • $ amount of project cost: $20,000

* Please note that the rebate amounts indicated may change based on guidance received and program approval from the US DOE *

FAQs:

Is NHDOE applying for the federal funds for this program? 
Yes, NHDOE applied for its formula allocation of $34,882,819 under the Home Efficiency Rebates Program on August 16, 2024.

When will these rebates be available?
NHDOE has filed an application for the Home Efficiency Rebates Program funding on August 16, 2024. Based on that date, we anticipate that rebates will be available in the third quarter of 2025.

NHDOE must file an application with USDOE to receive its Home Efficiency Rebates Program funding. The application must detail NHDOE’s program design and how rebates would be given to consumers. These applications are complex and require a significant amount of time and coordination to complete. USDOE is currently reviewing the application and either approve it as written, or request changes. USDOE will review and approve applications on a rolling basis, but it has not indicated how long that review and approval process will take. 

What steps is NHDOE taking to file its Home Efficiency Rebates Program application?
NHDOE filed an application for this program on August 16, 2024. 

How can I get a rebate? 
This will depend on a variety of factors, but foremost is NHDOE’s consideration for a program design that makes the rebate process as easy and seamless as possible to access and done in conjunction with existing energy efficiency programs. Further information will be posted here as it becomes available.

Can I get a rebate for work already done?
Potentially. Per Programs Requirements & Application Instructions, Version 2, Home Efficiency Rebates Programs managed by states must provide rebates to projects that are initiated on or after August 16, 2022 and meet all other federal and state programmatic requirements. However, NHDOE is urging consumers to be patient as federal guidance has evolved and NHDOE works to get approval for the design of its program.

How much of a rebate can I get under the Home Efficiency Rebates Program?
The size of the rebate is dependent upon the modeled energy savings of the project and the income of the household. Please refer to the rebate amounts indicated above.

How is “Low Moderate Income” defined? 
“Low Moderate Income” is defined as 80% of area median income.

How do I find area median income for my area?
You can look up area median income using HUD's Income Limits Documentation System. Select your town in the box on the right, then select ‘view county calculations.’ Review the columns to find the column representing the number of persons in your family (who live in the same home). 80% of AMI for your household will be the bottom row.

Where can I see USDOE’s latest Home Efficiency Rebates Program updates?
Consumers are encouraged to visit USDOE’s Home Energy Rebates Program webpage. NHDOE will strive to keep this website revised with the latest information. Consumers can also access USDOE’s FAQ webpage.

What other federal incentives may be available to consumers in New Hampshire?
USDOE set up a platform called the Energy Consumer Savings Hub. This Hub details the federal incentives available for consumer appliances, electric vehicles, and various home improvements. Please note that NHDOE does not provide advice or guidance on federal tax credits. Consumers are strongly advised to consult with a qualified tax professional.

Page last updated: 09/09/2024