Up to $10,000 for home energy improvements: Who is eligible and how to apply
Some New York State residents are eligible for financial assistance of up to $10,000 for home energy improvements. Find out if you qualify and how to apply.
New York State has launched the Home Electrification and Appliance Rebate (HEAR) Program to reduce utility expenses at home. This assistance, brought about by the Inflation Reduction Act, intends to help low-income communities save by installing energy-efficient improvements.
According to official information, qualified New Yorkers can get home energy projects costing up to $10,000. These upgrades include heat pump installations, improved electrical panels, and insulation at a reduced cost. Here’s how the program works.
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Up to $10,000 for home energy improvements: Who is eligible
To be eligible for assistance, the homeowner’s or renter’s income must be below 80% of the state/area median income; or failing that, receive financial assistance for payment of public services. If you meet the eligibility requirements, you can get free comprehensive assessments to identify where energy is wasted in your home and receive a personalized plan to reduce your power use.
The improvements can be installed by contractors participating in the program, or you can obtain financing to carry them out. The program covers air sealing, insulation, heat pumps, heat pump water heaters, and electrical wiring and service upgrades, while the subsidized amount is based on the costs of the respective improvements, which are as follows:
- Air sealing, insulation and ventilation: $1,600
- Electrical Service Upgrade (panel box): $4,000
- Electrical wiring upgrade: $2,500
- Heat pump water heaters: $1,750
- Heat pumps: $8,000
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Low-income households are eligible for up to $10,000 per project, while moderate-income households are eligible for improvements of up to $5,000 per project. If the cost of the improvements exceeds the maximum amount, recipients can apply for low-interest financing through the NYSERDA or qualified IRA tax credits.
How to apply for home improvement assistance
People interested in receiving home energy improvement assistance can apply online through the New York State EmPower+ website. For more information about the program or questions about the application process, contact 866-NYSERDA or email info.residential@nyserda.ny.gov.