Thinking about lowering your energy bills or boosting your home’s appeal before you sell? North Carolina’s new Energy Saver NC rebates can cover a big portion of the cost to upgrade a Monroe home. Whether you are buying and planning improvements or prepping a listing, understanding timing and eligibility is key. In this guide, you will learn what the program offers, when Union County opens, how much you could save, and the simple steps to get ready. Let’s dive in.
What Energy Saver NC offers
Energy Saver NC is a state program that reduces the cost of home energy upgrades for income-eligible households. The program launched January 16, 2025 with about 208 million dollars in funding and is scheduled to run through 2031 or until funds run out. You can explore program basics and how to apply on the Energy Saver NC website. You can also read the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality announcement for launch details and funding.
Two tracks: HOMES and HEAR
- HOMES focuses on whole-home efficiency. You start with a free home assessment, then complete upgrades like insulation, air sealing, and HVAC right sizing. Rebates are based on modeled energy savings and must be installed by a Registered Contractor.
- HEAR offers instant discounts for specific products at installation. Eligible items include heat pumps, heat pump water heaters, electric ranges, dryers, electrical panels and wiring, plus insulation and air sealing, all through Registered Contractors.
Learn more about HOMES and HEAR on their program pages.
When Monroe can use it
As of Oct 10, 2025, Union County, which includes Monroe, is listed for Phase 6 with a target of December 2025. The state is rolling out the program by county, and timelines can shift, so check the Energy Saver NC update page before you schedule work.
What you can do now:
- Start your application online or by phone or mail so you are in the queue when Union County opens. The Resource Library has forms and contact details.
- Gather income and household documents using the program’s checklists in the Resource Library.
- Watch for Registered Contractors who will serve Union County. HOMES projects require an assessment and HEAR discounts are applied by participating contractors.
Who qualifies in Union County
Eligibility is based on area median income, or AMI. Households under 80 percent of AMI may qualify for up to 100 percent project coverage, subject to program caps. Households between 80 and 150 percent of AMI may qualify for 50 percent coverage. Households over 150 percent of AMI are not eligible. Check exact thresholds in the Energy Saver NC AMI Income Summary.
For Union County, 2025 examples of the 80 percent AMI upper limits are:
- 1-person: 62,850 dollars
- 2-person: 71,800 dollars
- 3-person: 80,800 dollars
- 4-person: 89,750 dollars
- 5-person: 96,950 dollars
- 6-person: 104,150 dollars
Example: a 4-person household under 89,750 dollars may qualify for the highest rebate tier, subject to program rules. The AMI PDF lists both 80 and 150 percent thresholds for all household sizes.
Common HEAR rebate amounts
- Whole-home heat pump: up to 8,000 dollars
- Electrical panel: up to 4,000 dollars
- Electrical wiring: up to 2,500 dollars
- Heat pump water heater: up to 1,750 dollars
- Insulation, air sealing, ventilation: up to 1,600 dollars
- Heat pump dryer or electric range: up to 840 dollars
See the state overview for current caps and product details.
How the process works
- Apply: Submit online, by phone, email, or mail. Starting early helps your application move faster once Union County opens. Use the Resource Library for forms and guidance.
- Use Registered Contractors: All work must be completed by Energy Saver NC Registered Contractors. HEAR discounts are applied at installation. HOMES projects require a free home assessment and installation by a Registered Contractor.
- Meet HOMES savings targets: Whole-home projects must achieve a minimum modeled savings threshold. Your assessor and contractor will model this.
- Prepare documents: Provide proof of income, service address, and utility information if requested. Renters can participate with owner authorization, which the program provides.
Can you stack incentives
Energy Saver NC allows you to combine program rebates with separate utility incentives, as long as the total does not exceed the purchase price. Policies can vary, so confirm stacking with both the program and your utility.
Monroe-area utilities to check for possible incentives or financing:
- City of Monroe Energy Services
- Duke Energy residential improvements
- Union Power Cooperative
Some upgrades may also qualify for federal tax credits that are separate from Energy Saver NC. The DEQ launch materials explain how state rebates differ from federal tax credits.
Quick start checklist for Monroe
- Confirm your electric provider and review any utility rebates or financing options.
- Start your Energy Saver NC application and upload income documents using the Resource Library.
- Track Registered Contractors who will serve Union County and request quotes once the county opens.
- Ask contractors to confirm stacking rules and ensure combined incentives do not exceed the purchase price.
Why this matters if you are buying or selling
Energy upgrades can make a listing more attractive and help reduce carrying costs while your home is on the market. If you are buying, these rebates can offset the cost of post-close improvements that boost comfort and lower monthly bills. Timing matters in Union County, so preparing now can position you to start quickly once the county is live. If you want local guidance on prioritizing improvements before a sale or after a purchase, reach out to the team at Lochmoor Realty.
FAQs
When will Energy Saver NC open in Union County for Monroe homes?
- As of Oct 10, 2025, Union County is scheduled for Phase 6 in December 2025; check the state’s Energy Saver NC update page for the latest timing.
What is the difference between HOMES and HEAR in North Carolina?
- HOMES supports whole-home projects guided by a free assessment and modeled savings, while HEAR delivers instant discounts on specific appliances and electrification items through Registered Contractors.
How much could a Monroe household receive from Energy Saver NC?
- Households under 80 percent AMI may be eligible for up to 100 percent coverage within program caps, and those between 80 and 150 percent AMI may receive 50 percent coverage; see the AMI Income Summary and state overview for caps.
Do I need a Registered Contractor to get rebates in Monroe?
- Yes, all installations must be done by Energy Saver NC Registered Contractors; HOMES also requires an approved assessment and HEAR discounts are applied at installation.
Can renters in Monroe use Energy Saver NC rebates?
- Yes, renters can participate if the property owner signs the required authorization and program documents available in the Resource Library.
Can I apply if I already installed a heat pump or water heater?
- HEAR rebates are generally not retroactive since discounts are applied at installation, and HOMES may have limited retroactive options; review program rules in the Resource Library or contact the help line.
