The Home Efficiency Rebates (HOMES) program provides rebates to homeowners who make energy-saving improvements to their home. The goal is to help reduce energy use, lower utility bills, and make homes more comfortable year-round. Whether you’re looking to upgrade insulation, improve air sealing, or install a more efficient heating and cooling system, HOMES can help offset the cost.
Federal Home Energy Rebates in Wisconsin
Wisconsin was the first state in the nation to launch home energy rebate programs funded by the federal Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). These rebates are designed to help households save money, improve energy efficiency, and make clean energy upgrades more affordable. The programs are administered by Focus on Energy, Wisconsin’s statewide energy efficiency and renewable energy program.
What is the HEAR Program?
The Home Electrification and Appliance Rebate (HEAR) program provides rebates to help low-and moderate-income households upgrade to energy-efficient electric upgrades. These rebates make it more affordable to switch to efficient heating and cooling systems, water heaters, and even upgrade your electrical system if needed.
Watch a Presentation about the HOMES and HEARs Programs
FAQs
What is the HOMES program?
The HOMES program provides rebates to homeowners who make energy-saving improvements to their home. The goal is to help reduce energy use, lower utility bills, and make homes more comfortable year-round. Whether you’re looking to upgrade insulation, improve air sealing, or install a more efficient heating and cooling system, HOMES can help offset the cost.
Who is eligible?
All Wisconsin homeowners are eligible for the HOMES program, regardless of income. However, the amount of the rebate depends on how much energy your improvements are expected to save, as well as your household income level.
What kinds of upgrades qualify?
To receive a rebate, homeowners must complete an energy assessment through an IRA Registered Contractor. The assessment will identify the best improvements for maximizing energy efficiency. Eligible upgrades may include air sealing, insulation improvements, or high-efficiency heating and cooling systems.
How do I get started?
- Find an IRA Registered Contractor who can perform a home energy assessment.
- Complete qualifying energy upgrades based on the contractor’s recommendations.
- Apply for your rebate through Focus on Energy once the work is done.
What is the HEAR program?
The HEAR program provides rebates to help low-and moderate-income households upgrade to energy-efficient electric upgrades. These rebates make it more affordable to switch to efficient heating and cooling systems, water heaters, and even upgrade your electrical system if needed.
Who is eligible?
To be eligible, your household income must be at or below 150% of the Area Median Income. This program is designed to help homeowners and renters make energy-efficient upgrades that might otherwise be too expensive.
What upgrades are covered?
The maximum rebate per household is $14,000, and all equipment must be purchased and installed by an IRA Registered Contractor. If you qualify, you can receive rebates for:
- ENERGY STAR electric heat pumps (up to $8,000) to heat & cool your home efficiently
- ENERGY STAR heat pump water heaters (up to $1,750) for lower water heating costs
- Electric panel upgrades (up to $4,000) to support new energy-efficient appliances
- Electrical wiring improvements (up to $2,500) to ensure safe and reliable connections
- Insulation, air sealing, and ventilation (up to $1,600) to improve comfort and efficiency
How do I get started?
- Check your income eligibility using the online tool: IRA Income Qualification Checklist.
- Work with an IRA Registered Contractor to select and install your upgrades.
- Submit your rebate application to Focus on Energy once the work is done.
Are any other states offering these programs?
- Michigan is offering home energy rebates. Visit the Michigan Home Energy Rebates page to learn more.