State rebates help eligible homeowners, renters save money

KENANSVILLE — The chill of winter is here and for many, so are the high energy bills. For some households across Duplin County, that could mean a first peek at a room with drafty windows, aging heaters or a system running overtime. Thanks to the state’s Energy Saver North Carolina program, Duplin homeowners and renters now have access to rebates for upgrades that make homes warmer and cheaper to run.

The  Energy Saver initiative helps cover the cost of upgrades such as heat pumps, insulation, high-efficiency windows and doors, and energy-efficient appliances, while also supporting local businesses and boosting the local economy.

The program, launched by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality earlier this year and officially opened to Duplin County households in November and offers more than $208 million in federally funded rebates.

Energy Saver NC consists of two components: Homeowners Managing Efficiency Savings (HOMES) and Home Electrification and Appliance Rebates (HEAR).

HOMES provides up to $16,000 for home improvements such as air sealing, high-performance windows/doors and energy-efficient HVAC units. HEAR covers up to $14,000 for electric appliances like heat pumps, water heaters, stoves, wiring and insulation. These rebates can often be combined with federal tax credits (like the federal Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit) and some utility incentives, as long as stacked incentives do not exceed the project cost.

Eligibility is based on household income. In Duplin County, a two-person household earning up $48,900 or a four-person household earning up to $61,100 may qualify for a full rebate, while families earning 80% – 150% of the area median income are eligible for partial rebates. The program targets single-family, owner-occupied or rented homes, particularly in areas with high energy costs or storm impacts. Single‑family homes (including manufactured homes) are the primary target, but tenants can qualify if the property owner agrees.

Approved participants receive a free home energy assessment from licensed Energy Saver NC contractors, who provide recommendations and complete the work once approved.  Applications can be submitted online, by email, phone, or mail, with customer support available weekdays from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. at 866-998-8555 or visit energysavernc.org.

The program is currently open to 39 counties and will continue to open to more counties across North Carolina in the future. The program is expected to run through 2031.

Duplin County income eligibility by household size

1 Person 42,800

2 Person $48,900

3 Person $55,000

4 Person $61,100

5 Person $66,000

6 Person $70,900

7 Person $75,800

8 Person $80,700