Home Energy News
Stay current on rebates, incentives, and industry changes.
HVAC Rebates in 2026: Federal Credits vs Utility Rebates
The federal HVAC tax credit picture changed after 2025. Here is how 2026 homeowners should compare expired federal credits, active utility rebates, state programs, and DOE Home Energy Rebates.
Insulation Rebates 2026: Utility Programs, DOE Rebates & Quote Checks
Federal insulation credit rules changed after 2025. Homeowners should compare current utility rebates, state programs, DOE Home Energy Rebates, and contractor documentation before starting work.
Florida Solar Update 2026: Net Metering, Utility Rules & Quote Checks
Florida remains a major solar market, but 2026 homeowners should compare net metering rules, utility requirements, hurricane-rated installation details, and current incentive assumptions before signing.
Heat Pump Adoption Keeps Climbing: What Homeowners Should Compare
US heat pump shipments have exceeded gas furnace shipments for the third consecutive year. The technology shift is accelerating across all climate zones, not just mild climates.
Window Rebates 2026: Utility Programs, State Rebates & Quote Checks
Federal window credit rules changed after 2025. Compare current utility rebates, state programs, ENERGY STAR and NFRC documentation, and contractor quote assumptions before buying.
ENERGY STAR Updates Standards for 2025: What Changes for HVAC, Windows, and Appliances
The EPA updated ENERGY STAR certification requirements for several product categories in 2025, raising the bar for qualifying HVAC systems, windows, and water heaters. Here's what changed and why it matters for tax credit claims.
Geothermal Heat Pump Incentives Expand in 2025: 30% Federal Credit + New State Programs
Geothermal heat pumps, long considered too expensive for most homeowners, are becoming financially competitive in 2025 thanks to the 30% IRA tax credit, new state programs, and falling installation costs.
Home Insurance Rates Surge 20% in 2025: How Energy Upgrades Can Lower Your Premium
Average home insurance premiums hit a national high in 2025, driven by climate claims and reinsurance costs. Certain home improvements — including impact roofing, storm shutters, and home hardening — can significantly cut premiums.
Solar Installation Backlogs Reach 12–16 Weeks in High-Demand Markets
Residential solar installation backlogs have stretched to 12–16 weeks in California, Texas, Florida, and the mid-Atlantic. If you're planning solar in 2025, getting into the queue now is critical to installing before year-end.
EV Home Charger Rebates 2025: How to Get Your Level 2 Charger for Under $500
The IRA's 30% EV charger tax credit, combined with state and utility rebates, can reduce a Level 2 charger installation to under $500 for many homeowners. Here's how to stack the incentives.
2025 Hail Season: Record Damage Reports Signal Another Active Year for Roof Claims
Spring 2025 hail events have already produced over $2 billion in insured property losses. Roofing contractors report 6–8 week backlogs in hail-prone states. Here's what homeowners need to know.
HVAC Equipment Shortages Expected Again in Summer 2025: Book Early
HVAC contractors in Sun Belt states are warning of equipment availability issues for high-demand systems in summer 2025. Book installations now to avoid peak season delays and price increases.
Roofing Material Costs Up 8% in 2025: What's Driving Prices and When to Lock In
Architectural asphalt shingles are running 8–12% above 2023 prices due to oil feedstock costs, demand from hail season activity, and labor market tightness. Here's how to get the best price.
Solar Battery Prices Drop 20% in 2025: Is Now the Time to Add Storage?
Home battery storage prices have fallen 20% in 18 months, driven by Chinese lithium-ion cell price drops and increased domestic production. Combined with the 30% IRA tax credit, payback periods are now under 10 years for many homeowners.
States Expanding Heat Pump Rebates in 2025: Which Programs Pay the Most
At least 28 states have active heat pump rebate programs in 2025, with new HEEHRA programs going live throughout the year. Here are the top programs and how to stack them with the IRA tax credit.
Net Metering Changes in 2025: Which States Are Cutting Solar Compensation
Net metering policies are changing in several states in 2025, affecting solar payback periods. Here's what's changing, which states still offer full retail credit, and whether solar still makes sense.
Electricity Rates Hit Record Highs in 2025: Why Bills Are Up and What to Do
US residential electricity rates hit a national average of 17.4 cents per kWh in early 2025 — a 12% increase from 2023. Here's what's driving rates up and how homeowners can protect themselves.
IRA Solar Tax Credit Extended: How to Claim Your 30% in 2025
The Inflation Reduction Act solar tax credit remains at 30% through 2032. Here's exactly how to claim it on your 2025 taxes.
Energy-Efficient Window Costs in 2025: What Homeowners Are Paying
New data shows the average cost of energy-efficient window replacement has dropped 8% since 2023. Here's what homeowners across the US are actually paying — and the rebates available.