Incentives for Home Energy Efficiency and Electrification
To receive email updates from DOEE and/or provide input on electrification programs, please fill out this form.
Department of Energy Home Energy Rebates-Funded Programs
DOEE is using federal funding from the Department of Energy (DOE) Home Energy Rebates Programs to expand the Affordable Housing Retrofit Accelerator (AHRA) and the Affordable Home Electrification Program (AHEP), low-income programs that reduce energy use in homes through energy efficiency and electrification upgrades that help households transition from gas-powered to electric-powered appliances and systems. These programs are run under contract with the DC Sustainable Energy Utility (DCSEU). Property owners/managers and residents are encouraged to learn more about these programs and apply directly with the DCSEU. Federally funded rebates will not be available outside of participation in AHRA or AHEP.
As part of its grants from the federal Department of Energy, DOEE is required to make program implementation documents publicly available. Those documents, including consumer protection and education and outreach plans, can be accessed below.
Other Incentives and Sources of Support
DCSEU’s Residential Rebates – distinct from the federal DOE Home Energy Rebates Programs – are available through September 30, 2025 to District residents who want to upgrade appliances and systems in their homes, regardless of income level. District homeowners can also schedule one-on-one home energy coaching free of cost, or attend home energy coaching events sponsored by Electrify DC, to ask specific questions about their home energy audit or energy upgrade.
- Learn more about DCSEU Residential Rebates
- Register for an Electrify DC event or sign up for free one-on-one home energy coaching
Homeowners can also take advantage of the federal tax credit for energy efficient home improvements. This federal tax credit, managed by the Internal Revenue Service, sunsets after December 31, 2025. Taxpayers must claim the credit when filing their annual federal tax return.
The District also offers other forms of assistance to income-qualifying residents and homeowners to reduce energy use and save money on utilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the DOE Home Energy Rebates Programs and DCSEU’s Residential Rebates?
DOEE is using federal funding from the DOE Home Energy Rebates Programs to expand two existing District programs that are available for low-income households and eligible multifamily housing properties, the Affordable Home Electrification Program and the Affordable Housing Retrofit Accelerator. Interested residents and building owners must apply with DCSEU to participate in these programs. Under these programs, DCSEU provides direct financial and technical assistance to homeowners and building owners for home energy upgrades, including connecting participants directly to qualified contractors, advising on specific upgrades, and ensuring quality installation. Participation in these programs minimizes upfront costs to the homeowner or building owner.
Separately, DCSEU offers HVAC, appliance, and other rebates to households at any income level. These rebates are funded using local dollars and are issued typically after proof of purchase is provided. To find out if your purchase or installation is eligible, please visit DCSEU’s website.
What is the difference between a rebate and a tax credit?
A tax credit is a dollar-for-dollar reduction in the amount of federal income tax paid. That is, a tax credit can reduce the amount of taxes owed or can increase your tax refund. Taxpayers must claim credits when filing their annual tax return with the Internal Revenue Service. DOEE does not have a role in administering tax credits. Please consult a financial or tax advisor for further information on claiming tax credits on your return.
A rebate is a discount associated with the purchase of a specific product or service and can occur either as a point-of-sale discount or as a partial or full refund after proof of purchase is submitted. DOEE will be managing and overseeing the distribution of federal DOE Home Energy Rebates Programs funding within the District.
Am I eligible for a tax credit for an appliance that I've already purchased or an upgrade I’ve already made to my home?
Please consult a financial or tax advisor for further information about claiming a tax credit on your annual tax return for a past purchase. The energy-efficient home improvement federal tax credit sunsets after December 31, 2025.
Am I eligible for AHEP assistance or a DCSEU rebate for an appliance I’ve already purchased or an upgrade I’ve already made to my home?
AHEP does not offer rebates or assistance for purchases or upgrades completed outside of program participation. Residents interested in AHEP must apply directly with DCSEU and be approved to participate in the program.
DCSEU Residential Rebates will be available for eligible purchases and upgrades made on or after October 1, 2024. Rebate applications must be submitted by September 30, 2025. To find out if your installation is eligible, please visit DCSEU’s website.
What is electrification?
Electrification involves replacing home appliances and systems that burn fossil fuels with appliances and systems that are powered by electricity; for example, replacing a gas stove with an induction stove, or a gas-powered furnace with a heat pump for home heating and cooling. Electrification can help reduce harmful greenhouse gas emissions that cause climate change.
How do these programs relate to the District’s Healthy Homes and Residential Electrification Amendment Act of 2023?
The Healthy Homes and Residential Electrification Amendment Act of 2023 is a local law that directs DOEE to provide residential electrification retrofits at no cost to low-income households and qualifying multifamily housing buildings. DOEE’s planned implementation of the Act is built on DOEE’s applications for federal rebates under the DOE Home Energy Rebates Programs.
If you have any questions, complaints, or feedback on these programs, please email [email protected].
