Big News for Texans: Energy Rebate Program

Big news, all y’all. It’s about you and your money. The state of Texas has an energy rebate money pot worth almost $700 million. It shouldn’t be hard to gain a piece of it. In the famous words of Texas revolutionaries, “Come and take it.”

Watchdog Alert: Are you a taxpayer in Texas? The Watchdog has your back.

How to Get the Rebate

How do you get it? You apply when you upgrade to ENERGY-STAR-approved appliances. And here’s the kicker— renters can get in on the action, too. This isn’t just for homeowners.

Check out the size of the rebates for electric appliances. We’re not talking chicken feed here.

• Heat pump water heater – up to $1,750
• Heat pump for space heating and cooling – up to $8,000
• Electric stove, cooktop, range, oven – up to $840
• Heat pump clothes dryer – up to $840
• Electric breaker box – up to $4,000
• Insulation, air sealing and ventilation – up to $1,600
• Electric wiring – up to $2,500

Up to $14,000 in total rebates could be available to each household.

Why is This Happening?

This is another example of the federal government mandating rules designed to clean the environment. The programs are open to everyone, but in some cases low and middle-income Texans will get double the rebates.

The Watchdog previously reported how the feds ordered the AC industry to move to a cleaner refrigerated coolant — and all the complications which ensued.

Similarly, the distribution of cash rebates as an incentive to convert from gas to cleaner electricity is part of that environmental push.

Who Will Qualify?

Single families making less than the median household income could have most of the costs covered. Those above the median household income may still qualify for a smaller rebate, but details for them haven’t been released.

The current median household income in the United States is estimated to be $78,171.

Renters May Qualify

For renters, often knocked out of homeowner advantages, there’s another formula. Renters could see savings from 50% to 100%. This part applies to landlords and homebuilders owning multi-family housing or homes where at least half the tenants are in low- or moderate-income households. Landlords can use the funds to upgrade the premises.

Money in the program is also earmarked for contractor training, education and certification.

What If You Can’t Wait?

What if you can’t wait for the launch? Save all the paperwork. It’s possible your project could still qualify.

These $9 billion national programs are part of former President Joe Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act. The programs go under the names of HOMES and HEAR.

HOMES program focuses on whole-house energy retrofitting. HEAR (Home Electrification and Appliance Rebate) program focuses on appliance and equipment, especially for low and middle income households.

How Will the Program Be Administered?

In some states, rebates will be paid after purchases are completed and proof of receipts are presented.

In Texas, this will be handled by the State Energy Conservation Office, operating under the state comptroller’s supervision. SECO will administer the program after it begins.

The state must hire someone to run the program. Bids have been submitted by a July deadline.

I wish I could tell you how to apply, but Texas is not prepared. The comptroller’s website states, “There are currently no approved contractors for these programs. We strongly advise against entering into any agreements.”

This is a scam alert. If someone tries to sell you free appliances and home weatherization, remember that the programs haven’t begun.

Program Duration

The programs will last until money runs out or by Sept. 20, 2031.

Learn More

Intrigued by the variety of programs? Visit www.energystar.gov/ to check available programs and learn more about ENERGY STAR-certified products.

Want to get an idea about how much you could save by going electric? Visit this savings calculator tool. https://homes.rewiringamerica.org/savings-calculator.

Learn how energy efficient your home is by exploring the HERS index and learning your energy score — www.hersindex.com/.

Conclusion

The energy rebate program in Texas is a great opportunity for residents to save money and reduce their environmental impact. With rebates available for up to $14,000 per household, it’s worth looking into. Remember to save your paperwork and wait for the program to launch before applying.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Who is eligible for the energy rebate program?

A: Single families making less than the median household income, as well as renters, may be eligible for the program.

Q: How much can I save with the energy rebate program?

A: Up to $14,000 in total rebates could be available to each household.

Q: What types of appliances are eligible for rebates?

A: ENERGY-STAR-approved appliances, including heat pumps, electric stoves, and insulation, are eligible for rebates.

Q: How will the program be administered in Texas?

A: The program will be administered by the State Energy Conservation Office, operating under the state comptroller’s supervision.

Q: How long will the program last?

A: The programs will last until money runs out or by Sept. 20, 2031.