Northeast & Mid-Atlantic
Delaware energy rebate landscape
Delaware is a Tier C state — limited state-level rebates, but the full federal stack (25C, 25D, HOMES, HEAR) and utility rebates are still available. The federal foundation alone delivers significant savings.
Federal foundation (available in Delaware like every state)
- IRA 25C tax credit — up to $3,200/year on heat pumps, HVAC, envelope, audit
- IRA 25D tax credit — 30% uncapped on solar, geothermal, batteries through 2032
- DOE HOMES rebate — performance-based, up to $8,000/home, administered by Delaware Sustainable Energy Utility (Energize Delaware)
- DOE HEAR rebate — income-capped (≤150% AMI), up to $14,000/home, administered by Delaware Sustainable Energy Utility (Energize Delaware)
Delaware state energy office / lead administrator
Delaware Sustainable Energy Utility (Energize Delaware) is the entity administering the federal HOMES and HEAR programs in Delaware. Visit their website for current program rollout status, contractor lists, and application portals.
Major utilities serving Delaware
- Delmarva Power
- Delaware Electric Co-op
- Chesapeake Utilities
Each utility runs its own efficiency rebate programs. Common rebates: smart thermostat ($25-$100), heat pump ($300-$3,000), insulation ($0.10-$0.50/sqft), HPWH ($300-$700). Rebate amounts vary by utility and current funding levels — always confirm before installing.
Climate-specific upgrade priorities for Delaware
Federal stack (25C, 25D, HOMES, HEAR) plus utility rebates form the rebate foundation. Climate-specific priorities depend on whether your home's primary load is heating, cooling, or balanced.
How to put together your Delaware rebate stack
- Identify your utility from the list above and visit their efficiency-program page for current rebate offerings.
- Check Delaware Sustainable Energy Utility (Energize Delaware)'s site for HOMES and HEAR rollout status (whether the program is live in your county and what contractors are approved).
- Confirm equipment eligibility — federal 25C requires CEE Tier 2 or ENERGY STAR Most Efficient depending on category; utility programs often require ENERGY STAR.
- Get pre-approval if your utility or HOMES requires it (many do — skipping pre-approval voids the rebate).
- Install via a licensed contractor; collect AHRI certificate, manufacturer's certification statement, and itemized invoice.
- Submit utility rebate within the post-install window (typically 30-90 days). File federal credits via IRS Form 5695 with your tax return for the year equipment was placed in service.