Energy rebate program helps Cumberland County families lower utility bills
By Staff Report, posted Jan 27, 2026 on BizFayetteville.com
Higher fuel prices and increased demand are driving up energy costs, and with the below-freezing temperatures we’ve been seeing, that demand is only going up.
Launched last January by NCDEQ in response to the state’s growing energy burden, Energy Saver North Carolina is already delivering rebates to eligible families to support critical home upgrades that improve comfort, safety, and affordability.
Energy Saver NC includes two programs: Homeowners Managing Efficiency Savings (HOMES) and Home Electrification and Appliance Rebates (HEAR). As part of HOMES, eligible households can receive up to $16,000 for home efficiency improvements, such as air sealing or energy-efficient HVAC units. The HEAR program covers up to $14,000 for high-efficiency electrical appliances like heat pump water heaters and electric stoves.
According to the most recently available data, more than 48,000 Fayetteville households could qualify for this program. The average Fayetteville household spends roughly $223 per month on electricity, and rates increased nearly 20% compared to projections in 2025.
Single-family homeowners making less than 80% of their area median income (AMI) may be eligible for full rebates. Rebates at lower amounts are available for moderate-income homeowners earning between 80% and 150% of their AMI.
Energy Saver NC is also welcoming new contractors to become certified partners – creating new work for local contractors.
Households may apply online, by email, phone or mail. Energy Saver NC also has a customer care team available Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. at 866-998-8555.
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