North Carolina Guide · Updated April 2026

North Carolina Rebates & Credits: DEQ Programs & Growing Solar Market 2026

North Carolina's HOMES program is open through DEQ, while HEAR is waitlisted. With strong solar potential and federal credits available, NC homeowners have multiple paths to savings.

What rebates and credits are available in North Carolina right now?

North Carolina homeowners can access federal tax credits, state HOMES/HEAR rebate programs, and local property tax exemptions. Here is the current status of every major program as of April 2026:

ProgramValueStatusSource
HOMES Rebate ProgramUp to $8,000Open.gov
HEAR Electrification RebateUp to $14,000Waitlist.gov
Homestead Exclusion$200 - $600/yearAvailable
Federal Solar Credit$4,000 - $10,000Available.gov

What should North Carolina homeowners know about these programs?

North Carolina HOMES program is accepting applications through the DEQ

HEAR program has reached capacity — waitlist is open for the next funding round (expected Q4 2026)

NC is a top-10 solar state with excellent federal credit potential

Property tax rates are relatively low (0.77%) but homestead exemptions still provide meaningful relief for qualifying homeowners

How much can North Carolina homeowners save with each program?

HOMES Rebate Program

Open
Up to $8,000

North Carolina HOMES program is accepting applications through the Department of Environmental Quality. Must use approved contractors and demonstrate qualifying energy savings.

Official program page →

HEAR Electrification Rebate

Waitlist
Up to $14,000

NC HEAR program has reached capacity. Waitlist is open for the next funding round, expected Q4 2026. Sign up for notifications.

Official program page →

Homestead Exclusion

$200 - $600/year

North Carolina offers a homestead exclusion for qualifying homeowners aged 65+ or totally disabled. Excludes the greater of $25,000 or 50% of assessed value.

Federal Solar Credit

$4,000 - $10,000

30% federal credit available for NC homeowners. North Carolina ranks in the top 5 for solar installations nationally.

Official program page →

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How much could you save in North Carolina?

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