Q: What is available through Penn Energy Savers?

A: Penn Energy Savers provides low-to-moderate-income households with access to no to low-cost energy efficiency measures and home energy assessments to identify the opportunities for improvement.

Q: Can I get paid back for work I have already performed or equipment that was recently purchased?

A: No—Penn Energy Savers cannot fund work that has already been completed or equipment that has been purchased prior to application approval.

Q: How do I know if I qualify?

A: You may be eligible if your total household income meets the program's income guidelines of 150% or less of Average Median Income (AMI) or if you are receiving government assistance such as HEAP, SNAP, or public assistance. Review the eligibility webpage for more information.

Q: What are some energy efficiency improvements that are available through Penn Energy Savers?

A: Penn Energy Savers provides incentives for:

• High-Efficiency Appliances including Heat Pumps (HVAC & Water Heaters), Stoves, Clothes Dryers, etc.

• Building Upgrades/Materials: Electric Load Service Center, Insulation, Air-Sealing, Ventilation, Wiring, etc.

Q: Are heat pumps available through Penn Energy Savers?

A: Yes, heat pumps can be an affordable option for eligible low- and moderate-income households. Certain minimum requirements must be met for installation.

Q: What services does Penn Energy Savers not provide?

A: Penn Energy Savers does not provide:

• Roof replacements

• Boiler replacements

• Heat pump for heat pump replacements

• Refrigerators, microwaves, and countertop appliances,

• Whole house window or door replacements, or

• Extensive repairs for water damage or other health and safety issues.

Q: Does Penn Energy Savers provide services to renters?

A: Yes—Penn Energy Savers offers energy services to anyone who owns or rents a home and meets the eligibility criteria. Some energy improvements may require landlord approval.

Q: Does my landlord have to pay anything?

A: A contribution by you or your landlord may be required if the project exceeds program funding caps or for certain measures, such as heating replacements.

Q: Can I also receive utility rebates and discounts for these same upgrades?

A: Maybe. The Penn Energy Savers program allows the “stacking” or combining of rebates and other discounts on the same measures. So, depending on the rules and availability for relevant utility rebates, you may be eligible for utility rebates. Please visit your utility’s website for more information. Please note that total rebates and discounts should not exceed the total project cost.

Q: Does the program provide rebates or tax credits?

A: The program provides rebates that enable a point-of-sale discount to reduce the out-of-pocket cost as much as possible.

Q: Who will be working on my Penn Energy Savers project?

A: A team of case managers, energy auditors, and contractors   will help ensure that you receive the best services possible. The program is managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, with implementation contractors and approved local contractors providing the necessary work. Quality assurance is handled to ensure the energy upgrades are installed properly.

Q: Can I hire my own contractor?

A: No, you must select a contractor from the approved list provided by the program. These contractors are qualified to meet the program's standards for energy-efficient building improvements.

Q: Do contractors perform code inspections?

A: No, contractors under Penn Energy Savers are not code inspectors.

Q: Will I owe anything if I move or my income changes?

A: There is no cost or obligation when you participate in Penn Energy Savers. You are not required to pay the program back if you move or experience changes in your income.

Q: What happens if I’ve financed part of my project and I sell my home?

A: If you've financed your energy efficiency project, you may either pay off the balance before selling or transfer the loan to the buyer, with proper notice. Details of the loan terms must be disclosed to the buyer.

Q: I am a contractor. How can I participate?

A: Contractors must apply and be registered and approved by the Program Administrator to participate in the IRA Rebate Programs. The Program Administrator will review and approve the application if the program requirements are met. Mandatory training on how to participate in the IRA Rebate Programs is required before the Contractor is eligible to begin work on the Programs. Submit your information in the Stay Informed link to be included in the latest updates and training sessions.

Q: I would like to get a job offering these services. What training and certifications do I need?

A: The energy transition provides an opportunity to create more high-paying jobs for Pennsylvania’s current and prospective workforce. For Pennsylvanian’s interested in becoming first-time contractors, community colleges, unions, vendors, and apprenticeship programs are available to provide training.

A few upcoming programs, including Training for Residential Energy Contractors (TREC), will offer entry-level training. We hope to launch the TREC program in mid to late 2025. Check back here for updates or consider signing up for our newsletter here.

For further information, individuals can reach out to existing training facilities, such as the Pennsylvania College of Technology Clean Energy Center, which provide certification programs. You may qualify to receive access to free tuition as well as supplementary support services.

Q: Who can I contact if I have more questions?

A: Please contact us at RA-EPHomeEngRebates@pa.gov for more information.

You can also visit the DOE’s Home Energy Rebates FAQ page here.

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