Energy Efficiency Incentive Programs

There are three levels of incentive programs for residents based on income that can cover all or part of the cost of improvements. There is also low-interest financing available.

Level I (“low income”)

  • EmPower+ (formerly EmPower New York) - If your family makes less than 60% of the state/area median income (in most counties, $80,160 for a family of four in 2026), you may qualify for the EmPower+ program, which can cover 100% of qualifying energy improvements like insulation, air sealing, and more up to $12,000. Other improvements like heat pumps, heat pump water heaters, and electrical upgrades can also receive EmPower+ funding, including additional funds from the NYS Sustainable Futures Program. Some exceptions apply. EmPower+ also serves moderate income households (see next section). You can apply online. (You can also download an EmPower+ application to print and mail.)

  • The Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP), a federal program, uses the same eligibility criteria as Empower+ level I (see above), and provides additional energy improvements at no cost. Find WAP application resources here.

Both of these programs are available for homeowners as well as renters, though landlord permission is required. Contact a Community Energy Advisor with questions about applying.

level II (“moderate income”)

  • EmPower+ (formerly Assisted Home Performance with ENERGY STAR®) - For renter and homeowner households between 60 and 80% of state/area median income (in most counties, 80% is $106,880 for a family of four in 2026), the EmPower+ program can cover 50% of the cost of qualifying energy improvements like insulation, air sealing, and more up to $6,000. Other improvements like heat pumps, heat pump water heaters, and electrical upgrades can also receive EmPower+ funding, including additional funds from the NYS Sustainable Futures Program. You can apply online. (You can also download an EmPower+ application to print and mail.)

level III (“market rate”)

Municipal Electric Customers - Special rebates available

Customers of municipal electric utilities may be eligible for NYSERDA programs above like EmPower+. However, many municipal electric utilities have special rebates and programs to help with energy efficiency through the Independent Energy Efficiency Program (IEEP). See what your municipal electric utility offers, and chat with your local Community Energy Advisor for more detailed information.

Financing

In addition to the rebates mentioned above, there are a number of financing options to help pay for energy-related improvements. Contractors and our Community Energy Advisors can provide additional information on these options, but we provide an overview below.

On-Bill Recovery Loan

The On-Bill Recovery Loan is a NYSERDA loan in which your loan payments are built right into your utility bill. With this loan, your monthly payments may not exceed your estimated average monthly energy cost savings. So your energy savings essentially pay for your work. Loan amounts of $1,500-$25,000 with terms of 5, 10, or 15 years. Rates are 4.0% or 4.5% for low-income households, 4.99% for households with moderate income, and 6.99% or 7.49% for everyone else.

Smart Energy Loan

The Smart Energy Loan is another NYSERDA loan which is more traditional, with a monthly payment to NYSERDA's loan servicer. Amounts are from $1,500-$25,000 with terms of 5, 10, and 15 years. Rates range from 3.49% for lower income households who pay by auto payment to 7.49% for upper income households who pay by check.

Other Financing Options & Local Banks

Your contractor may be able to offer you other financing options. And you may also want to consider a loan through a local bank. Home equity loans can often be useful for energy-related improvements. Some banks even offer special loans for energy projects which you can take advantage of.