West Virginia Office of Energy Launches Home Energy Rebate Programs Statewide
By Connect-Bridgeport Staff on October 02, 2026
The West Virginia Office of Energy (WVOE) has launched both of its Home Energy Rebate Programs statewide, allowing qualifying households across West Virginia to apply for federally funded rebates supporting eligible home energy improvements, appliances, and equipment.
“Affordability is one of the biggest challenges facing West Virginia families, and lowering monthly energy bills is one way we can help families keep more of their hard-earned money,” said Governor Morrisey. “We want to hold down energy costs, create good-paying jobs, and make sure West Virginians have every opportunity to get ahead.”
Funded through the U.S. Department of Energy, the Home Owner Managing Energy Savings (HOMES) Program and Home Efficiency Appliance Rebate (HEAR) Program provide two pathways for eligible households to improve home energy performance and offset qualifying project costs.
HOMES supports whole-home projects that achieve measurable energy savings. Eligible improvements may include insulation, air sealing, energy-efficient windows and exterior doors, appliance upgrades, ductwork, and modern heating and cooling systems identified through a home energy audit and approved project scope. HEAR helps eligible households offset the cost of energy-efficient appliances and equipment, including heating and cooling equipment, water heaters, cooking appliances, electrical upgrades, insulation, air sealing, and ventilation. Equipment replacements must use the same fuel type as the existing equipment.
“The Department of Energy congratulates West Virginia on the launch of its HOMES and HEAR programs,” said United States Assistant Secretary of Energy Audrey Robertson. “In keeping with President Trump’s commitment to offer direct relief to hardworking Americans, this program will reduce household energy costs, create jobs, and offer skilled employment opportunities across the Mountain State.”
The statewide launch follows a targeted pilot phase in which the WVOE and its regional partners tested application systems, home assessments, contractor coordination, customer support, and project-delivery processes. During that time, the WVOE also worked to increase the number of qualified professionals available to complete rebate-supported projects. Through its Energy Efficiency Contractor Training Program in partnership with Everblue, contractors and individuals interested in entering the energy-efficiency field can receive paid training and credentials needed to participate in the programs.
“Bringing both programs statewide required careful testing, strong regional partnerships, and intentional investment in West Virginia’s contractor workforce,” says Nicholas Preservati, West Virginia Department of Commerce Deputy Secretary and Director of the WVOE. “That preparation gives us a stronger foundation for serving residents while creating opportunities for qualified local professionals.”
More than 115 participants are currently active in the training program as the WVOE continues expanding contractor capacity throughout West Virginia.
“West Virginia contractors understand the needs of the communities they serve, and they’ll play an important role in bringing these programs to households across the state,” said Jason Pizatella, Chief Executive Officer of the Contractors Association of West Virginia. “Expanding access to training gives contractors the chance to grow their businesses while helping residents complete improvements that can deliver lasting benefits. On behalf of the entire industry, we are very excited about today’s announcement.”
Eligibility, rebate amounts, and eligible project costs vary between the two programs. HOMES rebate amounts may depend on household income, eligible project costs, and projected energy savings. HEAR is available to income-qualified households, with the percentage of eligible costs covered based on the household’s income category.
Residents must complete the applicable program’s application, assessment, and approval process before beginning work. Rebates cannot be issued for projects or purchases completed before program approval.
West Virginia households can apply, review eligibility requirements, estimate their household income category, and learn more about qualifying improvements on the West Virginia Office of Energy’s Home Energy Rebate Programs webpage at energywv.org.
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