Top California Energy Rebates for Home Upgrades 2026

California Energy Rebates for Home Upgrades: What Riverside and San Bernardino Homeowners Need to Know

California energy rebates for home upgrades can put thousands of dollars back in your pocket — and right now, there are more programs available to Inland Empire homeowners than ever before. Between federal tax credits, state-managed rebates, and utility incentives, upgrading your home’s heating, cooling, and water systems has never been more affordable.

Here’s a quick overview of the main programs available as of April 2026:

Program	Who It’s For	Max Benefit
HEEHRA (Phase I)	Income-qualified homeowners	Up to $8,000 for heat pump HVAC
TECH Clean California	All California homeowners	Up to $4,000 for heat pump HVAC
Federal 25C Tax Credit	All taxpayers	Up to $3,200 (expired Dec 31, 2025)
Federal 25D Solar Credit	Solar/battery installers	30% with no cap (expired Dec 31, 2025)
HOMES Program	All income levels	Coming soon — whole-home upgrades
Energy Savings Assistance	Low-income households	Free upgrades via local utility
GoGreen Home Loans	Renters and homeowners	Low/no-fee financing

Important note: As of February 24, 2026, HEEHRA single-family rebates are fully reserved statewide, and no new income verification applications are being accepted. A waitlist is in place. Federal tax credits under 25C and 25D expired December 31, 2025. Other programs like TECH Clean California and Energy Savings Assistance remain active.

California has committed $590 million in federal Inflation Reduction Act funding to help residents make smarter, cleaner energy choices at home. For homeowners in Riverside and San Bernardino counties, that means real savings on heat pumps, water heaters, electrical panels, insulation, and more — if you know where to look and how to apply.

This guide breaks down every major program, explains who qualifies, and walks you through the steps to claim your rebates the right way.

I’m looking to save on utilities in Riverside. What are the main california energy rebates for home upgrades?

If you are a homeowner in Colton or Grand Terrace, you’ve likely noticed your utility bills creeping up. The good news is that California has established a robust network of incentives to help you transition to high-efficiency systems. The “big three” programs that have dominated the landscape include HEEHRA, TECH Clean California, and federal tax credits.

The High-Efficiency Electric Home Rebates Act (HEEHRA) is a point-of-sale rebate program specifically designed for low-to-moderate-income households. It covers everything from heat pumps to electric stoves. Meanwhile, TECH Clean California has been instrumental in providing market-wide incentives for heat pump technology, regardless of income, often offering between $1,000 and $4,000 for HVAC upgrades.

While the federal 25C and 25D tax credits recently reached their scheduled expiration on December 31, 2025, many homeowners successfully stacked these with state incentives to save upwards of $7,700 on total project costs. Even without the federal credits, current state programs still offer significant paths to money saving plumbing upgrades for homes in Riverside and San Bernardino County.

Current status of HEEHRA and HOMES programs

Navigating these programs requires staying up-to-date with funding levels. As of February 2026, the California Energy Commission (CEC) reported that HEEHRA Phase I funds for single-family homes were fully reserved. This means that while you can no longer start a new income verification for this specific pot of money today, you can join the waitlist.

The state is currently preparing for HEEHRA Phase II, which is expected to inject another $152 million into the program. Additionally, the HOMES (Home Efficiency Rebates) program is slated for a full rollout in Summer 2026. This program is unique because it offers “Pay for Performance” incentives—the more energy your whole-home upgrade saves (verified by actual meter data), the bigger your rebate check.

Maximizing california energy rebates for home upgrades with heat pumps

Heat pumps are the “superstars” of the electrification movement. They are roughly three times more efficient than traditional gas furnaces because they move heat rather than generating it. In our warm Inland Empire climate, they double as highly efficient air conditioners.

By choosing a heat pump, you aren’t just saving money; you are participating in building decarbonization. We often see that 9 out of 10 homeowners who switch to heat pumps recommend them to their neighbors. Understanding the role of plumbing in home energy efficiency is vital here, as many of these high-efficiency systems require specialized installation to ensure they meet the rigorous standards required for rebate eligibility.

Which high-efficiency systems qualify for the biggest savings?

When we talk about california energy rebates for home upgrades, most people think of solar panels first, but some of the best returns on investment come from appliances you use every day.

Heat Pump Water Heaters (HPWH): These units are incredibly efficient. Under HEEHRA, low-income households can see rebates up to $1,750. When combined with local utility incentives, the cost of the unit can be significantly offset. For those in San Bernardino County, implementing smart water saving solutions alongside a new water heater is a great way to slash monthly expenses.

Smart Thermostats: While the rebate amounts are smaller, smart thermostats are often the “gateway” to energy efficiency. Many local utilities offer instant rebates or even free devices if you enroll in demand-response programs. It’s one of the easiest ways to start the new year off right with water and energy saving upgrades.

Electrical upgrades and weatherization

You can’t always just “plug in” a new high-efficiency heat pump. Many older homes in Colton or Grand Terrace require an electrical “backbone” upgrade first. Fortunately, the rebate programs account for this:

• Electric Panel Upgrades: HEEHRA offers up to $4,000 for load service center upgrades.
• Electrical Wiring: You can receive up to $2,500 to support new electrification projects.
• Insulation and Air Sealing: The HOMES program and HEEHRA offer incentives (up to $1,600 for HEEHRA) to ensure your home isn’t “leaking” the expensive air your new HVAC system just cooled.

These “invisible” upgrades are the foundation of green plumbing and home solutions that keep your home comfortable year-round.

Solar and battery storage incentives

California’s Self-Generation Incentive Program (SGIP) remains one of the best ways to afford home battery storage. This is especially critical for our neighbors in high fire-risk zones. If you live in a “Tier 2” or “Tier 3” fire-threat area, you may qualify for “Equity Resiliency” rebates that can cover nearly the entire cost of a battery backup system.

Even though the federal 30% tax credit for solar (25D) technically expired at the end of 2025, state-level programs like DAC-SASH continue to provide no-cost or low-cost solar for residents in disadvantaged communities. When considering these large-scale changes, it’s also a good time to ask what kinds of water saving improvements you should make to ensure your entire property is as resource-efficient as possible.

How do I know if my household income qualifies for these programs?

Eligibility for the most generous california energy rebates for home upgrades is usually tied to your Area Median Income (AMI). Programs like HEEHRA use two main tiers:

1. Low-Income: Households earning less than 80% of the AMI. These households often qualify for 100% of project costs, up to certain caps (like the $8,000 HVAC rebate).
2. Moderate-Income: Households earning between 80% and 150% of the AMI. These households typically qualify for 50% of project costs.

For example, in San Bernardino County, a family of four with an income around $82,000 would fall into the low-income bracket, while an income up to roughly $153,000 would still qualify as moderate-income. These thresholds are surprisingly high, meaning many middle-class families in Riverside and San Bernardino counties qualify for thousands in savings.

While you’re looking at indoor savings, don’t forget that outdoor efficiency matters too. Water efficient landscaping can further reduce your utility burden without requiring complex income verification.

Income verification for california energy rebates for home upgrades

To claim these rebates, you’ll need to use the HEEHRA Eligibility Express portal or a similar state-approved verification system. You will typically need your most recent tax returns (Form 1040) or proof of enrollment in other assistance programs like SNAP, Medi-Cal, or WIC.

Once verified, you receive an eligibility code. You should never give your full financial statements directly to a contractor; you only need to provide the verification code or the approval PDF generated by the official portal.

Renter and multifamily property eligibility

A common myth is that energy rebates are only for homeowners. In reality, renters are eligible for many programs. For instance, GoGreen Home loans are available to renters for portable or semi-permanent upgrades.

For those living in or owning apartment buildings, the Multifamily HEEHRA program offers up to $14,000 per unit for electrification. There are strict tenant protections in place to ensure that these upgrades don’t lead to immediate rent hikes, focusing instead on lowering the tenant’s energy bills and improving indoor air quality.

What is the best way to find a certified contractor in San Bernardino?

You cannot simply hire any handyman to claim these rebates. To qualify for HEEHRA or TECH Clean California incentives, you must work with a TECH-certified and HEEHRA-trained contractor. These professionals have undergone specific training to ensure the equipment they install meets the state’s high-efficiency and refrigerant standards (such as the new GWP limits effective January 2026).

You can find these pros using the “Contractor Finder” on The Switch Is On website. Look for the specific “HEEHRA Badge” next to the company name. Working with a pro ensures your project follows environmentally friendly practices and stays compliant with local Colton or Grand Terrace building codes.

Application steps for california energy rebates for home upgrades

The process generally follows these steps:

1. Verify Income: Get your code from the Eligibility Express portal.
2. Find a Contractor: Select a TECH-certified professional.
3. Get a Quote & Reserve: Your contractor will submit a “reservation request” to hold the funds for your project. Do not start work until this is approved.
4. Installation: The contractor installs the qualifying equipment.
5. Claim Discount: In many cases, the rebate is applied as an instant discount on your invoice, so you don’t have to wait months for a check in the mail.

Protecting yourself from rebate scams

With millions of dollars in funding available, “unscrupulous” actors are unfortunately common. Be wary of anyone who:

• Calls or knocks on your door claiming to be from the “CEC” or “The Government.”
• Asks for your Social Security number or bank details over the phone.
• Pressure you to sign a contract before you have an approved rebate reservation.

Official programs will always direct you to secure portals like Eligibility Express. If you suspect a scam, contact the California Department of Consumer Affairs or the Attorney General’s office immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions about California Energy Rebates

Can I combine HEEHRA rebates with federal tax credits?

Prior to 2026, many homeowners “stacked” these incentives. However, since the federal 25C and 25D credits expired at the end of 2025, you generally cannot claim them for new projects started today. You can, however, still combine state HEEHRA rebates with local utility incentives (like those from SCE or PG&E) and manufacturer rebates.

What happens if the HEEHRA funding is fully reserved?

If the budget for your area is fully reserved (as it is for single-family homes in early 2026), your application will be placed on a waitlist. Funding often becomes available again when other projects are canceled or when the state releases new “tranches” of money, such as the upcoming Phase II funds.

Are there free upgrades available for low-income households?

Yes! The Energy Savings Assistance (ESA) program provides no-cost weatherization and appliance upgrades for qualified low-income Californians. Additionally, the Equitable Building Decarbonization (EBD) Direct Install program is designed to provide free retrofits to households in disadvantaged communities starting in 2025 and 2026.

Conclusion

Upgrading your home doesn’t have to be a financial burden. By taking advantage of california energy rebates for home upgrades, residents in Riverside and San Bernardino counties can enjoy more comfortable homes, lower monthly bills, and the peace of mind that comes with reducing their climate impact. Whether you are in Colton or Grand Terrace, the transition to a cleaner, more efficient home is within reach.

At Top Tier Plumbing and Air, we are proud to serve our local communities with expert residential plumbing and rooter services. We understand the unique needs of Inland Empire homes and are committed to quality work done right the first time. If you’re ready to explore how high-efficiency upgrades can transform your home, we’re here to help.

Contact Top Tier Plumbing and Air for expert plumbing and energy-efficient upgrades today!