HVAC Rebates & Incentives in Chesapeake, Virginia Beach + Northeastern NC (2026): What’s Available Now

Last Updated: March 2026

If you’re thinking about a new heat pump, HVAC system, or geothermal upgrade in Chesapeake, Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Portsmouth, Smithfield, Suffolk, or Northeastern North Carolina, you’ve probably asked the same question we hear every week:

“Are there any rebates or tax credits in 2026 that can help with the cost?”

The short answer: some savings programs are still out there, but they look different than they did a year or two ago. In this guide, we’ll break down what’s actually available in 2026, and how to make sure you don’t miss out.

Quick note: Incentive programs change often and eligibility can be very specific. We’re happy to help you understand your options, but we’re not tax professionals. Always confirm final eligibility with the program administrator and your tax advisor.

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Summary: What changed in 2026?

1) Federal HVAC tax credits ended for most 2026 installs

• The IRS says the Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit (25C) applies to qualifying improvements through December 31, 2025.
• The IRS also says the Residential Clean Energy Credit (25D) is not available for property placed in service after December 31, 2025 (this is the one that used to apply to geothermal, solar, and similar upgrades).

2) North Carolina expanded a major rebate program statewide

North Carolina’s Energy Saver NC is now available in all 100 counties and includes two programs:

• HOMES: up to $16,000 for home efficiency upgrades (like air sealing and energy-efficient HVAC)
• HEAR: up to $14,000 for high-efficiency electric appliances and electrification upgrades

3) Virginia’s Home Energy Rebates aren’t live yet

Virginia Energy says Home Energy Rebates aren’t available right now, and they cannot provide an estimated launch date.

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Are there federal HVAC tax credits in 2026?

For most homeowners planning an HVAC install in 2026, the answer is no.

Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit (25C)

The IRS states you can claim this credit for qualifying improvements made through December 31, 2025, and no credit is allowed for expenditures or property placed in service after that date.

Residential Clean Energy Credit (25D)

The IRS states this credit is not available for property placed in service after December 31, 2025.

What if my system was installed in 2025?

If your qualifying upgrade was placed in service by December 31, 2025, you may still be able to claim it on your 2025 tax return. Also, the IRS instructions note that some unused clean energy credit amounts may carry forward, depending on your situation.

If you’re unsure, talk with your tax professional and keep all invoices and manufacturer documentation.

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North Carolina (NE NC): Energy Saver NC rebates (HOMES + HEAR)

If you live in Northeastern North Carolina, Energy Saver NC is the biggest 2026 opportunity.

What is Energy Saver NC?

Energy Saver NC is funded through two U.S. Department of Energy rebate programs:

• HOMES (Homeowners Managing Efficiency Savings)
• HEAR (Home Electrification and Appliance Rebates)

Is it available where I live?

As of March 2026, the NC DEQ State Energy Office says Energy Saver NC is operating in all 100 counties.

Who qualifies?

Eligibility is based on household income compared to Area Median Income (AMI):

• Below 80% AMI: up to 100% of project costs covered (up to program limits)
• 80% to 150% AMI: up to 50% of project costs covered (up to program limits)
• Above 150% AMI: not eligible

What can HEAR cover?

Energy Saver NC’s FAQ lists these maximums (actual rebate depends on eligibility and project details):

• Up to $8,000 for an ENERGY STAR® certified electric heat pump
• Up to $4,000 for an electrical panel
• Up to $2,500 for electrical wiring
• Up to $1,750 for a heat pump water heater
• Up to $1,600 for insulation, mechanical ventilation, and air sealing

Important HEAR HVAC rule: replacement matters

Energy Saver NC program requirements state that existing heat pumps are not eligible for replacement under HEAR, and heat pump rebates are generally tied to replacing non-electric heating equipment or certain first-time situations.

This is important to keep in mind. If you currently have a heat pump and you’re replacing it with another heat pump, you may need to look at other options (like HOMES eligibility, utility programs, financing, and specials).

How to apply (simple steps)

1. Check eligibility (household size + income compared to AMI)
2. Apply through Energy Saver NC
3. Work with a qualified contractor and follow the program’s process for reservations and documentation

If you want, our team can help you plan an upgrade path that improves comfort first (air sealing and duct issues) so your new system can be sized correctly and perform better.

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Virginia (South Hampton Roads): What to know about Home Energy Rebates in 2026

As of March 2026, Virginia Energy says the Home Energy Rebates are not available yet, and the state cannot provide an estimated launch date. Virginia has submitted its applications and is awaiting DOE review and approval to proceed with program launch.

Virginia’s rebates include:

• Home Efficiency Rebates: up to $8,000 per household for retrofit projects that achieve at least 15% energy savings.
• High Efficiency and Appliance Rebates: up to $14,000 per household, with category caps such as up to $8,000 for an ENERGY STAR heat pump for space heating and cooling (eligibility is income-based).

Important heat pump rule: Virginia Energy states that the High Efficiency and Appliance Rebates cannot be used to pay for a replacement heat pump. They’re intended for replacing a nonelectric appliance or a first-time heat pump purchase.

What to do now: While state rebates are pending, Virginia Energy points homeowners to existing programs, including utility efficiency programs. For example, Dominion Energy offers Water Energy Rebates (up to $400 for eligible heat pump water heaters for VA customers).

What can you do in Virginia right now?

Even while state rebates are pending, you can still lower your upfront cost by combining:

• Seasonal specials
• Financing options
• The right system design (right-sizing, ductwork fixes, humidity control)
• Preventative maintenance to stretch the life of your current system

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Other ways to save money in 2026 (both VA + NC)

Even when rebates are limited, homeowners usually save the most through a smart total cost plan:

1) Fix comfort problems that drive high bills

• Leaky ducts
• Poor airflow
• High humidity
• Oversized systems that short-cycle

2) Do a replacement the right way

A heat pump or HVAC replacement isn’t always a simple swap. The goal is:

• Correct load calculation and proper sizing
• Ductwork inspection
• A plan for humidity control (especially near the coast)

If you’re starting research now, read this next:

• HVAC Replacement Cost in Chesapeake, VA: what to expect and ways to save

3) Use financing and specials strategically

Weather Makers regularly offers specials, including 0% financing on qualifying systems with approved credit (offer terms apply).

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How Weather Makers helps you maximize savings

We’ve served South Hampton Roads and Northeastern North Carolina since 1971, and we help homeowners choose upgrades that make sense for comfort and long-term costs.

If you’re considering a new system, we can help you:

• Compare system options (heat pump vs dual-fuel vs geothermal)
• Identify comfort issues that waste money
• Map out the best timing and approach for your home
• Understand which rebate programs may apply (especially in NC)

Call us or schedule an appointment to talk through your options.

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FAQs

Are there any federal HVAC tax credits in 2026?

For most 2026 installations, no. The IRS states the relevant residential credits apply to property placed in service through December 31, 2025, and are not available after that date for new installations.

What does “placed in service” mean?

It generally means the system is installed and ready to use. If you’re close to a year-end deadline, confirm timing with your tax advisor.

Is Energy Saver NC available in my county?

As of February 2026, NC DEQ says Energy Saver NC is operating in all 100 North Carolina counties.

How much can Energy Saver NC cover?

NC DEQ describes program maximums up to $16,000 (HOMES) and $14,000 (HEAR), and specific HEAR categories can include up to $8,000 for an ENERGY STAR electric heat pump, depending on eligibility.

Does Energy Saver NC cover heat pump replacement?

Under the HEAR program requirements, replacing an existing heat pump isn’t eligible in many cases. Eligibility can depend on what you are replacing and whether it’s a first-time heat pump.

Are Virginia Home Energy Rebates available now?

Virginia Energy says no, and they cannot provide an estimated date.

Can I combine rebates with financing?

Often, yes, but rules vary by program and offer. We recommend confirming with the rebate administrator and reading your financing and coupon terms.

I’m a renter. Can I qualify for rebates?

Some programs allow renters with landlord permission. Confirm the rules for your specific program and building type.