Since EPB and TVA launched the new Home Energy Rebate Program in October 2023, the program has paid $951,000 directly to EPB customers for home energy improvements, like new HVAC units, HVAC tune-ups, windows, water heaters, insulation, ductwork and other improvements. With the addition of $16 million in work completed by qualified contractors, the rebates have generated $16.1 million in economic activity.
Supported by the EPB Energy Pros, the Home Energy Rebate Program helps customers make home upgrades to lower their energy use and save money, first by saving on the cost of improvements and, second, by enjoying lower energy bills on an ongoing basis.
“EPB customers recognize the value of rebates to help them save on home energy improvements now and enjoy lower energy costs over time,” said Elizabeth Hammitt, director of Residential Energy and Environmental Solutions at EPB. “Rebates also help generate new business for qualifying local contractors, which supports local job creation and economic opportunity.”
Customers interested in reducing home energy usage or learning about rebates can start by visiting EPB.com/energyrebates to learn more about eligible improvements. Before beginning the rebate process, EPB suggests scheduling a call with EPB Energy Pros. As always, all EPB Energy Pros services are free to customers.
“EPB Energy Pros can help customers maximize their rebate savings and get the most back for their investment,” said John Watts, senior supervisor of Energy Services at EPB. “Our team is available to help customers throughout the rebate process, from determining what will help save the most energy to verifying all work was completed properly.”
Home Energy Rebates rely on the Quality Contract Network to ensure improvements deliver promised energy efficiency results and meet high standards of excellence. Customers can enjoy peace of mind knowing QCN members are certified according to TVA EnergyRight standards, and licensed and insured, said officials.
Founded in 2022, DynaMech Solutions has built its business around rebates by offering “good, better and best” options to all customers. The “best” options offer the highest energy savings and the largest rebates.
“Most of our customers will select ‘better’ and ‘best’ options once they see the savings they’ll enjoy from rebates,” said DynaMech Co-Owner Austin Blanchard. “When you consider the rebates, there’s not much difference in costs between the three options.”
DynaMech touts the free, high-quality leads from QCN referrals that keep their pipeline full. They are also serious about meeting the high standards they need to meet to satisfy the requirements.
“The QCN is designed to include the most highly qualified contractors,” said DynaMech Co-Owner Isaac Geyman, who emphasized the extra effort necessary to meet the required standards. “Quality is key to the program; it ensures participating contractors operate on a higher technical level, provide exceptional customer service and exceed average outcomes.”
To be eligible for Home Energy Rebates, customers must use QCN members to complete work. Do-it-yourself projects and work completed by contractors not listed at EPB.com/qcn do not qualify for rebates.
Contractors can learn more or begin qualifying for QCN at EPB.com/qcn.
In addition to saving energy and costs for customers, rebate-eligible work contributes to TVA’s goal to help lower energy usage across the valley as power demand continues to increase.
“Together, TVA EnergyRight and local power companies, like EPB, are investing in energy efficiency for residents and businesses across our region,” said Monika Beckner, vice president of Energy Programs and Services at TVA. “Energy efficiency is a win-win that helps TVA accommodate growing power demand while keeping the grid reliable and helps consumers save on their bills. It is another way we are working to build a better tomorrow together.”
New construction jobs do not require the use of a QCN contractor. Still, they can maximize savings through EPB Smart Build, which provides expertise and resources to ensure newly built homes are Smart Build-certified for greater energy efficiency and fiber-ready for advanced communications technology. EPB customers building new homes can work directly with their builders to decide what energy-efficient appliances and supplies to use so they can take advantage of incentives.
EPB Energy Pros provide free home energy advice and resources to help customers improve home efficiency through in-person or phone consultations regardless of whether they’re interested in rebates:
EPB Home Energy Checkups: In-person visits that provide personalized recommendations about cost-effective ways to make homes more energy efficient.
30-Minute Calls with a Pro: Address questions or concerns about home energy efficiency via phone.
EPB Energy Pros can offer expertise on a wide range of efficiency topics to residential customers:
Home renovations: At customer request, perform Quality Assurance Checkups when projects are complete.
Appliance advice: Identify energy-efficient appliances for a range of budgets.
Solar and EV charger installations: Advise on best practices, work with customers during installation, and provide a free, third-party verification of completed work. (EPB does not sell or install solar panels or EV chargers.)
Visit EPB.com/energypros to view videos and tips, schedule a free Home Energy Checkup or have a 30-minute Call with a Pro.