Rebate Snapshot
This program, offered by Efficiency Vermont and supported by the Vermont Department of Public Service, provides substantial rebates for insulating and air sealing your home. It’s designed to make weatherization affordable, especially through professional contractors in the Efficiency Excellence Network.
Overview
The Home Performance with ENERGY STAR rebate helps Vermont homeowners cover costs for insulation upgrades and air sealing.
- Provider: Efficiency Vermont (operated by Vermont Energy Investment Corporation, backed by the Vermont Department of Public Service).
- Eligible areas: Statewide in Vermont (VT).
- Key details: Rebates up to $9,500 (higher for income-eligible households), covering up to 90% of qualifying costs depending on income. Includes attic, walls, basement/floor, and whole-home insulation plus air sealing.
- Expiration: Boosted incentives available through the end of 2026 or while funding lasts.
How It Helps You
Insulating your home is one of the best ways to cut energy bills by 10-30% (depending on your current setup and Vermont’s cold winters). You’ll enjoy a more comfortable home year-round – warmer in winter, cooler in summer – with fewer drafts and better indoor air quality. This rebate stacks well with federal Inflation Reduction Act tax credits (up to 30% for insulation). Environmentally, it lowers your carbon footprint by reducing energy use for heating. Pros: Significant upfront savings, long-term bill reductions, improved comfort, potential free services for low-income households. Cons: Requires working with certified contractors for full rebates (DIY options are limited), some paperwork involved.
Eligibility and Application
- Who qualifies: Vermont homeowners (primary residence); higher rebates for low- to moderate-income households.
- Required improvements: Comprehensive projects typically include air sealing + insulation (e.g., attic, walls, basement). Starts with a home energy assessment.
- Step-by-step application process:
- Contact Efficiency Vermont or visit their site to find a participating contractor.
- Schedule a home energy assessment (often required).
- Get a custom work plan and quote.
- Complete approved upgrades with the contractor.
- Submit documentation for rebate (processed after project completion).
Real-World Examples
- A Vermont family in a chilly Burlington home adds attic and wall insulation through a contractor. They spend $8,000 total, receive $7,200 back (90% for income-eligible), and save $600+ yearly on heating bills.
- A moderate-income household in rural VT insulates their basement and air seals the whole home for $5,000. They get $3,750 back and stack it with federal credits, cutting energy costs by 25% while boosting comfort.
FAQs
Start at Efficiency Vermont’s website, find a contractor, and follow their guided process – no direct application needed upfront.
Yes – stack with federal tax credits, local utility rebates, or income-based programs for maximum savings.
Lower rebates (e.g., 75% up to $4,000) apply to standard households; DIY options offer smaller cash-back on materials.
Beyond the rebate, expect 10-30% lower bills, plus comfort gains – many see payback in 3-7 years.
For the highest rebates, yes – use an Efficiency Excellence Network contractor.
Free weatherization may be available through state programs if income-qualified.
Ready to save on your energy bills and make your Vermont home cozier? Check your eligibility and get started today at the official Efficiency Vermont site: https://www.efficiencyvermont.com/rebates/list/home-performance-with-energy-star. Contact them or a local contractor for personalized guidance – small steps now lead to big savings!
Please verify all rebate information with official sources. Information updated as of July 10, 2026.