What is the California Energy Smart Homes rebate, and how do I claim it?

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Save thousands on all-electric home upgrades with the California Energy Smart Homes rebate!

California is rewarding residents who make the switch to all-electric homes with the California Energy-Smart Homes rebate—a significant financial incentive for cutting the gas line.

You can receive at least $4,250 for qualifying upgrades. Plus, you can earn additional bonuses for incorporating advanced technologies such as variable capacity heat pumps, thermal energy storage, electrical load management, and others, for a total rebate of over $15,000. Incentive levels are expected to stay constant through the end of 2027, so you can still get these fantastic discounts if you submit your project in 2026.

How to qualify for the California Energy Smart Homes rebate

Transitioning to an all-electric home rarely happens all at once, so keeping good records from Day 1 will help make your rebate a reality when you cross the finish line. Here’s a partial list of what you'll need from Day 1:

• 💯 Go completely off gas. You'll be eligible for this rebate once you've capped off your gas meter at the street (hooray!). 
  • Click here for our guidance on how to get your gas meter capped.
• 📸 Photos! Photos! Photos! Take before-and-after photos for each and every home upgrade. Read What Photos Do You Need of My Home? to capture images that make a home inspector proud.
• 📑 Product Documentation: Ensure you retrieve the specification sheets for all new appliances you install. For heat pump heating and air conditioning systems and heat pump water heaters, ensure you retrieve the AHRI certificates for each heat pump installed.
• 📋 Final permits: Ensure you have final permits for each completed project.
• 🧾 Contractor invoices: Save all invoices from your contractors. 
• ⚡️ Utility Bills: Ensure you have your past 12 months of utility bills from the time you submit your application.
• ⏳ Submit a timely application: as early as possible in the year that you expect to complete your home electrification (defined by the closure date of the last permit). 

Be sure to check out the specific requirements and rebates for single-family homes, as well as the Smart Homes program for multifamily buildings. Another overview of the program can be found here.

Step-by-step guide to claiming your Energy Smart Homes rebate

1. Enroll online: Begin by registering on the Energy-Smart Homes website. This step is crucial to start the process. Do this as soon as possible so the Energy-Smart Homes staff can advise you on program requirements, documentation, and deadlines.
   1. After you enroll, you will receive an introduction email that is sent out to participants that complete the initial step of signing up with Energy Smart Homes.
   2. Within a couple of days, you should receive a different email that is an invitation to your application portal account. Follow the instructions in that email to access your online application portal. The portal is where you upload your documents.
2. Prepare your documentation: Gather all required documents as you complete each project. You can submit them to the program as you have them. This checklist lays out everything you will need for each type of appliance you install and upgrade you make.
3. Submit your claim: After finishing your upgrades, submit your documentation through the Energy-Smart Homes portal. Make sure that you submit this as soon as possible.
4. Stay informed: Keep an eye out for communications from the program, as additional steps may be required based on your specific upgrades.
5. Get your rebate: Once approved, enjoy your rebate and the benefits of a highly efficient and gas-free home!

How to get your Energy Smart Homes Rebate in 2025

Every project is different. If you have a special situation related to your Energy Smart Homes application, QuitCarbon and the Energy Smart Homes team can help you navigate it. Here are some common situations:

1. I started my project in 2025; it is in progress now, and I think it will be done in 2026. I can't complete my application because it's not finished yet.
   • This is OK! If your project won't be completed until 2026, then you can apply in 2026 and be eligible for that year's rebate cycle. Those rebates are all the same values as 2025, so you won't lose out.
2. I started my project in 2025; it is in progress now, and I think it will be done in 2025 after the November 3rd application deadline.
   • Action required! The Energy Smart Homes team can work with you, but you must share your situation with them ahead of time. Contact us as soon as you think that this situation applies to you, and we can help.
3. All of my electrification projects are done, but my utility is taking a long time capping my gas line. Can I still submit my application?
   • Action required! Yes, you may submit your application even if your gas meter isn't capped. The Energy Smart Homes team can work with you and will accept proof of your home's electrification and completed permits in place of a capped gas line. Because the program deadline is passed, contact us as soon as you think that this situation applies to you, and we can help.