Utility prices are increasing; along with costs to the environment resulting from energy production. Here are a few programs that provide financial incentives for homeowners to reduce their energy consumption as well as financial assistance for residents that are having trouble paying their energy bills. Some programs have income-restrictions and you should use the guidelines used on each website; however, you can do a rough eligibility check with the income limit comparison chart in the Related Documents box to the right.
Home Performance with ENERGY STAR offers a whole-house energy audit at the discounted rate of $125 through the NJ Clean Energy Program ("NJCEP"). If no health and safety issues are found in the home and air sealing opportunities are identified during the home audit, NJCEP will offer up to $1,000 worth of free air sealing work to be completed by a contractor selected by the homeowner from a pre-qualified list. If homeowners want to install additional air sealing measures as well as insulation, high efficiency heating and/or other eligible improvements, NJCEP will pay for ½ of the costs (up to a total $5,000 rebate). The $125 audit fee may also be reimbursed to the homeowner by NJCEP if the homeowner chooses to carry out additional work beyond the free air sealing. This program is available to all NJ homeowners, regardless of income.
The Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) is offered through the Department of Community Affair's, Division of Housing. This is a free program available to income-qualified homeowners (200% poverty level - see Related Documents to the right). The Weatherization Assistance Program provides an energy audit and free weatherization services. This can include replacing light bulbs, sealing holes, adding insulation and replacing equipment. The program is implemented by local non-profit organizations; please contact your local organization directly - information found on the WAP website. Note: Weatherization funds are also available to multifamily buildings; please visit the Developer Programs tab for more information. Comfort Partners is similar to WAP. It is offered through your utility company and includes direct replacement of small items, such as lighting.
The Energy Efficiency Store for NJ Residents is an online-store set up by NJCEP. There are many products available at a reduced cost. Please also visit the NJCEP website for more information on other product rebates available through the ENERGY STAR Product, CoolAdvantage and WarmAdvantage programs.
Rebates are available through the NJCEP Renewable Energy Incentive Program for homeowners installing 10 kW systems or smaller and for businesses installing 50 kW systems or less. There are limited rebate funds, so apply quickly to reserve your rebate. A list of qualified contractors can be found on the NJCEP website. There are also several solar programs available through NJ public utilities. The Green Homes Office has a Solar Financing Handbook and Solar Financing Tool that provides the basics of solar installations and financing. Please visit the Resources/Renewable Energy tab for more information on other offerings.
Programs are available for those having a difficult time with rising utility costs. The programs listed on the NJCEP website are managed by the NJ Board of Public Utilities and the NJ Department of Community Affairs.
