South Carolina: heat pump & home energy rebates
South Carolina has not opened applications yet. Below is what’s known about timing and what you can claim in the meantime.
What the state says now: Rebates are not currently available; the South Carolina Energy Office expects both programs to launch in 2026.
Federal money, state doors
The federal 25C and 25D tax credits ended December 31, 2025. Federal support now flows only through two rebate programs each state runs itself: HEEHR (High-Efficiency Electric Home Rebates, formerly called HEAR — up to $14,000 per income-qualified household, including up to $8,000 for a heat pump) and HOMES (whole-home rebates based on modeled energy savings, up to $8,000, at any income). Since May 29, 2026, HEEHR pays only for upgrades from existing electric equipment, not for replacing a gas, oil or propane system. Amounts, eligibility and timing in South Carolina are set by the state’s energy office. For the full federal picture, read heat pump tax credit 2026: what replaced it.
Programs in South Carolina
- HOMES and HEAR — not yet available; the SC Energy Office expects both to launch in 2026
- HEAR will be limited to households below 150% of Area Median Income, and most projects will go through program-approved contractors
Official source: South Carolina’s program page (energy.sc.gov)
While you wait — or on top of rebates
- Utility rebates often stack with state programs. Check your electric utility's efficiency page.
- Weatherization (air sealing, insulation) usually pays back faster than equipment — and HOMES rewards measured savings. Federal heat pump rebates now require it first: see what insulation pays in 2026.
- Get a Manual J load calculation before accepting any heat pump quote; oversizing wastes both the rebate and the savings.