Smart Thermostat Utility Rebates: How to Get $50-100 Back
Many utilities offer rebates for ENERGY STAR smart thermostats. Here’s how to get your money back.
For thermostat recommendations, see our guide to Best Smart Thermostats
That Save Money.
Why Utilities Offer Rebates
Smart thermostats reduce peak energy demand. When everyone runs AC at 5 PM, utilities must fire up expensive “peaker”
plants. Smart thermostats help level this demand—saving utilities money.
They pass some savings to you as rebates to encourage adoption.
Typical Rebate Amounts
| Rebate Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Standard utility rebate | $25-100 |
| Instant rebate at checkout | $25-75 |
| Demand response programs | $25-50 + annual incentives |
How to Find Rebates
1. Check Your Utility Website
Search “[your utility name] thermostat rebate” or check their energy efficiency programs page.
2. ENERGY STAR Rebate Finder
Visit energystar.gov/rebate-finder and enter your ZIP code for local rebates.
3. DSIRE Database
dsireusa.org lists all state and local incentives for energy efficiency.
4. Manufacturer Sites
Nest, Ecobee, and others list utility partners on their websites.
Qualifying Thermostats
Rebates typically require ENERGY STAR certified thermostats:
| Thermostat | ENERGY STAR Certified |
|---|---|
| Nest Learning Thermostat | ✅ Yes |
| Ecobee Smart Thermostat | ✅ Yes |
| Honeywell T9/T10 | ✅ Yes |
| Emerson Sensi | ✅ Yes |
| Amazon Smart Thermostat | ✅ Yes |
Types of Rebates
Mail-In Rebates
- Buy qualifying thermostat
- Download rebate form from utility
- Submit form + receipt + proof of installation
- Receive check in 4-8 weeks
Instant Rebates
Some utilities partner with retailers (Amazon, Best Buy, Home Depot) to apply rebates at checkout automatically. Just
enter your ZIP code or utility account.
Free Thermostat Programs
Some utilities offer free smart thermostats in exchange for enrolling in demand response programs. The utility can
slightly adjust your thermostat during peak hours (typically 2-4°F).
Demand Response Programs
Beyond one-time rebates, some utilities offer ongoing incentives if you let them adjust your thermostat during peak
demand:
| Program | What Happens | Incentive |
|---|---|---|
| Rush Hour Rewards (Nest) | Nest adjusts temp during peaks | Bill credits |
| eco+ Community Energy Savings | Ecobee adjusts during peaks | Bill credits |
| Utility demand response | Utility controls during events | $20-75/year |
Note: You can typically opt out of individual events, and adjustments are usually small (2-4°F for a
few hours).
Major Utilities with Rebates
Many major utilities offer thermostat rebates:
- PG&E (California)
- Con Edison (New York)
- Duke Energy
- Xcel Energy
- Florida Power & Light
- ComEd (Illinois)
- DTE Energy (Michigan)
Always check your specific utility—programs change frequently.
How to Apply
Before Purchasing:
- Check if your utility offers rebates
- Confirm which thermostats qualify
- Check for instant rebate options at retailers
After Purchasing:
- Keep receipt and product packaging
- Download rebate form from utility
- Take photo of installed thermostat
- Submit form + documentation
- Wait for rebate check (typically 4-8 weeks)
Verdict
Always check for rebates before buying a smart thermostat. $50-100 back makes an already good
investment even better. Some programs even offer free thermostats.
For thermostat recommendations, see: Best Smart Thermostats That Save
Money.