Reduce energy waste in your home, and save money

In partnership with 107 WI utilities, Focus on Energy helps single-family homeowners, renters, and property owners make energy related improvements to their homes. See if your electric and/or natural gas utility partners with Focus on Energy.

Appliance Recycling
Appliance Recycling Assessments and Insulation Free Products Heating and Cooling Local Retailer Discounts New Home Certification Renewable Energy Smart Thermostats


Get $20 for your old fridge or freezer!

Let us pick up your old, working condition fridge or freezer for FREE - and responsibly recycle it. Plus, you get $20 in return.

Recycling an old fridge or freezer can help you save up to $150 per year in energy costs and reduce your energy waste. For free pick up, schedule using the button below or by calling 800.354.1898. We’ll ask you a few short questions about the appliance you’d like to recycle, and then we’ll let you know what dates we’ll be in your area.

 Appliances must meet all program guidelines in order to qualify for the program. Click "Show Details" for more information. 

Show Details ▼

Program Guidelines

What to Expect

  1. You’ll receive a call 1-2 days in advance of your appointment with a 4-hour window of time when you can expect our team to arrive.
  2. The driver will inspect your appliance to verify that it’s between 10-30 cubic feet and in working condition.
  3. Qualifying appliances will be safely removed from your home and taken to our recycling center.
  4. Within approximately 4-6 weeks, you’ll receive your $20 incentive check by mail.

Eligibility

  • Standard size refrigerators and freezers are eligible (10-30 cubic feet).
  • Mini fridges are not eligible.
  • Appliances must be in working cooling condition.
  • Two appliances may be recycled per household, per year. Participants will receive $20 per qualifying appliance.
  • Electric utility must participate in Focus on Energy.
  • Landlord authorization is required for multifamily customers.

Home Performance with Energy Star

Ready to insulate your home?

One of the best ways to improve comfort, lower your energy costs, and boost efficiency in your home is through insulation and air sealing. To achieve the greatest benefits, it’s best to look at your home as a system with many different parts all working together. The right mix of improvements can make a huge difference in how your home performs.

Consider an energy assessment

A home energy assessment will identify areas in your home that cause drafts, discomfort and high energy bills. Assessments are performed by trained and certified Trade Ally contractors who will also look at health and safety issues that you may not otherwise consider. Using special diagnostic tools, such as a blower door test, our Trade Ally contractors can locate any air leakage sites and other trouble areas. You’ll walk away with a clear road map of:

  • Where your home is performing well, and where you could benefit from efficiency improvements
  • Specific solutions for comfort, health and safety issues, as well as ideas for lowering energy costs
  • Available financial incentives that cover assessment cost and provide funding for additional work

From there, you can determine which improvements to make, like adding insulation to your attic or walls, and we can put you in touch with a Trade Ally contractor to complete the work. 
Energy assessments typically range between $200-$400 dollars, and in return you’ll gain access to greater financial incentives. 

Start your project

Whether you start with a home energy assessment or you’re ready to jump right to an insulation and/or air sealing project, Focus on Energy is here to help you make your home more comfortable and efficient. Find a Trade Ally contractor to help you get started.

For available incentives, see the “Show Details” section below. Higher incentives are available for Tier 2 customers; see if you qualify below. Note: Insulation must be installed by a Trade Ally contractor to be eligible for incentives.

Get Started

  1. There are two incentive tiers: standard Tier 1 and Tier 2 for income-eligible customers. See if you qualify for Tier 2 incentives.

  2. If you choose to complete an energy assessment, be sure to schedule your appointment with your Trade Ally contractor. Contact one of our Trade Ally contractors. 

  3. Choose which home improvements you want to pursue and schedule the work with a Trade Ally contractor. Be sure to review the program terms. 

  4. Your Trade Ally contractor will work with you to receive your financial incentives.

Show Details ▼

Incentives

Incentives effective May 1, 2019

Air Sealing and Insulation

Tier 1

Tier 2
ENERGY STAR Qualified Air Sealing
  Energy assessment required.		 $600 $900
Attic Insulation $500 $600
Foundation Insulation $100 $150
Wall Insulation $300 $300
Duct Sealing & Insulation $50 $50

Tier 2 Eligibility

You may be eligible for larger Tier 2 incentives if your household income level is at or below the limits outlined in this table.

2019 State Median Income Limits by Household Size

Household Size Annual Income 80% SMI 3 Month Income 80% SMI
1 $36,640.00 $9,160.00
2 $47,913.33 $11,978.33
3 $59,188.00 $14,797.00
4 $70,461.33 $17,615.33
5 $81,734.67 $20,433.67
6 $93,009.33 $23,252.33
7 $95,122.67 $23,780.67
8 $97,236.00 $24,309.00
9 $99,349.83 $24,837.79
10 $101,464.49 $25,365.68
11 $103,578.12 $25,894.61

Terms and Conditions

General Program Requirements

  • Must be a customer of a participating utility. Focus on Energy incentives are available to Wisconsin residential customers of participating utilities. 
  • At least 51% of the home’s heating must come from a participating utility (electric or natural gas). Homes heated with wood, oil, LP, etc. are not eligible for an incentive.
  • Offer is valid for equipment and products purchased and installed between May 1, 2019 and December 31, 2019.
  • Only single-family dwellings and multifamily dwellings with three or fewer units are eligible for incentives included in this application. Incentives may be available for other customer or property types. Please visit https://focusonenergy.com/business for more information.
  • Incentives may not exceed the total purchase price of the improvement.
  • The home is not eligible for incentives if the home has received an incentive from Focus on Energy for insulation or air sealing work in the last 3 years (1095 days).
  • The only costs eligible for incentives are materials and external labor.
  • Allow approximately 8-10 weeks for your completed application to be processed. Incomplete applications cannot be processed. Failure to complete the application in full and provide the required supporting documentation will either delay the payment process or result in your application being denied. Receipt of an application does not guarantee payment of an incentive.
  • The program is not responsible for items (i.e. applications, supporting documentation, incentive checks) lost or damaged in the mail.
  • Focus on Energy will only pay one incentive for each type of improvement. Incentives paid on this application cannot be claimed on another Focus on Energy application. Similarly, incentives can only be paid to one person or entity (i.e., either the resident or landlord, not both).
  • Focus on Energy will only pay for one total improvement every three years.
  • All projects will be tested using the current BPI Building Analyst procedure related to the visual inspection of the CAZ ((ANSI/BPI-1200-S-2017 section 7.7), visual inspection of the combustion appliance/s and venting system/s (ANSI/BPI-1200-S-2017 section 7.8) and a spillage assessment (ANSI/BPI-1200-S-2017 section 7.9). 
  • Carbon Monoxide Alarms must be installed or present on all conditioned floors.
  • All installations are subject to verification inspection by the program for proper installation.
  • Participants must allow, if requested, the program or a program representative reasonable access to their home to verify the installed installation.

You are only eligible to participate in the program if you are:

  • A current residential customer of a participating utility in Wisconsin at the time of improvement or a landlord who paid for the improvement in the residence of a current residential customer of a participating utility in Wisconsin at the time of improvement; and
  • Installing qualifying energy efficient improvements in an existing residential dwelling. New construction does not qualify.
  • Improving the air sealing and insulation of an existing site. Insulation and air sealing work in a newly built addition is not eligible for incentives.

Your installation of air sealing and insulation improvements is only eligible for an incentive if:

  • It meets all installation requirements as outlined in our eligibility guidelines by installation type:
  • It is purchased new. Resale material or material that is leased, rebuilt, rented, received from insurance claims, received from a manufacturer warranty, purchase through Focus on Energy or won as a prize does not qualify. 
  • Improvement is installed by a Focus on Energy Home Performance with ENERGY STAR Trade Ally or Air Sealing & Insulation Trade Ally. 
  • Installation is conforming to all applicable building, local, state and federal codes, standards, ordinances and regulations, and manufacturer specifications.
  • Installation is completed prior to submittal of this application at the address listed on the application.
  • It is installed in a property owned by the applicant, or the applicant has received permission from the property owner to install the equipment. If you do not own the property where this equipment is installed, as a residing tenant you are responsible for obtaining the owner’s permission to install the equipment for which you are applying for an incentive. Submission of this application indicates that you have obtained this permission.

To be considered complete and eligible for incentives, all applications must:

  • Be postmarked no later than 60 days after the installation date; and
  • Be signed by the purchaser (utility account holder, landlord, or applicant signing on behalf of the utility account holder) or Trade Ally; and 
  • Include itemized contractor invoice(s) or proof of purchase receipt(s) containing:
    • Improvement
    • Total installed cost
    • Purchase date or installation date 
    • Professional contractor’s business/company name, address, and phone number
    • Balance due of zero, paid in full stamp, or payment terms

Get free energy saving products delivered right to your doorstep!

Take advantage of ways to use energy smarter and reduce energy waste in your home. Focus on Energy offers six different energy saving packs - all sent to you for free. Allow 4-6 weeks for delivery.

For more information on pack options, eligibility requirements, and product installation videos, click the "Show Details" tab below. 

How to order your pack:

  1. Verify that you are a customer of a participating utility company. 

  2. Complete our online order form to choose the pack that works best for your home. Have your utility account information handy.

  3. Install your products and enjoy the energy savings!

Show Details ▼

Installation Videos

Faucet Aerator Installation

Showerhead Installation

Advanced Power Strips

Eligibility

  • Must be a customer of a participating utility company and have not participated in the Simple Energy Efficiency Program within the last three years.
  • Renters must obtain permission from their landlord or property manager to install energy efficient products.
  • Please have your electric and gas utility account number available prior to ordering.

Available Packs

Focus Pack with Advanced Power Strip

3 – 800 Lumen A-lamp LED light bulbs
1 –  Tier 1 Advanced Power Strip
1 – Pipe Wrap Roll 15'
1 – Hot Water Temperature Card 

Focus Flood Light Pack

6 – 650 Lumen BR30 LED 65w Equivalent Reflector

Focus Light Bulb Pack

4 — 9w LED 60w Equivalent General Purpose A-lamp
2 — 11w LED 75w Equivalent General Purpose A-lamp
1 — Pipe Wrap 15’ roll

Focus Decorative Pack

2 — 9w LED 60w Equivalent General Purpose A-lamp
6 — 5w LED 40w Equivalent Candelabra Lamp

Focus Fixed Showerhead Pack

3 — 5w LED 40w Equivalent Globe
2 — 9w LED 60w Equivalent General Purpose A-lamp
2 — 1.0 GPM Faucet Aerator
1 — 1.5 GPM Showerhead w/Pipe Thread Tape
1 — Hot Water Temperature Card
1 — Pipe Wrap 15’ roll

Focus Hand Showerhead Pack

3 — 5w LED 40w Equivalent Globe
2 — 1.0 GPM Faucet Aerator
1 — 1.5 GPM Handheld Showerhead w/Pipe Thread Tape
1 — Hot Water Temperature Card
1— Pipe Wrap 15’ roll

Product Specifications

Product Descriptions

Each pack contains a variety of products, such as:

 

  • ENERGY STAR® qualified Light Emitting Diode (LED) Light Bulbs
    LEDs use at least 75% less energy than incandescent bulbs, producing less heat and more light per watt. Plus, they have an extremely long life span, typically 15,000 hours or longer.

  • High-Efficiency Showerhead
    Efficient showerheads lower the gallons of water used per minute, without compromising performance – allowing you to use less water, and potentially lowering water and heating bills.
     
  • Water-Saving Bathroom Faucet Aerators 
    These simple screw-in aerators reduce water use in your sinks while providing the pressure you need to wash.  Reducing your water use will save you money on the cost of heating your water.
     
  • Advanced Power Strip (APS)
    Advanced Power Strips are designed primarily for home entertainment centers and home office areas. They work by preventing electronics from drawing power when they are off or not being used. 
     
  • Pipe insulation
    Pipe insulation may be used on domestic cold and hot water pipes. Pipe insulation will help to reduce heat loss by up to 80 percent through hot water pipes and will stop sweating on cold water pipes.

Enjoy year-round comfort and savings!

When you consider heating and cooling accounts for nearly half of an average home’s energy usage, it’s easy to see how the right mix of improvements can deliver sizable savings.

Choose from a menu of energy-saving options, including a new furnace, boiler, smart thermostat, or water heater. You can receive incentives for each individual improvement, or make multiple upgrades at once and increase your incentives.

Signs its time for an upgrade:

  • Your heating and cooling equipment is unreliable, inefficient, or over 15 years old.
  • You’ve noticed excessive blower noises, or sporadic pops, bangs, or rattles from your furnace.
  • Your energy bills have gone up.
  • Your home is cold and uncomfortable.

Improvements are made through a Focus on Energy Trade Ally contractor who will guide you through the process and complete the installations. Our partnering Trade Allies receive specialized training and program resources that set them apart from other contractors.

Find a Trade Ally contractor to install your new equipment.

How do I get incentives for my new equipment?

  1. There are two incentive tiers: standard Tier 1 and Tier 2 for income-eligible customers. See if you qualify for Tier 2 incentives here

  2. Purchase equipment from the pre-qualified equipment lists and review program terms.

  3. Apply online or download and submit your Heating and Cooling Incentive Application [PDF] and required supporting documentation within 60 days of installation.

Show Details ▼

Incentives and Eligibility

Incentives effective January 1, 2019

 

Heating and Cooling Equipment Tier 1   Tier 2  
  Incentive Incentive w/
Smart Thermostat*		 Incentive Incentive w/
Smart Thermostat*

Natural gas multi-stage furnace with ECM, 95%+ AFUE

$125

$250

$525

$650

Natural gas multi-stage furnace with ECM and 95%+ AFUE
installed with a 16+ SEER central air conditioner

$250

$375

$750

$875

Modulating natural gas boiler with outdoor reset control, 95%+ AFUE

$400

$525

$550

$675

Modulating combination natural gas boiler with integrated domestic hot water and outdoor reset control, 95%+ AFUE

$500

$625

$675

$800

Natural gas furnace, 95%+ AFUE

NA

NA

$350

$475

Propane multi-stage furnace with ECM, 90%+ AFUE

$100

NA

$300

NA

Indirect water heater (installed at the same time as qualified boiler)

$100

NA

$150

NA

Air source heat pump 16+ SEER and 8.4+ HSPF (propane, oil or electric furnace only; cannot be a mini-split or ductless system)

$300

$425

$300

$425

ECM replacement (must replace PSC motor)

$100

NA

$100

NA

Ductless/mini-split heat pump for electric resistance heated home, 18+ SEER and 9.0+ HSPF (only for homes heated solely with electric resistance heat)

$500

NA

$500

NA
Smart Thermostat stand-alone purchased from a Trade Ally (not installed along with new program qualified HVAC equipment). For use with a natural gas furnace, natural gas boiler and air source heat pump only. $75 NA $75 NA
Retail purchased smart thermostat – see focusonenergy.com/smart for more details. $50 NA $50 NA

*Includes installation and smart thermostat incentive. NOTE: Your smart thermostat must be purchased from and installed by a Trade Ally contractor. Work with your Trade Ally to ensure the equipment you install qualifies for Focus on Energy incentives. Qualified equipment lists and complete eligibility requirements are listed in the Equipment Qualifications section.

Tier 2 Eligibility

You may be eligible for larger Tier 2 incentives if your household income level is at or below the limits outlined in this table.

2019 State Median Income Limits by Household Size

Household Size Annual Income 80% SMI 3 Month Income 80% SMI
1 $36,640.00 $9,160.00
2 $47,913.33 $11,978.33
3 $59,188.00 $14,797.00
4 $70,461.33 $17,615.33
5 $81,734.67 $20,433.67
6 $93,009.33 $23,252.33
7 $95,122.67 $23,780.67
8 $97,236.00 $24,309.00
9 $99,349.83 $24,837.79
10 $101,464.49 $25,365.68
11 $103,578.12 $25,894.61

Follow these steps to be approved for Tier 2 incentives:

Equipment Qualifications

High-Efficiency Furnaces

High-Efficiency Furnace and Air Conditioner Combination

Natural Gas Multi-Stage Furnace with ECM and 95%+ AFUE  Installed with a 16+ SEER Central Air Conditioner
Air Conditioner Directory
Furnace and AC Eligibility Requirements

High-Efficiency Boilers

Modulating Natural Gas Boiler with Outdoor Reset Control, 95% AFUE
Pre-Qualified 95%+ AFUE Natural Gas Boilers
Boiler Eligibility Requirements

High-Efficiency Combination Boilers

Modulating Combination Natural Gas Boiler with Integrated Domestic Hot Water and Outdoor Reset Control, 95%+ AFUE
Pre-Qualified 95%+ AFUE Natural Gas Combination Boilers
Combination Boiler Eligibility Requirements

Smart Thermostat

PLEASE NOTE: Thermostat much be purchased from and installed by a Trade Ally contractor to be eligible for the $75 incentive. If purchased online or from a retailer, please use the Retail Smart Thermostat Application available at focusonenergy.com/smart

Pre-Qualified - Smart Thermostats

Smart Thermostat Eligibility Requirements

Electronically Commutated Motor (ECM) Replacement

Ductless Mini-Split Heat Pump

Ductless Mini-Split Heat Pump for Electric Resistance Heated Home, 18+ SEER and 9.0+ HSPF 
Ductless Mini-Split Heat Pump Directory
Ductless Mini-Split Heat Pump Eligibility Requirements

Indirect Water Heater

Indirect Water Heater for Home Heating Boiler
Indirect Water Heater Eligibility Requirements

Terms and Conditions

General Program Requirements

General Program Terms and Eligibility Requirements

  • Must be a customer of a participating utility. Focus on Energy incentives are available to Wisconsin residential customers of participating utilities.
  • Offer is valid for eligible equipment and products purchased and installed between January 1, 2019 and December 31, 2019
  • Only single family dwellings and multifamily dwellings with three or fewer units are eligible for incentives included in this application. Incentives may be available for other customer or property types. Please visit focusonenergy.com/business for more information.
  • Incentives may not exceed the total purchase price of the energy efficient equipment. The only costs eligible for incentives are: materials; equipment; external labor.
  • Allow approximately 8-10 weeks for your completed application to be processed. Incomplete applications cannot be processed. Failure to complete the application in full and provide the required supporting documentation will either delay the payment process or result in your application being denied. Receipt of an application does not guarantee payment of an incentive.
  • The program is not responsible for items (i.e. applications, supporting documentation, incentive checks) lost or damaged in the mail.
  • Focus on Energy will only pay one incentive for each piece of equipment. Incentives paid on this application cannot be claimed on another Focus on Energy application. Similarly, incentives can only be paid to one person or entity (i.e., either the resident or landlord, not both).
  • All equipment installations are subject to verification inspection by the program to ensure the equipment is properly installed and operating.
  • Participants must allow, if requested, the program or a program representative reasonable access to their home to verify the installed equipment.
  • See the current list of qualified products for most equipment. If you have a question concerning one of the lists, please email homerewards@focusonenergy.com with “Equipment” in the subject line.

You are only eligible to participate in the program if you are:

  • A current residential customer of a participating utility in Wisconsin at the time of equipment purchase and installation; or
  • A landlord (who is not the utility account holder) who paid for the equipment installed in the residence of a current residential customer of a participating utility in Wisconsin at the time of equipment purchase and installation; and
  • Installing qualifying energy efficient equipment in an existing residential dwelling. New construction does not qualify.

Your installation of high efficiency equipment is only eligible for an incentive if:

  • It meets all equipment-specific, energy efficiency, and program requirements as outlined in our eligibility guidelines by equipment type:
  • It is replacing existing equipment used for the same purposes. Equipment additions to a residential dwelling, which are not replacing existing equipment, do not qualify.
  • It is purchased new. Resale material or material that is leased, rebuilt, rented, received from insurance claims, received from a manufacturer warranty, purchase through Focus on Energy or won as a prize does not qualify. Equipment purchased with a home warranty is eligible if the incentive does not exceed the total purchase price of the energy efficient equipment less the home warranty reimbursement.
  • Equipment is installed by a professional contractor with appropriate insurance, permits, and licenses. A valid Wisconsin State professional contractor’s license or credential is required.
  • Equipment is installed conforming to all applicable building, local, state and federal codes, standards, ordinances and regulations, and manufacturer specifications.
  • Equipment is installed and operational prior to submittal of this application at the address listed on the application.
  • It is installed in a property owned by the applicant, or the applicant has received permission from the property owner to install the equipment. If you do not own the property where this equipment is installed, as a residing tenant you are responsible for obtaining the owner’s permission to install the equipment for which you are applying for an incentive. Submission of this application indicates that you have obtained this permission.

To be considered complete and eligible for incentives, all applications must:

  • Be postmarked no later than 60 days after the installation date.
  • Be signed by the purchaser (Utility Account Holder, Landlord, or Applicant signing on behalf of the Utility Account Holder).
  • Include tax information for landlord or Trade Ally if receiving the incentive
  • Include itemized contractor invoice(s) or proof of purchase receipt(s) containing:
    • Equipment make and model
    • Total installed cost (itemized by each equipment/product installed)
    • Total number of units installed
    • Purchase date or installation date
    • Professional contractor’s business/company name, address, and phone number
    • Balance due of zero, paid in full stamp, or payment terms

Get instant discounts and information on energy efficient products at your local retailer.

LED Lighting

Lighting accounts for about 20% of the average home's electric bill. LED’s use up to 90% less energy and can last up to 25 times longer than incandescent bulbs. Focus on Energy partners with retailers across Wisconsin to offer instant discounts on select ENERGY STAR® certified LED bulbs. Learn more...

Choose the Right Bulb

Not sure where to start? We can help. Download our lighting fact sheet, visit the ENERGY STAR website or watch a short video to get answers to frequently asked questions about purchasing bulbs.

Free Lighting Demonstrations

View our calendar of free lighting events held at participating retailers and come speak with our lighting experts.

Low-E Storm Windows

Low-E stands for low-emissivity. It is an extremely durable coating on glass that minimizes the amount of infrared energy that can pass through, without compromising the amount of visible light that shines in. Low-E storm windows are less than half the cost of full window replacement, and can be installed without the help of a contractor. Plus, you can get 25% off Low-E storm windows at participating retail locations. Learn more...

ENERGY STAR Appliances

The average household spends about $2,000 a year on energy costs. Appliances and electronics account for about 30 percent of that amount. To choose products that offer energy efficiency without sacrificing features, performance or comfort, just look for the ENERGY STAR® label.

It's Easy to Save

  1. Find a participating retailer near you that offers discounts on energy efficient products.

  2. Visit a participating retailer to get instant discounts. Look for Focus on Energy Special Pricing to save!

    Image removed.

  3. Questions? Email retailincentives@focusonenergy.com or call (800) 762-7077 for more information.

Show Details ▼

Lighting Eligibility

Requirements

  • Discounts are available only at participating retailers and apply only to select lighting products for a limited time, while supplies last.
  • Limit 25 discounted bulbs per customer.
  • Discounts do not apply to ENERGY STAR® qualified fixtures, fans or lamps.

CFL Recycling

Handling & Recycling

All CFLs contain about 5 milligrams of mercury per bulb, which is less than you find in an average watch battery. Though it’s an extremely small amount, these bulbs do need to be recycled properly. Also, if a CFL breaks, you should take special steps as advised by the EPA. Download this Fact Sheet to learn how to properly clean up and dispose of a broken CFL.

Find a retailer that recycles CFLs. 

Build a Focus on Energy Certified New Home

Build a new home that is up to 100% more energy efficient than the average new home built in Wisconsin.

We pair prospective homeowners with builders and energy experts to construct new homes that are between 25 and 100 percent more efficient than homes built to Wisconsin’s Uniform Dwelling Code. They are built to be as comfortable, durable, combustion safe and energy efficient as possible.

New Home Certification Advantages:

Your Focus on Energy Building Performance Consultant will make sure your home meets the highest standards for energy efficiency, combustion safety, comfort and durability—ensuring your dream home is also a sound investment. In addition to a more energy-efficient home, you will also enjoy other benefits, including:

  • Dedicated builders – Focus on Energy rewards builders for constructing homes to be as efficient as possible, so you know your new home will be built to save energy for years to come.
  • Lower energy bills – A Focus on Energy Certified New Home is at least 25 percent more efficient than homes that are merely built to code, which means lower energy costs and more efficient performance.
  • Comfort – Expect air tightness that minimizes drafts and creates superior indoor air quality. Sealed combustion equipment and carbon monoxide detectors ensure combustion safety and whole-house ventilation for proper circulation.
  • Proof of quality – Your Building Performance Consultant conducts two site visits to review construction and overall performance; conducts scientific tests to ensure the proper performance of the air sealing, insulation, ventilation and combustion equipment; and certify your home.
  • Resale advantage – A Focus on Energy New Home Certification offers added value when looking to resell your home.

 

How do I build a Certified Home?

  1. Your participating builder works with a Focus on Energy Building Performance Consultant to review plans and construction.

  2. Your new home is framed and insulated and your Building Performance Consultant makes an initial home visit to review work to date.

  3. Your new home construction is finished and the Consultant makes a final home visit to test performance.

  4. If your home meets energy efficiency and performance requirements, you will receive your Focus on Energy New Home certification!

Show Details ▼

New Homes Resources

Eligibility & Requirements

Interested in incorporating renewable energy into your new home?

Ask your Focus on Energy Building Performance Consultant about having a geothermal heat pump or a solar electric system installed.

Reach next level savings!

If you’ve already put in the work to make your home or business as energy efficient as possible, now is the perfect time to take an even more rewarding step. Follow the Renewable Energy path and receive Focus on Energy cash incentives for qualified solar electric and geothermal installations.

Your benefits:

  • Lower energy bills
  • Greater energy independence
  • Financial incentives
  • Technical support

Renewable Funding Status - Updated 11/11/2019.

Total Residential Renewable Budget $1,423,763.00
Paid/Entered $1,321,923.13
Estimated Funding Available $101,839.87

 

Total Rural Residential Solar Renewable Budget $200,000.00
Paid/Entered $193,197.25
Estimated Funding Available $6,802.75

The Rural Residential Solar Renewable incentive is additional funding, up to $2,000 with a maximum total incentive cap at $4,000 or 12% of the project costs, for residential solar installations in eligible ZIP code across Wisconsin. No additional application needed aside from the standard solar application.

Total Business Renewable Budget $273,000.00
Paid/Entered $203,241.76
Estimated Funding Available $69,758.24

Sign-up to receive automated notifications regarding Focus on Energy's Renewable Incentive offerings. 

Don't Miss Out on Incentives

  1. Verify your system meets eligibility requirements.

  2. When your project is complete, fill out the Incentive Application to receive your check! You can also download and send in PDF applications: Solar Electric (PV) Incentive Application / Geothermal Incentive Application

Show Details ▼

Incentives and Eligibility

Solar Electric and Geothermal Heat Pump Systems
Solar Electric (PV) System Install position Incentive
Residential property, 1-3 units (owner-occupied or rental) Within 45° of due South 12% of installed cost, up to $2,000
Residential property, 1-3 units (owner-occupied or rental) Between 45-90° of due South 12% of installed cost, up to $1,500
Residential property, 1-3 units in eligible rural ZIP codes Within 45° of due South 12% of installed cost, up to $4,000
Residential property, 1-3 units in eligible rural ZIP codes Between 45-90° of due South 12% of installed cost, up to $3,000
Non-residential property, includes anything outside of a 1-3 unit home Within 45° of due South 12% of installed cost, up to $4,000
Non-residential property, includes anything outside of a 1-3 unit home Between 45-90° of due South 12% of installed cost, up to $3,000
Geothermal heat pump system Install position Incentive
Residential and business/non-residential No restrictions $650

*Maximum incentive amounts are based on system cost averages from the previous 12 months and may be updated every six months.

Renewable project funding from Focus on Energy is available for Geothermal Heat Pumps and Solar Electric systems. Geothermal heat pumps use stable ground temperatures to heat your home or business. Solar electric system incentives are available on select qualifying solar photovoltaic equipment. Work with A renewable Trade Ally contractor to help you earn incentives from Focus on Energy on qualifying equipment.

Terms & Conditions

To be eligible to participate, the following requirements must be met:

  • System must be installed on a site served by a participating electric utility. 
  • System and components must have a minimum of a five-year warranty.
  • Incentive cannot exceed cost to customer.
  • Systems purchased and installed between January 1, 2019 and December 31, 2019 are eligible for funding under the 2019 program year only.
  • The only costs eligible for incentives are materials, equipment, and external labor.
  • Funding is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis on an annual basis. Check remaining funding in the tables above.
  • The program is not responsible for items (i.e. applications, supporting documentation, incentive checks) lost or damaged in the mail.
  • Focus on Energy will only pay one incentive for each technology per site per calendar year. Incentives paid on this application cannot be claimed on another Focus on Energy application. Similarly, incentives can only be paid to one person or entity.
  • All equipment installations are subject to verification inspection by the program to ensure the equipment is properly installed and operating. Participants must allow, if requested, the program or a program representative reasonable access to their home or business to verify the installed equipment.
  • You must be a current customer of a participating electric utility in Wisconsin at the time of equipment purchase and installation. For specific equipment eligibility review the following resources:
  • The system is purchased new. Resale equipment, new parts installed in existing equipment, or equipment that is leased, rebuilt, rented, received from insurance claims, received from a warranty, received from a grant, or won as a prize do not qualify.
  • Equipment is installed by a professional contractor with a valid Wisconsin State professional contractor’s license, appropriate insurance, and permits.
  • Equipment is installed conforming to all applicable building, local, state and federal codes, standards, ordinances and regulations, and manufacturer specifications.
  • The system is installed in a property owned by the applicant, or the applicant has received permission from the property owner to install the equipment. If you do not own the property where this equipment is installed, as a residing tenant you are responsible for obtaining the owner’s permission to install the equipment for which you are applying for an incentive. Your submission of this application indicates that you have obtained this permission.
  • All necessary utility service improvement costs are the responsibility of the customer.
  • All necessary service improvement costs, including transformers and service lines, are the responsibility of the customer.
  • System installations must be in compliance with all state, local and federal codes, standards and requirements, including any and all applicable utility standards.
  • System must be installed in conformity with the manufacturer’s specifications and all applicable codes and standards.
  • System owners and installers must obtain all required permits.
  • If the project site is serviced by a participating Focus on Energy utility and uses a non-residential rate, the project site does not have to be owned by the applicant. The project/system equipment, however, must be owned by the applicant in order to qualify and confirmation of this ownership should be provided. System ownership must revert to the property owner after a specified period of time, not to exceed 25 years.
  • In order to receive a commercial incentive, the system must be connected through a non-residential rate meter.
  • Allow approximately 8-10 weeks for your completed application to be processed. Incomplete applications cannot be processed. Failure to complete the application in full and provide the required supporting documentation will either delay the payment process or result in your application being denied. Receipt of an application does not guarantee payment of an incentive.
  • Focus on Energy will only pay one incentive for each piece of equipment. Incentives paid on this application cannot be claimed on another Focus on Energy application. Similarly, incentives can only be paid to one person or entity (i.e., either the resident or landlord, not both).

Get cash back on ENERGY STAR® certified smart thermostats!

  • $50 cash back if purchased online or in-store
  • Additional incentives if installed by a Trade Ally Contractor

Save energy and money without sacrificing comfort. Some ENERGY STAR  smart thermostats auto-adjust to help you manage your home’s heating and cooling costs. Plus, they’re easy to install! If only every project were as easy as upgrading to a smart thermostat.

Smart thermostats can save up to $120 annually and typically pay for themselves in two years. You can also save energy and money by controlling your home’s temperature from anywhere using your smart device.

Some smart thermostats even notify you when the system isn’t operating at top condition. You’ll know when to change a dirty filter or schedule a tune-up before you need a costly repair.

Combine with HVAC Upgrades

Considering new heating and cooling equipment? Ask your Trade Ally to install a smart thermostat at the same time and receive an incentive check from Focus on Energy, in addition to other Focus on Energy incentives available for heating and cooling equipment. Learn more.

How Do I Get My Smart Thermostat Incentive?

  1. There are a few ways to get your smart thermostat incentive: Purchase a Pre-Qualified - Smart Thermostat online or in-store and then submit an online application within 60 days of purchase to receive a $50 incentive check in the mail.

  2. NEW! Visit the Focus on Energy Online Marketplace to save $50 instantly.

  3. Buy online and get an instant discount! Visit ecobee.com/rebates and follow the prompts at check-out to see if you qualify to receive a $50 off coupon code.

  4. Or, if your smart thermostat was purchased and installed by a participating Trade Ally (contractor) or retailer, complete the online Heating and Cooling Incentive application or download it to obtain your incentive.

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Eligibility Requirements

Offer is limited to qualifying smart thermostats that:

  • Have been purchased within the past 60 days.
  • Are not purchased for resale, leased, rebuilt, rented, received from insurance claims or a manufacturer warranty, or won as a prize.
  • Do not qualify for other Focus on Energy incentives.
  • Replace an existing thermostat that does not qualify for an incentive.
  • Connect with Wi-Fi.
  • Feature integrated occupancy-sensing capability, such as motion sensors or geofencing with setback.
  • Are listed in our Pre-Qualified - Smart Thermostats.

Offer is limited to Wisconsin customers of Focus on Energy participating utilities based on the home's primary heating system.

  • Homes with a natural gas furnace must be a customer of a participating electric utility and gas utility.
  • Homes with a natural gas boiler must be a customer of a participating gas utility.
  • Homes with an air-source heat pump must be a customer of a participating electric utility.
  • Homes heated by liquid petroleum (LP) gas or a geothermal heat pump are not eligible.
  • Offer is limited to one incentive per home heating system and two per household.

"With the incentive I received from Focus on Energy, I was able to afford a higher quality, more energy-efficient furnace. I'm very happy with the Focus on Energy program!"

-Angela (Madison, WI)
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