2026 Smart Energy Rebate Update

Effective January 1st, 2026

 

The Smart Energy rebate program is a critical demand response program that incentivizes the efficient use of electricity. As technology changes, it requires the City to review current programs to ensure they are supporting the utility's goals. This fall, staff from the electric department reviewed the current program and made recommendations to the Electric Utility Operations Review Advisory Board (EUORAB) and City Council. At the November 18th, 2025, board meeting, the following changes were approved for calendar year 2026. If you submit for a rebate between 11/19 - 12/31 with a value that is increasing, the Electric Department will honor the higher rebate value. The following changes reflect the Smart Energy goals of maximizing energy efficiency, fuel switching, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions while meeting the goals set by the Climate Action Plan. 

If there are any questions, contact City of Ames Electric Services - 515.239.5177

Appliance Rebates

2025 Rebate value:

Washing machine: $50
Electric dryer: $50
Dehumidifier: $25
Dishwasher: $25
Refrigerator, or freezer 17.5 cubic ft. or smaller: $25
Refrigerator, or freezer 17.6 cubic ft. or larger: $75

2026 Rebate value:

Washing machine: $50
Electric dryer: $50
Dehumidifier: $0
Dishwasher: $0
Freezer: $0

Refrigerator, or freezer 17.5 cubic ft. or smaller: $0

Refrigerator, or freezer 17.6 cubic ft. or larger: $50
Induction Range or Cooktop

 2025 Rebate Value: $50

2026 Rebate Value: $50
Heat Pump Water Heaters

 2025 Rebate Value: $400

 2026 Rebate Value: $500
Efficient Air Conditioner & HVAC Rebates

2025 Rebate value:

Air Source Heat Pump Rebate

$1,000 for 17.2 SEER2 or better, or for Energy Star Cold Climate certified models

$500 for 15.2 to 17.1 SEER2

Geothermal Heat Pump Rebate

$400 per ton, $500 per ton for EnergyStar®

Rebate is $200 per ton for geothermal equipment replacement (with no new wells)

Whole-House Air Conditioner Rebate

Rebate value: $400 for 17.2 SEER2 or better, $200 for 15.2 to 17.1 SEER2

Smart Thermostat Rebate

Rebate value: $25

2026 Rebate value:

Air Source Heat Pump Rebate

$1,200 for 17.2 SEER2 or better, or for Energy Star Cold Climate certified models

$600 for 15.2 to 17.1 SEER2

Geothermal Heat Pump Rebate

$800 per ton, $1,000 per ton for EnergyStar®

Rebate is $400 per ton for geothermal equipment replacement (with no new wells)

Whole-House Air Conditioner Rebate

Rebate value: $200 for 17.2 SEER2 or better, $0 for 15.2 to 17.1 SEER2

Smart Thermostat Rebate

Rebate value: $25

 
Electric Vehicle Charger

2025 Rebate Value:

50% of the Material and installation cost up to $500.00

  

2026 Rebate Value:

50% of the Material and installation cost up to $500.00
Battery Electric Lawn Mowever

2025 Rebate Value: $50

 2026 Rebate Value: $50
Solar Panels
 2025 Rebate Value: $500 per kW installed (DC)  2026 Rebate Value: $500 per kW installed (DC)
 Net Zero Ready New Home
 2025 Rebate Value: $3,000 - call 515.239.5177 for more information 2026 Rebate Value: $3,000 - call 515.239.5177 for more information
Weatherization - Attic Insulation Only
 New Program

2026 Rebate Value: 50% of the project cost, up to $250.00

For details, call City of Ames Electric Services

 

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