Funding Alert: Department of Energy High-Efficiency Electric Home Rebate (HEEHR) Program
The National American Indian Housing Council (NAIHC) is encouraging Tribal leaders, Tribally Designated Housing Entities (TDHEs), and Tribal Housing Authorities to look into an important federal funding opportunity through the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Tribal Home Energy Efficiency Rebates Program.
Up to $218.5 million in formula funding is available nationwide to help Tribal communities make energy-saving home improvements, reduce household utility costs, and improve housing quality and affordability for Tribal families.
APPLICATION DEADLINE: DECEMBER 11, 2026
Eligible Home Improvements and Maximum Rebates
The program supports a range of energy-efficient home improvements, including:
- Heat pump HVAC systems: Up to $8,000
- Heat pump water heaters: Up to $1,750
- Electric stoves, cooktops, ranges, or ovens: Up to $840
- Heat pump clothes dryers: Up to $840
- Electrical panel upgrades: Up to $4,000
- Insulation, air sealing, and ventilation: Up to $1,600
- Electrical wiring: Up to $2,500
Rebates are subject to income eligibility, project costs, and program requirements, with a maximum combined rebate of $14,000 per dwelling unit.
What Tribal Housing Leaders Should Do Now
NAIHC encourages Tribal housing organizations to coordinate with Tribal leadership and begin taking the following steps to pursue available funding:
1. Find Your Tribe’s Formula Allocation –
Review DOE’s Tribal allocation list to identify the funding available to your Tribe.
View Tribal Formula Allocations
2. Coordinate with Tribal Leadership
Engage your Tribal leadership, housing department, and other relevant departments to identify an application team and determine how these resources could support your community’s housing and energy-efficiency priorities.
3. Review Program Guidance and Application Materials
Review DOE’s Program Notice 26-3 and current application templates to understand eligibility, application requirements, and program administration.
4. Submit or Update Your Application
Ensure your Tribe has access to the required federal application systems and submit or update application materials before the deadline.
Additional Resources and Assistance
Application Support: tribalrebates@nlr.gov
DOE Information Session: Watch the July 28 Program Information Session
Don’t Miss This Opportunity!
Energy efficiency investments can help Tribal communities address rising utility costs, improve housing conditions, and make existing homes more affordable and sustainable for generations to come.
NAIHC strongly encourages Tribal housing leaders to review their allocations, coordinate with Tribal leadership, and take action ahead of the December 11 deadline.
Please share this funding opportunity with your Tribal leadership, housing staff, and other community partners who may benefit.
Thank you for your continued leadership and commitment to advancing housing opportunities throughout Indian Country.