Austin Energy rebates and efficiency help

Short answer

Austin Energy pays residents back for specific efficiency work. The standing cooling and heating offers are a rebate averaging $800 for a new energy-efficient air conditioning system, a $50 rebate on an ENERGY STAR certified window air conditioner, and the Power Partner smart thermostat program (a $50 purchase rebate on approved models plus up to $75 in yearly bill credits when you enroll). Weatherization help covers bigger upgrades at no cost for income-qualifying households. The rules that matter most: check the current approved list before buying anything, and apply within the stated window with receipts saved.

Who this is for

Austin Energy customers planning a thermostat, cooling, insulation, or home efficiency purchase who want the utility to pay part of it.

Next steps

1. Read the current residential rebates list before buying, since approved models and funding change by budget year.
2. Replacing central air? Check the air conditioning rebate rules first; the rebate averages $800 for a qualifying energy-efficient system.
3. For a smart thermostat, confirm the model on the Power Partner page, then apply for the purchase rebate within 90 days.
4. If the household income-qualifies, start with Weatherization Assistance, which covers bigger upgrades at no cost.
5. Keep every receipt and confirmation, and watch the next one or two bills for the credit to appear.

Have this ready

• The Austin Energy account number or service address
• The exact model number of any equipment before purchase
• Receipts and contractor invoices for the application
• Income documentation only for the weatherization assistance path

Common mistakes to avoid

• Buying equipment before checking the approved-model list, which voids the rebate
• Missing the 90-day application window on the thermostat rebate
• Assuming a rebate applies to a rental or landlord-owned system without checking
• Paying a third party to file an application that is free through Austin Energy

Key facts

• A new energy-efficient air conditioning system earns a rebate averaging $800 through Austin Energy.
• An ENERGY STAR certified window air conditioner earns a $50 rebate, and a Power Partner smart thermostat earns a $50 purchase rebate plus up to $75 in yearly bill credits after enrollment.
• Rebates cover specific efficiency work only; the approved-equipment and contractor rules decide eligibility, so check the approved list before buying.

Checked September 12, 2026 against the official source.

Official sources

• Austin Energy residential rebates
• Austin Energy Cooling and Heating rebates
• Austin Energy Power Partner Thermostats
• Austin Energy Weatherization Assistance

Last reviewed September 12, 2026 against the official source.

Related resident guides

• Austin utility bill help
• How do you dispute a high Austin Energy bill?
• Austin Water rebates and free conservation tools