NYSERDA & Con Edison Heat Pump Incentives Guide: Step-by-Step Application

Overview: Two Separate Programs, One Goal

NYSERDA (New York State Energy Research and Development Authority) and Con Edison run separate rebate programs that stack together.

• NYSERDA: State-level rebates (up to $4,000 for standard, up to $8,000 for income-qualified)
• Con Edison: Utility-level rebates (up to $1,500 for mini-splits, up to $1,500 for central air)

You apply to both. They don't interfere with each other. You can claim both rebates on the same system.

This guide walks you through both applications step-by-step.

Part 1: NYSERDA Rebate Application

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

Who Qualifies:

• You own or occupy a residential property in New York State
• System is being installed in a primary residence (house, condo, co-op, apartment)
• Contractor is NYSERDA-certified
• Equipment meets ENERGY STAR Most Efficient standards

No income limit for standard NYSERDA rebate. (Income-qualified programs covered separately below.)

Geographic Check:

• NYSERDA serves all of NYC
• If you're in parts of Westchester or Long Island, check NYSERDA service map first

Step 2: Choose a NYSERDA-Certified Contractor

This is the first critical gate. If your contractor isn't NYSERDA-certified, you cannot claim the rebate.

How to Find Certified Contractors:

1. Go to NYSERDA.ny.gov/Find-Contractors
2. Search by zip code
3. Filter for "Heat Pump" or "Air Source Heat Pump"
4. Verify contractor name, license, phone

What Certification Means:

• Contractor has passed NYSERDA training
• Contractor has proper insurance and licensing
• Contractor has installed at least 3-5] systems already
• NYSERDA will recognize their work for rebate approval

Red Flag: Contractor says "I can install heat pumps, but I'm not NYSERDA-certified." They can still install, but you won't qualify for NYSERDA rebates. This costs you $2,500-$4,000. Don't accept this.

What to Do If Your Preferred Contractor Isn't Certified:

• Ask them if they'll get certified for you (some will)
• Ask if they subcontract through a certified contractor (acceptable)
• Otherwise, find a certified contractor

Step 3: Get Pre-Installation Estimate from Contractor

Contractor will assess your home and provide:

• System specifications (single-zone, dual-zone, etc.)
• Equipment model (e.g., Mitsubishi Hyper-Heating Mini-Split, 18K BTU)
• Installation estimate
• Timeline

This estimate is needed for the NYSERDA application.

Step 4: Determine Standard vs EmPower+ Program

Standard NYSERDA Program:

• No income limits
• Rebate: $1,500-$4,000 (depending on system)
• Apply if household income is above income limits (see below)

EmPower+ (Enhanced, Income-Qualified):

• Income limits apply
• Rebate: $3,000-$8,000 (doubled amounts)
• Apply if household income is below limits

NYC Income Limits for 2026:

Exact limits available at: nyserda.ny.gov/empower-income-limits

How to Check: Use your most recent tax return (federal form 1040). Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) is the comparison number.

Step 5: Gather Required Documents

For Standard NYSERDA:

• Completed NYSERDA application form
• Contractor information (license, phone, certifications)
• Proof of residency (utility bill in your name)
• System specifications from contractor

For EmPower+:

• All of above, plus:
• Last two years of tax returns (federal 1040)
• Proof of income (W2, pay stubs, or benefit statements)
• Identification

Why NYSERDA Asks for Tax Returns:

• They need to verify income eligibility
• Federal tax returns are standard proof
• Everything you provide is confidential

Step 6: Submit Application to NYSERDA

Option A: Online Application (Fastest)

1. Go to NYSERDA.ny.gov/heat-pump-rebates
2. Click "Apply Online"
3. Enter basic information (name, address, contact)
4. Select "Standard" or "EmPower+" program
5. Enter contractor name and license number
6. Describe system (mini-split, central air, capacity)
7. Upload documents (proof of residency, tax returns if EmPower+)
8. Submit

Timeline: Online application processed in 2-3 weeks

Option B: Mail Application

1. Download NYSERDA application form
2. Print and complete by hand
3. Gather required documents
4. Mail to the NYSERDA address printed on the application form
5. Enclose cover letter with your contact info

Timeline: Mail application processed in 4-6 weeks (slower due to processing)

Option C: In-Person Application

NYSERDA has offices in Brooklyn and Manhattan where staff can help you apply in person.

• Walk-ins welcome
• Interpreter services available in 15+ languages

Step 7: NYSERDA Pre-Installation Inspection

Once your application is approved (2-3 weeks), NYSERDA schedules a pre-installation inspection.

What Happens:

• NYSERDA inspector visits your home
• Inspector verifies system type and size match your application
• Inspector checks electrical setup (panel capacity, circuit availability)
• Inspector signs off that installation can proceed
• Inspection takes 1-2] hours

Timeline: Scheduled 1-2 weeks after application approval

Cost: FREE (NYSERDA covers inspection costs)

Your Role:

• Be present at inspection
• Provide access to electrical panel and installation locations
• Ask questions about cold-climate performance or noise

What Can Delay Inspection:

• Electrical panel is in exterior closet or locked space (get access arranged)
• Residential lease requires landlord permission (get approval first)
• Building is under construction (schedule after other work)

Step 8: Installation

Your contractor installs the system after pre-inspection approval.

Timeline: Contractor schedules installation within 2-4 weeks of pre-inspection

What You Need to Do:

• Provide building access
• Notify co-op/condo board (they may need proof of NYSERDA participation)
• Keep all contractor receipts and invoices
• Take photos of installed system for your records

Step 9: NYSERDA Post-Installation Inspection

After installation is complete, NYSERDA inspector returns.

What Happens:

• Inspector verifies system is installed per specifications
• Inspector checks electrical connections
• Inspector confirms all vents and safety clearances are correct
• Inspector takes photos for NYSERDA records
• If everything passes, you're approved for rebate

Timeline: Scheduled 1-2 weeks after contractor completes installation

Cost: FREE

Possible Issues:

• Installation doesn't match pre-approval specs (system is different size or type) - must be corrected before rebate
• Electrical work was done by unlicensed person - must be certified before approval
• Contractor failed to obtain required permits - must be resolved before approval

Step 10: Rebate Disbursement

Timing:

• After final inspection approval
• Rebate processed within 30-60] days

How You Receive It:

Option A: Direct to Contractor (Most Common)

• Contractor submits post-inspection paperwork
• NYSERDA issues rebate check to contractor
• Contractor deducts rebate from your final bill
• You pay reduced amount

Option B: Check to You

• You request rebate be issued to your name
• NYSERDA sends check directly to your address
• You receive rebate 30-60 days after final inspection
• Usually need to provide letter to contractor confirming they won't claim the rebate

Which Option is Better?

• Direct to contractor: Faster (you see discount immediately), easier processing
• Check to you: You have the cash, but processing takes longer

Most contractors prefer direct payment (easier for them). Ask which option your contractor will handle.

Part 2: EmPower+ (Income-Qualified) Program

Who Qualifies for EmPower+

Income:

• Household income below 80%] of area median income
• For NYC, roughly: Single under $62K, Family of 4 under $100K

Residence:

• Primary residence (house, condo, co-op, apartment)
• Located in NYSERDA service area

System Type:

• Any ENERGY STAR heat pump
• Mini-split, central air, heat pump water heater

EmPower+ Advantages

Enhanced Rebates:

• Mini-split (single zone): $3,000-$4,000 (vs $1,500-$2,000 standard)
• Mini-split (multi-zone): $4,000-$6,000 (vs $2,500-$3,000 standard)
• Central air: $6,000-$8,000 (vs $3,000-$4,000 standard)

Zero-Interest Financing:

• If you can't afford upfront cost, NYSERDA offers zero-interest loans
• Up to 10] years to repay
• Direct payment to contractor (you don't pay upfront)
• Repayment as a utility bill add-on

Weatherization Services:

• In some cases, EmPower+ includes free weatherization (sealing air leaks, insulation)
• Reduces heat pump workload and lowers operating costs

Income Verification Confidentiality:

• Tax returns you submit are kept confidential
• Only used to verify income
• Not shared with your contractor or co-op board

EmPower+ Application (Additional Steps)

Everything from Standard NYSERDA, plus:

1. Collect Tax Returns

• Last 2 years of federal tax returns (1040)
• If self-employed, include Schedule C
• If retired, include 1099-R statements
• If receiving benefits, include benefit award letters

2. Gather Income Documentation

• Recent pay stubs (last 2 months)
• OR Social Security statement
• OR SNAP/Medicaid benefit letters
• OR unemployment statement
• Any combination proving income

3. Verify Income Calculation

• NYSERDA uses Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) from tax returns
• AGI is on Line 11 of federal 1040 form
• Calculate household total (if multiple income earners)

4. Submit via Online Portal

• Online application at NYSERDA.ny.gov
• Upload tax returns and income docs as PDF
• Application is encrypted and confidential

5. Wait for Income Verification

• NYSERDA reviews documents (1-2 weeks)
• They confirm you meet income limits
• They notify you of approval

Part 3: Con Edison Rebates (Second Application)

Con Edison runs a parallel rebate program that stacks with NYSERDA.

Con Edison Rebate Amounts

Mini-Split Systems:

• Single zone (1 outdoor + 1 indoor unit): $300-$500
• Multi-zone (1 outdoor + 2+ indoor units): $600-$1,000

Central Air Heat Pumps:

• Full-house system: $1,200-$1,500

Heat Pump Water Heaters:

• $500-$800

Total Con Edison rebate typically: $500-$1,500 (smaller than NYSERDA, but stacks on top)

How Con Edison Rebates Work

Con Edison's process is simpler and faster than NYSERDA.

Step 1: Contractor Submits Pre-Approval

• Your contractor applies for rebate pre-approval with Con Edison
• Takes 1-2] weeks
• You receive pre-approval letter confirming rebate amount

Step 2: Installation Proceeds

• After pre-approval, contractor schedules installation
• Installation happens as normal
• Con Edison doesn't require pre-inspection

Step 3: Contractor Submits Post-Installation

• After installation, contractor completes paperwork
• Contractor provides receipt and photos of installed system
• Contractor submits to Con Edison

Step 4: Rebate Issued

• Con Edison processes paperwork (2-3 weeks)
• Rebate check issued to contractor or you
• Contractor deducts from your final bill (most common)

Total Timeline from pre-approval to rebate: 6-8 weeks

Who Qualifies for Con Edison Rebates

• Your property is in Con Edison service area (Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, parts of Westchester)
• System is installed by Con Edison-approved contractor (different list from NYSERDA)
• Equipment meets ENERGY STAR standards

Note: Some contractors are certified with both NYSERDA and Con Edison. Others are only on one list. Ask your contractor which programs they're certified for.

Con Edison Application Process

Step 1: Verify Contractor is Con Edison-Approved

1. Go to ConEdison.com/Heat-Pump-Rebates
2. Search for approved contractors in your area
3. Confirm your contractor is listed
4. If not listed, contractor can apply to Con Edison to be added

Step 2: Request Pre-Approval from Contractor

• Tell contractor you want Con Edison rebate
• Contractor completes Con Edison pre-approval application
• Takes 1-2] weeks

Step 3: Installation and Final Submission

• Contractor installs system
• Contractor submits final paperwork to Con Edison
• You don't need to do anything; contractor handles everything

Step 4: Rebate Processing

• Con Edison reviews paperwork
• Rebate issued within 45] days

Special Con Edison Programs

Time-of-Use Rate Incentive:

Con Edison offers lower electricity rates during off-peak hours (nights and weekends).

• Off-peak heating rates: $0.10-$0.14 per kWh] (vs regular $0.18-$0.22)
• If you use heat pump during nights/early mornings, you save significantly
• Requires switching to special Con Edison rate plan
• Savings: $200-$400 per year] if you shift heating to off-peak hours

How to Apply:

• Contact Con Edison: 1-800-752-6633]
• Request "Off-Peak Heating Rate"
• Switch can happen within 2 weeks

Complete Timeline: Start to Finish

Scenario: Applying for Both NYSERDA and Con Edison

Key dates that control the timeline:

• NYSERDA pre-inspection: Blocks installation start
• Equipment lead time: Most systems need 2-3 weeks to arrive
• NYSERDA post-inspection: Blocks rebate approval

Common Application Mistakes (That Delay Approval)

Mistake 1: Wrong Contractor

Problem: Contractor isn't NYSERDA-certified, so application is rejected.

Fix: Before choosing contractor, verify they're on NYSERDA certified list. Ask directly: "Are you NYSERDA-certified?"

Mistake 2: Missing Documents

Problem: Application submitted without proof of residency. NYSERDA returns it requesting utility bill.

Fix: Have all documents ready before submitting:

• Utility bill (proof of residency)
• Tax returns (if EmPower+)
• Contractor license/certification

Mistake 3: Income Documentation Incomplete

Problem: Submitted tax return, but no recent pay stubs. NYSERDA can't verify current income.

Fix: For EmPower+, provide current documentation plus tax returns:

• 2 years of tax returns
• Last 2 months of pay stubs
• Or benefit award letter if retired/unemployed

Mistake 4: Contractor Specifications Don't Match

Problem: Applied for dual-zone system. Contractor installed triple-zone (different model). Post-inspection fails.

Fix: Confirm with contractor before application exactly which system you're getting. System model, BTU rating, and zone count must match application.

Mistake 5: Not Scheduling Pre-Inspection

Problem: Application approved, but homeowner doesn't call to schedule pre-inspection. Approval expires after 90] days.

Fix: Once approved, immediately call NYSERDA at 1-888-NYSERDA] to schedule pre-inspection. Don't wait.

Mistake 6: Electrical Work Done Before Approval

Problem: Contractor upgraded panel before pre-inspection. Inspector finds unpermitted electrical work and rejects installation.

Fix: All electrical work should happen between pre-inspection and installation, not before. Pre-inspector verifies panel capacity but doesn't require work done yet.

Stacking Rebates: NYSERDA + Con Edison

You can claim both on the same system. (The federal 25C tax credit ended December 31, 2025 and no longer stacks; the state and utility programs are the whole stack for 2026 installations.)

Example: Dual-Zone Mini-Split, Brooklyn ($8,500 total cost)

Payback: System pays for itself in 2-4 years through energy savings.

Approval Timelines by Program

Best case (NYSERDA + Con Edison): 10-12 weeks

Why NYSERDA takes longer: State reviews income, does inspections, verifies installation. More thorough = longer timeline.

Why Con Edison is faster: Utility simply verifies contractor is certified and equipment meets standards. Less verification needed.

Contact Information for Support

NYSERDA (State-Level Rebates)

• Website: nyserda.ny.gov/heat-pumps
• Phone: 1-888-NYSERDA (1-888-697-3732)
• Hours: 8am-6pm ET, Monday-Friday]
• Languages: English, Spanish, Mandarin, Cantonese
• In-person: Brooklyn and Manhattan offices

Con Edison (Utility-Level Rebates)

• Website: conedison.com/heat-pump-rebates
• Phone: 1-800-752-6633]
• Hours: 24/7]
• Online chat available on website

NYC Department of Environmental Protection (NYC Clean Heat Program)

• Website: nyc.gov/cleanheating
• Phone: 311 (NYC hotline)]
• Note: Coordinates with NYSERDA for boiler-to-heat-pump conversions

Final Checklist Before You Apply

• Contractor is NYSERDA-certified (verified on NYSERDA website)
• Contractor is Con Edison-approved (if in Con Ed territory)
• I've determined Standard or EmPower+ program (based on income)
• I have proof of residency (current utility bill)
• I have tax returns (if EmPower+)
• I have recent pay stubs or benefit letters (if EmPower+)
• I've decided on specific system type (single-zone, dual-zone, etc.)
• I understand timeline will be 10-14 weeks
• I can schedule home for pre-inspection and post-inspection
• I understand rebates are processed 30-60 days after final inspection

Ready to Apply?

Start your application at nyserda.ny.gov. The entire process is free. You have nothing to lose by applying. For the full stack of programs, read the NYC Heat Pump Rebates 2026 Guide.