The District of Columbia Sustainable Energy Utility (DCSEU) is offering financial incentives so businesses and owners of multifamily dwelling properties can save money of energy projects. These projects can improve the overall experience of tenants and employees meanwhile lowering their carbon footprints. Upgrading their systems will also contribute to lower utility bills by conserving more energy. Rebates are available for HVAC, lighting, refrigeration and more! Learn more about their rebate opportunities in the guide below.

Income Qualified Efficiency Fund

One of the fundamental programs offered through DCSEU is the Income Qualified Efficiency Fund. This program allows property owners of low to moderate income housing to complete upgrades to the programs.  This is designed for multifamily dwellings, shelters and clinics in D.C. that fall under that income bracket. Not only will this lower energy usage, but it will improve the living standards of D.C. residents.

Eligible upgrades include:

• Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems and controls
• Lighting controls, fixtures, and systems

Although applications for this program closed in July, DCSEU plans to offer more information sessions in 2025, providing future opportunities to take advantage of these valuable rebates.

Market-Rate, Small Business, and Affordable Multifamily Rebates

Business and property owners can qualify for the market-rate, small business and affordable multifamily rebates. The following property needs are available for replacement at a reduced rate:

Lighting Rebates

Lighting is a critical aspect of energy efficiency, and the DCSEU offers instant rebates on energy-efficient lighting fixtures and controls. Through partnerships with local distributors, businesses and multifamily properties can access the following rebates:

• Instant rebates of $4 to $45 per tube or fixture
• $15 to $40 for lighting controls
• $5 to $8 for LED pin and screw-based lighting
• $20 to $60 for ambient lighting fixtures
• $25 to $80 for exterior LED lighting
• $25 to $80 for HID replacements

By upgrading to energy-efficient lighting, you can drastically reduce your energy consumption while improving the safety and aesthetics of your property.

HVAC and Heat Pump Rebates

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems are significant energy consumers, and upgrading to more efficient systems can offer considerable long-term savings. DCSEU offers instant rebates ranging from $300 to $700 for electric heat pumps, making it more affordable for businesses to invest in technologies that improve both energy efficiency and comfort.

Refrigeration Rebates

For businesses and multifamily properties that rely on refrigeration, DCSEU provides rebates on EnergyStar-rated reach-in refrigerators and freezers. Rebates range from $75 to $525, depending on the equipment. Additionally, rebates are available for controls, motors, and display glass door fixtures, ensuring that your refrigeration systems run efficiently.

Motor Rebates

Motors, pumps, and fans are essential components of many commercial and multifamily building systems. By upgrading to variable frequency drives (VFDs), property owners can optimize the performance of these systems, reduce wear and tear on equipment, and save energy. DCSEU offers standard rebates for VFDs used in supply fans, return fans, chilled water pumps, hot water pumps, and water source heat pump circulation pumps.

Electric Lawn Care Rebates

Businesses looking to reduce their carbon footprint and eliminate fuel costs for lawn care can take advantage of DCSEU rebates for electric lawn equipment. Licensed DC businesses are eligible for up to $1,000 in rebates for electric lawn mowers, providing an eco-friendly and cost-effective solution for landscaping needs.

Bulk Appliance Rebates for Affordable Multifamily Housing

Energy-efficient appliances can significantly reduce energy usage in multifamily housing, and DCSEU offers bulk appliance rebates for affordable multifamily housing properties. Eligible appliances include:

• Dehumidifiers: $35
• Refrigerators: $75-$100
• Washers and dryers: $75-$100
• Combination washer/dryer units: $150-$300

By upgrading to energy-efficient appliances, property managers can increase equipment reliability, enhance tenant comfort, and lower energy costs.

Rebate Management with Incentive Rebate360

DCSEU is providing multifamily dwellings and small businesses with a way to upgrade their properties within a reasonable budget. Upgrading energy efficient appliances and lighting helps save money in the long term and lowers carbon footprints. Small businesses can position themselves and be environmentally conscious and multifamily dwellings can improve the standards of their homes for D.C. residents.

Incentive Rebate360 can walk you through the entire rebate process from start to finish. If you think you qualify for DCSEU rebates or are looking for other financial incentives, contact us today! Speak with our rebate experts by calling us at 610-558-9773, emailing at [email protected] or schedule a call by clicking the button below.