Are there any specific requirements or certifications that the lighting fixtures must meet in order to qualify for energy rebates? What about specific brands or models of fixtures?
Rebates are mainly based on receiving actual energy savings. As such, you do not need a specific brand or model of fixture. However some electrical companies mandate that the fixtures need to be DLC or Energy Star certified in order to be approved for rebates.
Can the energy rebates be used for other energy-efficient equipment or technologies in addition to lighting fixtures?
Although electrical rebates are offered for most energy-efficient equipment, the process and documentation may differ completely. WhatRebates specializes in lighting rebates, however we can also handle other kinds, such as for dehumidifiers, HVAC and more. If we can fit your additional devices onto the lighting rebate, we always will.
Is there a minimum threshold for energy savings or a minimum investment amount required to qualify for the energy rebates? Are there any limitations or restrictions on the size or scale of the indoor cultivation facility to qualify for energy rebates?
Some electrical companies mandate a minimum amount of energy savings per year to be able to qualify for a rebate. There is also no minimum size of facility needed, however direct rebates are available for people looking for rebates with a smaller quantity of fixtures.
Are there any restrictions on the types of crops or plants grown in the indoor cultivation facility to be eligible?
No, There are no restrictions on the types of crops or plants grown in the facility.
Do the energy rebates apply to both new installations and retrofitting existing lighting systems? Are there any restrictions on the age or condition of the existing lighting fixtures to be eligible?
Energy rebates are available for both new and retrofitting projects but it depends completely on the electrical company. There are no restrictions on the age or condition of the existing lighting fixtures, but fixture inspections may be required beforehand.
Can multiple indoor cultivation facilities owned by the same company apply for energy rebates collectively, or is it limited to individual facilities?
If you are an owner of multiple facilities, you may be able to receive rebates on each individual project. However, it depends on what is offered by your electrical companies: some companies give unlimited rebates per person/company, while others may not.
Is there a limit on the number of times an indoor grower can apply for energy rebates for lighting upgrades?
You may apply for a rebate once a year. You may not rebate the same equipment twice.
How long does the process take?
Depending on the utility, we have 90 days to complete the process. After your rebate has been confirmed it takes usually 6-8 Weeks in order to receive the actual check.
What documentation or evidence is required to prove energy savings and qualify for the rebates?
In general, you need to be a current customer of the utility company you are applying for a rebate with, while having an up-to-date account. At the very least, a current electrical bill is needed. Some electrical companies also require a running meter. You will be advised by us on any additional documentation that may be required.
Are there any deadlines or time limits for applying for energy rebates for lighting upgrades?
Although there are no deadlines, there is a set amount of rebate-related funding that operates on a first-come, first-served basis. This means the best time to check your rebate is today!
Are there any ongoing maintenance or reporting requirements after receiving the energy rebates?
There is no required reporting or maintenance required after a rebate is complete. However, there may be facility inspections before the completion of the rebate.
Are there any specific educational or training requirements for indoor growers to participate in the energy rebate program for lighting upgrades?
Often, in order to qualify for a rebate, you must go through mandatory training to become a ‘trading ally’, which trains and certifies you on how to process relevant calculations for rebates. Otherwise, some utility companies may require you to work in coordination with an aggregator or trading ally to be able to process the rebate. We are certified trading allies with most utility companies in the United States.
Are there any restrictions or guidelines on the disposal or recycling of old lighting fixtures when upgrading to energy-efficient alternatives?
There are no guidelines on the disposal or recycling of your old fixtures in order to receive your rebate. Please follow your state's guidelines on properly disposing of electronics, lamps and bulbs, if you will not be keeping them.
Can the energy rebates be combined with other government or utility incentives for even greater savings?
You can not combine your rebate with other government or utility incentives.
Do energy rebates cover the full cost of purchasing and installing new lighting fixtures, or is there a percentage or capped amount that can be reimbursed?
Most utility rebates have a cap of about 50-75% of the project cost. However, some rebates are based on meter consumption which do not have a cap.
Can energy rebates be applied to the costs associated with professional installation services for lighting upgrades?
Some rebates factor installation costs directly into the total rebate.
Are energy rebates taxable?
“If you're a customer of an electric utility company and you participate in the utility's energy conservation program, you may receive on your monthly electric bill either: * A reduction in the purchase price of electricity furnished to you (rate reduction), or
* A nonrefundable credit against the purchase price of the electricity. The amount of the rate reduction or nonrefundable credit isn't included in your income.” Rebates are generally considered subsidies for tax purposes and could be taxable to the customer or the third party receiving the rebate check. Customers are urged to consult their tax advisors concerning the taxability of these rebates. Rebates greater than $600 will be reported to the Internal Revenue Service on IRS form 1099 unless the customer is exempt.
Are there any additional incentives or benefits available for implementing energy-saving lighting solutions?
Upgrading to energy-saving lighting solutions offers many benefits:
Lower Energy Consumption: Lighting can take up to ~35% of the energy costs of a facility. Get paid to slash your monthly energy use.
Lower Environmental Impact: Not only are you saving money, you're also saving the environment. Cut your greenhouse gas emissions, and carbon footprint.
Stay Competitive: Competition is using this service to upgrade to the latest technology in the industry at some of the lowest rates. Don’t fall behind.
How much energy savings can be achieved by upgrading to energy-efficient lighting fixtures?
You can expect to see up to a ~30% reduction in your monthly electricity bill.
Financial Incentives and Rebates
Our company was founded in late 2021 with the mission of simplifying the process of accessing financial incentives and rebates for farmers, agribusinesses, agricultural equipment manufacturers and distributors.
