LOW-INCOME HOUSEHOLDSEligible improvements at no cost
Up to $12,000
In eligible energy efficiency improvements per project.
ROCHESTER · BUFFALO · WESTERN NEW YORK
A happier home.
Starts with comfort.
Less drafty. More cozy. Easier on your energy bill.
Discover home upgrades with help from New York’s EmPower+ program.
Income-based support A local team to help
BETTER ENERGY. HAPPIER HOME.
A little help from New York.
A big difference at home.
MEET EMPOWER+
Your home could feel better.
New York can help.
That chilly room. The draft by the door. The heat that never seems to stay inside. Your house may be working harder than it needs to.
NYSERDA’s EmPower+ helps income-eligible New Yorkers improve their home’s energy efficiency. Happy Home helps you understand where to start.
Find your next stepWHOLE-HOME COMFORT
Small leaks.
Big opportunities.
Every home has its own story.
Explore the improvements that could be part of yours.
EXPLORE YOUR HOMEA more comfortable home, from the inside out.
01
Keep the cozy in.
Insulation helps slow heat loss, so your home holds onto warmth in winter and stays more comfortable in summer.
A good place to start: your attic.
An energy assessment identifies appropriate upgrades. Equipment recommendations and funding depend on your home and program approval.
STATE SUPPORT. REAL POSSIBILITIES.
More comfort.
Less out of pocket.
For eligible single-family homes in upstate New York, EmPower+ offers two levels of support.
MODERATE-INCOME HOUSEHOLDS50% of eligible project costs
Up to $6,000
In incentives toward approved energy efficiency improvements.
Income limits vary by county and household size. Actual support depends on eligibility, assessment and project approval. Additional funding may be available for certain upgrades.
See NYSERDA program details ↗A CLEAR PATH FORWARD
From “where do I start?”
to “that feels better.”
Find your fit.
Start with your home and household. We’ll help you understand the program and the information you’ll need.
Apply & assess.
After your program application is approved, a participating contractor assesses your home and recommends improvements.
Make home happier.
Once the project is approved, review the scope and any remaining cost before work is scheduled.
YOUR NEXT STEP
Let’s see where
you can start.
A few simple details can point you in the right direction. No documents to upload. No commitment.
✓ Homeowners and renters may qualify✓ Eligibility is based on household income✓ Support for primary residences
This guide is a starting point, not an application or an approval. NYSERDA and the program contractor verify eligibility.
01 / 03EMPOWER+ STARTER GUIDE
ROOTED IN WESTERN NEW YORK
Your neighbors.
Your kind of winter.
Old homes. Lake-effect weather. Rooms that never quite warm up. We know the places you call home, because they’re our home, too.
Happy Home brings the Happy Solar family’s local approach to whole-home efficiency. One clear conversation at a time.
Meet our sister brand, Happy Solar ↗SERVING OUR COMMUNITIES
Rochester01
Buffalo02
Western New York03
Not sure if you’re in our area? Ask our team ↗
What is EmPower+?
It’s a NYSERDA program that helps income-eligible New Yorkers make their homes more energy efficient. It begins with an assessment and may help fund approved improvements.
Are the improvements really free?
Qualifying low-income households can receive eligible improvements at no cost within program limits. Moderate-income households receive partial funding. Your approved project determines any out-of-pocket cost; every home and scope is different.
How do I know if my income qualifies?
Limits depend on your county and household size. Use NYSERDA’s current income guide to check your household. Participation in certain assistance programs may also establish income eligibility.
Can renters participate?
Yes, eligible renters may participate. Coordinate with your landlord and the program contractor about permissions and the work proposed for the property.
Do I have to get solar panels?
No. This program focuses on home energy efficiency. Solar through Happy Solar is a separate option and isn’t required to explore EmPower+.
What should I have ready?
Start with recent energy bills and household income documentation. A current award letter for certain benefit programs may simplify income verification. Review NYSERDA’s full application checklist before applying. Please don’t email sensitive financial documents to us.
GOOD TO BE HOME.
Let’s make it
even better.
A more comfortable home could be closer than you think.
Check my eligibility