Frequently Asked Questions

Have a question for Appalachian Power? Choose one of the topics below to view our FAQs.

Home Performance Program

What is the Home Performance Program?

The Home Performance (HP) Program is designed to identify opportunities for immediate and longer-term energy and cost savings in your home. Under the HP program, an Energy Advisor will visit your home and provide, at no cost to you, a Home Energy Assessment (HEA). While there, the Energy Advisor also will install free energy savings measures, such as low-flow shower heads. After this assessment, you will receive the HEA report providing information about your home, energy saving tips, and recommendations for additional savings—savings that can be achieved through Appalachian Power HP rebate opportunities.

Who is eligible for the Home Performance Program?

The Home Performance program is available to residential properties served by Appalachian Power in its Virginia service territory. This includes single-family homes, mobile homes, condominiums, townhomes, and duplexes. Non-owner-occupied homes, where the electrical service is in the occupant’s name and with a signed agreement to participate from the owner, are also eligible.

Apartments and commercial customers are not eligible.

Homes with both electric and gas heating or appliances can receive an assessment but may only qualify for rebates for select additional measures (outside of those installed with the HEA).

Do I qualify for a Home Energy Assessment and the free measures and rebates if I buy my electricity from a supplier other than Appalachian Power?

No, to qualify for the Home Performance Program, you must be an individually metered residential customer of Appalachian Power with an active account in Virginia.

I am a commercial customer. Can I get an upgrade of my HVAC equipment?

The Home Performance Program is open to residential customers only. You may be eligible to participate in the Small Business Direct Install or Business Energy Solutions programs. Please contact a Customer Service Representative at 1-833-402-2221 for more information.

What is an energy assessment?

A home energy assessment (HEA) can help you understand the whole picture of your home's energy use, comfort, and safety. An energy assessment can help you understand how much energy your home uses and evaluate what steps you can take to improve efficiency. Under Appalachian Power’s Home Performance program, a professionally trained Energy Advisor will come to your home and gather information on the current condition of the home, air conditioning and heating systems, appliances and how you use energy in the home. All information will be analyzed and presented to you at the time of the assessment.

Why would I want to do a Home Energy Assessment?

A home energy assessment is a great first step to making energy-saving improvements in your home. This assessment will determine where your home is inefficient and how to prioritize problem areas and fixes that will improve the comfort of your home, while saving energy and money in the process. In addition to the free energy savings measures installed during this visit, you also may qualify for rebates for more expensive measures, such as insulating your attic, if you use a contractor within our network.

Is a Home Energy Assessment worth it?

Yes, an HEA is provided at no cost to you and will identify and address making the home more efficient overall. Did you know that heating and cooling can make up approximately 40% of your electric bill? For every air or duct leak you seal, you keep the warm or cold air produced inside your home from leaking to the outside, saving you money in heating and cooling bills and improving your comfort level.

How do I sign up for a Home Energy Assessment?

Customers can sign up through our online portal or by calling our call center at 833-402-2221 and speaking with a customer service representative.

What can I expect from a Home Energy Assessment?

The Home Performance Energy Advisor will review the history of your home, such as age, construction type, square footage, and evaluation of systems and appliances.

The Energy Advisor also will conduct a visual assessment, which may include going into the attic and examining dark corners of your roof and basement carefully. They will use the buildup of moisture as a measuring stick — if there’s condensation on the inside of your house, chances are you’ve got an energy leak.

The Energy Advisor also will check your insulation, which may reveal weaknesses in the barrier and, in some cases, a lack of insulation altogether. An inspection of your heating and/or cooling systems will be performed to determine whether duct cleaning or tune-ups are needed.

Throughout most of this time you will be very much involved and are encouraged to accompany the Energy Advisor as your home is inspected top to bottom. This allows you to bring problems to the attention of the Advisor and allows the Advisor to identify concerns as they proceed.

Following the thorough walk-through and installation of energy savings measures, the Advisor will sit down with you and review the findings. You will receive a Home Energy Assessment (HEA) report via email and most importantly, you will have recommendations on how to reduce energy and stay comfortable at home.

What will the Home Performance Energy Advisor assess as part of the Home Energy Assessment?

The Home Performance Energy Advisor will assess attic insulation, duct systems, air sealing, wall insulation, heating and cooling systems, appliances and electronics, water heating, refrigerator and windows and doors.

Appalachian Power wants to make you aware of how much energy is being wasted in your home, and what you can do to reduce your energy consumption.

A Home Energy Assessment takes stock of the energy consumption in your home. It’s one of the first steps you can take to understand your home’s energy usage, airflow and the functionality and efficiency of your heating and cooling systems. The Energy Advisor will also take photos of the key areas of your home to document any needed energy improvements.

Where will the Energy Advisor need access to during the Home Energy Assessment?

The Home Performance Energy Advisor will need access to every room in the home (excluding closets, unless there is a hole in the closet wall allowing outside air to infiltrate into the interior of the home), the exterior of the home, the attic, and the basement and/or crawlspace.

The Energy Advisor will also take photos of the key areas of your home to document any needed energy improvements.

What do homeowners need to do to prepare for a Home Energy Assessment?

The homeowner will need to relocate items that may prohibit access to the areas listed above. We also ask that all pets are restrained for their safety, as well as the safety of the Energy Advisor.

How long will the Home Energy Assessment take?

The Home Energy Assessment should take between one and a half to two hours for the average home.

Who conducts the Home Energy Assessment?

Appalachian Power has qualified Energy Advisors who will conduct the Home Energy Assessments (HEAs) and perform the installation of appropriate energy efficiency measures at no charge.

I will not be available for the visit. Can someone else be there instead?

Yes, but the agreement to participate must be signed by you when you apply online. Your designee must be present during the duration of the Home Energy Assessment.

Are there any charges (or hidden charges) involved with the Home Energy Assessment?

No, the Home Energy Assessment, along with the direct install measures, are free of charge to eligible Appalachian Power customers.

Will the improvements be made the same day as my Home Energy Assessment?

Yes, the Home Performance Energy Advisor will install energy saving measures, such as faucet aerators, during this in-home assessment. Recommendations for more extensive follow-up energy conservation measures, if you choose to do them, can be scheduled by you with an approved Appalachian Power contractor.

What is the Home Energy Assessment Report?

The Home Energy Assessment Report provides the details of the Home Energy Assessment, details immediate savings opportunities, as well as recommended opportunities for greater savings. The report includes details of the areas evaluated and a recommended list of what to do to make an individual home as energy efficient as possible.

When will I receive my Home Energy Assessment (HEA) report?

The Home Performance Energy Advisor will review the report with you immediately after the in-home Home Energy Assessment is completed.

I heard the program is free but there are references to rebates. Is it not free?

The Home Energy Assessment (HEA) is free, as is the installation of various measures such as low flow shower heads, pipe insulation, and hot water tank wraps for electric hot water heaters. The HEA report will identify other opportunities to save energy, including adding attic insulation or installing a ductless mini-split heat pump*. Appalachian Power offers rebates for these measures to reduce the overall cost to the customer.

*If you have applied for a mini-split rebate through the Home Performance Program, you are not eligible for a mini-split rebate under the Efficient Products Program.

Do the rebates for the additional measures go to the contractor or the customer?

The rebate is paid directly to the customer.

How do I apply for a rebate?

The Program contractor who installed the measure(s) will submit for the rebate(s) on your behalf. To initiate a Home Energy Assessment, click here or call 1-833-402-2221 to speak with a Customer Service Representative.

Can a landlord who owns several homes enroll more than one home in the Home Performance Program?

Yes, if each home qualifies, and both the landlord and tenant sign the Agreement to Participate.

Can I use any contractor or only a participating contractor in the Home Performance Program?

No, the Home Performance program requires the work to be completed by a contractor who has provided the necessary documentation and registered with the Program. Appalachian Power has built a Quality Contractor Network for customers to identify potential contractors who can perform work eligible for rebates.

Can I install any measures qualifying for a rebate?

No, self-installed measures are not eligible for rebates in the Home Performance Program. All installations must be conducted by a participating Home Performance Program contractor.

I just purchased a home, and the previous owner may have participated already. Can I still participate?

Yes. Participation is defined by the account number.

To initiate the Home Energy Assessment, click here or call 1-833-402-2221 to speak with a Customer Service Representative.

Bring Your Own Thermostat (BYOT) Program

What is Appalachian Power’s Bring Your Own Thermostat (BYOT) program?

  • Appalachian Power’s BYOT program is a voluntary program for Appalachian Power residential electric customers who have eligible smart thermostats connected to their central air conditioning and WiFi.
  • When summer temperatures climb, demand for electricity increases and can cause strain on the grid. Appalachian Power’s Bring Your Own Thermostat program is designed to help reduce energy use during times of high energy demand. This decreases the use of less efficient and more expensive power sources. That’s good for the environment, and it helps keep energy costs low for everyone.
  • Participants agree to brief adjustments of a few degrees to their thermostats during peak electric demand periods from May 1 through Sept. 30. Adjustments to your thermostat typically last no more than four hours and will not occur on weekends or holidays, except in the event of a system emergency.
  • Participants will receive a one-time $50 e-gift card per thermostat after successfully enrolling in the program. In addition, participants will receive up to a $25 e-gift card each year for each central cooling unit enrolled ($5 per month May – Sept) at the end of the program season.

How will I know if I’m eligible to enroll?

To be eligible to enroll, you must:

  • Be an Appalachian Power VA residential electric customer and the electric service is in your name
  • Use an eligible internet-connected smart thermostat for cooling
  • Allow Appalachian Power to make brief, small thermostat adjustments on days of high energy demand

What is my enrollment incentive?

You will receive a one-time $50 e-gift card per thermostat after successfully enrolling in the program.

When will I receive the $50 e-gift card for enrolling in the program?

You will receive your $50 e-gift card within 60 days of being accepted into the program. The $50 e-gift card will be sent to the email address used to register your smart thermostat.

How do I receive the $25 e-gift card annual participation incentive?

You will receive up to one $25 e-gift card ($5 per month May through Sept) per central cooling unit enrolled at the end of the program season each year that you are enrolled in the program. The e-gift card will be sent to the email address used to register your smart thermostat.

Which thermostats qualify for the program?

Provider Approved Thermostats
Alarm.com Trane ComfortLink Control; RCS Z-Wave Communicating Thermostat; GoControl Z-wave Thermostat; Alarm.com Smart Thermostat; 2GIG Z-Wave Plus Battery Powered Thermostat; Trane Z-Wave Thermostat; Linear Thermostat
ecobee ecobee3, ecobee3 Lite, ecobee4, ecobee Smart, ecobee SmartThermostat with voice control
Emerson Sensi Wi-Fi Programmable Thermostat, Sensi Touch Wi-Fi Thermostat
Honeywell Home Wi-Fi Smart Color Thermostat, Wi-Fi 7-Day Programmable Thermostat, Wi-Fi 9000 7-Day Programmable Thermostat, 9000 Smart Thermostat, 7-Day Programmable Smart Thermostat, VisionPro 8000 Smart Thermostat, Round Smart Thermostat, T5+ Smart Thermostat, T6 Pro Smart Thermostat, T9 Smart Thermostat, T10 Smart Thermostat
Lux LUX/GEO, LUX KONO
Google Nest Google Nest Thermostat, Google Nest Learning Thermostat, Google Nest Thermostat E

Where can I find the Terms & Conditions for this program?

You can find the program terms and conditions for all thermostat providers below:

Provider Terms and Conditions
Alarm.com Terms and Conditions
ecobee Terms and Conditions
Emerson Terms and Conditions
Honeywell Home Terms and Conditions
Lux Terms and Conditions
Google Nest Terms and Conditions
Vivint Terms and Conditions

How do I sign up for Appalachian Power’s program?

Confirm your eligibility for the program by answering these three questions:

  • Are you an Appalachian Power residential electric customer?
  • Do you use an eligible, internet-connected thermostat to control your central air conditioning?
  • Will you allow the program to make brief, small thermostat adjustments on high energy demand days or in the event of a system emergency?

If you answered yes to these three questions, please choose whether you have a thermostat to enroll in Appalachian Power’s program or if you would like to purchase a new, qualifying thermostat.

  • If you have an existing thermostat, please select your thermostat among the eligible models. Then, click the Enroll Now button to go to your thermostat’s enrollment site, where you will follow a series of simple steps to enroll.
  • If you don’t have an existing eligible thermostat, please choose a model, purchase and install it. Once you have installed and activated, come back to enroll your new thermostat in the program.
  • Once your eligibility is confirmed by Appalachian Power, you will be enrolled in the program. You will receive notification on your enrollment status via email using the address provided in your account registration.

How will I know that a temperature adjustment is in progress?

Depending on your thermostat provider, notifications will appear on the thermostat or in your web/mobile application.

How will my thermostat be adjusted?

  • At the start of an adjustment event, your thermostat will be automatically adjusted by a few degrees above the current temperature setting.
  • The event will typically last less than four hours. There will be no events on weekend or holidays.

Will participating in the program compromise my comfort?

Only on event days, your thermostat will be adjusted by a few degrees. Your participation is voluntary and you will retain control of your thermostat. You can easily opt out of an event for any reason.

Am I allowed to opt out of thermostat adjustment events?

Yes. During an event, you can opt out from your thermostat, mobile device or web app.

What should I do if I no longer want to participate in the program?

Send an email to takechargevabyot@energyhub.com, requesting to end your participation in the program. Once you have been taken off the program, your thermostat(s) will no longer be controlled and you will not receive the annual participation incentive.

What if I have additional questions about the program?

Please email takechargevabyot@energyhub.com

Small Business Direct Install Program

How can I learn more about the Small Business Direct Install (SBDI) Program?

To find out more reach out to a program representative by calling 1-833-402-2221 or emailing TakeChargeSavings@trccompanies.com.

What is the Small Business Direction Install Program?

The SBDI program provides targeted, cost-effective energy efficiency measures to small business customers and encourages owners to consider installing additional energy efficiency measures with rebates from Appalachian Power.

Small Business customers participate in the Quick Energy Check-Up (QEC) to identify energy and cost saving opportunities. The QEC and select measures are provided at no cost to the customer.

Can I work with any contractor to install qualifying Small Business Direct Install measures?

No, the Small Business Direct Install program requires the work to be completed by a Trade Ally who has provided the necessary documentation and has registered with the Program. The list of approved Trade Allies is located on the Appalachian Power Trade Ally Network.

If your Trade Ally is interested in joining the network, have them contact the program at 1-833-402-2221 or TakeChargeSavings@trccompanies.com.

Low-Income Weatherization Program

What is Low Income Weatherization Program?

The Low Income Weatherization Program provides weatherization products and services to residential customers in need to help reduce their energy bills and improve their homes’ comfort. Appalachian Power provides funding for this program to help supplement the state and federal income qualified weatherization programs.

Who is Community Housing Partners?

Building on a long-standing tradition of environmental, economic and social responsibility, Community Housing Partners (CHP) Energy Solutions is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that works with private and public partners to develop and preserve award-winning homes and neighborhoods. Together with partners, they revitalize communities, foster stability for residents and promote a healthier planet for future generations.

They deliver a wide range of services, including real estate development, construction, energy services and training, asset management, property management, realty and homeownership and comprehensive resident services.

What is the relationship between Community Housing Partners and Appalachian Power?

Community Housing Partners (CHP) serves as Appalachian Power’s implementation vendor and primary contractor for their Virginia income-qualifying weatherization programs. CHP and Appalachian Power’s partnership took shape in 2014 while piloting a multifamily weatherization project in Pearisburg, VA. In 2015, CHP began implementing Appalachian Power’s Virginia Low-Income Single-Family Weatherization Program, coordinating with eleven weatherization providers operating in Appalachian Power’s Virginia service territory, which has continued to this date. Using the same effective strategy, in 2021, CHP began implementing Appalachian Power’s Virginia Low-Income Multifamily Weatherization Program.

When will someone from Community Housing Partners respond to my survey?

Community Housing Partners will respond to your survey submission within a few weeks.

What is the difference between a single family and multifamily home?

The main difference between single family and multifamily homes is the number of residences they contain. Single-family homes have just one dwelling unit, whereas multifamily properties have multiple units. 

You may hear multifamily homes called duplexes, triplexes, or quadplexes, which refers to the number of units they contain. Each unit within a multifamily home has its own kitchen, bathroom, utility meter, address and entrance. This enables the families that reside there to live separately, even though they share common walls and a roof. 

Although multifamily homes have several units, one person usually owns the entire property.

Is it required to be an Appalachian Power customer to apply for this program?

Yes, you must be an Appalachian Power customer to qualify for this program.

What energy upgrades may be performed on my home?

Eligible upgrades may include electric water heating measures, HVAC repair, replacement and/or maintenance, insulation and air sealing, and health and safety upgrades.

Can you replace my heating/cooling system?

Eligible upgrades may include HVAC repair, replacement and/or maintenance should it be determined necessary during the inspection and audit.

Low-Income Multifamily Program

What is the Low Income Multifamily Program?

The Low Income Multifamily Program reduces energy consumption by educating residential customers about the energy — and money — saving benefits associated with energy efficiency in the home. The program targets opportunities that are proven to save energy, reduce consumption and protect the health and safety of occupants while helping to lower their electric bills.

What is considered a multifamily home?

A multifamily home is any residential property that contains more than one housing unit, such as a duplex, a townhome or an apartment complex.

What is the difference between a multifamily and single family home?

The main difference between single family and multifamily homes is the number of residences they contain. Single-family homes have just one dwelling unit, whereas multifamily properties have multiple units. 

You may hear multifamily homes called duplexes, triplexes, or quadplexes, which refers to the number of units they contain. Each unit within a multifamily home has its own kitchen, bathroom, utility meter, address and entrance. This enables the families that reside there to live separately, even though they share common walls and a roof. 

Although multifamily homes have several units, one person usually owns the entire property.

Do I qualify for the multifamily program?

A minimum of 66% (50% for any buildings under 5 units) of the dwelling units in the building should be occupied by a family unit whose household annual income does not exceed 80% of the Virginia State Median Income. Click here to view income limits by size of family unit.

How do I apply?

Fill out our survey to apply for this program. 

Who is Community Housing Partners?

Building on a long-standing tradition of environmental, economic and social responsibility, Community Housing Partners (CHP) Energy Solutions is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that works with private and public partners to develop and preserve award-winning homes and neighborhoods. Together with partners, they revitalize communities, foster stability for residents and promote a healthier planet for future generations.

They deliver a wide range of services, including real estate development, construction, energy services and training, asset management, property management, realty and homeownership and comprehensive resident services.

What is the relationship between Community Housing Partners and Appalachian Power?

Community Housing Partners (CHP) serves as Appalachian Power’s implementation vendor and primary contractor for their Virginia income-qualifying weatherization programs. CHP and Appalachian Power’s partnership took shape in 2014 while piloting a multifamily weatherization project in Pearisburg, VA. In 2015, CHP began implementing Appalachian Power’s Virginia Low-Income Single-Family Weatherization Program, coordinating with eleven weatherization providers operating in Appalachian Power’s Virginia service territory, which has continued to this date. Using the same effective strategy, in 2021, CHP began implementing Appalachian Power’s Virginia Low-Income Multifamily Weatherization Program.

When will someone from Community Housing Partners respond to my survey?

Community Housing Partners will respond to your survey submission within a few weeks. 

Is there an occupancy limit per household?

A minimum of 66% (50% for any buildings under 5 units) of the dwelling units in the building should be occupied by a family unit whose household annual income does not exceed 80% of the Virginia State Median Income.

What are the income limits?

You can view the income limits by size of family unit here. 

Is it required to be an Appalachian Power customer to apply for this program?

Yes, it is required to be an Appalachian Power customer to apply for the Low Income Multifamily Program. 

What energy upgrades may be performed on my home?

Eligible upgrades may include electric water heating measures, HVAC repair, replacement and/or maintenance, insulation and air sealing, and health and safety upgrades.

Can you replace my heating/cooling system?

Eligible upgrades may include HVAC repair, replacement and/or maintenance should it be determined necessary during the inspection and audit.

Business Energy Solutions Program

How can I learn more about the Business Energy Solutions (BES) Program?

If you are interested in participating as a Business Customer and want to learn more or if you are a contractor interested in participating as a Trade Ally, please contact a Program Representative at 1-833-402-2221 or send us an email at TakeChargeSavings@trccompanies.com.

Can I apply for incentives if I recently made energy efficiency upgrades?

Yes, if the upgrades meet program requirements and the incentives total less than $3,000 then you have a 30-day window following installation in which to submit your application.

Efficient Products Program - Appliances

Do you have a rebate for a heat pump furnace?

You may be eligible for a heat pump furnace rebate. You can qualify for up to $300 on a Ductless Mini-Split* Heat Pump displacement or replacement.

*If you have applied for a mini-split rebate through the Home Performance Program, you are not eligible for a mini-split rebate under the Efficient Products Program.

What is the status of my rebate?

Please allow up to eight (8) weeks for rebate processing. If you have not received your rebate in that time frame, please call 1-888-261-4567.

Does my home appliance qualify for a rebate?

You can view all available rebates by visiting TakeCharge VA | Efficient Products Program - Appliances.

How do I find the rebate form online?

You can submit a rebate by clicking here.

How do I apply for a rebate?

The fastest way to apply for a rebate is to click here. You can input your information and upload a copy of your receipt. Once your rebate is approved a check will be sent to you within eight (8) weeks.

I purchased my appliance last year, do I still qualify for a rebate?

Unfortunately, the program guidelines state that purchases must be between 01/01/2022 and 12/31/2026 and rebate submitted within 45 days of purchase or by January 15th of the following year, whichever comes first.

My receipt says my name, but the bill is in (another family member’s) name, do I still qualify?

Yes. Just be sure to fill out the rebate form in its entirety, including the account number and all model information such as number and purchase date.

Efficient Products Program - Instant Discounts

How does the Appalachian Power’s TakeCharge Efficient Products Program work?

Customers can receive instant, in-store discounts on ENERGY STAR® certified products from participating retailers across Virginia. Appalachian Power customers can also take part in the appliance rebate program. Please visit TakeCharge VA | Efficient Products Program - Appliances.

Which retailers offer discounts?

Click here to find a full list of retailers.

Custom Program

How can I learn more about the Appalachian Power C&I Custom Program?

If you are a Business Customer interested in participating and want to learn more, please contact a Program Representative at 1-833-402-2221 or send an email to TakeChargeSavings@trccompanies.com.

What is the Custom Program?

The Custom Program provides incentives to commercial and industrial customers seeking to improve the efficiency of processes, systems, and building equipment.

Energy savings are calculated based on annual kilowatt hours (kWh) reduced by the newly installed equipment.

Eligible measures cannot qualify for an incentive through other Appalachian Power programs.

What are some examples of Custom projects?

Types of projects that may qualify for the Custom Program include:

  • Building/Facility Re-commissioning that results in kWh savings
  • Motor Control System Upgrades
  • Air Compressor System Upgrades
  • Cooling
  • Ventilation
  • Industrial Processes

All installed equipment must be new, and measures under the Custom Program cannot qualify for an incentive through other Appalachian Power programs.

Other energy-saving measures not listed above may qualify for an incentive through the Custom Program. Contact a Program Representative at 1-833-402-2221 or send an email to TakeChargeSavings@trccompanies.com to learn more.

Will my project require an inspection?

Yes, completed and installed projects are subject to a post-inspection performed by an Appalachian Power program representative.

All projects with estimated savings of more than 250,000 kWh require a pre-and-post inspection.

Appalachian Power reserves the right to inspect any project, regardless of size, and for any reason.

Can I work with any contractor to install qualifying Custom measures?

No, the Custom program requires the work to be completed by a Trade Ally who has provided the necessary documentation and has registered with the Program. The list of approved Trade Allies is located on the Appalachian Power Trade Ally Network. You, as the customer, also can use internal labor to complete your project. We suggest either using an approved Trade Ally or calling one of our program representatives to talk through the details of your project before installation.

If you know a contractor interested in joining our network, have them contact the program at 1-833-402-2221 or TakeChargeSavings@trccompanies.com.

When will I receive my incentive check?

The incentive payment is generated after all required inspections and project reviews are completed.

Energy Efficiency Kits Program

How many kits am I allowed to order?

There is a one kit limit per customer for the length of the program’s lifetime.

How do I order a kit?

Create an account for our marketplace, add your kit to your cart and checkout! You can find the kit and marketplace here.

How do I know what kit to order?

Based on the responses you select during the survey; your kit will be selected.

How much will it cost me?

Nothing! Shipping is included.

What will come in my kit?

The kit includes one kitchen aerator, two bathroom aerators, one low-flow showerhead, and two led nightlights.

When will I get my kit?

You can expect your kit to ship in 2-3 business days.

Can’t Find What You’re Looking For?

If you need more information or have questions about TakeCharge’s programs and rebates, please reach out.

Contact Us