SDG&E offers rebates on energy-efficient appliances and upgrades; unfortunately, new windows are not included in the list of approved upgrades. Homeowners who install ENERGY STAR windows are eligible for the federal Residential Energy Efficiency Tax Credit.

By installing windows with a U factor and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SGHC) of 0.3 or less on your primary residence, you can receive a tax credit equal to 30 percent up to $1,500 of the cost of new windows.

When planning and budgeting for new windows, keep in mind that replacing windows can be a very expensive project, and when you compare it to the savings you’ll see on your utility bills, it might not be the best energy efficiency project for your home. It’s common for homeowners to install new windows before completing other more cost-effective improvements such as adding insulation and air sealing.

If you’d like to know what measures will save you the most money and how much you can save, check out our energy audit tool. This online auditor is a fun and easy way to get an idea of where your home stands in terms of energy efficiency. You may find that a lot of the audit’s recommendations are eligible for the SDG&E Rebate and the federal tax credit.