ENERGY STAR Windows

Brownsville Public Utilities Board > GoGreen > Rebate Programs > ENERGY STAR Windows

Protect the home and increase comfort

Windows provide natural daylight and views, but homeowners often use drapes or blinds to cover them because of comfort concerns. ENERGY STAR-qualified windows and skylights allow owners to enjoy the light and views while saving money on utility bills and protecting valuable furnishings and finishes from sun damage. Independently tested for superior energy performance, ENERGY STAR-qualified windows and skylights are also better for the environment because lowering energy use helps reduce the emissions of greenhouse gases and air pollutants at the source.

Look for the ENERGY STAR

To find energy-efficient windows and skylights, look for the ENERGY STAR. The ENERGY STAR guidelines for windows and skylights are tailored to four climate zones. For example, windows in the North are optimized to reduce heat loss in the winter, while windows in the South are optimized to reduce heat gain during the summer. This explains why windows that are energy efficient in Florida will not necessarily be energy efficient in Michigan.

Independent Testing for Energy Performance

All ENERGY STAR-qualified windows and skylights' energy performance is independently tested and certified according to procedures established by the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC). NFRC is a third-party, nonprofit organization that sponsors certified rating and labeling programs to help consumers compare windows and skylights' energy and performance features.

Benefits of ENERGY Star-qualified Windows and Skylights

Energy Savings. ENERGY STAR-qualified windows and skylights feature advanced technologies such as invisible glass coatings, vacuum-sealed spaces filled with inert gas between the panes, improved framing materials, better weather stripping and warm edge spacers, all of which reduce undesirable heat gain and loss.

Improved Comfort. Compared to less efficient windows, ENERGY STAR-qualified windows help keep homes warmer in the winter and cooled in the summer. This is because they can block 70 percent or more of the solar heat gain in the summer and reflect radiant heat indoors during winter.

Protection of Your Home's Interior. Photographs, furniture, flooring and window treatments can fade or discolor after repeated exposure to direct sunlight. An ENERGY STAR-qualified window with special (low-E) coatings can reduce fading. These coatings can reduce fading by as much as 75 percent.

Reduced Condensation. If an inefficient window or window frame gets too cold, water can condense (or freeze) on the interior surface and pool on the sill. Over time, chronic condensation can cause damage.

Residential Program Guidelines
Residential Program Guidelines

BPUB Rebate Eligibility:

  1. Applications are subject to verification. The rebate will not be paid if the verification cannot be completed
  2. The installation address must match the address on the active BPUB electric services account
  3. The application and supporting documents must be completed and submitted within 45 days of installation.
  4. The rebate recipient (tenant/property owner) must be a BPUB customer. Property ownership will be verified using county tax records
  5. Only one application is accepted per address per fiscal year (October 1 through September 30).
  6. BPUB may discontinue the program at any time. Rebates are contingent upon fund availability

Windows Rebate Program Terms and Conditions:

  1. The windows must be ENERGY STAR® certified. Confirm with the seller before purchasing.
  2. Windows must be new and have a U-factor of 0.40 or less with a Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) of 0.25 or less.
  3. Rebate will be in the amount of 30% of invoice cost, up to $500.
  4. ENERGY STAR New Homes do not qualify.
  5. Proof of window data, U-factor, and SHGC is required.
  6. You must provide a copy of the purchase receipt or sales invoice.

Windows Rebate Program Instructions:

  1. Ensure you meet both Eligibility and Program Terms and Conditions.
  2. Complete the entire Window Rebate application.
    • Option 1: Complete the Application Online (preferred method to get automatic updates).
    • Option 2: Deliver the application and supporting documents to 1425 Robinhood Drive. (No automatic updates available) Please keep a copy for your records. ENERGY STAR Windows Application
  3. A copy of the purchase receipt or sales invoice.
  4. Proof of window data’s U-factor and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC).

Credit to the account is typically applied 3-6 weeks after receipt of all documentation. Please direct all questions to 956-983-6282 or E-mail [email protected].

Commercial Program Guidelines

A Better Future

ENERGY STAR is a voluntary partnership between the government and more than 9,000 organizations, including more than 3,500 of the nation's homebuilders. Together with home buyers and their families, we are working to achieve a common goal — protecting the environment for future generations by changing to more energy-efficient practices and products today.

ENERGY STAR is a government-backed symbol for energy efficiency. It identifies new homes, buildings and more than 50 energy-efficient products and offers the features, quality and performance that today's consumers expect. Products that can earn the ENERGY STAR include windows, heating and cooling equipment, lighting, and appliances. To learn more about ENERGY STAR, visit www.energystar.gov.