The 2026 PSE Trade Ally Requirement: What Contractors Must Do
As of April 2, 2026, a heat pump install only qualifies for PSE rebates if an enrolled PSE Trade Ally does the work. If you're not enrolled, your customers can't get the PSE rebate.
What changed on April 2, 2026
Puget Sound Energy now requires every rebate-eligible heat pump install to be performed by an enrolled PSE Trade Ally (Registered Energy Professional). Before the change, most licensed contractors' installs could qualify. Now what matters is whether you're enrolled.
A homeowner can still hire any licensed contractor they want. But if that contractor isn't enrolled, PSE won't pay a rebate on the job.
Why it hits your bids
Homeowners shopping for a heat pump compare the out-the-door price after rebates. An enrolled shop can take $1,500 or more off the same install. If you're not enrolled, you either eat that difference yourself or lose the bid to a shop that is.
The rule is only a few months old, so a lot of contractors are finding out the hard way, after a quote falls through.
How to get enrolled
Enrollment is straightforward, but it takes time to clear. The basics:
- •Apply through PSE's Trade Ally / Contractor Alliance Network program.
- •Meet the licensing and insurance requirements PSE asks for.
- •Complete PSE's onboarding steps.
- •Get listed in the public directory homeowners search when they're comparing bids.
Not sure what a job qualifies for?
Send Tipoff any quote you're working on. We'll tell you every federal, state, and utility rebate it qualifies for, free and same day. We'll file them for you too.
FAQ
I've installed heat pumps for years. Doesn't that count?
Not for the rebate. PSE ties the rebate to enrollment, not to how long you've been installing. Until you're an enrolled Trade Ally, PSE won't pay a rebate on your jobs.
How long does enrollment take?
It depends on PSE's queue and how fast you get your paperwork in. Start now. Every week you're not enrolled is bids going to shops that are.
This guide is general educational information, not legal or financial advice. Rebate amounts, eligibility, and deadlines depend on program funding and utility rules, and change over time. Always confirm the current terms with the program before quoting a customer. Last updated July 1, 2026.