.svg)
Compare 2025 commercial LED lighting rebates across TX, OK and AR — program amounts, eligibility, pre-approval rules, and application tips to maximize savings.
Upgrading to LED lighting can save businesses up to 60% on energy costs, and in 2025, several rebate programs made these upgrades more affordable. Utilities in Texas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas offered incentives to reduce upfront costs and encourage energy-efficient solutions. Key programs included:
Key Takeaways:
These programs simplify the transition to energy-efficient lighting while reducing costs. By acting quickly and verifying eligibility, businesses can maximize savings and improve energy performance.
2025 Commercial Lighting Rebate Programs Comparison: Texas, Oklahoma & Arkansas
Liberty Utilities offers Arkansas businesses rebates starting at $200 for upgrading to energy-efficient lighting systems. Incentives are capped at $20,000 per facility per program year, making this program an appealing choice for businesses looking to improve energy efficiency.
This program is available to commercial and industrial electric customers within Liberty Utilities' Arkansas service area. To qualify, businesses must implement upgrades that reduce energy consumption using ENERGY STAR-certified products that meet EPA and DOE standards. For eligibility verification and application forms, reach out to Liberty Utilities Customer Care at 1-800-206-2300.
Liberty Utilities provides rebates through two main pathways:
"Pre-approval is required before equipment is purchased and installed for custom rebate applications." - Liberty Utilities
Pre-approval is mandatory for both prescriptive and custom rebates. Purchasing equipment before approval will disqualify your application. To apply, download the necessary workbooks and submit them to the address listed on the application form. Once pre-approval is granted (typically within 4–5 weeks), submit installation documentation. Rebate payments are usually issued 1–2 weeks after invoice review.
The program supports a variety of high-efficiency lighting systems, including LED retrofits for commercial and industrial spaces. Custom applications are first reviewed for prescriptive eligibility - if the equipment qualifies for standard prescriptive rebates, those rates will be applied.
Oklahoma Gas & Electric (OG&E) offers an energy efficiency program for commercial customers in Oklahoma and Arkansas, covering up to 90% of project costs. This program is available in key areas such as Oklahoma City, Fort Smith, Norman, and Enid. It provides financial incentives to help businesses reduce energy use, primarily through LED lighting retrofits.
Any public or private entity served by OG&E is eligible. This includes small businesses, large industrial facilities, K-12 schools, colleges and universities, and municipalities. For organizations with multiple sites, all locations are considered under a single customer account, with projects tracked individually. To confirm eligibility or discuss specific needs, you can contact OG&E at 844‑882‑5747 (Oklahoma) or 844‑413‑3065 (Arkansas). This system ensures that rebate rewards are customized based on the scope of the project and the energy savings achieved.
Rebate amounts depend on the size of the project and the energy savings achieved. Small businesses can qualify for up to $3,000 in energy-efficient upgrades without any out-of-pocket expenses. Larger projects receive incentives tied to energy savings. For example, in January 2024, the Oklahoma Department of Transportation earned a $42,000 rebate for a lighting retrofit. By replacing fluorescent bulbs with 8.9-watt LED plug-and-play bulbs, the facility saved 131,364 kilowatt-hours annually and reduced electrical demand by 50 kilowatts, cutting $8,000 from annual electric costs. Similarly, Goodwill Industries of Central Oklahoma received over $29,000 in incentives, leading to more than $19,000 in yearly savings, with a projected two-year payback period.
The application process is simple and starts with an online inquiry or phone consultation using the numbers provided. OG&E offers three program tracks: Small Business Solutions (covering up to 90% of costs), Commercial & Industrial Solutions, and Midstream Solutions. Pre-approval is required before purchasing equipment to secure rebate funds. Applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis, so applying early is recommended as program budgets are limited. Once the project is completed and verified, rebates are issued - typically via check, credit, or direct deposit - within 2–3 weeks.
The program focuses on LED lighting retrofits, as well as lighting controls and sensors for commercial and industrial spaces. Small businesses benefit from installation services provided by OG&E-approved contractors. Larger commercial customers can access energy consultations and performance benchmarking to track improvements before and after upgrades. For example, Fort Gibson Public Schools upgraded their lighting fixtures through this program, earning over $50,000 in incentives and saving more than $27,000 annually, with a projected five-year payback period.
Austin Energy's Power Saver Program provides commercial customers with rebates designed to cut down energy costs significantly. With lighting accounting for 20%–40% of commercial electric bills, the program offers rebates of $420 per kW saved on lighting retrofits and $225 per kW on lighting control retrofits, making it a valuable option for businesses looking to reduce expenses.
To participate, applicants must be Austin Energy customers with commercial electric service in an existing building. The program requires lighting equipment to operate on weekdays between 3:00–6:00 p.m., from June through September, though educational facilities and houses of worship are exempt from this condition. Buildings over 10,000 square feet must also comply with the Energy Conservation Audit and Disclosure (ECAD) ordinance. Applications must be submitted prior to installation, and all equipment must meet specific standards - being new, energized, covered by at least a one-year warranty, and approved by a nationally recognized testing laboratory like UL or CSA.
The program caps commercial rebates at 50% of job costs, but small businesses and non-profits can qualify for up to 80% reimbursement through a 30% bonus rebate. The maximum rebate per customer site is $300,000 per fiscal year (October through September). On average, commercial customers receive rebates of around $5,000 for upgrades to equipment and processes.
Start by emailing Austin Energy Commercial Rebates to request their lighting calculator. Applications are submitted online and must include manufacturer spec sheets, the completed calculator, and pre-installation photos. A pre-installation site visit will confirm the equipment, followed by a post-installation verification. After installation, applicants need to submit final invoices and labor cost details. Rebates are issued to the electric account holder. Applications that are incomplete may be put on hold and could be cancelled if not resolved within 90 days.
The program supports a variety of high-efficiency LED products, including PAR, MR, and A-shaped lamps, high bay fixtures, troffers, and LED panels. Products must meet DesignLights Consortium (DLC) or ENERGY STAR standards. However, LED tubes running on magnetic ballasts are excluded, and exterior lighting generally doesn’t qualify unless it operates during peak hours, such as lighting in parking garages.
Texas businesses looking to cut energy costs can benefit from Oncor's Commercial Standard Offer Program. This initiative provides energy efficiency incentives across the state, including the Dallas–Fort Worth metroplex. The program uses a Service Provider model, ensuring that savings flow directly to customers through approved contractors.
To qualify, your facility must be located in Oncor's service area and use electricity metered by Oncor. The program is open to non-residential customers, including commercial and industrial properties. Projects fall into two categories: Deemed Savings, which require a minimum incentive of $500, or Measurement & Verification, with a minimum incentive of $10,000. Commercial customers with peak demand over 50 kW can even act as "self-sponsors", bypassing contractors to work directly with Oncor. Once eligibility is confirmed, you can begin the application process.
The program operates from February through November, with some applications opening as early as January. The first step is to use Oncor's "Find A Provider" tool to select an approved contractor. After submitting your application, Oncor reviews it, and your chosen provider completes the installation and verification steps. Here's how Oncor explains the process:
"Incentive payments from Oncor are paid directly to these Service Providers who pass on the incentive to the customer to help pay for some or all of the energy efficiency improvement".
Starting your application early in the year - ideally in the first quarter - can increase your chances of securing funding.
Oncor calculates rebates based on the kilowatts (kW) and kilowatt-hours (kWh) saved, factoring in the estimated lifespan of the upgraded lighting. It’s important to discuss costs upfront with your provider, as they may keep part of the incentive. For larger facilities, the Commercial Load Management Program is an option, requiring a minimum estimated demand savings of 100 kW during summer peak hours (1:00–7:00 p.m., June through September).
The program supports high-efficiency LED retrofits and advanced lighting controls, helping businesses modernize their systems while cutting energy use.
Entergy Arkansas has made it easier for small businesses to cut down on lighting expenses with its Small Business Energy Solutions program. Tailored for retail shops, small offices, and other local businesses, this program focuses on energy-efficient lighting upgrades. Many participants have shared positive feedback about their experiences with the program. Ready to see if your business qualifies? Let’s dive into the details.
To participate, your business must be an Entergy Arkansas customer with a peak demand under 100 kW. You can confirm this by checking your utility bill. The program also encourages working with a certified Trade Ally, who can handle on-site energy audits and guide you through the technical aspects of the upgrade. Plus, qualifying businesses can request a free Energy Efficiency Kit, which includes basic LED upgrades.
The program offers rebates of $0.17 per kWh saved for lighting upgrades, covering both interior and exterior fixtures as well as lighting controls. Refrigeration lighting is eligible for a higher rebate rate of $0.30 per kWh, though this is capped at 300,000 kWh annually. Here’s an example: upgrading 32 T8 fixtures and 16 incandescent downlights can save approximately 16,500 kWh per year, translating to about $1,300 in energy savings annually. With a rebate of $2,805 on a project costing $4,200, your net investment drops to $1,395, and you can recoup your costs in just 13 months.
To get started, reach out to the Energy Efficiency Solutions Center at entergyarsmallbusiness@clearesult.com or call 877‑212‑2420. Be sure to obtain pre-approval before purchasing any equipment. A certified Trade Ally will handle the paperwork, calculate energy savings, and submit your application. Some projects may also require inspections before and after installation to ensure compliance. Since funds are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, it’s smart to apply as early as possible.
The program supports a variety of LED retrofits for both interior and exterior use, including 2'×4' LED fixtures, LED downlights, and LED wall packs. Advanced lighting controls, such as occupancy sensors and timers, are also eligible for standard incentives. Additionally, refrigeration lighting measures are included in the program’s offerings.
The Public Service Company of Oklahoma (PSO) offers businesses in Tulsa, Oklahoma City, Lawton, McAlester, and Bartlesville a rebate program designed to reward energy-efficient lighting upgrades. One standout feature? You can earn up to 20% in bonus rebates by bundling multiple energy-saving projects together. Whether you prefer standardized (prescriptive) rebates or need a custom approach, PSO provides options to match your project goals. Be sure to check the eligibility requirements before diving in.
To qualify, you must be a current PSO business customer. The program caters to a wide range of sectors, including commercial, industrial, multifamily, small business, agriculture, and oil & gas. For custom projects like grow lighting or building automation systems, you’ll need pre-approval from PSO. For prescriptive upgrades, review the technical requirements to confirm if pre-approval is necessary. Importantly, all lighting products must be listed on the ENERGY STAR or DesignLights Consortium (DLC) Qualified Products List.
PSO offers rebates for LED lighting upgrades at a rate of $0.03 per kWh saved. On top of that, you can unlock a Comprehensive Upgrades Bonus of up to 20% when you combine multiple improvements. To estimate your potential savings, use the Business Bonus Rebate Calculator. Small businesses can also take advantage of free on-site energy audits to identify opportunities for efficiency.
Start by creating an account at psobusinessrebates.com, where you can submit, track, and edit your applications in real time. If you’re planning a custom project, make sure to submit your summary form during the planning stage - pre-approval is required before purchasing any equipment. Contractors applying on behalf of customers should call 1-888-776-1366 to set up a service provider account. Keep in mind that funding is limited, so it’s best to apply as early as possible.
The program supports a variety of lighting solutions, including retrofit lighting, new construction lighting, and lighting controls for both interior and exterior use. Eligible technologies range from LED retrofit kits and LED fixtures for new builds to grow lighting systems, occupancy sensors, and building automation controls. Be prepared to submit manufacturer specification sheets and invoices detailing labor and material costs with your final application.
Here’s a handy summary table consolidating the essential details of the rebate programs we’ve discussed. Use this as a quick reference when planning your next lighting upgrade.
| Program / Utility | State | Maximum Rebate Amount | Eligible Lighting Products | Application Deadline | Required Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liberty Utilities Arkansas C&I | AR | Varies by project | LED lighting products and controls | First-come, first-served (limited funding) | Product specifications and invoices |
| OGE Energy Efficiency | OK/AR | Minimum 50% of project cost | LED lighting, sensors, and controls | First-come, first-served (limited funding) | Product specifications and pre-approval documents |
| Austin Energy Power Saver | TX | $5,000 average; $370 per kW saved (new construction); capped at $300,000 per site/year | High-efficiency lighting, LED retrofits, occupancy sensors, and daylight controls | Pre-approval required; funding limited | DLC listings, equipment photos, and specifications |
| Oncor Commercial Lighting | TX | Varies | LED lighting and lighting controls | First-come, first-served (limited funding) | Product specifications and contractor registration |
| Entergy Arkansas Lighting | AR | Varies | LED lighting and controls | First-come, first-served (limited funding) | Product specifications and pre-approval documents |
| PSO Business Energy Efficiency | OK | Varies | LED lighting, controls, and occupancy sensors | Apply early (limited funding) | Product specifications, invoices, and spec sheets |
A few points to note:
Also, all programs mandate that LED products must be listed on the DesignLights Consortium (DLC) or ENERGY STAR qualified product lists. Be sure to consult the table above as you plan your upgrades to ensure compliance and maximize your rebate potential.
Getting the most out of your rebate starts with careful planning, which can lead to noticeable energy savings and reduced costs.
Submit your application before purchasing any fixtures. Timing is everything. Apply during the planning phase - before buying or installing new fixtures. For instance, Austin Energy and Oncor won’t issue rebates for projects already completed without prior approval. LightUp emphasizes this point: “Starting the process early means you're more likely to get the highest rebate available. It is best to seek approval during the planning stages of your LED installation project, before any LEDs are purchased”. This early step lays the groundwork for all the necessary documentation and calculations.
Verify that your products are eligible. Ensure that each product is listed on the DLC (DesignLights Consortium) or ENERGY STAR® Qualified Products List. Double-check the exact model numbers to confirm they are active and eligible. Many programs, like LADWP’s CLIP, tie rebate amounts to certification levels - DLC Standard might qualify for $0.20/kWh, while DLC Premium could earn $0.30/kWh. Be sure to include all required product specifications in your application.
Use rebate calculators and consider a professional energy audit. Many utilities offer Excel-based tools to help you estimate your potential rebate based on kilowatt (kW) savings. A professional energy audit can identify which fixtures qualify for replacement and ensure your project meets minimum energy savings thresholds. For example, LADWP requires at least 25% energy savings. Audits can also uncover opportunities for advanced controls, like occupancy sensors, which might significantly boost your rebate per fixture.
Work with an approved contractor to streamline the process. In 2025, around 17% of rebate programs will require contractors to be registered as trade allies or approved vendors. Companies like Luminate Lighting Group offer end-to-end support, including site audits, photometric designs, and handling all rebate paperwork. This approach minimizes delays and reduces the risk of application rejection.
Submit early and stick to deadlines. Rebate programs often operate on a first-come, first-served basis with limited funding, and some are only available from February through November. Pre-approval times average about 22 days, though digital portals have cut this down to as little as two weeks in some areas. Once approved, complete your project within 120 days to avoid losing your reserved rebate.
Commercial property owners in Texas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas have a prime opportunity to slash LED upgrade costs in 2025. By switching to LED systems, businesses could see energy bill reductions of up to 60%, making it a smart move for long-term savings.
The rebates available offer a wide range of financial benefits. For example, Austin Energy provides $420 per kW saved for lighting retrofits, while Oncor offers minimum project incentives of $500. However, these programs come with time limits - most run from February through November - and with nearly 250 rebate program changes recorded in 2024, the incentives available today might not be around tomorrow.
To make the most of these opportunities, businesses should act quickly. Securing pre-approval, verifying product eligibility, and working with approved professionals are essential steps. As one industry expert puts it: "For any lighting project you're working on in 2025, you should research to see what incentives might be available as early as possible to make sure you don't miss out". Fortunately, the average pre-approval process now takes just two weeks.
Beyond rebates, businesses can combine these incentives with federal tax deductions like Section 179D to maximize savings. Companies like Luminate Lighting Group offer comprehensive support, handling everything from energy audits and photometric designs to rebate paperwork, ensuring projects qualify for every available dollar while meeting energy code requirements.
With lower operating costs, better lighting quality, and generous financial incentives, 2025 is shaping up to be the perfect year to upgrade your commercial lighting system. Start early, confirm eligibility, and team up with professionals to secure the funding you need.
To qualify for 2025 commercial lighting rebates, you'll need to take a few key steps to ensure everything is in order:
By choosing energy-efficient lighting, conducting a thorough audit, and staying on top of your paperwork, you can make the most of these rebates while cutting down on energy costs.
To get pre-approval for lighting rebates, the first step is scheduling a professional lighting audit. This audit evaluates your current lighting setup, utility data, and the overall scope of your LED retrofit project. It's a crucial step to understand what needs updating and how to move forward.
Make sure the proposed fixtures meet the necessary eligibility standards, such as being ENERGY STAR-certified or DLC-listed. Additionally, collect key project details like the annual operating hours of your lighting system.
Next, complete the utility’s pre-approval application. This typically requires information like a project description, a detailed equipment list, and energy savings estimates. Include all relevant supporting documents, such as invoices and specification sheets. Submitting this application before starting the installation is essential - it helps reserve rebate funds and ensures your project aligns with the utility's requirements. Once you receive pre-approval, you can confidently move ahead with the retrofit, knowing your rebate eligibility is secured.
Lighting rebate programs differ quite a bit across Texas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas, depending on the specific utilities and incentives in each state.
In Texas, utilities like Austin Energy, Oncor, and CenterPoint Energy offer a combination of prescriptive rebates (fixed amounts per fixture) and performance-based incentives. For instance, Austin Energy provides rebates of up to $150 per fixture, with additional bonuses for incorporating smart controls. CenterPoint Energy, on the other hand, offers incentives based on energy savings, such as $207 per kW of demand reduction and $0.06 per kWh saved.
In Oklahoma, rebate programs are primarily handled by OG&E and PSO. These programs emphasize replacing outdated fixtures with ENERGY STAR-certified LEDs. Rebates are typically calculated based on the energy savings achieved, though the exact amounts and any bonus structures depend on the utility.
In Arkansas, rebate programs are less standardized. They often include fixed payments per fixture or custom incentives tied to estimated energy savings. For detailed information, businesses are encouraged to reach out to local utilities or the state energy office.
For property owners in all three states, Luminate Lighting Group offers support with navigating rebate programs, conducting energy audits, and managing the paperwork needed to help maximize savings.
