A rebate can make a project easier to justify, but it only helps if your installation actually qualifies.
Before you treat an incentive as money in hand, confirm the eligible equipment, whether the program requires an approved contractor, and whether funds are still available.
It is also worth checking whether the rebate is paid at the point of sale, after installation, or after paperwork review. That timing changes what you need from your quote and how much cash you need up front.