Residents of Maine can now take advantage of rebates offered by Efficiency Maine to upgrade their heating and cooling systems through the installation of heat pumps.
In June 2019, Maine Gov. Janet Mills signed LD 1766 “An Act To Transform Maine’s Heat Pump Market To Advance Economic Security and Climate Objectives.”
The main purpose of the legislation is to encourage the installation of 100,000 heat pumps by 2025.
A heat pump is a device used to either heat or cool a building. Heat pumps are similar to HVAC units, but operate at a more efficient level. Unlike HVAC units, which create either warm or cool air, heat pumps transfer heat from an existing source for the purpose of heating or cooling a building.
Since Jan. 1, Maine residents are eligible to receive a rebate of $1,000 to have one heat pump installed in their home. Should a resident decide to install a second heat pump, they would be eligible for an additional $500 rebate.
Maine uses more home heating oil per capita than any other state in the nation. High-performance heat pumps are an affordable, efficient and accessible heating and cooling appliance, which can play an important role in reducing carbon emissions.
While the initial installation of heat pumps can be pricey, the rebates and reduced utility bills, which are estimated to be between $300 and $600 per year, will help the system pay for itself.
The Press Herald reports a heat pump can reduce oil consumption by an estimated 270 gallons per year.
Maine is proud to be one of the states leading the effort to reduce the country’s reliance on fossil fuels.
Officials at Efficiency Maine also expressed hope the initiative will create jobs within the state. They believe this legislation will create jobs to either install and/or repair heat pumps.
Contact Plumbers 911 to be referred to a local plumbing contractor who can install, repair or maintain your heat pump.