Electric heat pumps are an important part of Connecticut’s energy efficiency program as the state seeks to speed adoption with a free consultation service and significant rebates.
EnergizeCT has contracted with Massachusetts-based Abode, an energy management company, to operate the consultation service and develop a statewide network of trained heat pump installers. Abode operates similar programs in Massachusetts that have so far resulted in the installation of close to 2,200 heat pumps in 13 communities.
Ratepayers can sign up for a virtual chat session with a heat pump expert on the EnergizeCT website. Since the service started in late May, Abode has conducted more than 100 consultations lasting an average of 45 minutes each.
Connecticut's two electric distribution companies (EDCs), Eversource and United Illuminating, which run EnergizeCT, are also in the process of overhauling the program’s website to better promote heat pump technology.
Air-source heat pumps are heating and cooling systems that run on electricity instead of fossil fuels. They move heat outside in the summer and inside in the winter. They are highly efficient and can significantly lower energy bills when paired with home weatherization.
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