PORTLAND PRESS HERALD • July 31, 2023
As the popularity of heat pumps has grown in the state, so has the heat pump sales and service industry. Heat pumps offer one of the most cost-effective means of carbon reduction. When compared with solar panels, heat pumps reduce carbon emissions eight times more cost effectively. The federal government has created an incentive of a 30% tax credit up to $2,000, in addition to the $800 rebate available from Efficiency Maine. As a result, Maine’s heat pump installers are poised to see even more growth. But are their customers getting the benefit of these new incentives, or are installers pocketing these incentives in the form of higher prices? The rebates are for consumers, not for installers. Customers should be cautious of price gouging. ~ Gerry Chasse, past president, Bangor Hydro and Emera Maine