Heat pump pilot program

To the editor:
    Several weeks ago Maine Public Service joined Bangor Hydro Electric Company in announcing a heat pump pilot program in an effort to help customers save energy and reduce bills. The news couldn’t have come at a better time, as Mainer’s heading into another winter heating season are concerned about the cost of heating their homes. Since the program was launched, interest has been high and 25 percent of the available rebates have already reserved or claimed.
    The Heat Pump Pilot Program will provide rebates of $600 for the purchase and installation of mini-split, air-source heat pumps for the first 330 customers who apply and are approved. Utility financing will be available to eligible customers in good standing. Additionally, residential and small commercial customers who heat with heat pumps may qualify for a lower electric heat delivery rate for all electricity used for heat during the heating season. Both residential and commercial customers can apply for the rebate and financing.
    Utility financing offers customers the convenience of paying one bill for their heat pump loan and their electricity. The Heat Pump Pilot Program offers a competitive rate of 7.75 percent APR, a five-year loan term, no application fee or closing costs, and no prepayment penalty.
    We believe this pilot program will prove heat pumps can provide a long-term solution to high heating costs by potentially reducing heating bills in most cases to less than half of what it costs for oil. Heat pump technology isn’t new, but newer units are rated to perform much better in cold climates such as Aroostook County in the winter. New, energy efficient units can be a very cost-effective, supplemental heat source, providing as much as 80 to 90 percent of the necessary heat over the winter months.
    Heat pumps use refrigeration technology and electricity to move heat very efficiently from one space to another. Even cold air contains heat, so during the winter months, refrigerant is able to absorb that heat and move it from the outside of your house to the inside. During the summer months, heat is moved from inside to the outside. Both operations are done at very high levels of efficiency.
    Bangor Hydro and Maine Public Service promote the efficient use of electricity. We see mini-split heat pumps as a great opportunity for our customers to manage their energy use and save money. There are a limited number of rebates available so interested customers are encouraged to complete their applications soon. Details are available at bangorhydro.com or mainepublicservice.com.
Gerry Chasse, president and COOBangor Hydro Electric Co.
Maine Public Service