Savings Results for Emera Maine’s Program

Emera Maine has released the results for its 2013 Heat Pump Pilot Program with the Maine Public Utilities Commission.The study reflected an average savings of $622 a year for participants, based on fuel oil cost of $3.90 a gallon.

The range of savings varied significantly for participants in the program, depending on how they used their heat pump. For example, those who relied heavily on their heat pumps to displace oil saved as much as $1,939. Participants who used their heat pumps more like a space heater saw savings of about $300 for the heating season.

Last year the former Bangor Hydro and Maine Public Service introduced the Heat Pump Pilot Program to customers and stakeholders. The program included on-bill financing, a $600 rebate for the purchase of an energy-efficient ductless heat pump. Customers who installed a heat pump were also eligible for a reduced electric rate during the heating season.

About 1,000 participants where involved in the pilot program. Of these customers, Emera Maine reports 85% said they were very satisfied with both the program and the heat pump. As for the savings they were able to achieve by using the heat pump, 78% said they were very satisfied.

The study also showed that the average participant reduced their CO2 emissions by 4,212 pounds per year, which is equivalent to driving 4,549 fewer miles per year.

The complete study results as well as additional information on heat pump technology is available at www.emeramaine.com.