What to know about Mass.’ new electricity rates for heat pump users

Using an electric heat pump in Massachusetts is about to become more affordable.

Beginning in November, the state’s three big electric utilities — Eversource, National Grid and Unitil — will offer cheaper electric rates during the coldest months of the year for households that use a heat pump.

“Part of the reason it has been difficult to get owners to switch from gas to electric is that the math hasn’t always penciled out in terms of cost savings,” said Kyle Murray, Massachusetts program director for the Acadia Center, a nonprofit that advocates for clean energy policies. Murray said the new winter rates “will likely make heat pumps significantly more affordable.”

A recent report commissioned by several environmental groups, including the Acadia Center, found that with the new rates, 45% of households would reduce their heating bill by installing a heat pump. The Department of Public Utilities, which ordered the utilities to implement these rates, said the average household with a heat pump should save about $540 this winter.

To read the full article from wbur, click here.