Heat Pump Incentives

The cost of heating fuel bills has been big news the past several months, and the Energy Information Administration (EIA)says that, on average, households heating primarily with natural gas can expect to spend about $350 more this winter on fuel.

Households heating mostly with heating oil, states the EIA, can expect to pay about $378 more, and households heating primarily with propane will pay around $325 more.

The National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration projects a .4-percent colder winter in the continental United States this year, in terms of heating degree-days. That would be about 3.2 percent colder than last winter.

Electricity is still considered a bargain, particularly in Kentucky, which has the second lowest average residential rate in the nation.

To assist its members who want to convert from a gas or fuel oil furnace to an electric heat pump, South Kentucky RECC is offering an incentive.

The incentive or rebate being offered to members is $150. There are a couple of qualifications that must be met, however.

The heat pump must have a minimum efficiency of a 13 SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, and 8 HSPF, or Heating Seasonal Performance Factor. A geothermal heat pump will also qualify, with an incentive payment of $300.

For more information on the fossil fuel to electric conversion rebate, contact your local South Kentucky RECC office, or call 800-264-5112, to speak to an energy advisor.