Portland-area homeowners can cash in on utility rebates when they upgrade to high-efficiency heat pumps. If you are a customer of Pacific Power, Portland General Electric (PGE), NW Natural or Cascade Natural Gas, you are eligible for incentives through Energy Trust of Oregon when upgrading from an existing heat pump, non-electric energy heating or an electric furnace.
Your incentives for installing new heat pumps, which are ideal for moderate climates such as in the Portland area, could top $2,000. A heat pump warms your home in winter by collecting heat from outdoor air and pumping it into your indoor heat exchanger. In summer, it pumps heat out of your home and circulates cooler air indoors. Rebates are available based on the heating seasonal performance factor (HSPF), a measure of the amount of heat produced compared to energy consumed.
Here is a breakdown of available programs:
- Upgrade to higher-efficiency heat pump or from non-electric energy — $200 for minimum 8.8 HSPF on five-ton or larger unit; $250 for any size with minimum 9.0 HSPF
- Replace electric heat source (furnace, baseboard, ceiling or wall) —– $400 for minimum 8.8 HSPF on five-ton or larger unit; $450 for any size with minimum 9.0 HSPF
Incentives can increase to as much as $1,335 with installation of a premium-efficiency heat pump (minimum 9.0 HSPF) and additional improvements:
- $150 bonus for heat pump optimization (also known as commissioning) which ensures maximum efficiency through processes prescribed by Energy Trust
- $435 bonus when optimization is combined with duct testing and sealing as prescribed by Energy Trust
- $300 additional bonus for a premium installation package that includes heat pump upgrade or furnace replacement with commissioning and duct testing and sealing
In order to qualify for the additional $300 bonus, installation must be completed by a Energy Trust “trade ally.” PGE customers also receive an instant $200 rebate from PGE-approved contactors. Additional state and federal tax credits can add another $730 in incentives for helping conserve energy and reduce your utility bills.
For additional information on your potential savings, contact Roth Heating & Cooling, Plumbing, Electrical, Drain Services, an approved contractor for all of these incentives.
