Rhode Island has announced an $11.5 million pilot to help income-qualified households in buildings with two to four attached residential units install electric heat pumps.
The Office of Energy Resources announced the program Nov. 2. It is administered through Clean Heat Rhode Island and has income, property and weatherization requirements.
For households at or below 80% of area median income, the program covers 100% of eligible equipment and installation costs, up to $16,000 per unit. Area median income is a regional income benchmark.
Households from 81% to 150% of that benchmark can receive 60% of eligible costs, with the same $16,000 cap. Moderate-income Aquidneck Island gas customers and moderate-income Narragansett tribal members can receive 100% of eligible costs, up to $16,000 per unit.
Renters need landlord approval. A heat pump moves heat to provide heating and cooling. Applicants should check their eligibility and required building improvements before purchasing equipment.
