CMP’s new rebate program spurs interest in electric thermal storage heating

    AUGUSTA — Central Maine Power Company (CMP), a subsidiary of Iberdrola USA, reports growing consumer interest following its launch of a rebate program for customers who install new electric thermal storage (ETS) heating units in their homes.

    The utility rolled out its ETS program last fall in response to a recent change in state law encouraging electric utilities to develop programs to reduce heating costs and provide energy-efficient heating options for Maine consumers.
    During the 2012-13 heating season, more than 90 homeowners have expressed interest and applied for the program. About $170,000 in rebates have either been awarded or are currently reserved for customers already in the program to install room-sized or whole-house heating units. The rebate offer will expire at the end of this year. 
    “These heaters are 100 percent efficient, and a great way for homeowners and small businesses to save money on their heating bills next winter,” says Adam Cutter, manager for the ETS program. “We’re encouraged by the early interest, and we hope more people will take advantage of the rebates before the program ends next December.”
    Customers who own a home or small business can purchase up to three single-room heaters and receive $1,500 off the purchase price for each unit. Those who wish to install an ETS furnace to heat an entire building will be eligible for a $4,500 discount.
    ETS heaters contain electric heating elements surrounded by special high-density ceramic bricks that can store large amounts of heat for extended periods of time. The bricks are heated during off-peak hours when electricity service prices may be lower. Once fully charged, a heater can keep a home or business at a comfortable temperature 24 hours a day.
    “It’s a pilot program to promote the technology, so we have limited funding, but we hope to reach as many customers as possible,” says Cutter.
    “If customers are interested, they should visit CMP’s website to learn more, and contact an ETS provider to find the best ETS heating option for them. It can take a while to complete the installation properly so we hope customers will visit CMP’s web site soon to get the process rolling.”
    In addition to the off-peak delivery price already offered by CMP, certain competitive suppliers are now offering off-peak supply pricing options for customers who use ETS heat. Customers wishing to participate in the program can get more information at CMP’s ETS webpage (www.cmpco.com/ets).
    It includes a spreadsheet to help compare the costs and potential savings, plus details on the types of ETS heaters available for the rebate offer, a list of providers and installers, and an application for enrollment.