A new rate option is coming soon for residential electric customers in Massachusetts

If you use a heat pump to heat all or part of your home, you can take advantage of a new, reduced distribution and transmission rate during the winter months (Nov. 1 to April 30) to help you save on your winter electric bill.

Who qualifies?

If you received a Mass Save® rebate via your Eversource electric account for a heat pump you installed after Jan. 1, 2022, you will be automatically enrolled on this rate beginning Nov. 1, 2025. If this applies to you, you will be notified of your enrollment on the Heat Pump Rate prior to Nov. 1.

If you didn’t receive a rebate from the Sponsors of Mass Save or if you installed your heat pump prior to Jan. 1, 2022, you’ll be able to verify your eligibility for the Heat Pump Rate by providing some additional information. More details will be shared about this in the fall.

Customers using electric resistance heat via baseboards, space heaters or furnaces do not qualify for the heat pump rate.

How does the Heat Pump Rate work?

The Heat Pump Rate is a lower distribution and transmission rate per kWh in the winter months than the standard rate for residential customers. The table below is an example of how a current heat pump customer using an average of 1670 kWh per month during the winter could save on their bill with the new rate.

During the summer months (May – October), heat pump customers will pay the Standard Residential Rate, the same rate that all non-heat pump customers pay.

*The seasonal heat pump rate shown above will be adjusted on January 1. That specific rate and the bill impact is still being determined. 

Is there a Heat Pump Rate for customers who need assistance with their electric bills?

Yes, customers who are currently on the R-2, residential assistance rate and have a heat pump, are eligible for the R-2 heat pump rate, which provides the same discount that customers receive on the R-2 electric rate.