Heat pumps

Mass. regulator orders National Grid to set lower winter rate for heat pumps

The decision instructs the state’s second-largest utility to develop a more affordable wintertime electricity rate for customers who have a heat pump.

By Sarah Shemkus . 4 October 2024

A heat pump in Rangeley, Maine. (Kathryn Krawczyk / Energy News Network)

Carbon-free buildings

Washington state moves to electrify new buildings by requiring heat pumps

New commercial buildings in Washington will have to conform to what are now the country’s strongest electrification standards for the sector.

By Maria Gallucci . 29 April 2022
Heat pumps

How to move Europe from gas heat to heat pumps — fast

As the European Union tries to free itself from Russian gas, it should offer subsidies and policy supports to boost heat-pump adoption, a new report says.

By Jeff St. John . 30 March 2022
Heat pumps

These new double-duty heat pumps can warm both air and water

Heat pumps are a more efficient way to heat homes. Startup Harvest Thermal says its tech can turn them into thermal batteries too.

By Jeff St. John . 28 March 2022
Heat pumps

Check out these heat pumps that look like George Clooney

The energy researcher who created a viral tweet thread has a knack for making energy issues enticing to the masses. Find out what else he's up to.

By Mike Munsell . 25 March 2022
Heat pumps

How to shift building heat to electric? NY activists have lots of ideas

Climate advocates are backing bills that would push New York state to go big on heat pumps — and move faster to phase out fossil gas.

By Jeff St. John . 11 March 2022
Fossil fuels

How fast can Europe wean itself off Russian gas?

Heat pumps and clean energy can improve Europe's energy security while aiding climate goals.

By Jeff St. John . 1 March 2022
Utilities

A net-zero future for gas utilities? Switching to underground thermal networks

Three pilot projects in Massachusetts will connect ground-source heat pumps to heat and cool entire neighborhoods.

By Jeff St. John . 1 March 2022
Electrification

New tools and tech to prep your electrical panel for an all-electric home

Solar, batteries, EVs and electric heat pumps can overload home electrical panels. Lots of companies are coming up with solutions.

By Jeff St. John . 22 February 2022
Electrification

What are the hurdles to electrifying a home? Contractors and experts weigh in

Installing heat pumps and induction stoves can be costly and complex, but they boost homeowners' health and comfort — and benefit the climate too.

By Jeff St. John . 17 February 2022
Heat pumps

Do heat pumps need a rebrand?

The #energytwitter brain trust weighs in with catchier alternatives for the double-duty appliance that can cool and warm.

By Mike Munsell . 28 January 2022