Massachusetts Homeowners Face Major Changes in 2024: What You Need to Know About Oil to Gas Heating Conversion Incentives
If you’re a Massachusetts homeowner considering converting from oil to natural gas heating, 2024 marks a pivotal year that requires immediate attention. The Massachusetts state climate policy and goals, including a mandate passed into law by the 2021 Climate Act, has led to the discontinuation of rebates, incentives, and financing for equipment powered by natural gas, oil or propane in 2024. This dramatic shift affects thousands of homeowners who were previously eligible for substantial savings on heating system upgrades.
The End of Traditional Fossil Fuel Rebates
Eligible residential natural gas, oil and propane space and water heating equipment must be purchased and installed by August 31, 2024, and all necessary documentation submitted by September 30, 2024, to receive a rebate. Customers interested in applying for the 0% HEAT Loan for eligible natural gas, oil or propane equipment must request a HEAT Loan Authorization Letter by April 30, 2024. For most homeowners reading this, these deadlines have already passed, making traditional oil-to-gas conversions no longer eligible for Mass Save incentives.
High-efficiency gas furnaces, oil furnaces, and high-efficiency gas boilers were eligible for rebates of up to $1,500 until the August 2024 deadline. However, the big change to Mass Save in 2024 for heating and air conditioning is that only electric heating and A/C will qualify for rebates and 0% financing and oil and gas fueled heating systems will no longer qualify for rebates or the 0% loan.
The New Focus: Heat Pump Technology
While traditional fossil fuel conversions are no longer incentivized, Massachusetts has doubled down on supporting heat pump installations. The Sponsors of Mass Save offer rebates up to $15,000 per home on qualifying heat pump systems. The total rebate amount received is capped at $10,000 per account for most homeowners, with as much as $16,000 for a whole-home system if you have a moderate income, you live in a 1- to 4-unit building, and you’re replacing an oil, propane, or electric resistance system (not natural gas).
The Sponsors of Mass Save offer 0% financing HEAT Loans to make energy efficiency upgrades more affordable to Massachusetts residents. Through this loan, you could qualify for a loan up to $25,000 toward qualified home improvements.
Federal Tax Credits Still Available
Even though state rebates for fossil fuel systems have ended, federal incentives remain attractive. In 2024, you may be able to get up to $2,000 in a federal tax credit for installing air source heat pumps. You may also be eligible for: Whole-home heat pump installation: Up to $10,000 per home · Partial-home installation: $1,250 per ton up to $10,000.
Why Heat Pumps Are the Future
The Mass Save programs’ focus on transforming the market in Massachusetts and supporting customer adoption of high efficiency heat pumps for heating and cooling needs, including heat pump water heaters reflects the state’s commitment to clean energy. Massachusetts homeowners are installing electric heat pumps because they tend to use less energy than fossil fuels like gas and oil do, and can get approved for the Mass Save 0% loan and up to $10,000 in rebates.
Modern heat pumps are particularly effective in Massachusetts’ climate. Equipment must be ENERGY STAR® Cold Climate certified to qualify for rebates, ensuring systems can operate efficiently even during harsh New England winters.
Professional Installation is Key
Whether you’re considering a heat pump installation or need expert guidance on your heating options, working with experienced professionals is essential. For homeowners in Plymouth County and surrounding areas, Oil To Gas Conversion Services Plymouth county requires expertise in both traditional and modern heating systems.
Since 2007, Emma Plumbing prioritizes exceptional service and transparency, offering 24/7 emergency repairs, upfront pricing, and a dedicated team of professionals. With free quotes, 1-year labor warranties, and a commitment to quality, we aim to set a new standard in plumbing services. Emma Plumbing And Drain Services serving Plymouth, Norfolk, Bristol County, MA understands the unique challenges homeowners face during this transition period.
What Homeowners Should Do Now
With traditional oil-to-gas conversion incentives no longer available, homeowners should consider several options:
- Evaluate heat pump technology as a primary heating solution
- Consider partial-home heat pump installations to supplement existing systems
- Take advantage of federal tax credits while they remain available
- Consult with qualified professionals about the best heating solution for your specific situation
Incentives remain available for qualifying low-income customers upgrading existing fossil fuel equipment to high efficiency models, so income-qualified homeowners should still explore available programs.
The heating landscape in Massachusetts has fundamentally changed in 2024. While the end of traditional fossil fuel rebates may seem disappointing, the state’s focus on heat pump technology offers homeowners an opportunity to embrace more efficient, environmentally friendly heating solutions. With proper planning and professional guidance, this transition can result in lower long-term energy costs and a more comfortable home environment.
For homeowners navigating these changes, consulting with experienced professionals who understand both traditional heating systems and modern alternatives is more important than ever. The investment in proper evaluation and installation can ensure optimal performance and maximum savings for years to come.