Consider an Energy Efficient Heat Pump This Summer

Current incentives can make heat pumps more affordable than ever. 

A closeup of a light gray electric heat pump against dark brown siding.

Heat pumps are very efficient at cooling by removing heat from inside your home and moving it outdoors. 

Heat pumps are very efficient at cooling by removing heat from inside your home and moving it outdoors. 
It's the dead of winter now, yet the summer cooling season will be here before you know it. If it's time to replace your central air-conditioning, consider an energy-efficient heat pump, which moves heat rather than generating it.

Heat pumps are very efficient at cooling by removing heat from inside your home and moving it outdoors. This movement of heat, plus the addition of refrigerants, water or antifreeze, creates a refrigeration cycle and the ability to move or "pump" heat from one space to another, much like a standard air conditioner. The technology used by a heat pump, however, is different from that of an air conditioner, which allows the direction of the refrigerant to be reversed, enabling the heat pump to heat your home as well.  

Since heat pumps can be used for both heating and cooling, it potentially reduces the need for two different types of equipment. Plus, heat pumps typically have a lifespan of 15 years.  

Visit mge.com/heatpumps to learn about the types of heat pumps available. 

 

Current incentives - HEAR program 

With current incentives, there's never been a better time to upgrade to energy-efficient home equipment, such as an electric heat pump. 

The second of two Home Energy Rebate programs through the Inflation Reduction Act is now available in Wisconsin. The Home Electrification and Appliance Rebate (HEAR) program helps low- to moderate-income households save money toward upgrades, such as an electric heat pump for space heating and cooling, electric heat pump water heater, electrical panel and electrical wiring. (Rebates for insulation, air sealing, ventilation and appliances are not yet available.) 

An IRA-registered contractor must buy and install the equipment. Qualified applicants will be able to purchase equipment through participating stores. Rebates will be provided as an instant discount on your invoice. 

 

HOMES program   

The first Home Energy Rebate program launched in Wisconsin in the fall of 2024, Home Efficiency Rebates (HOMES), helps to reduce the cost of home energy projects, including air sealing, insulation, doors, windows and some appliances.   

MGE's partner in energy efficiency, FOCUS ON ENERGY®, has details about the HEAR and HOMES programs. Visit focusonenergy.com/ira-hear and focusonenergy.com/ira-homes to get started. 

published: Feb-03-2025