Vermont's largest electric utility is kicking off what is believed to be the first utility-sponsored heat pump rental program in the country.
The pilot program that began in Rutland on Wednesday is designed to save customers money and demonstrate the systems can work in a cold-weather climate.
The cold climate heat pumps are ductless heating systems that also provide air conditioning during hot weather. In cold weather, the system extracts heat from outdoor air down to temperatures of about 13 below zero, and the warmth is brought inside. In hot weather, the process is reversed, cooling the building.
GMP will pay to install heat pumps in up to 200 customers' homes and small businesses, and then rent them for $45 to $50 per month.
