Green Mountain Power launches initiatives to save customers money, help community

Green Mountain Power (GMP) in Vermont launched a new program called Go, Save & Share Green, which includes incentives and initiatives to save customers money and help the community.

As part of this program, GMP is increasing rebates on heat pumps, heat pump water heaters, electric mowers, and electric bikes through the end of August.

“These new rebates and energy-sharing programs are innovative ways we can help customers save money while helping each other, the economy and the environment at the same time,” GMP President and CEO Mari McClure said. “This is at the core of GMP’s approach every day, and it matters now more than ever as we work together through this recovery,” she said.

The company launched a $400 heat pump rebate in 2019 and got a lot of interest. This new rebate, which is $800, is designed to make it easier for more customers to switch to cleaner, more efficient heating and cooling.

“The timing of this increased rebate is great,” Nick Paquette, owner of Paquette Plumbing in Mendon, said. “Cost is always a big factor for customers, and this will definitely drive an uptick in our business. Heat pumps make up more than 30 percent of the work we do, and we will see more customers thanks to this new way to save.”

Also, in June, it will launch a solar credit sharing program to let customers share solar credits with small Vermont businesses to help them get back on their feet. The Share with Vermont Green app will allow customers to select the amount of solar power they would like to share. That amount will go directly to small businesses and non-profits in the form of a bill credit.

The idea was inspired by an emailed suggestion from customer Michael Shank of Brandon, Vt., who wanted to share his extra solar credits to help organizations in need.

“GMP is finding innovative ways to help customers and the planet – from money saving EV programs that reduce carbon to this energy-sharing program,” Shank said. “This is a great first step toward more choice in energy sharing and shows how responsive GMP is to their customers. This program stands to help many Vermonters at a time when it is so badly needed, and I hope it is successful so it could eventually expand to other energy sharing options.”

Finally, GMP is introducing the Save and Share with GMP program in July. Through this initiative, customers can enroll to get notifications about peak demand times on the grid, so they know when to reduce their energy use. The savings from the reduced energy costs when they are most expensive will go to all GMP customers, with a portion benefitting the Vermont Food Bank.

“So many Vermonters are facing hardships, and to see this type of support, shows a great Team Vermont approach. We have seen a dramatic increase in the number of Vermont neighbors seeking help, and our goal is to make sure no Vermonter goes hungry,” John Sayles, CEO of the Vermont Foodbank, said. “The need is great, but so is the kindness of Vermonters.”