Key Takeaways

This article is part two of a three-part series exploring Mass Save Commercial Rebates. Click here for a review of Part 1 – Lighting and Controls. In this installment, we focus on heating and cooling incentives available to commercial facilities. Other articles in the series explore lighting rebates and additional energy efficiency opportunities available through the Mass Save program.

Heating and cooling systems are among the largest energy consumers in commercial buildings. Upgrading HVAC equipment, installing modern controls, and optimizing system performance can significantly reduce operating costs and improve building efficiency.

What heating and cooling incentives are available through Mass Save Commercial Rebates?

• Mass Save Commercial Rebates support high-efficiency HVAC equipment, controls, and building optimization projects.
• Heat Pump Rebates can reach up to $3,600 per ton, depending on system type.
• Air Conditioning and Chiller Rebates help offset the cost of cooling equipment upgrades.
• Incentives for Building Management Systems (BMS) help facilities optimize HVAC system operation.
• Existing Building Commissioning (EBCx) programs support energy studies and verified operational improvements.

What Are Mass Save Commercial Rebates for Heating and Cooling?

Mass Save Commercial Rebates help businesses reduce energy consumption by upgrading heating and cooling systems and installing advanced building controls.

Heating and cooling systems often account for a large portion of energy use in commercial facilities. Replacing older equipment with high-efficiency technologies such as heat pumps, improved air conditioning systems, and smart building controls can significantly reduce electricity consumption while improving comfort and system reliability.

Mass Save incentives are available to commercial and industrial customers in Massachusetts who receive electric or natural gas service from a participating program sponsor such as Berkshire Gas, Cape Light Compact, Eversource, Liberty, National Grid, or Unitil.

What Heat Pump Rebates Are Available Through Mass Save?

Heat pumps are among the most efficient HVAC technologies available for commercial buildings because they provide both heating and cooling while transferring heat rather than generating it.

Mass Save Heat Pump Rebates vary depending on equipment type and system design.

Heat Pump Incentives

Eligible equipment must meet Mass Save efficiency requirements and must be installed by a licensed heating contractor or plumber.

What Air Conditioning Rebates Are Available?

Mass Save also provides incentives for upgrading cooling equipment and improving cooling system performance in commercial buildings.

High-efficiency air conditioning equipment can significantly reduce electricity consumption in facilities with large cooling loads, such as office buildings, healthcare facilities, warehouses, and retail spaces.

Air Conditioning and Cooling Equipment Rebates

Economizer controls improve cooling system efficiency by using outside air for cooling when conditions allow, reducing mechanical cooling demand.

What Rebates Are Available for High Volume Low Speed (HVLS) Fans?

High Volume Low Speed (HVLS) fans help improve air circulation in large commercial and industrial facilities. These fans are commonly installed in warehouses, manufacturing facilities, gymnasiums, and distribution centers.

By improving air movement, HVLS fans can help reduce cooling loads and improve occupant comfort in large open spaces.

HVLS Fan Incentives

These fans are often installed alongside HVAC upgrades to improve overall facility comfort and energy efficiency.

How Do Building Management Systems Improve HVAC Efficiency?

Building Management Systems (BMS) allow facility teams to monitor and control HVAC equipment, lighting systems, and other building operations from a centralized platform.

By automating temperature schedules, adjusting system operation based on occupancy, and optimizing equipment performance, BMS platforms can significantly reduce energy consumption.

Mass Save provides incentives for installing new systems or upgrading existing controls.

Building Management System Incentives

However, several operational requirements often determine whether BMS projects qualify for incentives.

One important guideline is that Mass Save typically will not incentivize replacing a Building Management System that is less than 15 years old. In many cases, projects focus instead on optimizing existing controls or adding new operational sequences that improve efficiency.

What Is the Mass Save Existing Building Commissioning Program?

The Existing Building Commissioning (EBCx) program helps organizations optimize the performance of existing building systems without requiring major equipment replacement.

Through this program, the Sponsors of Mass Save may cover up to 100% of the cost for qualification and investigation studies, depending on building size and complexity. Incentives are also available for implemented measures at $0.17/kWh and $1.20/therm.

To qualify, facilities must be existing commercial or industrial buildings and cannot be planning major renovations within the next two years. The building must also have sufficient operational history, including at least 12 months of energy data, to support a detailed commissioning investigation study.

Commissioning projects often identify operational improvements such as equipment scheduling adjustments, temperature setpoint optimization, and control sequence improvements that reduce energy consumption.

Who Is Eligible for Mass Save Commercial Rebates?

Eligibility for Mass Save Commercial Rebates depends on the building type, equipment being installed, and the customer’s utility provider.

In general, incentives are available to commercial and industrial facilities located in Massachusetts that receive electric or natural gas service from a participating Mass Save Program Sponsor.

To qualify, projects must involve installing eligible high-efficiency equipment or implementing building control improvements that reduce energy consumption. Equipment must typically be installed by a licensed contractor and meet program efficiency requirements.

Most incentives apply to existing buildings rather than new construction projects, which are typically served by separate Mass Save programs.

How Do Businesses Apply for Thermostat Rebates?

Thermostat Rebates support the installation of smart or programmable controls that improve HVAC scheduling and reduce unnecessary heating and cooling operation.

To qualify for a thermostat rebate, businesses must purchase and install eligible equipment that meets Mass Save program requirements. A licensed contractor or plumber must complete the installation.

After installation, customers must submit the rebate form along with the required documentation. Applications can usually be completed online or printed and mailed.

These controls are often installed alongside HVAC upgrades or Building Management Systems to improve overall heating and cooling performance.

FAQ

What is the difference between a heat pump and a traditional HVAC system?

A heat pump is a type of HVAC system that provides both heating and cooling by transferring heat rather than generating it. Traditional HVAC systems often use separate equipment, such as furnaces for heating and air conditioners for cooling.

Who qualifies for Mass Save Commercial Rebates?

Commercial and industrial customers in Massachusetts with an active electric or natural gas account with a participating Mass Save program sponsor may qualify.

What HVAC upgrades qualify for rebates?

Eligible upgrades may include heat pumps, high-efficiency air conditioners, chillers, building controls, thermostats, and other energy-efficiency improvements.

Can building controls improve HVAC efficiency?

Yes. Building Management Systems can optimize HVAC schedules, adjust system operation based on occupancy, and improve equipment performance, helping reduce energy consumption.

Can commissioning projects receive incentives?

Yes. The Mass Save Existing Building Commissioning program may fund energy studies and provide incentives for verified energy savings measures implemented in commercial facilities.

Conclusion

Mass Save Commercial Rebates can significantly reduce the cost of upgrading heating and cooling systems, building controls, and other energy-efficient equipment. However, navigating eligibility requirements, documentation rules, and application timelines can be complex for many organizations.

Incentive Rebate360 helps businesses identify available rebates, manage program requirements, and recover incentives for HVAC, lighting, solar, and energy efficiency projects. Connect with the Incentive Rebate360 team to ensure your project captures every available incentive opportunity. To speak to one of our rebate recovery specialists, call 480-653-8180, email [email protected], or schedule a call that fits your needs by clicking the button below!