Heat-pump rebates in Maine (2026)
What's actually available in Maine for a heat pump or mini-split — the federal HEAR (Home Electrification & Appliance Rebates) program status, dollar ranges, income rules, and the utility rebates that stack on top. Cited and dated.
This program is partial or limited (rolling out, narrow eligibility, or delivered through another state program). Read the eligibility note carefully — the headline HEAR figure may not apply to you.
Important — new federal rule (May 2026): Under updated US DOE guidance, the HEAR heat-pump rebate now generally applies only to new construction or homes that already have electric heat (e.g. replacing electric resistance/baseboard or an old electric heat pump). Replacing a gas, propane or oil furnace with a heat pump generally no longer qualifies for the HEAR rebate. States are adopting this on rolling timelines and the exact per-state effective dates are still settling, so confirm your specific eligibility with your state energy office. Your utility's own heat-pump rebates and any state tax credit may still apply regardless. General info as of 2026, not tax advice.
| Program status | Limited eligibility |
|---|---|
| HEAR status | LAUNCHED but NARROW. Efficiency Maine's HEAR is currently limited to manufactured/mobile homes and affordable multifamily (deepest-need housing); expansion to standard single-family was NOT announced as of early 2026. HOMES awaiting final DOE approval. |
| Amount (verify) | HEAR (eligible housing types): heat pumps plus panel/wiring upgrades. For standard single-family, use Efficiency Maine's own heat-pump rebates: ~$1,000–$9,000 by income (base ~$3,000, no income check for the base tier; ~$6,000 moderate-income). |
| Income rules | HEAR: ≤150% AMI within eligible housing types. Efficiency Maine base rebate has no income cap; higher tiers are income-based. AMI by county. |
| Utility programs | Efficiency Maine's own rebates are the main lever for most single-family homeowners; a $500 whole-home bonus runs through Dec 31, 2026. |
Confidence: High that HEAR is restricted to manufactured/multifamily; most single-family buyers rely on Efficiency Maine's own program. As of July 2026.
Source: Maine energy office / program page. Also see the federal 25C & HEAR overview.
Now pick the right system
Rebates often require a qualifying efficiency (e.g. ENERGY STAR / cold-climate). Compare models and size it properly:
Compare systems → Sizing calculator →General information as of 2026, compiled from public sources — not tax or financial advice. Program amounts, funding and eligibility change often and vary by county, household size and utility; some programs pause or exhaust funds mid-year. Confirm every amount and your eligibility with the Maine energy office and your utility, and consult a tax professional before relying on any rebate or credit.