Mass Save(R) Helps Mass. Homeowners Stay Cool All Summer

BOSTON, MA--(Marketwire - Jun 30, 2011) - Mass Save^®, an initiative sponsored by Massachusetts' gas and electric utilities and energy efficiency service providers, is out to help Massachusetts residents stay cool and save money this summer!

As much as half of the energy used in the home goes to heating and cooling, and making smart decisions about a home's heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system can have a major effect on utility bills -- and comfort. Mass Save is a resource for residents who are interested in improving energy efficiency in their homes and saving money on their utility bills.

Massachusetts customers can take advantage of Mass Save's energy-saving programs for single- and multi-family homes, including rebates towards the installation of energy-efficient heating systems, water heaters, central air conditioning, air sealing, and insulation. This includes ENERGY STAR® qualified heating and cooling equipment.

"Purchasing equipment that meets ENERGY STAR® requirements may cost a bit more up front," said Ned Polan, a Southampton, Mass. homeowner who recently installed an ENERGY STAR® qualified central air conditioning system in his home. "But the equipment pays for itself over time with energy efficiency and cost savings. Plus it helps reduce our carbon footprint, which is becoming increasingly critical to preserving our environment." The Polans are customers of Western Massachusetts Electric, a Mass Save Sponsor, and happily took advantage of the ENERGY STAR quality installation program offered through its COOL SMART program.

Mass Save services also include discounts and rebates on ENERGY STAR lighting and appliances, access to the ENERGY STAR® New Homes Program, for customers building a house or undertaking a renovation, and assistance through the Income-Eligible programs, which enable families in need to take advantage of energy efficiency services and supplementary incentives and support.

Residential customers can also apply for 0% loans for up to $25,000 and terms up to seven years to help with the cost of installing qualified energy-efficient improvements in their homes or rental properties through the Mass Save Residential HEAT Loan Program.

Call Mass Save at (866) 527-7283 to get started and schedule a no-cost home energy assessment, or visit www.MassSave.com for more information and to learn how to stay cool all summer long! Technical assistance and incentives are also available for business owners, with more information found on MassSave.com.

Mass Save is an initiative sponsored by Massachusetts' gas and electric utilities and energy efficiency service providers, including Berkshire Gas, Cape Light Compact, Columbia Gas of Massachusetts, National Grid, New England Gas Company, NSTAR, Unitil, and Western Massachusetts Electric Company. The Sponsors of Mass Save work closely with the Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources to provide a wide range of services, incentives, trainings, and information promoting energy efficiency that help residents and businesses manage energy use and related costs.