City offers $1,000 incentive for Lincoln homeowners to buy air-source heat pumps

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) – The City of Lincoln is helping homeowners heat and cool their homes more efficiently.

At a press conference Thursday, Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird announced a new incentive that will help residents buy heat pumps.

Air-source heat pumps can deliver “up to three times more heat energy at a home than the electrical energy it consumes,” according to the Department of Energy.

Homeowners are now eligible for at least a $1,000 city-funded incentive toward the purchase of a heat pump, officials said.

Low-income residents who apply will get $3,000 in city funds.

The funds can also be combined with an $800 incentive from the Lincoln Electric System’s sustainable energy program.

A “typical” air-source heat pump costs $3,500 to $7,500 to install, according to one home improvement website.

Officials said funds are available until Aug. 31 or the money runs out.  To learn how to apply for the funds, visit the city’s website.

“Heat pumps are a smart solution for many households,” Gaylor Baird said in the release.  “They can save money on heating and cooling costs, contribute to cleaner indoor air quality, and help reduce greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to our community’s affordability, health, and sustainability.”

The city allocated $500,000 to fund the pilot incentive.  Officials said 40% of the funds will be directed to low- and moderate-income residents.

The remaining 60% will be distributed through LES for any owner of a single-family Lincoln home.