MassSAVE Frequently Asked Questions

What is the MassSAVE Program?

The MassSAVE program is a partnership between the Massachusetts electric and gas energy efficiency program administrators, energy efficiency service providers, and the Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources (DOER). The MassSAVE program is designed to help customers identify energy efficiency improvements that may help to reduce energy consumption and improve environmental impacts.

How do I apply for a home energy assessment through MassSAVE?

Log on to http://www.massave.com or call 1-866-527-7283.

Who sponsors the MassSAVE Program?

The MassSAVE program sponsors include: NSTAR, National Grid, Bay State Gas, Berkshire Gas, Cape Light Compact, New England Gas, Western Massachusetts Electric, and Unitil. If you are not served by a listed sponsor, contact your local municipal town provider for energy efficiency services.

Am I eligible for a home energy assessment through MassSAVE?

Residential customers in 1 to 4 family buildings are eligible to participate in the MassSAVE program if they own or occupy a residential building, and receive a bill or bills from a MassSAVE program administrator for individually metered energy used in the residential building. Customers with limited incomes are eligible for free services. Referrals will be sent to local community action agencies for these services. Visit www.doer.gov or www.energybucks.com to learn about limited income programs or call 1-866-LESSCOST.

How do I prepare for a home energy assessment through MassSAVE?

Please have a recent utility bill for all fuels available for the auditor to review. Also, clear accesses to the basement and attic as well as the heating and cooling systems. The day of your appointment, please secure your pets.

If I already started improving the energy efficiency in my home, do I still qualify for rebate incentives?

All rebates are subject to eligibility and it is recommended to contact MassSAVE at 1-866-527-7283 before starting energy efficiency improvements.

How does the process work for completing a home energy assessment through MassSAVE?

Step 1. Determine if you are ready to make a commitment to invest in cost-effective energy efficiency improvements that may be identified through a home energy assessment.
Step 2. Identify the primary heating source in your home. Log on to http://www.masssave.com to learn more about the program or call your MassSAVE customer service representative at 1-866-527-7283 to schedule a professional home energy assessment.
Step 3. Learn how you can: save energy, share the cost with your energy provider, and improve the environment.
Step 4. Share your energy improvement experience with your family and friends.

How much is the home energy assessment?

The home energy assessment is a free service sponsored by your local program administrator. Participants may also receive energy saving products such as compact fluorescent light bulbs during their home energy assessment.

If I rent, can I still schedule a home energy assessment through MassSAVE?

Yes, tenants who rent can participate in the home energy assessment without landlord approval but will need the property owner’s permission to implement any of the energy efficiency improvements.

What services and products will be recommended for my home during a home energy assessment?

Depending on your home, energy specialists may make recommendations for the following improvements: primary heating and cooling systems, water heaters, windows, insulation, refrigerators, thermostats, weatherization, and air sealing.

What is the process for selecting and implementing energy efficiency improvements?

Step 1. A professional energy specialist/adviser will meet you at your home for a detailed assessment of your energy costs. This energy assessment will take two hours to document the potential upgrades for your home.
Step 2. Review documented recommendations from the energy specialist and select improvements you would like to make for your home.
Step 3. Schedule home energy upgrade work and complete incentive forms after the work is completed.
Step 4. Receive an incentive or mail-in rebate from your program administrator depending on the improvement that was recommended.

How will I benefit from a home energy assessment through MassSAVE?

Energy specialists will evaluate the energy performance of your home and the potential to reduce energy costs. The specialist will provide you with documentation describing energy efficiency recommendations and improvements to reduce your energy consumption in your home. After receiving an energy assessment, customers may qualify for monetary incentives for making energy improvements in their homes. Customers may also qualify for low interest financing through participating lenders after receiving an energy assessment.

What are the incentives that I can receive for implementing energy recommendations in my home?

Rebates may vary depending on types of measures recommended for your specific home. The energy specialist will review the options and incentives available to you.

How do I apply for the incentive or rebates that are recommended for my home?

Some incentives will be in the form of a percent off installations, or a no interest loan, and some incentives will be mail-in rebates. Remember to keep all receipts for work performed or systems purchased to improve your energy efficiency as these will be required to process your rebates. Speak to your energy specialist about the process for receiving each individual measure rebate or call MassSAVE at 1-866-527-7283.

How long will it take to receive my rebate check?

It will take approximately 4-6 weeks to receive your rebate check.

What resources are available for new construction projects?

New construction for Massachusetts residential homes may call the ENERGY STAR Homes program administrator at 1-800-628-8413 or visit http://www.massenergystarhomes.com.

Where can I purchase ENERGY STAR appliances that are recommended by energy specialists during the MassSAVE energy assessment?

ENERGY STAR appliances are readily available at major retailers. To learn about ENERGY STAR appliances and energy efficiency visit http://www.myenergystar.com.