High-Efficiency Electric Heat Pumps

High-efficiency heat pumps provide both heating and cooling in a single system. Today's cold-climate models are designed to perform reliably even during freezing temperatures, making them an energy-efficient option for many homes.

Explore the most common heat pump options and see how each can help improve comfort, reduce energy, use and lower heating and cooling costs.

Central heat pump

A central heat pump uses an outdoor unit to transfer heat from the outside air into your home, even when it's cold out. Because heat pumps transfer heat rather than generate it, they can use less energy and lower greenhouse gas emissions. During warmer months, the systems work in reverse to provide central air conditioning. That’s one system for year-round comfort.

Mini-split heat pump

The main advantages of mini-split heat pumps are their small size and flexibility for zoning and heating and cooling individual rooms. These ductless systems are often easier to install than other types of air conditioning systems and allow you to control temperatures in different spaces independently. Mini-splits can supplement an existing heating system, improve comfort in hard-to-condition areas, and help reduce the need for electric space heaters during the winter.

• Heat Pump Installation Guide (pdf)
• Heat Pump Customer Handbook (pdf)

To qualify for a rebate, your heat pump equipment must meet Energy Star® 6.1 Cold Climate Criteria listed on the RI Energy/NEEP Qualified List.

If you currently heat your home with electric baseboards, you may qualify for an Enhanced Rebate of $1,500 per ton when you install a high-efficiency heat pump that provides both heating and cooling.

Rhode Island Energy offers affordable financing options, including zero-interest loans of up to $25,000 for approved heat pump systems that displace electric heating. Begin with a no-cost EnergyWise home energy assessment to identify any necessary weatherization improvements. Schedule your home energy assessment by calling 888-633-7947 or schedule online.

You must work with a participating contractor (pdf) to receive the Enhanced Rebate. For general questions, contact us at 844-615-8315 or email HVAC@CLEAResult.com.

Rhode Island Energy customers qualify for the Standard Rebate of up to $625 per ton for switching to central or mini-split electric heat pump equipment. You may work with a participating contractor (pdf), though it is not required to qualify.

Refrigerant law changes and incentive eligibility — Effective January 1, 2026

Due to new refrigerant regulations, systems using high-GWP refrigerants such as R-410A will no longer qualify for utility or state Heat Pump incentives. These changes are part of a national transition to A2L refrigerants.

Ensure proper installation with HVAC Check

Whether you're installing a central or mini-split heat pump, be sure to ask your contractor to complete the HVAC Check test procedure. This verification helps ensure your system is performing as it should.

Rhode Island Energy participating contractors are trained to perform this test. Contractor training is available by calling 844-615-8316 or emailing HVAC@CLEAResult.com.

Clean Heat Rhode Island has generous heat pump incentives for low-to-moderate income Rhode Islanders who:

• Earn less than 150% of State Median Income (SMI)
• Heat their home with oil, propane, or natural gas
• Want to switch to heat pumps for space heating and cooling, or for hot water
• Have already completed weatherization work on their home

Take the eligibility survey

Eligible participants can receive an incentive covering 60% of their heat pump project, up to $11,500 when working with an installer on the Clean Heat RI Heat Pump Installer Network. This incentive can be combined with other incentives to further lower your project costs.

Visit the Clean Heat RI website or schedule a heat pump consultation to learn more.