How Condo Associations Can Save Big with Mass Save in Massachusetts
Managing a homeowners association involves balancing both short and long-term priorities, such as maintaining property value and controlling expenses. One area where these priorities come together is energy efficiency.
What Is Energy Efficiency and Why Does It Matter for Condo Associations?
Energy efficiency means using less energy to maintain the same level of comfort and functionality for an individual unit or an entire building. It’s a smart investment that can increase property value while also lowering utility bills. Common energy-saving upgrades like improved insulation, energy-efficient windows, and modern HVAC systems can make a big difference.
For many condo associations, utilities for common areas such as lighting, heating, and cooling account for a significant portion of monthly costs. Reducing energy use in these shared spaces can lead to long-term savings that benefit all residents.
Introducing Mass Save: A Resource for Massachusetts Condo Associations
In Massachusetts, condo associations have access to Mass Save, an energy efficiency program sponsored by utility providers such as Eversource and National Grid. The program offers valuable rebates, incentives, and no-cost assessments that make energy-saving improvements more accessible.
Here are some of the most helpful Mass Save programs for condo associations:
No-Cost Energy Assessments: These comprehensive audits identify energy-saving opportunities for your building. This is the first step to understanding what incentives your association may qualify for.
Increased Rebates: Up to $10,000 is available for whole-home heat pump installations, with additional incentives for income-eligible participants.
0% Interest HEAT Loans: Financing of up to $25,000 is available for qualifying energy efficiency improvements.
Enhanced Insulation Incentives: For eligible properties, insulation upgrade costs may be covered up to 100 percent.
Understanding Eligibility for Condo Buildings
In a condominium setting, eligibility for Mass Save depends on whether the upgrades benefit the entire building or just one unit. For example, insulation improvements or a building-wide heating system upgrade may qualify for association-level incentives. However, appliance rebates typically apply only to individual units. These details are usually clarified during the energy audit.
It is important to note that Mass Save will not provide building-wide incentives for work that only benefits one unit. This distinction helps ensure that association resources are used to benefit the entire community.
Why This Matters for HOAs in Massachusetts
These offerings are designed to help communities improve energy efficiency without financial strain. The upgrades not only save money but also make properties more appealing to current and prospective residents. Better energy efficiency can also help condo owners manage increasing utility costs, a concern especially relevant given current market trends.
For related insights, check out our article on How to Choose the Best Contractors for Your HOA or Condo Association.
Taking the Next Step
If your association is considering energy upgrades or looking for new ways to reduce expenses, it may be worth exploring what Mass Save has to offer. SCI can support you through the process and help identify the best options for your property.
You may also find our article on working with your neighbors to improve condo life helpful when navigating shared building upgrades.
Contact us today to learn more about your eligibility and how we can help you get started.