As states across the Northeast work to meet climate goals by shifting homes to efficient, electric heating, a critical question has emerged: should energy efficiency programs require weatherization before customers can access whole-home heat pump rebates? This report from NEEP and NESCAUM, published in the ACEEE 2026 Summer Study Proceedings, explores that question through case studies of three state approaches — Maine, Massachusetts, and New York — each of which has taken a different path. Drawing on interviews with program administrators and contractors, the report weighs the real tradeoffs at stake and closes with three recommendations for program administrators.
