FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Bethel, ME — Maine Energy Systems proudly announces the third consecutive year of the Thermal Renewable Energy Credit (T-REC) program, empowering Maine homeowners and business owners to benefit financially while supporting the state’s climate goals. Through this innovative initiative, residents are receiving annual checks averaging $500 to $1,000 for participating in the T-REC program, with a simple enrollment process designed for ease and transparency.

The T-REC program rewards homeowners and business owners who heat with renewable wood pellets, simplifying the process so participants can easily earn credits for their clean energy efforts. Maine pellet system owners can generate approximately 3.6 renewable energy credits per ton of pellets used, with market prices reaching up to $25 per REC. This means typical users can gross over $700 per year simply by heating their homes sustainably.

Switching to pellet heating offers substantial financial benefits. In addition to yearly T-REC payments, modern wood heating systems deliver long-term returns over their lifespan, making the investment in pellet technology both economically and environmentally sound.

The T-REC program is part of the forefront of Maine’s decarbonization strategy, reducing fossil fuel dependence and contributing to local economic growth. By choosing pellet heating, Mainers support local jobs, forest management, and the broader transition to low-carbon energy sources.

Maine Energy Systems works alongside key partners including the Maine Public Utilities Commission (PUC), which issued its first residential T-REC order in 2023, and Efficiency Maine, offering rebates that further enhance the affordability of modern wood heating.  The creation of the T-REC program was supported by the efforts of Innovative Natural Resource Solutions LLC, WES Energy & Environment, LLC, Maine Energy Systems LLC, the Maine Pellet Fuels Association, and the Professional Logging Contractors of the Northeast.

Efficiency Maine provides rebates to lower the upfront costs for residential and commercial pellet heating systems, making the transition more accessible. The residential rebate is $6,000 and commercial installations can offset their costs by up to 45%.  The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has affirmed wood pellets as a low carbon fuel, validating their role in sustainable energy policy.

Pellet heating through the T-REC program delivers significant financial rewards, supports Maine’s climate action, and boosts the local economy. Maine Energy Systems encourages all to consider making the switch and join the growing movement toward cleaner, more affordable energy. For more information or to enroll, visit www.maineenergysystems.com.