Energy efficiency

Heat pumps

Bay Area startup introduces flat-rate, single-room heat pumps

Merino Energy says its through-the-wall heat pumps are faster to install than ductless systems. They’ll be available for $3,800 — installation included.

By Alison F. Takemura . 7 April 2026
Heat pumps

Did fake comments sink SoCal clean heat rules? Advocates want answers.

Last year, Southern California regulators rejected rules that would have phased down gas heaters after an industry-tied campaign generated 20,000+ critical comments.

By Alison F. Takemura . 16 March 2026
Climatetech finance

Span looks to cut smart panel costs with $75M Eaton partnership

The leading U.S. smart-panel startup and the global electrical-equipment giant team up on digital controls for home batteries, EV chargers, and electric appliances.

By Jeff St. John . 9 March 2026
Heat pumps

Oregon pushes new homes to install heat pumps over ACs

In a state where energy costs have risen sharply, new rules will boost adoption of the clean heating and cooling appliances.

By Alison F. Takemura . 5 March 2026
Energy efficiency

Massachusetts energy bill would make big cuts to energy efficiency

Advocates say the energy affordability measure is strong but for a proposed $1 billion reduction to efficiency programs that would undermine the sector without lowering bills.

By Sarah Shemkus . 27 February 2026
Utilities

Ohio corruption trial traces tactics to prop up nuclear and coal plants

Former FirstEnergy execs Chuck Jones and Mike Dowling face state criminal charges connected to HB 6 bailout maneuvers, for which Ohioans are still paying the price.

By Kathiann M. Kowalski . 27 February 2026
Energy efficiency

How Oregon is building back smarter after wildfire

After a destructive fire, residents faced the task of rebuilding. Thanks to state incentives, the new homes are more energy efficient and resilient to future threats.

By Juliet Grable . 23 February 2026
Heat pumps

Zero Homes nabs $16.8M to go big on easier heat pump installation

The Denver-based startup’s software eliminates the usual in-person home visit to quote a heat pump project, saving customers time and money.

By Alison F. Takemura . 19 February 2026
Utilities

I let Duke Energy control my thermostat. I don’t regret it.

Throughout this freezing-cold winter, customers like me pitched in to save North Carolina’s grid, and we made a little money doing it.

By Elizabeth Ouzts . 19 February 2026
Heat pumps

How to keep your heat pump humming in the freezing cold

Plenty of heat pumps work well even in subzero temps. But these expert tips will help your heat pump work even better on the coldest days of the year.

By Alison F. Takemura . 11 February 2026