In a recent meeting held at the Mansfield Town Hall, the Light Commission took a significant step towards promoting energy efficiency by approving a new rebate program for ground source heat pumps. The motion, introduced by a commission member, aims to incentivize residents to adopt this sustainable technology starting January 1, 2024.

The approved rebate will provide residents with up to $500 per ton for the installation of ground source heat pumps, with a maximum allowance of five tons per household. The program is capped at an annual budget of $20,000, reflecting the town's commitment to supporting environmentally friendly initiatives while managing fiscal responsibility.

During the discussion, concerns were raised about the uptake of the program, with one member noting that only one resident had previously shown interest in installing such a system, which ultimately did not materialize. Despite this, the commission expressed optimism about the potential benefits of the rebate, emphasizing the importance of encouraging energy-efficient practices within the community.

After a brief discussion, the motion passed unanimously with a vote of 5-0, signaling strong support among the commissioners for the initiative. Following the vote, the meeting transitioned to a public comment session, but no citizens stepped forward to voice their opinions or questions.

As the meeting drew to a close, the commissioners moved to adjourn, wrapping up a session that not only addressed immediate community needs but also laid the groundwork for a greener future in Mansfield. The meeting was recorded for public access, ensuring transparency and community engagement in local governance.