July-August 2021
RMLD's Lobby is Open!
The RMLD reopened its lobby to the public on June 15th. Business hours are Monday through Friday from 8:00 am – 4:30 pm. Click here for info on safety practices and more.

Thanks to all of our customers for their flexibility as we managed adjustments to our operations to accommodate vital pandemic-related safety restrictions over the last year-plus!
Solar Rebate Program Update
The limited-time MLP Solar Rebate Program that was launched in 2019 in partnership with the Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources (DOER) has come to a close now that state matching funds have been fully utilized. The program was extremely popular and helped over 60 RMLD customers install solar on their home or business.

RMLD will continue to rebate residential solar installations under its own solar rebate program, which is currently being reviewed and updated. Details will be announced soon, and we will continue to accept applications in the interim under the existing MLP application process. Stay tuned for updates!
Summer Energy Saving Tips
It's common for electricity use to increase in the summer when the weather is hot and ACs are working hard to keep our homes and businesses cool. Here are a few tips to help you save energy during the hot summer weather:

  • If you haven't already, get a no-cost home energy assessment to learn about your energy use and see where there may be opportunities to save.
  • Keep blinds of south-facing windows closed during the day to keep the heat from the sun out.
  • Keep your home warmer while you're away by increasing the temperature setting on your air conditioner (heat pumps work a bit differently, click here for tips on getting the most out of your heat pump).
  • Use ceiling fans to increase cooling efficiency, but be sure to turn them off when you leave the room.
ICYMI: Electrification Webinar
In June, the RMLD held a webinar on electrification in partnership with the Wilmington Memorial Library, the Reading Public Library, and the Flint Memorial Library.

Electrification is the shift to powering devices with electricity instead of fossil fuels. The webinar covered electrification in the transportation and building sectors, how electrification benefits the environment by reducing carbon emissions, RMLD rebates to facilitate electrification, and more.

Check out the recording below.
Help Keep Electric Rates Affordable by Shredding the Peak
Peaks occur when the highest level of electricity is consumed in our region both monthly and annually. Peak electricity is expensive, affecting power supply costs and in turn, customer bills. Click here to learn more.

Shred the Peak is a voluntary customer program that encourages conservation during predicted peaks to control costs and keep electric rates affordable for all customers. To participate:

  • Sign up for Shred the Peak email alerts or follow us on Twitter so you know when a peak is predicted.
  • Conserve electricity during predicted peaks - every little bit helps!

It's that simple! Will you help RMLD Shred the Peak this year?
Save the Date for These Upcoming RMLD Events!
Electric Car Show
August 15, 2021, 10:00 am - 1:00 pm
Swain Green, Wilmington (during the Wilmington Farmers Market)

Public Power Week Open House
October 7, 2021, 3:00 - 6:00 pm (rain date: October 14)
RMLD Garage: 218 Ash Street, Reading

Be on the lookout for more info on these events in the coming weeks!
Program Spotlight: Air Source Heat Pump Rebate
An air source heat pump (ASHP) is an efficient HVAC system powered by electricity that provides all-in-one heating and cooling. ASHPs offer many advantages over traditional oil, propane, or electric resistance systems including cost savings, improved efficiency, and reduced carbon emissions.

RMLD offers rebates on central and mini-split air source heat pumps of $1,000 per ton for new installations and $200 per ton for replacement installations. All projects must go through a pre-approval process and post-installation quality assurance to qualify for the rebate. Technical and educational resources are available to customers and contractors throughout the shopping and installation process.

Please visit RMLD's Air Source Heat Pump Guide to learn more.
Holiday Closings
Monday, September 6 - Labor Day
Business Hours
Customer Service and Billing:
Mon-Fri: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
RMLD is available 24/7/365 to respond to emergencies and outages.
Don't forget to check www.rmld.com for the
latest on RMLD news, events, and programs.
Reading Municipal Light Department | 781-942-6598 | www.rmld.com