Heat pumps could save the average Minnesota household $230 a year. Here's how

Rising energy bills have Minnesota households looking for ways to save. A new report from energy non-profit RMI finds wider use of heat pumps could help lower electricity rates statewide, potentially benefiting even homeowners who don't install one."We found that nearly a 20% electricity rate reduction could be realized. And I think that's the main opportunity in this state. We also found that nearly 30% reduction in carbon pollution would also be realized," said Ryan Shea, manager in the Carbon-Free Buildings team at RMI and one of the report's authors.Researchers says Minnesota has enough unused winter electric grid capacity to support over 2 million additional heat pumps.A heat pump keeps things cool when it's hot outside by removing unwanted heat from your home and "pumping" it outdoors.In winter, it works in reverse, pulling heat from outdoor air into your home, even at cold temperatures. The report estimates widespread adoption would save households an average of about $230 a yea