27 August 2019
Rhode Island Northeast HPBA Members:
We recently learned of a state Executive Order signed by Governor Raimondo on July 8, 2019 that creates a “Heating Sector Transformation” group to explore ways to reduce emissions from the heating sector. According to the state, approximately 35% of Rhode Island's greenhouse gas emissions are emitted due to heating; and 40% of RI's total consumption of energy is from heating including natural gas and propane. The group’s recommendations must be made public on or by April 22, 2020.
This directly affects the heating sector in Rhode Island, including all wood, pellet, and natural gas and propane fueled hearth products.
The Executive Order is a follow-up to the Resilient Rhode Island Act of 2014, which established targets for Rhode Island to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to 10% below 1990 levels by 2020, to 45% below 1990 levels by 2035, and to 80% below 1990 levels by 2050.
At this time, Northeast HPBA is still gathering information about this group and how we can make recommendations to ensure our products and industry are taken into consideration.
Please contact Karen Luther (Karen@nehpba.org) for more information.
22 August 2019
The Wood Heater Emissions Reduction Act has been introduced in the U.S. Senate that would establish a federal fund for woodstove changeout programs.
Changeout programs, which have been proven to be effective at improving air quality and helping people afford new, EPA-certified heaters, have been ongoing for decades, but often rely on unstable sources of funds like environmental settlements and state budgets. This bill would provide for funds to replace older, non-certified woodstoves, hydronic heaters, and forced-air furnaces.
Act NOW and let your Senators know that our country needs this legislation to be passed into law!
NEHPBA members - click HERE to support this program. It is important to the future of our industry and your business.
Members of the Northeast Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association (NEHPBA) and its regional Affiliates are the leading companies that produce, sell, or service appliances and accessories in the hearth and barbecue industries in North America. Join today to take advantage of all the benefits your company will receive.
JOIN NOWServicing Massachusetts, Connecticut, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Vermont, Maine, New York
Copyright © 2024. Northeast Hearth, Patio and Barbecue Association | All rights reserved.