This new home energy efficiency program is the first of its kind in the U.S. and was launched as part of Airbnb’s ongoing effort to help its hosts take action toward sustainability. Airbnb’s incentives for hosts include grants of up to $500 for energy-efficiency upgrades (such as insulation) and up to $2,000 for the installation of an air-source heat pump.

The rebates are available through Mass Save, an initiative sponsored by the state’s natural gas and electric utilities and energy efficiency service providers working to empower residents, businesses, and communities to make energy-efficient upgrades to their homes and buildings.

“To start, Abode will match eligible Hosts with a Home Performance Contractor (HPC) to schedule a no-cost Mass Save Home Energy Assessment, which will inform Hosts on upgrades they need,” Airbnb wrote in a web post announcing the program. “Additionally, Abode will work with Hosts to address their questions and discuss financing options that meet their individual needs as they take steps to make their homes more energy efficient.”

To offset the cost of these improvements, depending on eligibility, Abode will aid hosts in tapping into more incentives — such as rebates up to $10,000 to convert air-source heat pumps and additional rebates for weatherization upgrades.

“Between Airbnb grants and Mass Save rebates, Hosts in Massachusetts have the potential to lower weatherization project costs by up to 100% and reduce heat pump costs by up to $12,000,” Airbnb wrote.

Hosts may also be able to take advantage of additional incentives offered through the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), which includes a 30% tax credit of up to $2,000 for the installation of heat pumps. This, with the incentives offered through Mass Save and Airbnb, could make for an enticing opportunity for hosts looking to save money and cut carbon emissions.

“Taking action to improve the energy efficiency of your home can lead to significant savings on utility costs while improving comfort, but there’s a lot to consider,” said Travis Estes, chief operating officer at Abode. “That’s why Airbnb’s efforts to help Hosts in Massachusetts access generous Mass Save rebates and incentives, further lower project costs with grants, and provide a trusted set of partners is going to make such a huge difference.”

According to a recent report by the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), one in four homes in Massachusetts (or 650,000 homes) uses fuel oil for heating needs in the winter, each burning 440 gallons of oil for heat per year. By switching from an oil or electric resistance system to a new, efficient heat pump, the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center estimates the average Massachusetts home can reduce its annual carbon emissions by more than 3 metric tons.

“In addition to the environmental impact, there are clear cost benefits for hosts who upgrade their insulation and electrify their heat systems as part of the Massachusetts program,” Airbnb wrote. “According to data from EIA, fuel oil prices have increased dramatically in recent years, skyrocketing from $1,200 in the winter of 2020-21 to nearly $2,100 in the winter of 2022-23.”

Finally, while most vacation rentals do put an emphasis on comfort, it’s worth nothing that 13% of the homes in Massachusetts don’t have air conditioning. If any of those happen to be vacation rentals, or if they’re being converted to such use, a heat pump provides heat and a/c in one unit.