RG&E Helps Power a Greener Future at City of Rochester’s Maplewood Nature Center
Building Electrification Incentives Help Historic Buildings Improve Efficiency with Energy-Saving Heat Pump Solutions
ROCHESTER, N.Y. — July 17, 2026 — Rochester Gas and Electric (RG&E) is helping drive clean energy innovation at Rochester’s Maplewood Nature Center, which recently completed upgrades at its historic building to make it more energy efficient.
The project includes the installation of eight heat pump systems, improving the building’s energy efficiency while creating a more comfortable and environmentally friendly space for visitors, students, and community members. The upgrades reflect a growing commitment to modern, cleaner technologies that can help reduce energy use and support long-term sustainability goals.
“Projects like this demonstrate how innovative technologies can breathe new life into historic buildings while improving energy efficiency and comfort,” said Sean Dooley, RG&E’s NYS Clean Heat Program Manager. “We’re pleased to support the City of Rochester as it invests in a facility that serves as an important educational and community resource.”
“At the new Maplewood Nature Center, the community can connect with nature and learn to care for our planet, and so it’s fitting that the Center can also model clean, energy-efficient technologies,” said City of Rochester Mayor Malik D. Evans. “We’re grateful for RG&E and the NYS Clean Heat program for helping us incorporate those technologies in this important new community resource.”
The project began in May 2024 and was completed in June of this year. Additionally, the project includes new indoor and outdoor equipment, a dedicated ventilation system, and electrical upgrades designed to enhance overall building performance. For occupants, the improvements will be immediately noticeable through quieter operation, more consistent heating and cooling, enhanced comfort, and improved indoor air quality.
Depending on a building’s existing equipment and how the space is used, overall energy costs may vary, however, the benefits extend well beyond utility costs, including significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions.
For customers interested in pursuing electrification and other energy options, RG&E has resources available to assist with making energy decisions. Residential customers can visit Energy Rebates and Programs for your Home to explore available options or NYS Clean Heat Rebate Program - RGE to learn more about heat pump heating and cooling with an all-in-one system (incentives are available). Commercial and industrial customers interested in installing heat pumps can explore incentives through the Building Electrification Program, while those seeking other energy-efficiency upgrades can visit Commercial Industrial Rebates - RGE to review additional rebates available for businesses.
Since 2025, RG&E has helped 371 residential and commercial customers adopt heat pump technology providing more than $3 million in rebates and incentives through funding by New York State’s clean energy programs. These investments reflect the Company’s ongoing commitment to helping New York State achieve its clean energy and decarbonization goals while making it easier for customers to transition to efficient electric technologies that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and support a more sustainable future.
Media Contact:
Alexis Arnold