What is ETS & How Does it Work?

Electric Thermal Storage (ETS) refers to the process of converting electricity to thermal energy and storing it as heat. ETS systems are designed to use low-cost, off-peak electricity for heating a home or business 24 hours a day, and are recommended to all-electric customers on United Power's Time-of-Day Rate.

Heat can be placed in several types of storage materials, but is typically stored in high-density ceramic bricks with an electrical heating element at their core. Controlled heat delivery for brick-type ETS systems occurs through the use of fans. Fans turn on when the thermostat signals a room needs heat. Air passes over the bricks and is heated before being blown into a room. 

Ceramic bricks are stored in insulated cabinets, but will slowly discharge some heat over time through the container walls, known as standby loss. The length of storage time depends on the size of the system, but generally systems can hold heat from 6-24 hours. Systems are typically sized to take advantage of daily off-peak charging. 

One advantage of these systems is the fact that there is no combustion, and thus no concerns about carbon monoxide or other combustion byproducts. Non-combustion systems also require very little maintenance. 

United Power offers cash rebates to our members who install electric heating systems, including electric thermal storage and electric thermal slabs. Electric Thermal Storage systems are highly versatile, and can be sized to heat a room or multiple units can be installed to heat a house. They work well for retrofits and new construction because they are small in size and easy to install. To find out if ETS is the right solution for your home or to apply for a rebate, contact United Power's energy management experts at 303-637-1311.

Watch this short video from Steffes and discover the benefits of Electric Thermal Storage units and off-peak electric rates.

Electric Heat & ETS Rebates

Please check with United Power’s Energy Management team for details and requirements before making any purchases. Once equipment is installed, please contact Energy Management at 303-637-1311. United Power’s Energy Management team will complete your rebate application paperwork.

Electric Heat Tri-State G&T Rebate United Power Rebate
New Electric Thermal Storage Units
on automated Time-of-Day control panel		 $16/kW $4/kW
New Electric Thermal Slab
on automated Time-of-Day control panel		 $12/kW $4/kW

Systems must be hardwired and permanently installed and controlled, with a minimum size of 1 kW.

Rebates must be requested within 90 days of installation and a rebate application completed by United Power. An invoice detailing equipment brand, model number, and itemized pricing for equipment and labor costs to help determine rebate amount is required to issue rebates in this category.

Maximize your savings with a rate that offers discounts for off-peak usage. Find the best rate for your lifestyle. 

Residential Rates 

Electric Thermal Storage vs. Electric Thermal Slabs

Electric Thermal Storage

ETS room heating units like the ones described above are typically wall-mounted, and used to heat individual rooms. By storing heat during off-peak hours in ceramic brinks contained within an insulated cabinet, these units are able to provide clean, consistent heat for extended periods of time. They're typically easy and convenient to install.

Electric Thermal Slab

Slab heating works from the ground up. Heating components are installed below a concrete slab or foundation and charge during off-peak hours. Heat radiates from the floor by releasing stored heat during on-peak hours each day. Slab heating is available in two types: heating panels (or mats) and boiler/hydronic heating (in-floor water tubing).

Taxes – By requesting a rebate you acknowledge and agree that you are and will be solely responsible for any and all applicable state and federal taxes on any rebates you receive through this program.