New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) is innovating its approach to meet climate goals with the completion of a two-year project converting a public housing building to an electrically powered heat pump system. The project, taking place at the 830 Amsterdam Avenue building on the Upper West Side, aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and provide residents with better control over their individual unit temperatures. The $28 million retrofitting project is seen as a potential model for converting more of NYCHA’s 2,410 buildings citywide.
The installation of the heat pump system at 830 Amsterdam Avenue, known as variable flow refrigerant, will deliver heating, cooling, and hot water to the building’s 159 units, replacing the existing steam boilers powered by natural gas or heating oil. The project is a collaboration between NYCHA and the New York Power Authority (NYPA), with the aim of meeting the requirements outlined in the city’s climate law, Local Law 97.
Once completed, the heat pump system is projected to reduce local greenhouse gas emissions by 590 metric tons annually, equivalent to removing approximately 130 cars from the road. Tenants will also benefit from increased control over temperature settings in their units as they will be able to adjust thermostats, fan speed, and direction.
While the 830 Amsterdam Avenue project demonstrates the success and potential of centralized heat pump installations, NYCHA is exploring scalable solutions to replace fossil fuel heating across its extensive building portfolio. The housing authority recognizes the complexities and disruption involved in retrofitting every apartment unit in a building and is seeking alternative methods for future projects.
To find a more scalable solution, NYCHA challenged manufacturers to develop smaller heat pumps that could be installed in the windows of individual units with minimal installation work. Prototype units have already been installed in 12 apartments at the Woodside Houses in Queens. Initial reviews have been positive, but further testing is needed during a New York City winter.
NYCHA’s forward-thinking approach highlights the authority’s commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and creating sustainable living environments for residents. By embracing innovative solutions like electric heat pump systems, NYCHA continues to lead the way in public housing sustainability efforts.
FAQ
What is the purpose of the NYCHA project at 830 Amsterdam Avenue?
The project aims to convert a public housing building to an electrically powered heat pump system, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and giving residents more control over their unit temperatures.
What is the significance of the project?
The project serves as a potential model for converting NYCHA’s numerous buildings citywide and meeting the requirements outlined in the city’s climate law, Local Law 97.
What are the expected benefits of the project?
The project is projected to reduce local greenhouse gas emissions by 590 metric tons annually and provide tenants with improved temperature control in their units.
Why is NYCHA exploring scalable solutions for future projects?
While the 830 Amsterdam Avenue project demonstrates success, retrofitting every apartment unit in a building can be complex and disruptive. NYCHA is seeking alternative methods to replace fossil fuel heating across its building portfolio.
What is NYCHA doing to explore scalable solutions?
NYCHA has challenged manufacturers to develop smaller heat pumps that can be installed in the windows of individual units with minimal installation work. Prototype units have been installed in 12 apartments at the Woodside Houses in Queens for testing.
What are the future goals of NYCHA’s sustainability efforts?
NYCHA is committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and creating sustainable living environments for residents. By embracing innovative solutions like electric heat pump systems, NYCHA aims to lead the way in public housing sustainability.
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