Energy Advisory Committee

ENERGY ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING REPORT

DOCUMENTS/EXHIBITS USED AT MEETING:

Quick recap

The EAC meeting focused on discussing Midea window unit heat pumps as a potential solution for residential and commercial buildings with old HVAC systems, including their features, applications, and installation processes. The team explored the technical specifications and capabilities of the heat pump system, addressing questions about ventilation, maintenance requirements, and potential MassSave incentives. The conversation ended with discussions about heat pump distribution, sustainability initiatives, and updates on various solar projects, including contract details and pricing for new installations.

Next steps

• Chris (National Efficiency Supply): Email spec sheet, warranty, and other relevant product information to Michael for distribution to the group.
• Michael: Distribute received spec sheet, warranty, and product information to EAC members.
• Molly/Don: Investigate potential applications of the Midea window heat pump units in City Hall and other municipal buildings, including checking window dimensions and suitability.
• Molly/Mike: Check in with Kim Turner (or relevant city staff) regarding the status of the City Hall building assessment/consultant report.
• Molly/Mike: Send memo to new city council regarding the low-income solar program and prepare a PowerPoint for a future city council meeting.
• Mike: Invite Sarah (documentary contact) to the next EAC meeting to discuss co-sponsorship and participation in the "How to Power a City" documentary screening and Q&A.
• EAC members: Watch the "How to Power a City" documentary (if possible) before the next meeting to prepare for Sarah's visit and potential Q&A/interview.
• Mike: Check with Lori (or relevant contact) about the status of geothermal/heat project opportunities and coordinate with Heap or other potential partners.
• Molly: Send information to Nancy London (DOER) regarding EV readiness policy and coordinate for DOER representative to attend a council meeting.
• Don/Mike: Lead the next EAC meeting or change to January 22nd .
• Mike: Update meeting date and send out calendar invite for the next EAC meeting.
• Michael: Serve as liaison to receive and disseminate information from Chris to the group.
• Molly: Ask Mike Bartlett about Senior Center energy needs and coordinate with him on potential upgrades.
• Don: Follow up with Select and relevant parties to clarify responsibility for 30% ITC in solar PPAs and ensure this is addressed in the PPA language.
• Bill/Don: Conduct analysis of options for the Nock Middle School solar system (removal, replacement, extension, buyout) and report findings to the group.
• Bill/Don: Wait for updated pricing (including prevailing wage) from Amoresco and proceed with economic scenario analysis for solar system options.

Summary

Midea Heat Pump Solution Discussion

The EAC meeting discussed the potential use of Midea window unit heat pumps as a solution for residential and commercial buildings with old HVAC systems. Chris from National Efficiency Supply presented the product's features, including its ability to operate efficiently in cold temperatures, its quiet operation, and its compatibility with building management systems. The group discussed the product's potential applications in City Hall and its advantages over traditional heat pumps. Lee and Chris emphasized that while the unit is designed for DIY installation, professional installation is recommended for safety.

Mini-Split Heat Pump Overview

The team discussed a mini-split heat pump system that is installed through a window, with Chris explaining its efficiency and operation:

• Can cool spaces up to 800-900 square feet
• Heat spaces up to 700-800 square feet, with the ability to modulate between 1,000 and 9,000 BTUs.
• The system uses a fine mist to disperse condensate
• The system doesn't provide air exchange but can act as a humidifier during winter defrost cycles.
• Screens need to be removed or pushed up for installation.
• Estimated 15+ year lifespan with proper care.
• The system comes with a remote thermostat
• It has a sealing mechanism to fit different window openings.
• Unit is 24” wide needs at least a 26” wide window
• Maximum wall thickness (including sills) is 16”
• Installation requires 2 people
• Standard 110 V outlet (should be dedicated, max 11Amp
• 60% more efficient than traditional A/C units in cooling applications, based on data from New York's six-season pilot program
• Typical installation ~30 minutes

The group discussed potential MassSave incentives for the unit, with Chris reporting that while there is ongoing conversation between Eversource, National Grid, and MassSave, the incentives are likely to start in the third quarter of next year.

Midea Package Window Heat Pump Installation

Chris explained the installation process and dimensions required for fitting the Midea package window heat pump, emphasizing the importance of following specific parameters to ensure proper installation. He demonstrated the installation video, highlighting key steps and tools needed, and noted that the process typically takes around 30 minutes once the unit is unpacked. Chris also mentioned that the level of training required for installation is such that it could be used to train staff in housing authorities, and he and Lee have had ample practice installing the units at shows.

MiDea Heat Pump Distribution Overview

Chris explained that National Efficiency, based in Massachusetts, is the distributor for MiDea heat pumps, which are more efficient than traditional HVAC systems. He described the typical lead time for small orders as 3-5 days, while large orders could take 60-90 days due to manufacturing schedules and shipping logistics. Chris noted that MiDea is a Chinese company that experiences production shutdowns during Chinese New Year and summer, which can impact larger orders. Midea heat pumps have been available for about 9 months and have sold approximately 90-92 units, primarily to housing authorities and building management companies for pilot programs. Mike and Don suggested exploring these units for municipal buildings and housing authority applications.

The group also discussed a documentary about "How to Power a City" that will be screened in April, with plans to co-sponsor and potentially have EAC members participate in a Q&A session.

Regarding 2026 planning, Molly and Mike highlighted the need to finalize the EV first policy and decarbonization plan, while also mentioning the need to potentially recruit new committee members. The conversation ended with updates on various solar projects, including challenges with the Ameresco contract and potential new installations at 59 Lowe Street, with Don and others discussing pricing and contract details.