Unitil, (www.unitil.com), a provider of natural gas and electricity to New England customers, recently partnered with Concord Housing Authority as part of its ongoing Home Energy Assistance Program (“HEA”), to begin a comprehensive energy efficiency project.
"By shifting lightbulbs to LEDs and replacing refrigerators throughout the units, we have reduced our tenants’ electric costs significantly."
Tom Buckman, Facilities Director at Concord Housing Authority
Phase One of the project, completed in 2019, included an LED lighting conversion and an upgrade of refrigerators in residential units. The upgrades will save 220 residents approximately 47,640 kWh of electricity annually going forward. Energy efficiency initiatives with Concord Housing Authority will continue for two additional years. The project received $75,000 in Unitil rebates through the NHSaves program.
“Improving the lives of our residents is paramount. By shifting lightbulbs to LEDs and replacing refrigerators throughout the units, we have reduced our tenants’ electric costs significantly,” said Tom Buckman, Facilities Director at Concord Housing Authority. “We are thankful to have enhanced the efficiency of three of our buildings and look forward to partnering with Unitil for the next two years to reduce the electricity costs for more our occupants.”
Unitil, in partnership with Concord Housing Authority, is about to embark on a second round of audits for the 2020 program year, which will likely include additional refrigeration upgrades.
"We’re thrilled about our progress so far with Concord Housing Authority and look forward to continuing our effort to provide residents with impactful energy efficiency solutions. We commend the organization for prioritizing energy efficiency initiatives. Converting to LEDs presents significant opportunities to save money and reduce one’s carbon footprint, and replacing outdated appliances often not only result in energy savings but improve one’s quality of life. We encourage businesses and residential customers alike to optimize efficiency wherever possible through NHSaves," said Unitil's Media Relations Manager Alec O’Meara.
Contractors involved in this project include: Dana Nute of Resilient Buildings Group, Paul Mulrooney of Mulrooney Electrical Contractors, Chris Voight of Belknap Merrimack Community Action Agency, and South Middlesex Opportunity Council (“SMOC”).
About Concord Housing Authority
Concord Housing + Redevelopment is a catalyst for community wide economic growth and revitalization, while providing developers with resources to make redevelopment a reality. The organization also helps individuals and families in the Greater Concord area find a place to call home. For more information about Concord Housing + Redevelopment, call 603-224-4059 or visit www.concordha.com.
