I. Recommendations · 10/1/2008 · Advise on the feasibility of participation in the Green Communities Program, ... utilities of 3.3 mills ($0.0033) per kilowatt-hour to fund customer

Easton Green Community Act Task Force

Energy Conservation and Renewable Energy Information

Draft Report Page 1 of 75

I. Recommendations:

The following are the recommendations for future initiatives to enhance a climate of

energy conservation and reduce energy consumption within the Town of Easton. These

recommendations are intended to provide the Town with a framework to build upon for

implementing a variety of energy cost saving measures and policies to achieve “Green

Community” status. The recommendations are organized according to the party

recommended to be responsible for implementing each action. Recommended policy

changes are suggested as items to be taken up by the Board of Selectmen. Actions that

can be taken by staff or at the direction of the Town Administrator are called

Administrative Actions. Finally, a number of actions are recommended to be taken up by

a new committee focusing on energy issues, primarily those which require further study

and deliberation.

a) Guiding Principle:

Implement cost effective energy conservation and renewable energy projects,

leveraging grant opportunities and rebate programs. (For a list of grant and

program opportunities, refer to the Funding Sources section of this report)

b) Board of Selectmen:

Establish a standing committee in the Town of Easton to continue to assist the

town to identify and implement conservation and renewable energy options

and reduce consumption of fossil fuels and electric power from non-renewable

energy sources. It is recommended that this committee be made up of Town of

Easton municipal officials, concerned citizens and representatives from the

business community that have a general understanding of energy conservation

and renewable energy resources.

Set, by resolution, an attainable Building Energy Efficiency Goal (e.g.,

resolve to reduce energy consumption in municipal buildings each year, or to

reach Energy Star ratings for a certain number of buildings)

Approve policy reflecting the goal of the Town of Easton to reduce energy use

from traditional sources and work to increasingly turn to conservation and

renewable energy sources.

o Communicate this energy reduction goal to all department managers for

them to initiate action within each respective department and ensure that

Town employees buy in to this set of policies

Consider passing an anti-idling ordinance. (MassDEP offers a grant towards

assisting municipalities in providing an “Idling Reduction Campaign Toolkit”

consisting of metal street signs, informational cards on health effects, bumper

stickers, windshield decals, sample press releases, fact sheets, a model policy

and more…) please refer to the Funding Sources section of this report for

more information.




c) Administrative Actions:

Energy Efficiency Goal

o Designate a party (or parties) responsible for monitoring, tracking over

time, and reducing energy consumption. Designate Building Energy

Monitor – The Town of Plymouth, Massachusetts has taken the initiative

to hire a full time Energy Manager for their energy conservation programs

in all of their school buildings. Sources say that the schools have

experienced a substantial savings in energy costs. (October 1,2008 Winter

Heating and Energy Roundtable Meeting – Plymouth, MA) This is an

example of savings from “the low hanging fruit”.

o Continue to improve the building energy usage database and develop a

process for which to collect future data with the end goal being to

establish a baseline inventory of community energy use

o Track building improvements, such as new windows, efficient lighting,

etc.

Account for energy use in departmental budgets. Currently, municipal

consumers of energy do not account for energy use in their budgets. There is

no direct incentive for those with control over how (at least some) energy is

used to reduce energy consumption.

Develop Energy Education and Awareness Week, and designate responsible

party. Energy conservation practices should be discussed as a top priority to

all municipal and school personnel. Savings can be realized from a variety of

different methods by changing behaviors of the employees and educating

them on common everyday practices that will reduce energy consumption.

Benefit from applying for Utility Rebates. In our area, Bay State Gas and

National Grid have utility rebates, through the GasNetworks Collaborative,

available for cities and towns. An inventory of all energy efficient equipment,

installed since May 1, 2007, needs to be compiled to be able to take advantage

of these rebate offers. There have been many improvements to municipal and

school facilities over the last couple of years, some of which qualify for

immediate, retroactive rebates. The Town may see some substantial savings

here. (Refer to Appendix C for Utility Rebate Information)

Complete Energy Star Certification process for eligible building(s). Advertise

certification with signage or a plaque.

d) Energy Committee (“Green Team”):

Research and make recommendations to the Board of Selectmen on strategies

to reduce municipal energy consumption, finance energy savings

improvements, produce or purchase renewable energy, and encourage the

public to participate in energy conservation efforts.

Research Renewable Resource Options such as wind power and solar

technology, e.g:

o With current technology, Easton does not have enough wind resources to

make developing wind turbines in town feasible; however, Massachusetts

as a whole has excellent resources. The Committee could investigate




partnering with another community to develop or financially help develop

off-shore wind turbines along coastal communities in order to gain a long-

term energy-cost savings.

o The committee can also research the possibility of utilizing town-owned

land for installation of solar fields (“brightfields”), and/or using

municipal/school building roofs for solar panel installs.

Education and Awareness – Advise on the development of an “Energy

Awareness Week” for the Town of Easton to host.

Advise on the feasibility of participation in the Green Communities Program,

and develop plan for compliance. The GPC makes funds available to towns in

exchange for agreeing to reduce energy consumption by 20% over baseline

levels in 5 years. Make recommendations to the Board of Selectmen as to the

possibility of adopting energy efficiency standards in the Building Code that

exceed the minimum State Code.

Discuss the option of having each municipal and school building manager

report energy consumption and savings, to the committee, to help track energy

conservation.

Report on energy use quarterly.




II. Energy Background Overview:

(a) Legislative Background

Chapter 164 of the Acts of 1997 (“Ch. 164”):

This act restructures the electric utility industry in Massachusetts and establishes

consumer protection provisions. Important sections from a community perspective are as

follows:

Section 19: Established an initial charge on retail sales from investor owned electric

utilities of 3.3 mills ($0.0033) per kilowatt-hour to fund customer side energy efficiency

initiatives. Low income weatherization and fuel assistance was prescribed and the method

of funding established.

Section 20: Established an initial charge on retail sales from investor owned electric

utilities of three-quarters of one mill ($0.00075) to fund renewable energy development

and promotion activities. The Massachusetts Technology Park Corporation was

empowered to establish and operate the Massachusetts Renewable Energy Trust Fund

and to be funded by the renewable energy charge on retail electric bills.

The Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources (DOER) shall establish a

Renewable Energy Portfolio Standard (RPS). The RPS shall consist of electric generating

sources from (1) solar photovoltaic or solar thermal electric energy; (2) wind energy; (3)

ocean thermal, wave or tidal energy; (4) fuel cells utilizing renewable fuels; (5) landfill

gas; (6) waste-to-energy which is a component of conventional municipal solid waste

plant; (7) naturally flowing water and hydroelectric; and (8) low-emission, advanced

biomass power conversion technologies that began operation after December 31, 1997.

Section 187 through Section 192: Provides definitions applicable to this law.

Section 193: Provides for the establishment of competitive supply arrangements for retail

customers. Vertically integrated electric utilities are mandated to segregate ownership of

generation, transmission and distribution assets. Divestiture of all essentially all non-

nuclear generation is mandated.

Section 204: Established an energy facilities siting board within the utility regulatory

structure. The facilities siting board was assigned responsibility to review the need for

and cost of, and environmental impacts of transmission lines, natural gas pipelines,

facilities for the manufacture and storage of natural gas and oil facilities, and the

environmental impacts only on new generation facilities.

Section 247: Provided the legal framework for municipalities or group of municipalities

to aggregate the electric load within its boundaries. This section also provides for




municipal aggregators to enter into service and/or other contracts necessary to provide

this service.

Section 307: Based upon the restructuring in the electric utility industry to achieve retail

customer choice and competitive markets for generation, the future unbundling of natural

gas supplies from natural gas distribution services in Massachusetts natural gas utilities is

mentioned, but not mandated in this law.

An internet reference to Chapter 164 is:

www.mass.gov/legis/laws/seslaw97/s1970164.htm

Chapter 169 0f the Acts of 2008 (“Green Communities Act”):

This law provides legislative support for increased energy efficiency, reduced use of

fossil energy, and increased use of renewable energy. This law addresses the increased

use of hybrid and alternative fueled state owned vehicles, community greening and

increased use of renewable energy and conservation programs for grid supplied electric

and demand reduction programs for natural gas distribution.

The key provisions considered to be of interest to the Town of Easton are as follows:

Section 1: Provided for increased state ownership of hybrid and alternative fueled

vehicles.

Section 2: Requires increased energy efficiency in state owned and operated facilities.

The section also develops the framework for the use of alternative energy versus

traditional energy systems at state owned facilities.

Section 3: Amends Chapter 10 of the General Laws and establishes a trust fund (Section

35II) known as the “Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative Auction Trust Fund” to

administer funds raised. This is meaningful as it is projected to provide a funding vehicle

to support the green communities program established in Section 10 of Chapter 25A.

Section 11: Amends Chapter 25 of the General Laws by striking out sections 19 and 20

and inserting new Sections 19 through 22. The new sections continue the 2.5 mill per

kilowatt-hour charge for all customers of investor owned electric utilities to fund energy

efficiency programs, a 0.5 mill per kilowatt-hour charge for all customers of investor

owned electric utilities to fund renewable energy promotion and development through the

Massachusetts Renewable Energy Trust Fund, and sets forth required utility actions to

satisfy demand reduction and energy efficiency programs.

Section 22: Amends Chapter 25A of the General Laws by striking Section 10 and

inserting Sections 10 and 11. These Sections mandates that the Division of Green

Communities assist local communities to: reduce energy consumption and costs, reduce

pollution, facilitate the development of renewable and alternative energy resources, and

http://www.mass.gov/legis/laws/seslaw97/s1970164.htm




create local jobs related to facilitate the development of renewable and alternative energy

facilities and the installation of energy-efficient equipment.

The Division of Green Communities shall establish a green communities program to

provide technical and financial assistance to local governments that qualify as a green

community. Financial assistance in the form of loans and grants and can be used for

studying, designing, constructing and implementing energy efficiency activities and

renewable energy facilities on municipal owned land and facilities.

To qualify as a green community (Section 10 (c) ), a community must (1) file an

application; (2) file as-of-right siting of renewable or alternative energy generating,

research, production or manufacturing facilities; (3) file expedited application and

permitting process to site the facilities in item 2 above; (4) establish a baseline inventory

of community energy use and put in place a comprehensive program to reduce energy use

by 20 per cent within 5 years of participation in the program; (5) purchase only fuel

efficient vehicles when such vehicles are available and practicable; and (6) require all

residential construction over 3,000 square feet and all new commercial and industrial real

estate construction to minimize energy and water use and consider renewable or

alternative energy technologies.

Funding for the green community program shall not exceed $10 million per annum.

Section 23: Amends Chapter 25A of the General Laws by replacing Section 11 (c)

covering energy service companies (ESCO) and stipulates that local communities may

contract with an ESCO to provide energy management services.

Section 32: Amends Chapter 25A of the General Laws by striking out Section 11F and

inserting Sections 11F and Section 11F1/2 covering the continuation of the renewable

energy portfolio standards (RPS).

The RPS will continue with an annual increase of one-half of one percent through 2009

and an increase of one per cent per annum thereafter. Commencing January 1, 2009 such

minimum percentage requirements shall be known as “Class 1” renewable energy source

requirement.

Renewable energy facilities classified as “Class 1” renewable energy sources include the

following: (1) solar photovoltaic or solar thermal electric energy; (2) wind energy; (3)

ocean thermal or tidal energy; (4) fuel cells utilizing renewable fuels; (5) landfill gas; (6)

waste-to-energy which is a component of conventional municipal solid waste plant; (7)

naturally flowing water and hydroelectric; (8) low emission advanced biomass power

conversion technologies using fuels such as wood, by-products or waste from agricultural

crops etc.; and (9) geothermal energy.

A retail supplier that does not meet its requirement under the RPS standard shall be

required to pay an alternative compliance payment.




Section 49: This section amends Chapter 40J of the General Laws by striking out Section

4E and replacing it with a new section that reauthorizes the Massachusetts Renewable

Energy Trust and provides for governance and duties.

Section 55: Section 94 of Chapter 143 of the General Laws, as amended by Section 1 of

Chapter 78 of the Acts of 2008, is further amended by adding four new clauses. This

section stipulates that the latest International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) be

adopted as part of the state’s building code. The energy provisions of the state’s building

shall be updated within one year of any revision to the IECC. Training in the IECC shall

be developed and provided to assist in the certification of local building inspectors.

Section 57: Amends Chapter 164 of the General Laws for a number of definitions.

Section 64: Provides for the establishment of a residential low-income discount rate for

electrical purchases from investor owned electric utilities.

Section 78: Amends Chapter 164 of the General Laws for a number of definitions.

Section 105: Provides definitions applicable to this law.

Section 116: Provides a list of the state’s goals on energy efficiency and renewable

energy development.

Section 139: Establishes the rights for a retail customer of an investor owned electric

utility customer to net metering benefits if the customer’s renewable energy system

provides more energy than that customer consumes during the billing period.

Section 142: The Department of Energy Resources shall continue to identify and remove

any impediments to the development efficient, low-emissions distributed generation.

Section 143: Establishes the concept of a ”small municipal renewable energy generating

facility” and defines it to be a Class 1 renewable energy generating source of less than 1

megawatt capacity. The laws provides that a municipality may design, install, own and

operate small generating facilities and may sell the electricity and renewable energy

certificates created to represent the generation attributes from electrical generation from

that facility. The law also provides that a municipality may issue bonds to finance a small

renewable energy generating facility. Additionally, an enterprise fund can be established

under Section 53F1/2 for the receipt of funds from the operation of a small renewable

energy generating facility and can use revenues received to pay for maintenance, future

improvements, borrowing principal on any bonds or notes and interest on such bonds or

notes.

An internet reference to Chapter 169 is:

www.mass.gov/legis/laws/seslaw08/s1080169.htm

http://www.mass.gov/legis/laws/seslaw08/s1080169.htm




GREEN COMMUNITIES PROGRAM:

The Act creates a program to provide up to $10 million/year (statewide) in technical

and financial help to municipalities to promote energy efficiency and the financing,

citing and construction of renewable and alternative energy facilities. [Section 22]

Qualifying Communities must adopt:

As-of-right citing for renewable or alternative energy generating,

manufacturing or R&D facilities in designated locations

Expedited permitting process for approving such facilities within one year of

the filing of an application;

Energy use baseline and a program to reduce energy use by 20% within 5

years;

Policy to purchase only fuel-efficient vehicles; and

Policy to minimize lifecycle energy and water costs for all new commercial,

industrial and large-residential construction.

There are a myriad of laws covering commercial transactions, energy development and

defining environment compliance. However, the most relevant applicable laws affecting

the energy and regulatory authorities impacting the Town of Easton are considered to be:

Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC):

FERC has regulatory and rate making responsibility for the interstate transmission of

electricity and natural gas pipelines. FERC has initiated open access to both electric

transmission and interstate natural gas pipelines. These initiatives have spurred a more

competitive environment in the areas of interstate sales of electric and natural gas.

FERC’s open access initiatives have effectively separated transmission and transportation

tariffs from commodity costs for interstate sales of electricity and natural gas.

An internet reference to FERC is: www.ferc.gov/

Independent Service Operator-New England (ISO-NE):

ISO New England is a not for profit entity, semi-governmental organization that serves

the New England region by ensuring the constant availability of electricity. ISO-NE

meets this obligation in three ways: by ensuring the day-to-day reliable operation of New

England's bulk power generation and transmission system, by overseeing and ensuring

the fair administration of the region's wholesale electricity markets, and by managing

comprehensive, regional planning processes.

During the 1990’s, FERC established regulations to open previously closed markets to

competition. In the electric industry, FERC created independent system operators, or

ISOs, to oversee restructuring on a regional basis. These ISOs were given responsibility

for ensuring reliability and establishing and overseeing competitive wholesale electricity

markets. Created by FERC in 1997, ISO-NE advanced industry restructuring within the

http://www.ferc.gov/




New England region: To date, five of the six states have required utilities to sell off their

power plants, and 88 percent of the region's generation is unregulated.

ISO-NE works closely with the New England Power Pool, a group of generators, utilities,

marketers, public power companies and end users, ISO-NE implemented wholesale

markets in 1999. In 2005, FERC designated ISO-NE as the regional transmission

organization for the six-state region. In this role, ISO-NE was given broader authority

over the day-to-day operation of the transmission system and greater independence to

manage the power grid and wholesale markets.

Today, more than 300 market participants compete for $10 billion of wholesale

electricity transactions annually, about a quarter of the power sold in the region (the

remainder is sold through negotiated, long-term contracts).

An internet reference to ISO-NE is: www.iso-ne.com/

Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources (DOER):

DOER is actively involved in the areas of monitoring energy markets, energy

conservation, supporting the development of new renewable energy resources in the

Commonwealth and holds administrative responsibility for specific energy-related

sections of state law. DOER’s mission statement comprehends the following:

Achieving all cost-effective energy efficiencies,

Maximizing development of greener energy resources,

Creating and leading implementation of energy strategies to assure reliable

supplies and improve relative cost, and

Supporting clean tech companies and spurring clean energy employment.

Of possible interest to the Town of Easton is that DOER approves applications for

Statement of Qualification regulations for generation units to become Renewable Energy

Portfolio Standard (RPS)-Qualified, New Renewable Generation Units. RPS qualification

is required for a renewable energy facility owner to be able to be able to sell renewable

energy certificates (RECs). Additionally, DOER also administers the state laws

governing investor owned utilities compliance with RPS requirements.

An internet reference to DOER is: www.mass.gov/doer/

Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities (DPU):

The mission of the Department is to ensure that utility consumers are provided with the

most reliable service at the lowest possible cost; to protect the public safety from

transportation and gas pipeline related accidents; to oversee the energy facilities siting

process; and to ensure that residential ratepayers' rights are protected under regulations.

The DPU is charged with regulatory oversight for distribution of electricity and natural

gas by investor owned utilities operating within the Commonwealth. Regulatory

http://www.iso-ne.com/

http://www.mass.gov/doer/




oversight comprises the establishment of allowable rates for the distribution of electric

and natural gas by local distribution companies, such as National Grid and Bay State Gas

in the case of the Town of Easton. The generation of electricity and the supply of natural

gas are viewed to be commodities and the price of both electricity and natural gas are not

regulated by the DPU. The DPU has regulatory responsibility to ensure that investor

owned utilities do not make a profit/charge over the commodity costs of electric and

natural gas supply to their respective rate-payers.

An internet reference to the DPU is: www.mass.gov/DPU/

(b) Future Trends

Trends Affecting Energy Use and Costs

“If you don't know where you're going, you might end up someplace else" Casey Stengel The following are macro trends that are likely to impact future energy availability and

costs. Understanding these trends and identifying key future developments in the energy

industry could provide a helpful framework for town decision makers and responsible

managers to make improved energy decisions and make better day-to-day operational

decisions.

Environmental Trends:

Global climate change is increasingly being recognized as a threat to society as it

exists today. The use of fossil energy is considered to be the largest single factor

leading to global climate change. The U.S. has approximately 5 percent of the

world’s population but uses approximately 25 percent of the world’s energy.

Many countries are taking actions to reduce global climate change related

emissions. In the absence of federal leadership on the issue of global climate

change, states, such as California and Massachusetts, appear to be taking a

leading role in reducing climate change related emissions.

Environmental regulations are likely to add to the cost of future energy use. A

possible example could relate to mandating “clean coal” which could require the

sequestration of CO2. Sequestration would increase generator plant capital costs

and significantly increase the demand for internal plant use of electricity, thus

driving up the required selling price of electric power from that generator facility.

Mercury is a long-lived emission associated with the combustion of coal for

electrical generation and other uses that is likely to be regulated in the future.

Regulations aimed at reducing mercury emissions would increase electric utility

rates.

Fossil Energy Supply/Demand Balances:

The following table presents an overview of the domestic production U.S. and

imports in million of barrels per day (MMBD):

U.S Crude Oil Production 5.1 MMBD

http://www.mass.gov/DPU/




Natural Gas Liquids Production 1.8

Total U.S. Production 6.9

Imported Crude Oil 10.1

U.S. Refinery Output (1) 17.2

Imported Petroleum Products 3.0

Total Petroleum Product sales 20.3 MMBD

Imports (crude and Product) as a % of sales 64.5%

(1) Refinery output is higher than input crude oil inputs due to up-grading crude

oil to lighter products which yields a volume expansion versus crude input.

Source: U.S. Energy Information Agency Tables for mid-2008

Oil industry experts appear to be in agreement that the world is at or near peak oil

production and slow decline in overall oil production is likely to begin in the near

future.

Tighter supply/demand balances for petroleum and natural gas are likely to result

in greater price volatility and competition for increasing scarce resources.

Natural gas production in North America is becoming supply limited. Liquid

natural gas (LNG) projects and a natural gas pipeline from Alaska (pipeline costs

are referenced at $38 billion) are being considered and/or being implemented but

are considered to be “high” cost versus traditional sources of domestic gas.

Domesticate US coal reserves exceed 500 years at current usage rates. Utility use

of coal for electric generation in the New England states is largely from foreign

sources and imported in foreign flag vessels.

Financial Factors:

The U.S. twin deficits of balance of payments and federal budget are large by

historic standards and may not sustainable in the future.

The value of the U.S. dollar has declined relative to most developed countries

over the last several years.

Energy Prices:

Delivered costs of natural gas and petroleum products are likely to remain high

and increase at rates above general inflation.

Electrical generation costs in New England are likely to increase in real terms due

to projected increases in fossil fuel costs. (The New England generation mix is on

the order of 51 percent natural gas, 24 percent coal and 5 percent petroleum.)

Environmental regulations on new and/or existing fossil-fired generation could

put upward pressure on electric rates. Taxes/fees on utility emissions may be

implemented in the future.

Considering the trends relating to fossil fuels and energy conservation renewable energy

may offer less risky paths to satisfying future energy demands.




(c) Energy Costs and Conversions

Electricity Costs:

The Town of Easton obtains it electric supply from National Grid and Trans Canada

Power Corporation. National Grid supplies Easton residents and other electrical users

with power distribution services and also collects state mandated fees/charges. Trans

Canada Power provides the electric generation.

The July, 2008 bill for the Town Hall was for 11,760 kilowatt for the period June 23 to

July 23, 2008 and had the following components and costs:

National Grid:

Type of Expense: Cost per KWhr: Total Cost:

Customer Charge 0.00077 $8.90

Distribution Charge 0.04184 492.04

Transition Charge 0.00214 25.17

Transmission Charge 0.00920 108.19

Dem Side Mgmt Chg 0.00250 29.40

Renewable Energy Chg 0.00050 5.88

Subtotal 0.05694 $669.58

Trans Canada:

Type of Expense: Cost per KWhr: Total Cost:

Energy 0.09395 $1104.85

Capacity 0.00949 111.61

Subtotal 0.10344 $1216.46

Total Expense 0.16038 $1886.04

Natural Gas Costs:

The Town of Easton currently obtains its natural gas from Bay State Gas and from

Spraque Energy Corporation. Bay State Gas supplies Easton with natural gas distribution

services. Spraque provides interstate gas pipeline transportation and arranges for natural

gas supplies.

The July billing period for town was for 229.5 MM BTUs from 14 meters. A customer

charge for the natural gas meter was typically $17.45 per month with all other categories

being variable with volume and as follows:




Bay State:

Type of Expense: Cost per Therm: MMBTU Cost:

Customer Charge (1)

Distribution Charge $0.3050 $3.050

Distr. Adjustment 0.0401 0.401

Subtotal $0.3451 $3.451

Spraque Energy:

Type of Expense: Cost per Therm: MMBTU Cost:

Supply $1.3990 $13.990

Total Expense $1.7441 $17.441

(1) This analysis is a snapshot of comparative costs and to be a meaningful measure. The

Customer Charge is a fixed charge per month and to represent it as a variable cost it

could be totaled for a year and averaged by the cumulative annual volume for that meter.

Current Energy Costs and Conversions:

The following analysis presents a “snap-shot” of energy costs applicable for the Town of

Easton during the July, 2008 time frame. Gasoline and diesel are contract prices from the

Southeastern Regional Services Group consortium for July, 2008. No use of home

heating fuel has been identified for Town of Easton facilities. The conversion to dollars

per MMBTU is meaningful since it provides a common denominator to compare energy

prices against.

Energy Type: Cost per Unit: BTUs/Unit: Cost per MMBTU:

Electric (KWhr) $.16038 3,413 $46.99

Diesel (Gal) $4.5897 135,000 $33.99

Gasoline (Gal) $3.7618 125,000 $30.09

Natural Gas (Therm) $1.7441 100,000 $17.441




(d) Building Usage




Since June of 2007 information on Easton’s municipal buildings natural gas and

electricity usage has been gathered and consolidated into Excel spreadsheets so to track

and analyze the overall energy usage of town-owned buildings. This energy consumption

database was initially created to aid in Easton’s participation in the EPA’s Community

Energy Challenge which began in 2007. These spreadsheets reflect monthly usage since

July of 2005 (for natural gas) and April 2005 (for electricity). Information from utility

bills has been converted from therms and kilowatts (gas and electricity respectively) to

kBtus (Kilo British Thermal Unit). These conversions were done in order to combine two

different units of energy measurement into a single unit of measurement (kBtus) for

easier comparison and analyses. The tables generated from this data collection have been

updated regularly to reflect energy consumption up to the most recent billing cycle

release available at the time of this writing (September, 2008). These Municipal Building

Energy Usage tables were utilized for the following summary and should continue to be

updated and utilized in order to track the affects of new practices, policies, and projects

taken on by the Town of Easton (many of which have been noted by the Green Energy

Task Force in this report). The end goal being to decrease Easton’s energy consumption

and increase its energy efficiency and thereby reducing the Towns carbon footprint and

associated energy costs (refer to tables below and appendix H – Building Data).

The Town of Easton municipal buildings utilized a total of 56,953,100 kBtus in

2007. With a total of 739,462 square feet of gross area between all buildings included in

the database (DPW, Water Division, Town Offices, Police and Fire Stations (three), and

six school buildings) an average of 77 kBtus was calculated as being used per square foot

during the year of 2007. In 2006 the overall building square footage underwent some

change due to school additions and renovations so the 66 kBtus per square foot for

buildings calculated from the data may be somewhat misleading. The total kBtus for




2006 consumed by the municipal buildings was 48,980,480. The data for 2008 and 2005

is incomplete at this time and therefore not included in this summary (although partial

annual information for these years is included in the tables).

More useful results were revealed when the energy consumption amounts were

broken down by building type and the figures for average kBtus per square foot per year

are considered. The Town Offices, primarily utilized as office space, used 68 kBtus per

square foot in 2007, and 65 kBtus per square foot in 2006. The Water Division Building

which is mainly office facilities (although the spacious basement auditorium may

increase the energy usage) used 86 and 85 kBtus per square foot during the years of 2006

and 2007 correspondingly. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

“the average annual energy intensity for office buildings is 79.8 kBtus per square foot”

(see appendix for EPA chart). Based on similar studies an estimated 30% of the energy

used by office buildings is being wasted. If our target is to drop our average office

building energy usage by this anticipated waste of 30% our average office building kBtus

should be reduced to 54 per square foot each year. The Energy Information

Administration (EIA) has studies available online reporting energy usage by building

type including office buildings. The EIA reports on the eia.doe.gov website the largest

percentage of overall energy usage from office buildings is drawn primarily from lighting

(44%), secondly 25% usage is drawn from HVAC systems (space heating, cooling, and

ventilation), and thirdly 24% of office building energy is utilized by office equipment

(see Figure 1).

(Figure 1)

The six Easton educational facilities included in the energy usage tables revealed

overall energy consumption during 2007 ranged from 66 kBtus/square foot to 147




kBtus/square foot and 52 to 136 kBtus per square foot during 2006. The national average

for educational facilities is 76 kBtus/square foot according to an Energy Star report on K-

12 Schools from 2003. It should be noted the energy usage data for the Junior High and

Oliver Ames High School buildings are likely to be somewhat distorted due to recent

renovations and additions. Echoing the EPA’s estimated quantity of energy waste noted

above for office buildings Energy Star states “as much as 30 percent of a [school]

districts total energy is used inefficiently or unnecessarily”. In addition Energy Star

explains that most of the energy consumed by educational facilities is used by heating

(82% of natural gas consumption), lighting (26% of electricity used), and office

equipment (20% of electricity usage) (see Figure 2).

(Figure 2)

Mixed use facilities tend to fall less neatly into building type categories but a

2003 Energy Star study does include an average kBtus/square for Fire Stations and Police

Stations to have been 78, quite a bit lower then Easton’s Fire/Police Station energy usage

which calculates to 100 kBTus/square foot in 2007 and 119 kBtus per square foot in

2006. Easton’s Fire Stations 2 and 3 show 2007/2006 kBtus/Square Foot at 141/128 and

102/95 respectively. Another office and garage mixed use municipal building in Easton,

the DPW building, showed 28 kBtus per square foot in 2007 and 27 kBtus per square foot

during 2006. This building is more difficult to calculate such a figure by using gross

square footage as much of this facility is garage area and therefore a more detailed

breakdown of gross area usage (i.e. percent office space versus garage area etc.) should

be made in order to calculate a more accurate estimate of kBtus per square foot each year.

Studies for this type of mixed use facility are less common therefore appropriate

comparisons for the DPW building are not available to be presented at this juncture.

The Building Energy Usage databases are a useful base from which to begin to

understand where the Town of Easton’s buildings stand as compared to typical municipal

and educational facilities. Using other tools and information Easton can further its




understanding of how its buildings compare and from this understanding how Easton’s

buildings can improve beyond the averages calculated through studies.

One study performed specifically for the Town of Easton was done so during the

summer of 2008 when Adria Fichter, an undergraduate student from the University of

New Hampshire, compiled the energy usage information from the Building Energy Usage

tables into the Energy Stars Portfolio Manager. This was done so to receive Energy Star

ratings for Easton’s municipal buildings as part of the Towns participation in the

Challenge (see table below). Somewhat unexpected results were discovered as the

Portfolio Manager rated the Town Offices high (79) even though this building was

expected to have lower efficiency due to the challenges in converting a structure

originally intended for residential use into an office building. Results such as these are

likely due to the fact that the Portfolio Manager compares buildings to existing buildings

with similar characteristics (i.e. type/age/size building) and these results do not include

comparisons to similar structures of optimum energy efficiency. Therefore the Portfolio

Manager should not be expected to outline a best possible efficiency goal. This goal of

best possible building efficiency is a target specific to Easton that the Town will be able

to construct through further data collection, research, and analysis.

The end goal should be to make each individual building as efficient as it can be.

To begin to develop a better understanding of how to achieve the greatest efficiency for

our municipal buildings many factors must be taken into account. For one the weather

has a major influence on the amount of energy Easton’s Municipal buildings utilize. All

of the municipal buildings of Easton (with the exception of Parkview School and O.A.

High school which had moderate correlations) had very strong correlations drawn

between kBtus per square foot annually and average temperature (NOAA statistic). A

closer analysis correlating the type of energy used (electricity or gas) with NOAA’s

heating degree days (HDD) or cooling degree days (CDD) revealed even more

information. As defined by www.accuweather.com HDDs and CDDs “are units of energy

need based on a "comfortable" inside home temperature of 65 degrees. They are

calculated by taking the difference between 65 degrees (F) and the average outside

temperature (F) for the day”. The energy usage of the municipal buildings has a much

stronger correlation with heating than with air conditioning even in facilities in which the

majority of the gross area is cooled (Refer to appendix H for Building Data graphs).

http://www.accuweather.com/




Adjusting our thermostats to the most efficient, yet comfortable, levels should

indeed result in a substantial amount of energy savings. Consumer Energy Center

(www.consumerenergycenter.org) states “for every degree you lower your heat in the 60-

degree to 70-degree range, you'll save up to 5 percent on heating costs”. Developing the

habits of turning lights off and unplugging electronic devices and appliances when not in

use will also cause a great impact on our energy usage and related costs as well. Since

lighting and electronic office equipment combined consumes more then half of office

building energy targeting these areas is particularly crucial to achieving optimal energy

efficiency. By changing our daily routines with regard to heating (and cooling) lighting

and electronic office equipment we can make great headway towards ridding our

municipal buildings of the estimated 30 percent waste in energy so often associated with

these types of facilities.

Organizations such as LEED (The US Green Building Council Acronym for

Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) and Massachusetts newly organized

Zero Net Energy Buildings Task Force are working to develop policies and codes to

support new building construction as well as existing building renovations in energy

efficient and environmentally responsible ways. LEED certified schools for example use

30%-50% less energy than their traditional counterparts. Guidelines such as LEEDs go

beyond energy usage as these codes also incorporate water usage and the use of

environmentally friendly products and construction materials. Water usage is not

currently included in Easton’s municipal buildings energy usage tables but this utility

should be as it is connected to energy consumption. Water usage efficiency fits in well

with what it means to be a Green Community (one of the qualifications for becoming a

Green Community is to adopt a policy to minimize water costs for new construction).

http://www.consumerenergycenter.org/




Continued data collection will enable Easton to establish an energy use baseline

and to develop a more accurate understanding of municipal building efficiency levels.

This is essential for developing specific goals when it comes to how much lower Easton’s

municipal building energy use could be. Building data such as structural and mechanical

details with regard to current insulation, windows, heating and air conditioning systems

can be entered into free software programs to perform analyses of Easton’s buildings

(such as the Department of Energy eQuest and COMcheck programs and the

Massachusetts Institute of Technology online Design Advisor). Existing building details

such as these can help to develop an understanding of what building improvements

should be made to lower energy usage to a more efficient level and eventually to the

highest efficiency level that a particular building could be expected to achieve.

Extensive energy usage data observed over time and associated with building

improvements will reveal much about the affects building renovations, additions, and

upgrades have on energy usage. These building modifications should be tracked on a

monthly basis so to align these changes with the monthly time periods energy data is

collected in (this is preferable due to the billing cycle/meter reading being performed on a

monthly basis). It should be noted that a margin of error is to be expected as the figures

presented here are based on a billing cycle that can range from 29 days to 31 days and

there are months of estimated meter readings as well as cases where monthly data is

unavailable (see for example the Junior High electricity usage entries for 2005 and 2006).

Discrepancies can be resolved through further calculations such as calculating an average

daily energy consumption figure.

Gathering more precise weather data is important for interpreting energy usage

for heating and cooling purposes versus energy usage that is not weather dependant. At

the time of this report average monthly temperatures were acquired from the National

Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) while seeking average daytime

temperature will likely to be more informative as Easton’s municipal buildings utilize

more energy during the daytime when they are open for business activities. Similarly

comparing week day meter readings with nighttime and weekend meter readings would

reveal the differences in the energy usage of Easton’s municipal buildings during

business hours versus energy usage during non-business hours. This information would

be particularly helpful data especially when considering energy usage savings if Easton

was to adopt a four day work week.

Although the focus of this Green Communities Task Force report is not

necessarily saving money the fact of the matter is when less energy is used less money is

spent. Cost is another area where further data collection could be useful, although

somewhat complicated by the fact that gas and electricity consumption information

comes from four places, delivery and supplier sources for each utility meter. During 2006

and into 2008 thirty percent of Easton’s town building energy usage was in the form of

electricity with the remaining seventy percent of energy consumption coming from fossil

fuel sources (natural gas). With natural gas costs estimated to increase this winter by 18

percent and electricity expenses projected to rise by 10 percent (EIA study) cutting

Easton’s municipal buildings overall usage by 30 percent could help to at least buffer the

impact of rising energy costs

As noted above the major players in the Easton’s municipal building energy

consumption are space heating, lighting, and electric appliances and devices. These are




things we do have a certain degree of control over. If the EPA’s estimates of 30 percent

in wasted energy for office and educational facilities is an appropriate generalization to

apply to Easton and if the Town were to use this percentage as a guideline for energy

reduction the school buildings alone could save over $350,000 dollars a year (based on

2007 costs). This does not include savings that could be generated across the board for all

municipal buildings and other town owned structures (i.e. outbuildings and sheds,

treatment plant, pumping stations, etc.). Low-cost and in many cases no-cost actions can

easily be taken and will result not only in successful progress towards becoming a Green

Community but also will result in saving scores of greenbacks along the way.

Additional Data Collection Recommendations for Easton’s Energy Usage Database

Develop a systematic way for which to organize energy usage data into one database

DATA PURPOSE

Energy Usage (kWh/Therms) To continue to track energy usage and

change in amount of usage as well as

establish an energy use baseline

Cost ($) To track overall costs and savings as well

as separate costs to suppliers and

distributors

Detailed Weather Data (HDD/CDD,

daytime/nighttime temperatures, local

mean temperature, etc.)

To help to determine the proportion of

energy usage that is weather related to

compare to non-weather related usage

Water Consumption To track how much water is being

consumed by buildings and how this

related to energy usage (for example:

how many therms does each building use

for hot water, how much electricity is

related to water usage)

Building improvement descriptions and

dates of energy efficiency related upgrades

To allow a comparison of energy usage

before and after the upgrades that may

have an affect (positive or negative) on

energy usage

Dates of changes in practices and policies To compare usage before and after

changes (for example: how much of an

affect on energy usage does shutting off

lights and turning down thermostats

have)

Other Easton energy usage information

(treatment plants, pumping stations,

outbuildings and sheds, streetlights, even

overall residential consumption, etc.)

To develop an understanding of the

energy usage and carbon footprint

beyond Easton’s municipal office

buildings and schools




Table 2




(e) Mobile Usage

The Town of Easton fleet of vehicles utilizes a 2,000 gallon capacity diesel fuel tank and

a 4,000 gallon unleaded fuel tank at the fueling station located at the DPW Garage on

Center Street. This fueling station is controlled by a computerized program, the GasBoy

System, which controls the following departmental distribution and usage:

DIESEL FUEL USAGE FY'08

DEL.DATE FIRE AMB FIRE

ALARM HWY CENT. MAINT WATER COA SCHOOL SNOW

7/13/2007 325.9 326 200 40 23.6 40 47.5

7/27/2007 235.9 236 354.4 44.8 107.3 103 70.7

8/14/2007 232.4 232.4 325.5 63.2 70.3 120 56.2

8/30/2007 197.9 197.9 379 106.2 106.7 79.1 44.2

9/14/2007 277.7 277.7 323.9 35 130.5 120 89.2

10/2/2007 238.4 238.5 283.4 109.8 95.4 120 117.5

10/19/2007 213.4 213.5 32.2 331.7 31.5 73.3 80 128.4

11/5/2007 228.8 228.9 374.3 97.7 162.7 114 108.6

11/21/2007 234.5 234.5 372.1 83.1 117.3 78 80.6

12/5/2007 207.7 207.7 22.4 323.1 48.4 107.1 84 81.1 275.5

12/13/2007 150.1 150.1 204.9 70.2 53 72.1 79 439.6

12/18/2007 65.1 65.1 248.5 57.2 143.4 37.1 30 753.8

12/28/2007 187.7 187.7 0 344.7 14.7 87.2 79 21.9 481.5

1/11/2008 177.5 177.6 0 146.3 52.6 73.4 80 49.5 301.8

1/23/2008 132.4 132.5 0 134.7 69.5 75.5 46.6 46.4 362.4

2/4/2008 149.8 149.9 0 534.6 92.7 38.7 40 80.3 0

2/14/2008 213.1 213.2 28.2 176.2 12.3 49.6 120 97.4 461.2

2/29/2008 116.3 116.3 0 148 50.7 39.2 40 0 729.5

3/13/2008 221.9 222 392.9 117.4 10.9 120 115.4 100.5

3/27/2008 172.5 172.5 0 292.3 104.7 0 78.1 80 0

4/11/2008 235.5 235.6 0 253.4 65.9 60.4 40 111.2 0

4/25/2008 254.9 254.9 25.7 305.6 59.1 106 40 56.8 0

5/9/2008 226 226.1 0 386.4 18.2 54.5 40 49.8 0

5/23/2008 145.1 145.1 0 361.2 86 64.6 78 21 0

6/10/2008 250.3 250.4 0 454.3 62.2 93.6 40 59.2 0

6/27/2008 293 293 0 415.8 37.2 75 80 31 0

TOTAL 5383.8 5385.1 108.5 8067.2 1630.3 2019.2 1969 1752.9 3905.8

TOTAL GALLONS

USED 30221.8




UNLEADED FUEL USAGE FY'08

DEL.DATE POLICE FIRE AMB PNC BLDG.IN. SCH. DIR. HWY. CENT.MA. WATER BOH COA SNOW

7/13/2007 1094.7 18.1 18.2 29.3 493.6 46.1 93.4 227.7 298.6 14.3 169

7/27/2007 1091.9 30.1 30.1 788.9 25.2 93.3 241.8 383.4 15.1 103.2

8/14/2007 993.1 31.1 31.1 519.8 75.6 240.8 394.3 12.1 102.1

8/30/2007 1353.3 20.8 20.8 30 611.6 54 84.4 256 414.7 33.1 121.5

9/14/2007 1061.7 25.3 25.3 462.6 38.3 72.5 276.3 399 10.5 133.5

10/2/2007 1205.2 26.4 26.4 33 25.8 690.9 46.7 91.2 266.6 404.9 22.1 159.8

10/19/2007 1233.5 71.7 71.8 45.7 681.5 14.9 69.1 289.2 384.3 19.5 115.8

11/5/2007 1059.4 66.5 66.6 46.1 795.5 24.5 92.8 253.4 394.9 26.9 180.4

11/20/2007 1064.8 57 57.1 33.7 512.9 37.1 42.4 265.3 292.4 139.3

12/5/2007 1181.4 84.3 84.4 52.8 620 59.5 116.6 332.3 329.2 25.2 125.3

12/13/2007 733.2 38.1 38.2 26.1 380.7 24.4 22.2 111 211.4 89.4

12/28/2007 1084.9 24.6 24.6 23.7 33.5 334.1 57.4 113.5 302.8 292.2 26.9 130 155.8

1/11/2008 841.6 19.6 19.7 0 30.1 344.9 27.9 70.8 134.6 234.1 7.7 81.4 0

1/23/2008 851.7 40 40 0 18.5 434.2 31.7 51.9 191.3 241.7 15.8 83.2 0

2/4/2008 928.1 25.6 25.7 0 30.6 462.4 41.3 108.4 213.3 273.8 7.7 106.2 0

2/14/2008 967.4 36.5 36.6 0 31.8 568.8 46.5 218.3 263.7 345.5 14.3 173.1 0

2/29/2008 1018.1 38.3 38.4 0 23.6 426.1 26.8 140.8 173 199.2 9.8 91.2 114.8

3/13/2008 996.7 49.4 49.4 0 29.5 541 22.9 144.2 213.9 275.3 26.6 110.1 0

3/27/2008 1035.1 57 57 28.2 31.6 539.6 46.6 149.3 313.9 370.2 8.7 177.8 0

4/11/2008 875.2 29 29.1 0 29.1 559.2 25.4 155.7 241.8 524.2 26.9 205.7 0

4/25/2008 804.2 50.6 50.7 19.4 450.2 22.5 39.2 165.1 216.7 14.3 170.3 0

5/9/2008 884.9 35.7 35.7 28.9 30.1 566.9 34 96.6 254.6 318.5 13 205.1 0

5/23/2008 855.8 22.9 22.9 0 34.6 652.1 60.2 72.7 160.6 252.3 32 133.9 0

6/10/2008 1049.6 37.4 37.5 15.4 25.4 786.2 20.4 71.8 304.6 251.8 39.5 165.4 0

6/27/2008 946.6 36.1 36.2 0 23.1 574.5 27.8 42.7 194.1 255.3 20.6 150 0

TOTAL 25212.1 972.1 973.5 1336.4 446.7 13798 862.1 2329.4 5887.7 7957.9 442.6 3423 270.6

TOTAL GALLONS USED 63912

Within the MassDEP Municipal Sustainability Grants, there is opportunity for

Diesel Hybrid Retro-fitting of Fleet Vehicles. Vendors in Massachusetts have the

hybrid technology to retro-fit existing and new trucks with this equipment. The

grant allows for the offsetting costs of $40,000.00 to make necessary changes to

these heavy-duty diesel vehicles as part of the State’s Diesel Emmissions

Reduction Strategy. (Refer to Appendix G – MassDEP Grant Information)




(f) Energy Building Codes

Chapter 13, “Energy Conservation”, part of the new 7th

Edition of the Massachusetts

State Building Code (780 CMR) provides for the design and construction of energy

efficient buildings and structures intended for human occupancy by direct reference to the

International Energy Conservation Code (IECC).

The need for energy conservation can be traced to the increased demand for energy in

this country coupled with the decline of domestic energy resource development. National

standards and model energy codes have been implemented and federal energy efficiency

laws have been enacted, giving rise to many building energy-related requirements in

every state. The IECC is in the process of continually updating the code to ensure that it

remains current and takes advantage of the latest knowledge and technical improvements

available.

The IECC and the Massachusetts State Building Code both address the design of energy-

efficient building envelopes and the selection and installation of energy-efficient

mechanical, service water heating, electrical distribution and illumination systems and

equipment for the effective use of energy in both residential and commercial buildings.

However, 780 CMR 13 provides minimum design requirements for efficient utilization of

energy in building construction. There is significant need for new strategies, new

technologies, incentives and streamlined permitting that will promote the effective use of

depletable energy resources and encourage the use of nondepletable energy resources.




III. Conservation Energy Reductions

(a) Technical Options:

Technical Conservation and Energy Options

(Not personnel action/policy related)

Building Related Options:

Building Space Conditioning Related:

Increase building envelope insulation:

Attic insulation

Basement/crawlspace insulation

Caulk cracks around doors and windows

Increase wall insulation

Heating and A/C pipe and ductwork insulation

Air sealing on doors and windows

Install door shoes on the bottom of exterior doors

Substitute insulation to a higher R-value

Increase window insulation:

Air sealing on window

Low E Argon filled windows

Install rigid foam in the upper half of double hung windows

Insulated shades

Temperature setting for space cooling and heating

Maintain air conditioning equipment so that it operates near rated efficiency

Maintain space conditioning burners so that it operates near rated capacity

Compare energy ratings on equipment purchases (Energy Star vs. )

Install set-back thermostats/heating and A/C controls

Install high efficiency burner for space conditioning

Install high efficiency air conditioning system

Install bio fuels burner

Install geothermal energy space conditioning

Install solar thermal hot water to augment existing hot water systems

Building Operations Related:

Equipment:

Install automatic computer shut off when not in use

Install natural gas hot water versus electric

Install solar thermal hot water to augment existing water heater




Use laptops versus desktop computers (reduce electric by appr. 90 %)

Use ink jet printers versus lasers (reduces electric use by appr. 90 %)

Purchase Energy Star PCs, monitors, printers, fax machines and copiers.

Lighting:

Change out exit signs from incandescent to LED exit signs

Install high efficiency lighting

Install room occupancy sensors

Reduce lighting in non-office spaces,

Reduce general office lighting but increase work area with task lighting

Lower the height of lighting fixtures to increase useable light

Replace burned out lamps with lower wattage or energy saving bulbs

Replace incandescent lighting systems with compact fluorescent

Replace exterior lighting systems with high-pressure sodium fixtures

Install time clocks or photovoltaic cells to control exterior lighting

Paint interior walls and ceilings with lighter colors to maximize the effect of

existing lighting

Maximize natural lighting by installing skylights or windows.

Trim bushes and trees away from outdoor lighting to maximize illumination

Transportation Options:

Increase Mpg on vehicle purchases

Hybrid vehicle acquisition vs. gasoline/diesel engines

Bio-diesel versus petroleum

Convert to compressed natural gas (CNG)

Purchase CNG vehicles

Municipal produced bio-diesel

Electric plug-in (future technology)

Solar electric plug-in (future technology)

Municipal Electric Production Options:

Solar Electric Power Systems

Bio-gas diesel generator

Run-of-the-river hydro

Bio-diesel generator

Bio-diesel generator with heat recovery

Wind

Low speed wind (future technology)

Note: Items in italics were from a National Grid internet site - Energy Savings Tips




(b) Personnel Related Policy Options:

The lowest cost option in any energy savings plan is always behavior modification—it

shouldn’t cost money for employees to remember to shut off the light, although it may be

worth some time to help them remember. Following are a number of easy modifications

town employees can make in their daily work which would help Easton save energy

dollars.

Office Equipment

Turn off PCs, monitors, printers, and copiers nightly and on weekends. If

unable to switch off the entire computer, turn off the monitor and printer.

Switch computer settings to run on a power-saving mode when not in use.

Paper-reducing strategies, such as double-sided printing, re-using paper, and

using e-mail instead of sending memos or faxing documents not only save

energy, but conserve other resources, such as staff time.

Lighting

Turn off non-essential and decorative lighting, especially in unoccupied areas.

Color-code or mark light switches and circuit breakers that can be turned off

when not needed.

Replace flickering, dim and burned-out lamps.

Clean fixtures and diffusers (at least annually).

Use task lighting to directly illuminate work areas.

Lower the height of light fixtures if possible to increase usable light.

Replace burned out lamps with lower wattage lamps or energy-saving lamps

wherever possible.

Replacing incandescent lighting systems with compact fluorescent and/or

high-pressure fixtures.

Replace existing T12 lighting systems with energy-efficient T8 lighting and

electronic ballasts.

Install more efficient security and parking lot lighting. High-pressure sodium

fixtures are more efficient than metal halide, mercury vapor, fluorescent or

incandescent fixtures.

Install time clocks or photoelectric cells to control exterior lighting,

advertising sign lighting and some interior lighting.

Paint dark walls and ceilings with lighter colors to maximize the effect of

existing light sources.

Maximize natural lighting by installing skylights or windows.




Install dimmer or occupancy switches where appropriate to lower energy use

such as in stairwells, copy rooms, restrooms.

Schedule janitorial services during the day, or use a minimum number of

lights when cleaning.

Color-code switches that should remain off when crews are cleaning.

Implement a group re-lamping schedule, and re-lamp at 70% of rated lamp

life. Lamps that run longer than 70% of their rated life actually cost more in

terms of energy use.

Trim bushes and trees away from outdoor lighting to maximize illumination

and prevent shadows.

Heating/Ventilation/Air Conditioning Systems

Regularly...

o Keep vents closed in unoccupied areas to prevent heating or

cooling of storage areas and closets.

o Reduce fresh air intake to the minimum necessary for the type of

business.

o Treat water in evaporative condensers regularly.

o Replace resistance electric heating systems with heat pumps.

o Replace old HVAC systems with new energy-efficient systems.

o Install paddle fans, stratotherm fans, or other re-circulating systems

to create air movement. Ceiling temperatures can often be 30° to

40° higher than floor temperatures, and air movement from fans

can enhance the cooling ability of air conditioning systems.

o Install air conditioner economizers to use outside air to cool

buildings when outdoor air is lower than indoor temperatures.

o Install time clocks, set-back thermostats, and microprocessor

thermostats to monitor HVAC systems when buildings are

unoccupied.

o Install intermittent ignition devices on natural gas furnaces to save

natural gas.

o Modify flue dampers on natural gas furnaces to increase burner

efficiency.

Monthly ...

o Check air filters monthly, and clean or change as needed.

o Check air intake screens monthly, and clean as required.

o Inspect air dampers monthly, and keep them as airtight as possible.

o Check V-belts (fan belts) monthly for frays, cracks, and nicks, and

replace as necessary.

o Check heat recovery devices monthly for proper operation.




o Brush off air conditioner condenser coils monthly.

Quarterly ...

o Check motors, bearings, and blower fans every three months, and

lubricate as required.

o Check heating and cooling coils every three months, and clean as

needed.

o Check vacuum blower compartments every three months.

o Check ducts, vents, and pipes every three months, and repair any

damaged insulation.

Seasonally ...

o Check cooling systems in the spring before the cooling season

begins.

o Check pulleys and sheaves in the spring and fall for alignment and

proper belt tension.

o Set thermostats at 78°F or higher for cooling during the summer.

o During the summer, open windows and use only the fan portion of

cooling systems when outdoor air is cooler than indoor

temperatures.

o Keep doors and windows closed when air conditioning systems are

operating.

o Check heating systems in the fall before the heating season begins.

o During the winter, open shades and blinds on sunny days to warm

buildings naturally, and close them at night to prevent heat loss.

o Set thermostats at 68°F degrees or lower for heating in the winter,

and 55°F when buildings are unoccupied. If heating is required in

warehouses, set thermostats to 50°F .

Annually ...

o Check cabinets and brackets once a year, and tighten all bolts and

screws as necessary.

o Check housings yearly, and remove rust and repaint as required.

Refrigeration

Regularly

o Remove internal shelf lights to reduce refrigeration and lighting

energy use.

o Remove all, or at least every other incandescent bulb over

refrigerated meat displays.




o Maintain display fixtures and freezers at the following

temperatures for maximum energy savings:

o Frozen food cases, -8°F

o Ice cream cases/chests, -14°F

o Deli cases, 35°F

o Beer cases, 40°F

o Soda/dairy cases, 40°F

o Keep products below market load lines in freezers and coolers.

o Overloaded displays decrease product quality and increase energy

use by as much as 10 to 20% per unit.

o Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for shelf positions and

sizes to prevent increased refrigeration loads.

o Keep doors on refrigerated units open as little as necessary when

unloading or restocking.

o Use recommended night covers on low-temperature fixtures, and

keep covers below load lines to reduce compressor run time and

save energy.

o Clean condensing fins and plates monthly, and inspect for ice

build-up and bent fins.

o Check door latches and gaskets on refrigeration and freezer units

regularly; adjust latches and replace worn door gaskets as needed.

o When purchasing new refrigeration systems select the higher

energy efficiency rating (EER)—the greater the cooling capacity

for each kWh of energy input, the greater the efficiency of the

system.

o Brush condenser coils weekly with a non-metallic brush, and clean

coils monthly if dust build-up is extensive.

Monthly or quarterly

o Check refrigerant monthly for correct charge.

o Clean meat and dairy cases monthly.

o Clean produce and freezer cases every three months.

Annually

o Check refrigerator and freezer gaskets annually for leaks and wear,

and replace as needed.

o Perform annual checks on refrigeration and freezer units to

determine whether units are level; upright doors should close

automatically from an open position.

o Have automatic defrost cycles checked annually and adjusted if

necessary by a trained service technician.




Motors

Turn off motors used in perimeter fan coil units on mild winter nights to

permit the system to operate by natural convection.

Tighten belts and pulleys at regular intervals to prevent slippage.

Lubricate motors and drive regularly to reduce friction.

Replace bearings when worn.

Check and adjust alignment between motor and drive equipment to reduce

wear ad excessive torque.

Keep motors clean to facilitate cooling.

Purchase motors with the highest energy efficiency available.

Replace worn or defective motors with motors sized as close to load as

possible.

Weatherization

Install weather-stripping around exterior doors and operable windows, and

around doors between heated and unheated or cooled and uncooled spaces.

Install door bottoms, thresholds, or door "shoes" to seal gaps beneath exterior

doors and doors to unheated or uncooled spaces.

Insulate exterior walls and floors, and insulate roof or ceiling spaces to R-19

standards or above wherever possible.

Install window treatments where feasible, such as shade screens, shades,

awnings, or overhangs.

If exterior treatments are not feasible, consider interior window film, insulated

drapes, valances and/or blinds, or removable insulation material

Caulk cracks and gaps around windows and doors, in the building foundation,

and between different building materials.

Repair roof leaks. Insulation will lose effectiveness when wet.

Repair and maintain door and window weather-stripping to prevent water and

moisture entry, causing doors and windows to warp and deteriorate.

Consider permanently closing and sealing doors and windows NOT needed

for building access or ventilation and that are NOT used as safety or fire exits.

Keep doors between heated and unheated spaces and cooled and uncooled

spaces closed, and install automatic door closers if needed.

Food Service Equipment

Preheat cooking equipment according to the manufacturer's recommendations.

Exceeding manufacturer's specifications can increase energy use.

Use cooking equipment to full capacity. Fully-loaded equipment utilizes

energy more efficiently.




Turn off back-up fryers, and turn ovens down or off during low production

periods.

Do not overload fryer baskets beyond the manufacturer's recommended

capacity. Overloading baskets can increase cooking time, and energy use.

Check oven doors for a tight fit, and to ensure gaskets are in good condition.

Adjust and/or replace door seals and gaskets as necessary.

Clean equipment regularly as specified by the manufacturer.

Source: National Grid – “Energy Saving Tips”

http://www.nationalgridus.com/rigas/business/energyeff/3_tips.asp

(c) Energy Awareness Education

“Green Education”: Promoting Energy Conservation Awareness

Web Resources

Almost certainly the best source to begin to gather the most current and convenient

information when it comes to developing energy conservation awareness is the World

Wide Web. But with the wealth of resources available online it can be difficult to locate

the most reliable and comprehensive information without generating an overwhelming

collection of energy conservation information. It is important to narrow “green”

educational resources to an amount that can be easily absorbed otherwise one will likely

disregard useful and accessible information altogether simply out of frustration caused by

information overload and a sense of not knowing where to start in the wide universe of

energy conservation information.

One needs to decide the audience to be targeted (general population, children, adults,

employees, residents, etc.) and what energy efficiency issue(s) one wishes to discover

information about (i.e. general information, energy conservation practices, building

improvements and construction, or transportation related topics). Then a search for the

most dependable sources such as government websites and utility companies will reveal

many possible resources for information on becoming “green”. The following is only a

small sampling of the countless informative websites available but these sites have

proven to be particularly extensive in the breadth and depth of “green” information they

offer.

“Green” General Information

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Website

www.epa.gov

Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources (DOER)

www.mass.gov/doer/

Energy Information Administration (EIA)

http://www.nationalgridus.com/rigas/business/energyeff/3_tips.asp

http://www.epa.gov/

http://www.mass.gov/doer/




www.eia.doe.gov

Energy Star

www.energystar.gov

“Green” Practices

For Kids:

EPA

www.epa.gov/kids/

Energy Star

www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=kids.kids_index

Ideas for the Home:

Energy Star

www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=about.vampires

EPA

www.epa.gov/epahome/home.htm

Ideas for Work:

EPA

www.epa.gov/epahome/workplac.htm

Energy Star

www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=business.bus_index

“Green” Building Improvements

Energy Star

www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?fuseaction=find_a_product.

www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=home_improvement.hm_improvement_index

Gas Networks

www.gasnetworks.com/

“Green” Building Construction

United States Green Building Council

www.usgbc.org

EPA

www.epa.gov/greenbuilding/

Energy Star

www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=new_homes.hm_index

http://www.eia.doe.gov/

http://www.energystar.gov/

http://www.epa.gov/kids/

http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=kids.kids_index

http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=about.vampires

http://www.epa.gov/epahome/home.htm

http://www.epa.gov/epahome/workplac.htm

http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=business.bus_index

http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?fuseaction=find_a_product

http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=home_improvement.hm_improvement_index

http://www.gasnetworks.com/

http://www.usgbc.org/

http://www.epa.gov/greenbuilding/

http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=new_homes.hm_index




“Green” Transportation

Fuel Economy

www.fueleconomy.gov/

“Green” Educational Materials and Information

In this day in age we are all bombarded with many messages to conserve energy and it is

therefore often difficult to make these messages “stick”. Creative and effective ways are

necessary in order to develop these messages into everyday practices. Emailings with

energy efficiency tips and newsletters are a start but are often discarded into the recycle

bin of our electronic mailboxes. Other more effective reminders during our daily routines

might have more staying power. For example the U.S. Department of Energy Efficiency

and Renewable Energy has made available the following promotional materials in

September of 2008:

Posters (Working to Secure A Clean Energy Future)

Light Switch Covers

Door Knob Hangers

12-Month Tent Card Calendar

CD Rom Power Kit of Energy Awareness Resources

Energy Star has many promotional materials available in PDF form for download such as

posters and banners to help spread the word of energy conservation. Many online retail

sources sell “green” promotional merchandise as well. Although it is up to each

individual to turn awareness into action materials such as these used to promote energy

conservation education offer a more colorful and fun way to help develop good habits

through friendly reminders.

Public Outreach:

Setting a Good Example: Incentives for Turning Awareness into Action

The resulting benefits of energy conservation actions should be made clear so to generate

the motivation necessary to initiate more good habits when it comes to energy

conservation. These benefits will also encourage practice of these actions to continue. If

those practicing energy conservation are shown, for example, how much the buildings

they work (or live) in are saving in energy and money they are more likely to continue

their “green” practices and spread the word that the small changes that are made do add

up to make big differences. Municipal governments can have the added benefit of good

public relations as the result of setting a good example through positive and effective

changes related to energy conservation. If the positive outcomes of Easton’s energy

conservation practices are presented in a way specific to the Town of Easton the Town’s

unique case in point will be more inspirational to its residents and employees than any

general statement about energy conservation benefits could be. Ways of reaching others

to inform residents and employees alike could include:

http://www.fueleconomy.gov/




Posting an Energy Conservation Tip of the Week

Including an Energy Conservation Tip in Easton’s “Town Crier”

Promote Easton’s Green Community status on signs or other highly visible media

Post online “What Have We Done” summary of Easton’s Green accomplishments

Public outreach should also continue beyond digital venues. Preparing events such as an

Energy Awareness Week would be an ideal opportunity to showcase what the Town of

Easton has done relating to energy conservation as well as present information and

educations on what every individual household and business can do to conserve energy.

Events during an Energy Awareness Week could include information about renewable

resources, alternative fuels, and other related subjects presented for a range of targeted

audiences. Community events would allow for activities and displays relating to energy

conservation and renewable resources in a multi-media multi-dimension way that is sure

to produce a memorable awareness of what it means to be “green” for all who attend to

carry into their daily lives.




IV. Policies – Potential Renewable Energy Resources

(a) Wind

Massachusetts is rich in wind resources;

unfortunately Easton is not. Given current

technology, there are no sites in Easton suitable for

wind technology of any scale; however, it is

possible that in the future low-speed generators will

make it possible to harness the energy in areas with

low wind speeds. The DOER has prepared a Model

Zoning By-Law for Wind Facilities, which may be

referred to if and when such technology becomes available, or even in advance of such

technology so that a facility could be easily permitted at such time that it was financially

possible to do so. Add to this section (ex. Plymouth and other coastal communities)

(b) Solar

Solar electric

“A solar cell or photovoltaic cell is a device that converts

solar energy into electricity by the photovoltaic effect.

Photovoltaics is the field of technology and research

related to the application of solar cells as solar energy.

Sometimes the term solar cell is reserved for devices

intended specifically to capture energy from sunlight,

while the term photovoltaic cell is used when the source

is unspecified. Assemblies of cells are used to make solar

modules, which may in turn be linked in photovoltaic arrays.”1

In the City of Brockton, solar electric arrays have been successfully installed on the site

of an abandoned gasworks—this arrangement is known as a brightfield. The $3 million

project was funded jointly by the city, the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative, and

the U.S. Department of Energy. Brocton hopes to earn $130,000 a year from the energy

production, which equates to a 20-year payback for the city’s initial inverstment.2

Easton could install a similar brightfield on the site of its landfill. Obstacles to

implementing such a strategy include a current regulatory requirement that such landfills

be capped (Easton’s landfill is not) and financing. In Brockton, the city picked up roughly

half of the cost for the project. The Landfill Committee would need to approve such a

move, as well.

(c) Hydro

Easton has the potential for low flow “flow of the river” small turbines within the

waterways of the town. It may be worthwhile to look into the technology and the cost

benefit of these turbines for additional future power.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=ocaterminal&L=4&L0=Home&L1=Consumer&L2=Energy%2C+Fuel+%26+Utilities&L3=Renewable+Energy+Programs&sid=Eoca&b=terminalcontent&f=doer_programs_renew_wind-model-zoning&csid=Eoca

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=ocaterminal&L=4&L0=Home&L1=Consumer&L2=Energy%2C+Fuel+%26+Utilities&L3=Renewable+Energy+Programs&sid=Eoca&b=terminalcontent&f=doer_programs_renew_wind-model-zoning&csid=Eoca

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Solar_energy

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electricity

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Photoelectric_effect

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Photovoltaics

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Solar_energy

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Solar_module

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Solar_module

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Photovoltaic_array




Solar thermal/passive solar

Solar thermal, also known as passive solar, uses solar energy to create heat, usually for

hot water.

Policy implications

Solar are an increasingly common addition to residences; however, many homeowners’

associations ban the addition of solar panels to residential homes for the first 5-30 years

after a home has been constructed. Such restrictions are typically imposed by a developer

who worries that solar panels will be considered unattractive by the high-end customers

he hopes to attract. One way in which the Town might encourage the use of solar energy

in private homes would be to restrict homeowners’ associations from banning solar

panels in new subdivisions. This could be accomplished through a subdivision rule, or a

bylaw.

Another obstacle to installing solar panels in Easton is the upfront cost. Easton could

implement a tax rebate program, or a no- or low-interest loan, repayable at sale, for

installing solar panels on private residences.

Policy to restrict Homeowner’s Associations on new Subdivisions from banning

solar panels

Tax rebate program/revolving loan program

DOER is drafting eligibility criteria for municipal participants. Draft criteria will be

published on or about November 15, 2008. DOER is also preparing application forms and

procedures for grants and loans.

Public Awareness:

DOER plans to conduct outreach to municipalities through mailings and workshops. This

program will commence in the fall of 2008

Stakeholder Input:

Opportunity for stakeholders to submit written comments will commence on August 18,

2008 and continue until further notice. Comments must be submitted electronically in

Portable Document Format (PDF). Comments relating to the Green Communities

Division must be sent to this specific email address

[email protected] Before posting on this site, comments

will be reviewed by DOER staff, and DOER reserves the right not to post comments

deemed inappropriate.

Related Documents: None at this time.

1 Wikipedia. “Solar electric” 10-14-2008. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Solar_electric

2 Baard, Mark. “Turn Around, Brightfield: Hard-knock New England city welcomes

region's largest solar installation” Grist.com Oct. 27, 2006. Accessed at

http://www.grist.org/news/maindish/2006/10/27/baard/index.html?source=daily on

October 14, 2008

mailto:[email protected]

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Solar_electric

http://www.grist.org/news/maindish/2006/10/27/baard/index.html?source=daily




(d) Cultural Considerations

Recently a grant opportunity made available to Towns of Massachusetts through

the Commonwealth Solar Program was explored as a possible source for small scale solar

power in the Town of Easton. This opportunity would have potentially offered the Town

of Easton a solar powered lighting system, free of charge, which was being planned to

illuminate the flagpole in the vicinity of the historic F.L. Olmstead Rockery. After further

investigation of the appearance of the system (which would have included a large

elevated solar panel and battery) it was determined the solar lighting system was

inappropriate for the area of the Rockery due primarily to concerns about the historical

integrity of this nearby National Register Landmark and its historic district surroundings.

Examples such as this should be taken into consideration as Easton moves

forward in its pursuit towards becoming a Green Community. Although renewable

resources and technologies may seem incontrovertibly favorable they must be utilized

appropriately and placed in suitable locations in order to not have a negative impact on

the esthetics of the community and its many cultural and historical resources (including

historic buildings, areas, structures, and archaeological sites).

These concerns have legislative support as many funding sources available for

renewable resource projects originate from public monies and this is likely to prompt

actions pertaining to Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 and

Massachusetts General Law Chapter 9, sections 26-27C as well as a Massachusetts

Environmental Protection Agency review. These circumstances call for the

Massachusetts Historical Commission (MHC) to evaluate the potential affects of such

projects on historical and archaeological resources. The location of projects being on

public land also plays a role in initiating these actions from the MHC. These actions may

result in the MHC mitigating the affects of such projects in favor of historic preservation.

These considerations should by no means discourage projects using public funds, lands,

or permits from being planned. Instead preparations for possible cultural resource related

holdups should be made in the renewable resource project development process in order

to lessen any setbacks.

“Any new construction projects or renovations to existing buildings that require funding,

licenses, or permits from any state or federal governmental agencies must be reviewed by

the Massachusetts Historical Commission (MHC) for impacts to historic and

archaeological properties. It is the nature of the federal or state agency involvement that

triggers MHC review, not listing in the National or State Registers of Historic Places. A

listing in either register does not necessarily require review and likewise, lack of listing

does not eliminate the need for review.” – MHC website

Easton is rich with historical and archaeological wealth, known and not yet

known. With concern for Easton’s cultural resources taken into account during the

planning of green community projects a balance can be achieved. The potential benefits

of this balance include not only lower energy costs but also additional tourist revenues

gained while retaining Easton’s historic integrity, cultural vibrancy, and overall

community identity.




V. Funding Sources:

(a) Utility Programs / Rebates – Bay State Gas and National Grid

GasNetworks is a collaborative of major local gas companies, such as Bay State Gas in

this area, along with governmental agencies and affiliates, including National Grid, to

encourage local communities and businesses to become more energy efficient. In an

attempt to accomplish this, these utilities offer rebates for purchases and installations of

many products including Energy Star rated items. To qualify for these rebates,

equipment purchases and installations made between May 1, 2007 – April 30, 2009 are

eligible. The following is a list of equipment, some with their efficiency rating, that

would qualify under this rebate program. (Refer to Appendix C for rebate applications)

System Efficiency Rebate

Warm Air Furnace 92% AFUE** $100 rebate

Warm Air Furnace (w/ECM*) 92% AFUE $400 rebate

Steam Boiler 82% AFUE $200 rebate

Hot Water Boiler 85% AFUE $500 rebate

Hot Water Boiler 90% AFUE $1000 rebate

Combined High Efficiency 90% or > AFUE $1300 rebate

Space & Water Heating Unit

* Electronically Commutated Motor

** AFUE = Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency

System Rebate

High Efficiency Food Equip. $1000 rebate

Gas-Fired Low Intensity $500 rebate

Infrared Heating

Energy Star Central Air $300 - $500 rebate

Conditioning

Energy Star Qualified $25 rebate

Thermostat




Energy Efficient Windows $10 rebate

Energy Star Lighting

Light bulbs and Fixtures*** $1 - $15 rebate

*** Note:

Energy Star Lighting – Light bulbs and Fixtures can be purchased at the discounted price

on-line at http://www.energyfederation.org/estarlights/default.php

(b) State Grant Programs

Massachusetts Technology Collaborative

“The Massachusetts Technology Collaborative is the state’s development agency for

renewable energy and the innovation economy, which is responsible for one-quarter of all

jobs in the state. MTC administers the John Adams Innovation Institute and the

Renewable Energy Trust. We work to stimulate economic activity in communities

throughout the Commonwealth.” – www.masstech.org

A quasi-public entity the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative brings together

resources from academia, industry, and government in order to nurture economic growth

and environmental health. These two main focuses of the MTC are supported by

renewable resource technology research and development which is made possible

through investments in these fields and in turn “technology driven innovation fuels our

economy”.

MTC History: Technology to Clean Energy

After it’s creation in 1982 the MTC has been through many evolutions as the economic

climate in the State changed. Beginning as a collaboration of technology sector entities

the MTC embarked on a “new model” after the severe recession of the late 1980s. The

new approach was much a result of legislature expanding the MTC to reach beyond

technology firms and “to foster the expansion of industrial and commercial activity in the

Commonwealth by employing its resources, to the extent consistent with its educational

activities, to advance additional, more direct economic development initiatives which

support firms to maintain, expand and locate their business activities within the

Commonwealth and thereby create and retain increased and more rewarding employment

opportunities for our citizens.”

During the lat 1990s because of the agency’s ability to find solutions to complex issues

with regard to the State’s economy it was chosen to implement two mandates with the

Renewable Resource Trust and also the John Adams Innovation Institute.

It is through the Renewable Energy Trust that the MTC “has developed and implemented

creative programs and initiatives that have garnered a reputation for the Trust as among

http://www.energyfederation.org/estarlights/default.php

http://www.masstech.org/




the leading state clean energy funds in the country”. Examples of such programs include

developing partnerships with school districts to develop healthier and more energy

efficient schools, the creation of programs that lead to investments in clean energy

companies and research and development in clean energy technologies and increasing

public demand for these “green” resources. Through these accomplishments and many

others the MTC enriches the Commonwealth’s economy while aiming for a cleaner

environment.

MTC and Easton: Support for Becoming a “Green Community”

The MTC is a crucial resource for the Town of Easton to consider while becoming a

“Green Community” as it offers information about clean energy in general and

opportunities for grants and other funding sources specifically suitable for communities

such as Easton. These opportunities include:

Green Schools Initiative- This program is offering 15 million dollars in grants to “support

the design and building of high-performance green school buildings across the

Commonwealth using the Massachusetts Collaborative for High-Performance Schools

(MA-CHPS) criteria as the guideline. The Green Schools Initiative offers an array of

public benefit services; design support; and renewable energy Installation grants to

eligible school projects in Massachusetts.”

Commonwealth Solar - 68 million dollars are available in funding to support solar

photovoltaic installations in Massachusetts that are up to 500 kilowatts in size.

Large Renewables Initiative – “The Large Onsite Renewables Initiative (LORI) awards

grants for feasibility studies and design & construction projects of qualifying renewable

energy systems greater than 10 kW... Feasibility Grants are capped at $40,000 with an

applicant cost share of 15%. Design & Construction Grants are calculated based on an

Incentive Matrix. Design grants are capped at the lesser of $125,000 or 75% of actual

cost, and construction grants are capped at the lesser of $275,000 or 75% of actual costs.”

This initiative refers to non photovoltaic applications.

Small Renewables Initiative – Currently not accepting applications for small wind

projects (up to 10 kilowatts). “The Small Renewables Initiative (SRI) provides rebates for

the installation of wind and small hydroelectric projects” the “applicant (and project site)

must be a customer of a Massachusetts investor-owned electric distribution utility”.

Applications for this funding for small hydro-electric projects are being accepted but not

for photovoltaic (see Commonwealth Solar program).

Clean Energy Choice - MTC's Clean Energy Choice® program allows consumers to

purchase electricity from renewable sources, which, in turn, generates matching grants

for their communities. Your town or city can receive up to one dollar in funding for each

dollar residents spend on clean energy. This money can be used to fund clean energy

projects. Towns can use Clean Energy Choice matching grants in combination with

rebates from the Small Renewables Initiative (see above) for renewable energy projects.




To qualify as a participant during the bonus period (5/1/07-6/30/08), a household must

either 1) contribute through their National Grid’s Green Up program through June 2008;

OR 2) have an active New England Wind Fund (NEWF) subscription during the bonus

period and a contribution during June 2008. If possible Easton should work to promote

expanding its participant base! Easton earned $5,984.62

Occupied Households: 7489 Qualified Participants: 19

Remainder Participants needed for PV Bonus Plan: 151 Remainder Participants needed for % of Household Bonus Plan: 206

Percent of Households: 0.25%

Community Wind Collaborative – Although Easton may not have ideal wind resources

technological advances may open more wind energy opportunities in the future. “The

Community Wind Collaborative offers qualified interested communities technical

assistance, wind monitoring equipment, data analysis, and competitively secured

resources for wind energy projects”.

Predevelopment Financing Initiative – “The Pre-Development Financing Initiative is

designed to assist New England developers and public entities develop large-scale

renewable energy projects in and/or serving the state.” Projects that would be eligible to

receive this assistance include 3,000 kilowatt wind and biomass projects, 250 kilowatt

landfill gas projects and other grid connected 1,000 kilowatt electric generating facility

projects. “These generating facilities must primarily intend to generate electricity for the

wholesale electricity market. A minimum of 50% of the renewable energy produced must

be provided to this market, rather than using it mostly for self-use.” Funding amounts

range from 50,000 per project for feasibility studies and $150,000 to $250,000 for

Predevelopment (amount varies depending on the type of renewable energy: greater

funding category is available for wind and biomass).

MassDEP – Municipal Sustainability Grants available to municipalities, schools and

regional groups to provide a means to qualify for equipment, outreach materials,

technical assistance and for sustainability initiatives that would assist other communities

as a model. (Refer to Appendix G)

(c) Capital Budget

Every fiscal year, each municipal and school department is asked to develop and revise a

5 year capital plan to fit their departments’ needs. Although these capital funds will be

strained over the next few years because of town financial constraints, it can be seen as

another resource that could possibly be utilized in future years for more expenditures into

energy efficient projects. Each contributing department should be considering what

innovative energy conservation methods they can introduce into the capital plan process

and integrate these ideas or methods into their departments’ requests.




(d) Future Potential Source:

The following is a submittal from the Task Force’s Energy Consultant, Albert Benson,

explaining a piece of legislation of a possible future funding source for energy

conservation projects. The Easton Green Communities Act Task Force has included this

document into the report as a fact finding informational source.

Community Preservation Act – Existing and Proposed

The Community Preservation Act (M.G.L. ch. 44B) (hereinafter referred to as “CPA”)

was enacted to provide a voluntary funding source for municipalities to use to conduct

municipal benefit projects where funds would not ordinarily be available to support such

projects. The state has provided funds on top of the local funding provided by a tax

surcharge on local property taxes. All projects are developed and approved at the local

level. The types of projects allowed under the existing law provide community funding

for (1) Open Space, (2) Historical Preservation, (3) Community Housing and (4) Public

Recreation. The law stipulates that once a community has expended 10 % of the annual

funds generated by the CPA on each required use category (Open Space, Historical

Preservation and Community Housing), the city or town may use all or a portion of the

remaining 70% for Public Recreational purposes.

In the spring of 2001, Easton voters adopted the Community Preservation Act (CPA).

Through December 31, 2007, Easton has raised $8,142,649, with $3,607,736 of those

funds being state matching funds. As mentioned above, 10% of that total must be

dedicated to each of the three community preservation purposes: historic preservation;

community housing; and open space preservation. The balance of CPA funds is not

reserved for any particular community preservation purpose. CPA funds can only be

spent as the CPA law states and upon a favorable recommendation of the CPA

Committee and town meeting approval. As of 12/31/07, there was $727,784 in CPA

housing reserves; $272,784 in historic preservation reserves; $568,054 in open space

reserves; and $5,812,147 in unreserved CPA funds.

It has been recommended and legislation will be advanced out of the Massachusetts

House of Representatives’ Energy and Environment Committee in the fourth quarter of

2008 that the CPA be amended and a fifth category, Community Energy Conservation, be

added. Community energy conservation projects could be authorized from the remaining

70% funding as is the case with Public Recreational. Authorizing community energy

conservation and renewable energy systems at municipal facilities would reduce the

requirements for energy consumption, the demand for current and future municipal taxes

and improve the environment. From a state perspective, increased local activity

associated with the execution of the energy projects should increase state tax revenue as

opposed to funds flowing from the state for the purchase of fossil fuels.

The CPA provides the community the funds needed to control its future. Given the

widespread concern about energy costs, the environment, and global climate change the

addition of Community Energy Conservation to the CPA is likely to be adopted into law




and is considered to be a win-win situation for Massachusetts communities and the state.

This change is totally consistent with the State Administration’s effort to promote energy

efficiency and reduce the use of fossil fuels. No additional or new state funding will be

required to provide the one hundred and sixty-six (166) Massachusetts communities the

option to reduce energy use and/or install renewable energy systems on municipal

facilities.

The main aspects of the proposed Community Energy Conservation amendment are

summarized as follows:

Once a community has expended or reserved at least 10% of the annual funds generated

by the CPA on each required use category (open space, historic preservation and

community housing), the City or Town may use all or a portion of the remaining 70% for

community energy conservation purposes.

Community energy conservation is defined to include active or passive energy

conservation and the installation of renewable energy systems on community owned

facilities, including, but not limited to, the following:

The installation of incremental building insulation up to the US EPA

recommendations for cold weather climates

Replacement of existing windows with energy efficient windows and thermal

window treatments to increase building envelope efficiency

Replacement of existing building space conditioning equipment with high

efficiency equipment

Installation of renewable energy systems to provide onsite heat and power

Acquisition

Acquire energy efficient equipment, materials and renewable energy systems

As building code standards typically represent the minimum energy efficiency

standard allowed by law, the acquisition of energy efficiency equipment and

upgrades above the standard is supported

Provide matching funds for federal and/or state grant relating to energy

conservation or renewable energy programs for municipal facilities

Preservation

Mitigate environmental degradation through energy conservation and the use of

renewable energy systems at community facilities

Upgrade historic and other community facilities to current building code energy

efficiency standards or above to conserve energy consumption

Conduct energy studies necessary to define and quantify energy use reductions

and quantify environmental improvements resulting from installed projects and

the creation of new projects under this program




Support

Showcase energy conservation and renewable energy use as a model for use at

other buildings in the community and in the public schools as appropriate

Provide information on successful initiatives to other communities so that similar

projects can be consider in other communities

Help provide municipal workers and visitors to municipal facilities with space

conditioned work spaces that are heated and cooled in an environmentally

friendly manner

No Maintenance. CPA funds cannot be used for routine maintenance of existing

facilities. For example, communities cannot use CPA funds to maintain a municipal park

(such as mowing the lawn, emptying trash barrels or dumpsters, etc.) or to maintain a

historic town hall (cleaning the common areas or paying for utilities, etc).

Massachusetts Renewable Energy Trust – Community Initiative

A program funded through the Massachusetts Renewable Energy Trust (RET) has been

established to spur the use of solar electric throughout the commonwealth. This program

is open to residential, commercial customers and communities. This program –

Commonwealth Solar - provides cash rebates upon installation of a grid connected solar

electric system. The Commonwealth Solar program has been introduced and described

on the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative website, which has oversight

responsibility for the (RET), as follows:

Overview

The Patrick administration places a priority on accelerating the number of solar electric

photovoltaic projects (PV projects) within the Commonwealth. To that end, the Patrick

administration and the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative (MTC) are pleased to

introduce a bold new initiative, Commonwealth Solar. Commonwealth Solar provides

rebates through a non-competitive application process for the installation of PV projects

at residential, commercial, industrial, and public facilities. Non-residential projects are

eligible for rebates for PV projects up to 500 kilowatts (kW) and residential projects are

eligible for up to 5 kW. The applicant (and project site) must be a customer of a

Massachusetts investor-owned electric utility.

How do I learn more about solar energy and apply for a rebate?

Please note: before you have a system installed, your rebate application needs to be

approved. This involves working with a Massachusetts-licensed electrician. Your

installer can help you with the application process. Follow the steps at right for an

overview of the process, which includes information on estimating your rebate size and

how to select an installer.

If you decide to move forward with a PV project, your installer will be responsible for

providing you with a turnkey service and installation, including taking you through the




Commonwealth Solar rebate process, securing required permits, and ensuring the

installation of your PV project.

Starting in 2008, Commonwealth Solar has $68 million available for funding over the

next four years to support PV installations in Massachusetts. The effort combines $40

million from the Renewable Energy Trust (Trust) and $28 million from the Alternative

Compliance Payment funds that the Massachusetts Division of Energy Resources has

collected under the state’s Renewable Portfolio Standard program. The state estimates

that Commonwealth Solar will result in 27 megawatts (MW) of PV projects over the next

four years.

It is noteworthy that Section 20 of Massachusetts law titled An Act Relative to Green

Communities dated July 2, 2008 reauthorizes the $.0005 kilowatt-hour surcharge on

investor owned electric utility sales of electric to support renewable energy development.

Therefore, this and other programs to support the growth of renewable are likely to

continue for the foreseeable future. It is also noteworthy that Section 11(f) reauthorized

the Renewable Portfolio Standard and mandated that investor owned electric utilities

increase the share of electric generation by an additional one-half of 1 percent for each of

the years December 31, 1999 through December 31, 2009 and an additional 1 percent of

sales every year thereafter.

If an investor owned electric utility has not complied with the renewable supply plans

required under Section 11(f), then Section 21 (3) (e) provides for an “alternative

compliance payment”, which stipulates a penalty of $.0005 per kilowatt-hour on the

shortfall quantities. This fine shall not be passed on to the ratepayers of that utility and,

therefore, impacts the shareholders only. Funds derived from “alternative compliance

payments” are typically provided to RET to be utilized for such programs such as the

Commonwealth Solar program.

The rebate levels available for Commonwealth Solar program are presented in the

following table:

Non-Residential: Commonwealth Solar Rebate Matrix ($/watt dc)

Incremental Capacity 1 to 25

kW

(1,000

to

25,000

watts)

> 25 to

100

kW

> 100

kW to

200

kW

> 200

kW to

500

kW

Base Incentive ($/watt dc) $3.25 $3.00 $2.00 $1.50

Plus Adders to Base:

MA Manufactured

Components

$0.25 $0.25 $0.25 $0.25

Public Building Adder $1.00 $1.00 $1.00 $1.00




The Town of Easton would be eligible for the Base Incentive Award ($3.00), the MA-

Manufactured Components ($0.25) and the Public Building Adder ($1.00). Based on a

proposed size of 50 kilowatts, funding would be equal to $4.25 per watt dc, which would

represent a grant of $212,500.00 toward the proposed system on Oliver Ames High

School.

As indicated in the section describing the operation of a solar electric system, MTC has

established engineering design requirements geared to helping new system owners to get

the most efficient system that will last for years into the future. The detailed system

requirements are specified in the “Minimum Technical Requirements – July 1, 2008 v

2.0” which is attached as Appendix 1.

Three important considerations about the Commonwealth Solar Program are (1) the

program is for $68.0 million, (2) the program is for four years beginning in 2008 and (3)

rebates are awarded on a first come first serve basis. It would therefore in best interests of

the Town of Easton to move expeditiously through the internal approval process so that

the grant applications can be developed and submitted to MTC.

“RECs” (Renewable Energy Credits) represent the value of the positive attributes,

unbundled from energy, which result from the use of renewable energy systems that

qualify for the Massachusetts Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS). RECs can be

considered as the avoided costs to society from the use of fossil fuels to generate

electricity. Societal costs not captured in the selling price of fossil-fired electric

generation, such costs to society arising from the liquid, solid and gaseous waste streams,

negative affect on balance of payments, adverse health impacts, acid rain related damage

to public and private buildings and structures, emission of global climate change related

compounds, etc.

MTC also coordinates various aspects of the Commonwealth’s Renewable Energy Credit

(REC) program. The MTC website offers the following explanation about REC program:

State RPS requirements assign particular value to the RECs generated by facilities

installed after 1998. Owners of clean energy facilities can sell their RECs under a variety

of pricing and contract terms without compromising their ability to capitalize on the

monetary benefits associated with on-site electricity generation, net metering, and power

supply agreements.

REC purchase programs help all facility owners capture clean energy's added value to

society, and they assist developers in securing favorable financing terms for larger-scale

renewables installations. Licensed power suppliers and brokers, as well as the

Massachusetts Technology Collaborative (MTC), compete in the REC market.

Power suppliers generally seek low-cost RECs to satisfy RPS requirements, while green

power brokers and marketers offer differentiated products based on RECs purchased

from RPS-eligible facilities and other renewable energy sources. To meet consumer

http://www.masstech.org/cleanenergy/policy/rps.htm




demands, licensed brokers and marketers are actively seeking to buy RECs from owners

and operators of new PV and wind installations sited within the state's borders. Visit the

Clean Energy Choice program for information on some of these programs.

Owners and developers of clean energy facilities can also take advantage of MTC 's

Green Power Partnership, which purchases RECs from and provides risk-hedging

contracts to developers of RPS-qualified projects and to companies that purchase RECs

from eligible facilities. The program encourages generators and brokers to enter into

long-term contracts for RECs, either directly with MTC or with other market

participants, in order to create a guaranteed revenue stream and improve prospects for

project financing.

http://www.cleanenergychoice.org/

http://www.mtpc.org/renewableenergy/mgpp.htm




APPENDIX

A:

LOCAL

&

STATE

REPORTS




B. Local and State Reports

Local: Town of Easton

Summary

By: Adria Fichter

The Town of Easton has most recently entered the EPA’s Community Energy

Challenge for the second year. The Community Energy Challenge is an opportunity for

municipalities across New England to identify simple and cost-effective measures that

increase energy efficiency and renewable energy use while reducing air pollution and

saving money. This summer I worked with Easton as an EPA intern working on the

Community Energy Challenge to help them benchmark a number of their town buildings.

By benchmarking buildings you can track energy performance over time so a baseline

measurement can be established and the energy savings can begin. From this benchmark

you can measure improvements, and see if adjustments to the building are changing

energy usage.

Twelve of Easton’s town buildings were benchmarked. In total 698,335 square feet of

town owned property was benchmarked which is a large amount, showing Easton’s

eagerness to continue with the benchmarking process. The twelve buildings that I

benchmarked include: the Police/Fire Headquarters, Fire Station #2, Fire Station #3,

Easton DPW, Easton Water Department, Easton Town Offices, HH Richardson/

Olmstead School, Easton Jr High School, Easton High School, Parkview School, Center

School, and Moreau Hall. Each building is entered into Energy Star’s Portfolio Manager

and has received either an Energy Star Rating or energy intensity rating. The first step in

the benchmarking process was to gather at least twelve months of utility data for each of

the buildings. Space type data is also needed for each building. Space type data includes:

zip code, the year the building was built, square footage, number of personal computers,

number of regular occupants, operating hours, and percent of the building heated/ cooled.

Some buildings like schools require more data like number of students, if there are on-

site cooking facilities, and if the building is mechanically ventilated.

The first building to be benchmarked was Fire/Police Headquarters. The building

received an energy intensity rating of 208 kBtu/ Sq. Ft. This can be compared to the

national average energy intensity for police/fire stations which is 157 kBtu/ Sq. Ft. In

terms of energy intensity you want the lowest usage per square foot. Being below the

average would be ideal, like in a game of golf. It is clear the building is performing

higher than the national average, but not by too much. There is definitely still room for

improvement. The station is open 24-hours a day making it difficult to turn off all

equipment, but not everything is in use at all hours and should be shut-down if possible.

This type of building has problems with the opening and closing of the doors as well as

having little insulation in the doors. Ventilation in the garage space can also be an issue

that puts stress on the heating system. A 10% reduction will be a savings of $842 a year.

Easton Fire Station #2 received an energy intensity of 102.4 kBtu/ Sq. Ft. can compare

that number to the national average of 157 kBtu/ Sq. Ft. This is below average which is

excellent. Like previously stated, fire stations are difficult and this station most likely can

see improvements by looking at their doors. A reduction of 10% will save $134 a year.




Easton Fire Station #3 earned an energy intensity of 76.3 kBtu/ Sq. Ft. This is

considerably less than average which is great. The building might want to look into

further insulating their doors or analyzing their ventilation system to possibly yield more

savings. When the 10% reduction is met there will be a savings of $192 a year.

Easton DPW earned an energy intensity of 57.9 kBtu/ Sq. Ft. this can be compared to

the national average for vehicle service buildings which is 157 kBtu/ Sq. Ft. Therefore,

Easton DPW is doing really well in compared to similar buildings nationally. A 10%

reduction will save $310 a year.

The Easton Water Department building received an Energy Star Rating of 43 which is

just about average. If the building completes the 10% reduction can still save $345 a year

and increase the rating to a 57!

Easton Town Offices has earned an Energy Star Rating of an 85! This is an excellent

score and the building is now eligible to apply for the Energy Star Label and get National

Recognition for the good work Easton has done. The building can still save money from a

10% reduction, the savings will be $554 a year and the rating will increase to a 90 which

is superior.

The HH Richardson/Olmstead School got an Energy Star Rating of 2. Not going to

worry about this rating too much yet. It will probably be best to go back and look at the

data and make sure it is all correct. Sometimes bringing older school buildings up to date

is difficult because of the increased use of electronics in the classroom. The school has

good opportunity for improvement and can save $4,821 with a 10% reduction and can

increase their rating to a 5.

The Easton Jr. High School has been under construction in recent years, and it is

possible that some of the data gathered isn’t the most reliable or recent. Therefore an

Energy Star Rating can’t be given, but the school did receive an energy intensity of 220.5

kBtu/ Sq. Ft. The national average for K-12 schools is 150 kBtu/ Sq. Ft. The school is

above average, but relooking at the data is most likely the best idea as a next step. There

was no cost data available so a financial savings can not be judged.

Easton High School received Energy Star Rating of 53. However, this building was

under construction within recent years and there is a possibility that some of the data isn’t

reliable. There was no cost data available so a financial savings can not be judged.

The Parkview School received an Energy Star Rating of 35. A 10% reduction will

save $957 a year and increase the score to a 51. This will put the building just over

average.

The Center School received an Energy Star Rating of 10. The score is low, but this

school might also be having trouble efficiently keeping up with the increased use of

electronics. A 10% reduction will be a savings of $1,502 a year and increase the rating to

a 14. At this point, might want to do a quick walk through of the building and maybe see

if there is anything noticeable that might be turned off. Other schools have found that

lights in the gym are on all the time and no one had noticed and they could see a savings

just by turning them off.

Moreau Hall received an Energy Star Rating of 67 which is excellent because it is

close to the 75 needed to be eligible to apply for the Energy Star Label. If the school

meets the 10% reduction then can save $932 a year and increase the rating to a 78 making

the building eligible for the label.




In total for the town a 10% reduction will mean a savings of 5,494,657 kBtu/ year

which equals 1,609,039 kWh/ year and a financial savings of $10,589 a year (this savings

does not include savings from the Jr High or High schools)! The environmental benefits

to this savings are the town will save 1,251 Metric Tons of CO2 from being emitted. This

is equal to the annual green house gas emissions from 229 passenger vehicles = CO2

emissions from 141,993 gallons of gasoline = CO2 emissions from the energy use of 110

homes for one year = CO2 emissions from 2,909 barrels of oil. As we have seen the

rising cost of electricity we understand what this savings means to both the environment

and our finances.

The first step to meet this 10% reduction might be to talk to your utility company

because they have incentives and other programs to help their customers reduce energy

consumption and reduce peak load. Other measures to think about are starting with No-

cost/ Low –Cost ways to increase energy efficiency. There are many resources available

on the energystar.gov site including the Best Practices Checklist which starts at operating

and maintenance, occupants’ behaviors, lighting and moves up to controls and

equipment. There is also a Building Manual that is a great reference for improving energy

performance.

Easton is working hard to continue promoting energy efficiency in their second year

of the challenge they have now made an Energy Green Community Act Task Force.

Adrienne Edwards also sends out monthly emails informing the community about energy

and energy efficiency.

It was great working with Easton this summer. It was wonderful going to the initial

meeting and receiving data right away. I hope Easton can continue their efforts and

become even more energy efficient. I also hope they will be able to pursue the Energy

Star Label for their Town Offices to demonstrate all their hard work. I would like to

thank Adrienne Edwards for setting up each of the meetings and giving me wonderfully

organized data.Local & State Energy Efficiency

Learn about programs and initiatives offered to state and municipalities as well as related

government energy regulations.




Starting a Grassroots Climate Protection Initiative: Lessons from the Field

Melrose Energy Commission (Revised 5/14/2008)

By David Shakespeare for BuildingEnergy08

Introduction

Massachusetts has had an explosion of energy and climate protection-related

organizations and commissions form over the past 3 to 4 years. Much of this can be

attributed to the rising cost of energy and its impact on city budgets and to growing

concern about global warming and the need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions on the

individual and societal level. These groups can roughly be divided into two camps:

grassroots climate protection organizations (“Citizen Groups”) and municipally appointed

energy commissions (“Municipal Groups”). These groups are not mutually exclusive;

some communities have both types of groups. While the emphasis of the groups differs,

the end result is often the same: energy savings that also lead to a reduction in greenhouse

gas (GHG) emissions.

This paper will examine the differences between Citizens Groups and Municipal Groups

and then look at how one group, the Melrose Energy Commission, has found a middle

way between the two approaches. This is an overview of the existing groups in

Massachusetts and is not meant to be a comprehensive list or analysis. The information

is based on research conducted online and by interviewing leaders of renewable energy

and climate change organizations like the Cape and Island Renewable Energy

Collaborative (CIRenew), the Center for Ecological Technology (CET) and the

Massachusetts Climate Action Network (MCAN).

Citizen Groups and Municipal Groups

Almost one-third (105) of the 351 cities and towns in Massachusetts now have either a

Citizens Group or Municipal Group (see Table 1). Both Citizen and Municipal groups

face similar challenges: coming up with realistic goals that will make a difference,

motivating citizens and/or the government to act on recommendations, and raising funds

to pay for the activities of the group.

Citizen Groups generally take a more comprehensive approach by seeking reductions in

energy use and greenhouse gas emissions at both the residential and municipal level.

Because of the residential component, citizen groups are also often involved in more

public outreach than City Groups, and their outreach tends to include information on how

energy use and lifestyle changes can impact a person’s carbon footprint. Lastly, the

Citizen Groups are also often members of larger organizations such as ICLEI

(International Council for Local Environmental Initiatives) and MCAN (Massachusetts




Climate Action Network), where they can share information with other like-minded

grassroots organizations. Those groups that are members of ICLEI are required to

develop climate action plans for their municipality. The climate action plans look at the

whole range of activities on both the residential and municipal side, and try to generate

community awareness and a plan to reduce GHG emissions.

The activities of Citizen Groups are usually funded through grants from charitable

foundations or from local fundraising. They are also eligible for funding from State’s

Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs and from the Massachusetts

Technology Collaborative.

Municipal Groups are usually comprised of either municipal officials or of municipally

appointed volunteers. They are often tasked to look at specific issues that impact the

municipality such as the feasibility of installing a wind turbine to power a wastewater

treatment plant or at reducing overall municipal energy use. Municipal Groups generally

do not concern themselves with reducing residential energy use. Some groups, however,

are tasked with a more wide-ranging mandate to examine both energy and sustainability

issues such as Smart Growth and recycling. The Town of Barnstable’s Green Team is a

prime example of this latter type of Municipal Group. The Green Team (with members

from all the Town’s departments) has been tasked to develop recommendations for how

the Town can implement its climate action plan and reduce municipal and community

GHG emissions by 20% over the period from 2003 to 2013.

Many municipalities (whether or not they have either a Citizens Group or a Municipal

Group) have also signed on to the EPA’s Community Energy Challenge and to the

Mayors Climate Protection Agreement. The Community Energy Challenge requires

signatories to benchmark energy performance in municipal buildings and schools and to

reduce energy use by 10% or more. The Mayors Agreement requires signatories to

commit to a reduction in Greenhouse Gas Emissions equivalent to the Kyoto Protocol.

The municipality usually funds the activities of Municipal Groups, but they are also

usually eligible for funding from State’s Executive Office of Energy and Environmental

Affairs and from the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative.

Melrose Energy Commission

The Melrose Energy Commission (MEC) held its first meeting September 2005. The

Commission was started by a retired high school science teacher, Bob Lucien, who

convinced the Mayor of Melrose that the town needed a group of volunteers to examine

municipal energy use and come up with recommendations for how to reduce energy and

save money. There are currently about 12 members of the Commission, half of whom

joined as a result of a notice placed in the Melrose local newspaper. We do not actively

seek new members, but we have not turned anyone away.




The Melrose Energy Commission has found a middle ground between a traditional city-

appointed energy committee and a grassroots climate protection group. The MEC is not

an “official” city commission in that it does not have a charter or members appointed by

the Mayor’s office. The MEC held its first meeting about two weeks after Hurricane

Katrina, when energy prices began to double. The mission of the group is to save

taxpayers money by helping to reduce municipal energy consumption and to educate

Melrose residents about energy savings and efficiency opportunities. The members are

all volunteers and are comprised of a surprisingly diverse and talented group including an

energy consultant, a municipal official, an environmentalist, an ESCO employee, a

retired building manager, among other specialists. We receive strong support from the

Mayor, while maintaining a large amount of independence in the projects we pursue. We

receive no budget from the City. Unlike more traditional energy commissions we also

have conducted a fair amount of community outreach in the form of an annual energy fair

and regular feature articles in the local newspaper.

MEC decided early on not to become a member of ICLEI or develop a climate action

plan. The decision was based on practical, political and economic concerns. We were a

fledgling group that wanted to get some successful projects under our belt by tackling

energy efficiency problems in municipal buildings. We felt that developing a city-wide

climate action plan would distract and delay us from taking actions that would make a

difference in energy use (and secondarily reduce GHG emissions). There was also

concern among some members that climate change was still a controversial issue that

neither our Mayor nor residents would endorse as a mission for our group. Lastly, the

annual membership rate for ICLEI membership was considered prohibitive at a time

when our city budget was severely strained.

Over time we have found that our stance on climate change has softened (in part because

the Mayor signed onto the Mayors Climate Protection Agreement and because climate

change has become more of a “mainstream” issue). We also have changed our position

on working with the local synagogues and churches. Originally we declined to reach out

to the city’s religious community on energy issues for concern over separation of Church

and State. More recently we have decided that as a “quasi-official commission” we don’t

have to be so concerned. Indeed, we are currently investigating working with the

religious community to increase the funds in the city’s Clean Energy Choice account.

Achievements

The Melrose Energy Commission has accomplished a lot over its two and a half year

history in both energy efficiency and renewable energy.

One of our first acts was to enlist a consultant to help analyze the pros and cons of the

City purchasing the streetlights from National Grid. The purchase was approved and is

expected to save the City about $100,000 a year. Another early initiative was to begin a

comprehensive assessment of municipal energy use including schools, parks, city

buildings, streetlights, Department of Public Works facilities, etc. This data has been




invaluable both as an educational tool for our Commission as well as for city officials. It

has provided us with a benchmark of energy use with which to gauge future energy

efficiency improvements. We’ve also been able to use the data to help us apply for

grants and to help us qualify for EPA’s Community Energy Challenge.

On the renewable energy front our Commission investigated both wind turbines and solar

PV. We did some initial consultations with a consultant on the possibility of installing at

least one wind turbine at the highest location in our city to power a municipal golf course,

which is also located at that site. When we applied for Massachusetts Technology

Collaborative (MTC) funding for a feasibility study we were informed that the wind was

insufficient at that location. Since then we have secured a $340,000 grant from the

MTC’s Green Schools Initiative to install 30kW of solar PV at our green Middle School.

We are currently investigating installing additional PV on at least one of our elementary

schools with possible funding from the MTC’s Commonwealth Solar Initiative and

money accrued in our Clean Energy Choice account.

Our Commission has also performed public outreach on energy issues through publishing

articles in the local newspaper, hosting a booth at the city’s annual Victorian Fair, and

sponsoring the annual Melrose Energy Fair. This year we held our third and largest

energy fair, which is an event designed to create public awareness about opportunities for

energy efficiency, renewable energy, home energy audits, and financial assistance for

low-income families. The Commission used some of the city’s Clean Energy Choice

funds to send two middle school teachers to the National Energy Education Development

(NEED) conference in Washington, DC and train them in the NEED curriculum which

they are using in their classes at the Middle School. We recently won a grant from the

Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection to purchase a dozen Kill-a-Watt

energy meters for distribution to the Middle School and High School science classes and

for the public library. The meters will help educate students and residents about the

energy use of common appliances and how to save energy and money.

Most recently the Mayor has asked the MEC to develop an analysis of existing green

building ordinances around the State and to come up with recommendations for such an

ordinance for Melrose.

Key Challenges

The MEC has benefited from the support of our Mayor and Board of Aldermen and a

group of very talented, congenial and motivated Commission members. That said we

face a number of possible challenges including access to city staff and ongoing

discussions about the membership and structure of the MEC.

Our Commission has had several discussions lately about expanding our membership

(how large is too large and should we accept anyone or just try to fill “expertise gaps”)

and whether we should remain somewhat independent from the Mayor’s Office and

Board of Aldermen or strive to become an official Commission.




The initial members of MEC volunteered in response to a notice in the local newspaper.

The diverse members seemed to fit all of the initial skills sets and interests of the

Commission. Since that time we have sought to invite members who can help us with

public relations and publicity as well as grant writing. Solicitations have been made

primarily by word of mouth although a notice for the public affairs position was posted

online as well as in the newspaper. Our meetings are open to the public, but rarely if ever

publicized. As some original members have stopped participating in the Commission we

are struggling with how to fill the void or even expand the Commission beyond our

average size of 8 to 12 members. As long as our Commission continues its primary focus

on municipal energy savings, the current membership seems adequate. If we were to

greatly expand our outreach and efforts on residential energy savings we might need to

expand and diversify our Commission membership.

The current quasi-official status of the Commission has several advantages including

flexibility in mission and choice of members. Given our strong track record and the

enthusiastic support from our current Mayor, our Commission has generally had good

access to the Public Works Department, Community Development and other City offices,

which makes it easier for us to apply for MTC grants or get access to utility bills and

other City information. That said, we are a group of volunteers who meet once a month

and it is still a challenge to engage City staff in specific initiatives. Like many

municipal departments, staff are strapped for funds and free time is scarce. We have

invited staff to attend our meetings, but have had more success in reaching them one-on-

one with specific project requests. Another downside is that until recently we have not

been eligible to receive an official budget from the City, although the Mayor has

indicated that this may change. In essence the issue about our organizational status

centers around how best to influence change: within the system or outside it. At the

moment the choice seems clear: Mayor Dolan is a strong supporter of our Commission

and we are stronger and more effective working with him and the Board of Aldermen.




State:

Potential for Renewable Energy

Development in Massachusetts

Department of Energy Resources

Philip Giudice, Commissioner

Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs

Ian Bowles, Secretary

Commonwealth of Massachusetts

Deval L. Patrick, Governor

Timothy P. Murray, Lieutenant Governor

September 2008

Over the last several years, Massachusetts has become increasingly dependent on natural

gas for electricity and vulnerable to swings in fuel prices. Renewable electricity

generation, once built, is not influenced significantly by fuel prices. The development of

renewable resources for electricity offers an opportunity to both diversify the state’s

energy portfolio in the face of volatile fossil fuel prices and to reduce the emissions that

contribute to global warming from the state’s energy portfolio.

In the past, the development of renewable resources has been limited by uncertainty

about long-term demand for renewable electricity, difficulty in siting, and a number of

other obstacles. As of 2006, Massachusetts generated 0.23 million megawatt hours

(MWh) of renewable electricity annually that qualified for the state’s Renewable

Portfolio Standard (RPS), or about 0.5% of retail electricity sales of about 50 million

MWh from suppliers not exempt from the RPS. The remainder of the 2006 RPS

obligation, of 2% of non-exempt retail sales, was met through renewable electricity from

other states and through alternative compliance payments in lieu of renewable electricity.

The Green Communities Act significantly changes our energy future. It stimulates

substantial demand for new renewable electricity into the future with an RPS

requirement that grows by 1% per year to 15% of non-exempt retail sales in 2020, or

about 7.5 million MWh at current load levels. Projects in Massachusetts currently under

construction, design, or consideration, if approved and developed, would generate 3.7

million MWh, of which 2.2 million MWh is from 670 MW of offshore wind at four

proposed sites, 0.2 million MWh is from 100 MW of onshore wind, 1.0 million MWh is

from 140 MW of biomass projects, and up to 0.3 million MWh from the commitment of

the Commonwealth to 250 MW of solar. Completion of these projects would meet

roughly half of the RPS obligation, leaving an additional 3.8 MWh to be met from other

renewable sources.




In order to assess what additional renewable generation is feasible in Massachusetts, the

Department of Energy Resources (DOER) and the Massachusetts Renewable Energy

Trust (MRET) commissioned a study of in-state resources and the economics associated

with their development. The study was conducted by Navigant Consulting, Inc., an

organization with substantial experience in the assessment of renewable energy across

several states and over many years.

The study focused on renewable electricity generated from five resources—solar, wind,

biomass, river, and ocean—and nine technologies, recognizing that there are additional

opportunities for developing renewable resources in Massachusetts, using other resources

and technologies and making use of renewables for heat in addition to electricity. For

each resource, the study determined the potential from several perspectives: the total

renewable resources in Massachusetts (theoretical potential); the accessible resources not

excluded from development because of land use restrictions, shipping lanes, protected

habitats, etc. (technical potential); and the accessible resources that could be developed at

costs lower than electricity prices or projects that are already in the pipeline (economic

potential). The economic potential changes over time as technology costs and the market

price for electricity evolve. For technologies such as utility-scale wind farms and biomass

plants, the cost of generating renewable electricity is compared to wholesale prices, while

for technologies such as community scale wind and rooftop solar, it is compared to retail

prices.

One of the primary findings of the study is that there is substantial potential for

renewable electricity in Massachusetts. The following table summarizes the various

types of potential for each renewable resource:

Renewable Potential in Massachusetts (in MW)

Theoretical Technical Economic (by 2020)*

Wind 25,200 7,800 3,000**

Biomass 1,100 240 240

River 280 30 15

Ocean *** 180 24

Solar 41,900 8,700-12,900**** > 250*****

Source: Navigant Consulting 2008

* The economic potential shown here is for the year 2020 in one of the scenarios analyzed. The scenario had the following

assumptions.Wholesale electricity prices rise at an average annual rate of about 6% between 2009-2020. Renewables become more

competitive with gridprices, REC prices decline at an average annual rate of about 2% in this time period, and Federal tax credits for

renewables are not renewed.** No entity has comprehensively mapped offshore wind sites that could be developed. Of the 6,300 MW

of technical potential for offshore wind,over 4000 MW are excluded from being economic because they are not currently associated

with specific sites. Once a comprehensive analysis ofsites is completed, some part of the 4000 MW could be added to the economic

potential.*** No primary study of the theoretical potential has been conducted to date.**** Unlike the other resources, the technical

potential for solar increases over time as rooftop space increases.***** Because of the existing policy commitment to 250 MW of

solar PV by 2017, this was treated as the minimum economic potential for thistechnology.

The theoretical potential for all resources is significant, with enormous amounts of

offshore wind and solar PV. Somewhat more useful than the theoretical potential is the




technical potential, which includes only accessible resources and provides a more

realistic picture of resource potential. Wind, both on- and offshore, and solar have the

largest technical potential.

A yet more useful measure of potential is the economic potential. The total economic

potential in 2020 in the scenario shown in the table is a capacity of about 3500 MW and

annual generation of about 10 million MWh, more than sufficient to meet our RPS

requirements in 2020 at current loads. In fact, by 2012, the economic potential is already

half of this amount or about 5 million MWh, with the largest early-stage potential in

community scale wind and biomass. In the longer-term, offshore wind, and potentially

solar, offer the largest economic potential as costs of these technologies drop below

market prices.

Since the economic potential depends on several uncertain factors, primarily electricity

prices, the market price of renewable energy certificates (RECs), and Federal tax credits,

several hypothetical future scenarios for the electricity market and Federal policy were

considered. The economic potential shown in the table above is for the year 2020 from

one of these scenarios that is particularly helpful for planning. The scenario has

wholesale electricity prices rising at an average annual rate of about 6% between 2009

and 2020, similar to price increases over the last few years. As renewables become more

competitive with grid prices, REC prices are assumed to decline at an average annual rate

of 2% during this time period and Federal tax credits are assumed to expire. By explicitly

considering the possibility of steadily increasing electricity prices, this scenario helps

identify opportunities to mitigate risk by diversifying our portfolio of energy sources, as

well as demonstrates the potential for market development of renewable energy resources

as fossil-fuel prices rise.

In addition to this scenario, the study considered two other scenarios. In one of the

additional scenarios, electricity prices increase, as in the first scenario, but REC prices

remain at their current level and Federal tax credits are renewed. The higher incentive

levels result in lower cost of renewable electricity and faster growth in the economic

potential. The third and final scenario pairs the higher incentives in the second scenario

with wholesale electricity prices that decrease by an average annual rate of 4% between

2009 and 2015 and return to 2009 levels by 2020.

While the second and third scenarios are helpful in understanding the possible futures for

renewable energy development, they do not provide distinct insight for public policy. The

second scenario is qualitatively similar to the first scenario, driven by high electricity

prices. The third scenario has decreasing electricity prices, which if actually materialize,

would be welcome, even if they made renewable energy less cost competitive in the short

run.

Realizing the economic potential identified in this study, of both the projects in the

pipeline and the additional untapped renewable resources in Massachusetts, will require

significant effort by all stakeholders to overcome barriers. The study team interviewed

project developers to identify common barriers. The following themes emerged:




Massachusetts has had a complicated permitting process involving multiple

sequential reviews by different agencies and levels of government with no enforceable

timeline.

Opposition to renewable energy projects, even if voiced by small numbers of

residents, is a powerful obstacle, particularly on the local level.

Renewable suppliers have found it difficult to secure financing without the

financial certainty of long-term contracts with utilities.

The rules for selling excess electricity generated at or near a customer site back to

the utility have limited the economic appeal of on-site and community-scale projects.

The Green Communities Act, signed by Governor Patrick and developed in close

collaboration with legislative leaders, comprehensively reforms the rules around

renewable electricity. Now in the process of implementation, the Green Community Act

will help the Commonwealth overcome many of these barriers:

It increases demand for renewables by expanding the Renewable Portfolio

Standard (RPS) by 1% per year to 15% in 2020.

It creates financial certainty for renewables projects by requiring utilities, for a

pilot period of 5 years, to enter into long-term contracts of 10 to 15 years in length for up

to 3% of their total load and providing an incentive of 4% of annual contract payments

for taking on these long-term contracts.

It rationalizes the pricing of distributed renewable generation, such as rooftop

solar and community-scale wind, through changes in the rules governing “net metering.”

Net metering requires utilities to credit a customer for net excess generation of renewable

and alternative energy at the customer’s site that’s supplied to the grid. In the past,

customers were credited based on the average monthly wholesale price and were limited

to a

generating capacity up to 60 kilowatts. The new law requires the utility to purchase the

excess power at the retail price rather than the wholesale price and increases the cap to 2

MW. It also allows “neighborhood net metering” for facilities that serve a group of 10 or

more residential customers in a single neighborhood within a single utility service

territory.

It creates demand for solar PV and helps develop the infrastructure for accelerated

deployment of solar in the future by allowing each of the major investor-owned utilities

in Massachusetts to own up to 50 MW of solar PV by 2010, sharing the costs and benefits

across their customer base. Along with the existing Commonwealth Solar rebate

program, this provision will help realize the Governor’s goal of 250 MW of solar PV by

2017.

It creates familiarity with and demand for renewables at the municipal level

through the new Green Communities Program. The program also provides incentives for

towns to streamline the permitting process for new renewable projects.

Finally, it creates a commission to study the siting of energy facilities in the state

and to recommend ways to streamline the permitting system.

In addition to the Green Communities Act, the Governor and the legislature

approved other pieces of legislation that facilitate the development of renewable

energy:




The Oceans Act mandates the creation of a comprehensive plan to manage

development in state waters, balancing natural resource preservation with traditional and

new uses, including renewable energy from offshore wind and tidal and wave resources.

The Green Jobs Act accelerates the development of a “green collar” workforce in

the Commonwealth necessary to design and construct the large number of renewable

projects possible in the state.

The study commissioned by DOER and MRET has established the significant renewable

potential that exists in Massachusetts and that could be tapped economically in the near-

term. The reforms in the Green Communities Act and other legislation completed this

summer help move the Commonwealth towards realizing this enormous potential. With

ongoing commitment by all stakeholders, a greener energy future awaits Massachusetts.

Clean Cities

The Massachusetts Clean Cities Coalition is a program that works to encourage

the use of alternative fuel vehicles (AFVs) with the help of local businesses,

organizations, and numerous state and federal agencies. The Coalition operates

on the premise that we can change our communities for the better through

cooperation and voluntary partnerships, working to improve air quality and

reduce our reliance on imported oil.

Energy Management Services

A form of Energy Performance Contracting that allows for the purchase of a

"program of services," including design and construction work primarily

intended to reduce energy and water consumption.

Rebuild Massachusetts

Rebuild Massachusetts is a flexible, locally driven, voluntary partnership

focusing on three priority target sectors: revitalization of distressed business

districts and empowerment zones; K-12 public school systems; and public and

subsidized housing, focusing on energy efficiency and sustainability.

Energy Smart Communities

Rebuild Massachusetts Energy Smart Communities Network is an opportunity

for municipalities to face the challenge of saving energy and water. The goal for

this project is to advance state and community energy-savings efforts by

fostering connections between cities and towns, disseminating information, and

facilitating discussions focused on energy efficiency projects.

Energy Smart Schools

The Department of Education's EnergySmart Schools program goals are to

upgrade new schools to 50% better than current energy codes and improve

existing schools by 30% in the next three years. The program provides

information on best practices for planning, financing, building, and operating K-

12 schools.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=eoeeasubtopic&L=5&L0=Home&L1=Energy%2c+Utilities+%26+Clean+Technologies&L2=Energy+Efficiency&L3=Local+%26+State+Energy+Efficiency&L4=Clean+Cities&sid=Eoeea

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=eoeeaterminal&L=4&L0=Home&L1=Energy%2c+Utilities+%26+Clean+Technologies&L2=Energy+Efficiency&L3=Local+%26+State+Energy+Efficiency&sid=Eoeea&b=terminalcontent&f=doer_ems_energy_management_services&csid=Eoeea

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=eoeeasubtopic&L=5&L0=Home&L1=Energy%2c+Utilities+%26+Clean+Technologies&L2=Energy+Efficiency&L3=Local+%26+State+Energy+Efficiency&L4=Rebuild+Massachusetts&sid=Eoeea

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=eoeeasubtopic&L=5&L0=Home&L1=Energy%2c+Utilities+%26+Clean+Technologies&L2=Energy+Efficiency&L3=Local+%26+State+Energy+Efficiency&L4=Energy+Smart+Communities&sid=Eoeea

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=eoeeasubtopic&L=5&L0=Home&L1=Energy%2c+Utilities+%26+Clean+Technologies&L2=Energy+Efficiency&L3=Local+%26+State+Energy+Efficiency&L4=Energy+Smart+Schools&sid=Eoeea




Leading by Example: Energy Efficiency & Renewables

Specific measures to achieve a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions include

energy conservation, the purchase of energy efficient products, energy efficiency

programs, and energy training and maintenance. Improved energy efficiency

through these measures is the most cost-effective way to reduce energy

consumption.

MassCleanDiesel

MassCleanDiesel, the nation's first fully funded statewide program designed to

reduce air pollution from school buses. All eligible diesel-powered school buses

will receive retrofits to keep engine fumes away from children on buses and

reduce exhaust emissions to the air, at no expense to bus owners.

Renewable Energy

Provides information regarding the different kinds of renewable energy, funding

programs and incentives, installation assistance and more. Examples of

renewable energy include wind and solar power.

Energy Grants for Municipalities

Find grant opportunities for cities, towns, regional school districts, water and

waste water districts.

Zero Net Energy Buildings

By using Energy efficiency and on-site renewable energy, zero net energy

buildings meet most of their energy needs through efficiency measures and on-

site renewable energy generation.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=eoeeaterminal&L=4&L0=Home&L1=Energy%2c+Utilities+%26+Clean+Technologies&L2=Energy+Efficiency&L3=Local+%26+State+Energy+Efficiency&sid=Eoeea&b=terminalcontent&f=eea_lbe_lbe_renewables&csid=Eoeea

http://www.mass.gov/dep/air/diesel/masscleandiesel.htm

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=eoeeasubtopic&L=3&L0=Home&L1=Energy%2c+Utilities+%26+Clean+Technologies&L2=Renewable+Energy&sid=Eoeea

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=eoeeaterminal&L=4&L0=Home&L1=Energy%2c+Utilities+%26+Clean+Technologies&L2=Energy+Efficiency&L3=Local+%26+State+Energy+Efficiency&sid=Eoeea&b=terminalcontent&f=doer_pub_info_grants&csid=Eoeea

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=eoeeaterminal&L=4&L0=Home&L1=Energy%2c+Utilities+%26+Clean+Technologies&L2=Energy+Efficiency&L3=Local+%26+State+Energy+Efficiency&sid=Eoeea&b=terminalcontent&f=eea_lbe_initiatives_zneb&csid=Eoeea




APPENDIX

B:

ENERGY

CONSERVATION

CONTACTS




Senate President Therese Murray

Massachusetts State Senate

State House Room 330

Boston, MA 02133

(617) 722-1500

[email protected]

Frank Gorke, Director

Division of Energy Efficiency

Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources

100 Cambridge Street, Suite 1020

Boston, MA 02114

(617) 626-7300

[email protected]

Lisa Spencer, Director, Energy Programs

South Shore Community Action Council

265 Meadow Road

Plymouth, MA 02360

(508) 747-7575

[email protected]

Peter Forman, President and CEO

South Shore Chamber of Commerce

36 Miller Stile Road

Quincy, MA 02269

(617) 479-1111

[email protected]

Brian Kuhn, Chairman

Plymouth Energy Committee

8 Tanglewood Drive

Plymouth, MA 02360

(888) 800-2381

[email protected]

Richard Quintal, Chairman

Plymouth Board of Selectmen

Plymouth Town Hall, 11 Lincoln Street

Plymouth, MA 02360

(508) 830-4000

[email protected]

Joan Meschino, Chairman

Hull Board of Selectmen

252 Atlantic Avenue










Hull, MA 02045

(617) 482-8686

[email protected]

Virginia LeClair, Environmental Coordinator

Town of Dedham

26 Bryant Street

Dedham, MA 02026

(781) 751-9213

[email protected]

Scott Ridley, Energy Consultant

Town of Plymouth

115 Kendrick Road

East Harwich, MA 02645

(508) 430-1763

[email protected]

Howie Newman

Melrose Energy Commission

Communications Coordinator

(781) 662-2616

[email protected]

John Felix, Director of Operations, MassDEP

(617) 292-5523

[email protected]

Michael DiBara, Project Manager, MassDEP

(508) 767-2885

[email protected]

Meg Lusardi, Renewable Energy Engineering Analyst

MA Department of Energy Resources

100 Cambridge Street

Boston MA 02114

(617)626-7364

[email protected]

Shubhada Kambli, Environmental Scientist, Energy Team

US EPA Office of Ecosystem Protection

1 Congress Street, 11th floor

Boston, MA 02114

(617) 918-1584

[email protected]












APPENDIX

C:

CONVERSION

TABLES




IX. Appendix - Conversions / Reports / Data / Misc. Information

A. Conversion Factors

Average Energy Content of Various Fuels

1 kilowatt hour of electricity 3,413 Btu

1 cubic foot of natural gas 1,008 to 1,034 Btu

1 therm of natural gas 100,000 Btu

1 gallon of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) 95,475 Btu

1 gallon of crude oil 138,095 Btu

1 barrel of crude oil 5,800,000 Btu

1 gallon of kerosene or light distillate oil 135,000 Btu

1 gallon of middle distillate or diesel fuel

oil

138,690 Btu

1 gallon of residual fuel oil 149,690 Btu

1 gallon of gasoline 125,000 Btu

1 gallon of ethanol 84,400 Btu

1 gallon of methanol 62,800 Btu

1 gallon of gasohol (10% ethanol, 90%

gasoline)

120,000 Btu

1 pound of coal 8,100 to 13,000 Btu

1 ton of coal 16,200,000 to 26,000,000 Btu

1 ton of coke 26,000,000 Btu

1 ton of wood 9,000,000 to 17,000,000 Btu

1 standard chord of wood 18,000,000 to 24,000,000 Btu

1 face cord of wood 6,000,000 to 8,000,000 Btu

1 pound of low pressure steam (recoverable

heat)

1,000 Btu

Measurement Conversions

1 short ton (ton) = 2,000 pounds = 6.65 barrels (crude oil)

1 metric ton (ton) = 2,200 pounds

1 barrel (bbl) = 42 gallons= 5.615 cubic feet = 159.0 liters

1 Mcf = 1,000 cubic feet

1 therm = 105

Btu = 100,000 Btu

1 thousand Btu (Mbtu) = 1,000 Btu

1 million Btu (MMBtu) = 1,000,000 Btu

1 quad = 1015

(quadrillion) Btu or 1,000,000,000 MMBtu

1 kilowatt-hour (kWh) = 1,000 watt hours




1 megawatt-hour (MWh) = 1,000 kwh or 1,000,000 watt-hours

1 gigawatt-hour (GWh) = 1,000 MWh or 1,000,000,000 watt-hours

1 gallon = 4.524 pounds liquefied petroleum gas

1 standard cord of wood = 8 feet x 4 feet x feet = 128 cubic feet= approx. 4,000 lbs.

1 face cord of wood = 8 feet x 4 feet x 16 inches = 42.7 cubic feet = approx. 1,333 lbs.




APPENDIX

D:

UTILITY

REBATES




APPENDIX

E:

WHOLE

BUILDING

ASSESSMENT




APPENDIX

F:

ENVIRONMENTAL

RESOURCE

MAP




APPENDIX

G:

MassDEP

GRANT

INFORMATION




APPENDIX

H:

GRAPHS

AND

BUILDING DATA