Peninsula Conservation Center Rooftop Units

Project Highlights & Description

In January 2023, the Peninsula Conservation Center (PCC) began installing all-electric heat pump Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning (HVAC) units to replace all eight of the previously existing gas packaged HVAC rooftop units (aka gas packs) that ranged in age from 22-24 years old. With the help of their contractor, office staff, and City staff, they completed the installation within a few months and received a rebate of $15,600 through the Business Customer Rebate program. Since the City of Palo Alto Utilities provides 100% carbon neutral electricity, the conversion of the gas packs to heat pump units will result in 11.7 MT/year of avoided greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.

Project Takeaways

• When requesting for a contractor quote, be specific about the minimum requirements, equipment efficiency ratings and permit application as part of the base bid. Request for pricing for alternative/add-on items from contractors. This makes it easier to compare quotes from contractors.
• Compare energy efficiency options for the heat pump system. It may be worth upgrading to a higher efficiency option to lower the ongoing utility bill.
• All rooftop equipment will require a building permit. Start the process early. A good place to start is the City of Palo Alto’s Development Services website, which provides step-by-step instructions on how to apply online for a Building permit.

Benefits of Heat Pumps

• The greatest benefit of installing this system is the ability to heat and cool the building efficiently with no carbon emissions.
• The PCC chose packaged heat pump units with energy-saving features. The PCC estimates there will be annual energy bill savings of at least $1,500/year with the new packaged heat pump units.
• Since the PCC did not have other natural gas appliances onsite, they suspended their gas service, which eliminated the monthly gas service, saving them an additional $129.78/month.