Energy Efficiency in an Historic Building
During the historical renovation, the lathe and horse-hair plaster walls were kept intact, but state-of-the-art Icynene insulation was added in the attic to improver the building’s heat loss/gain profile. Energy efficient windows were utilized in the new addition and in the original building where replacements were necessary. Plexi-glass was placed on the outside of existing stained glass windows in order to preserve those windows rather than scrap them due to concerns over energy loss. This plexi-glass treatment will also help protect the windows against damage from storm-born debris or vandalism.
A Geothermal heating and cooling system was ultimately incorporated into the project providing tremendous long term environmental benefits. As a result of the energy saving geothermal system, we estimate that we will see a reduction of 21 tons of CO2 emissions per year, with a ten-year cost savings of over $200,000.
The building makes use of many other energy conservation measures such as low-flow and dual-flush bathroom fixtures and high efficiency gas-fired hot water heaters. The use of high-efficiency lighting was chosen wherever possible, utilizing programmable time-clocks, photocells and motion/occupancy sensors to energize the lights when required but keep them dormant when not needed. A Building Automation System networked to the Director’s office computer allows individual rooms to be independently controlled for climate conditions or to be completely shut down when unoccupied.
It was for these energy efficient measures that allowed Hudson to win the Leading By Example Award in October 2011. Presented by the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs, and the Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources, the LBE Awards recognize outstanding efforts among state agencies, public colleges/universities, and municipalities that have implemented policies or programs that have led to significant and measureable environmental and energy benefits. To qualify, a state agency or municipality may develop guidance documents, set policies and/or facilitate project implementation that advance environmental goals, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and save critical tax dollars.