Boston introduces new heat pump technology
In one of the oldest cities in America new technology is introduced to aging buildings. Boston is moving away from oil and natural gas heating systems to installing energy efficient heat pumps. Similar to the recent $38.4 million investment in New York City, Boston is piloting a window heat pump that installs like a window AC unit.
The technology appears simple, but is a significant advancement in cost and construction when retrofitting multi-family units. A study from the Boston Housing Authority years ago estimated per apartment would be upwards of $30,000, now the pilot project can install at a rate of $5,400. The heat pump technology is still relatively expensive but a step forward for climate controlled and more energy efficient housing.
“It’s really exciting for us because we feel like it could be the tip of an iceberg of converting many thousands of units,” said Kenzie Bok, administrator of the Boston Housing Authority in an interview with wbur.
