NHA 

Energy Conservation at NHA with Help by Siemens

NHA Conservation Upgrades Improves Quality of Life, Help Environment and Cut Water and Fuel Costs

Norwalk Housing Authority is currently in the process of implementing water, lighting and heating conservation upgrades at its federally funded sites.  These upgrades are not only designed to improve the quality of life for residents in eight hundred and twenty-three family and senior apartments.  The upgrades will offer additional benefits by providing a positive impact on the environment and significantly lowering overall cost expenditures especially with regard to water and fuel.    

The program has been developed through an optional Housing and Urban Development (HUD) initiative that allows for an Energy Services Contract (ESCO).  NHA chose to take advantage of ESCO and developed a plan to implement environmentally friendly upgrades.  Siemans Building Technologies has been selected to perform this work and guarantee the energy savings.

As a result, water retrofits have been installed that will increase water conservation and result in 33% savings in water.  Lighting retrofits will be completed shortly that will provide energy efficient fixtures in hallways, stairwells and common areas.

Heat, a prime concern during the winter months, is also being addressed according to the needs at different sites.  High efficiency gas-fired boilers will be installed at four Housing Authority sites: Irving Freese Apartments, Leroy Downs, Samuel Roodner Court and Senior Court.  High efficiency oil-fired burners will be installed at NHA’s Fairfield Avenue apartment complex.  Currently steam traps and radiator control valves are being replaced at Washington Village and NHA’s main office at 24½ Monroe Street  converted from electric to gas heat.

These environmentally friendly conservation upgrades will not cost taxpayers a penny in the process of conversion.  The LaSalle Bank has loaned Norwalk Housing Authority the funds to finance the improvements at 4.05% interest and will collect payments from the savings that will be made because of the upgrades.

This program is a showcase for how good fiscal management and sound environmental practices can be brought together for the benefit of the entire community. 

For more information, contact Candace Mayer at 838-8471, ext. 131.