Case Study: PRG, Inc. Dual Fuel RTUs
Project Background
PRG, Inc., a Minneapolis-based nonprofit organization focused on providing affordable housing and eliminating racial disparities in housing, had worked with CEE’s One-Stop Efficiency Shop (One-Stop) to install free smart thermostats at their office in November 2023. PRG’s Executive Director and Real Estate Development Manager were also interested in replacing their aging rooftop units (RTUs) with more efficient equipment but weren’t sure what options were available for their facility. They got in touch with the One-Stop HVAC team to learn more.
Project Assessment
A One-Stop HVAC consultant visited PRG’s facility to inspect the equipment and go over options with PRG. The consultant suggested dual fuel RTU's , a hybrid system made-up of both an electric heat pump and a gas furnace. This system would allow them to utilize their existing ductwork and would be direct replacements for the two existing 24-year-old RTUs, lowering the overall replacement cost and easing the process of installation.
The One-Stop HVAC consultant helped PRG review contractor bids and identified grants and rebates available to make the project as cost-effective as possible, including Minneapolis Green Cost Share funding. He also handled all invoicing and rebate processes, saving time for the organization and ensuring rebates were maximized for the project.
“We did not know that dual-fuel RTUs were even an option for our small office building. Once we connected with One-Stop and found out they were an option, it was a no-brainer to go with them.”
Installation and Rebates
The installed cost after utility rebates and Minneapolis Green Cost Share grant funds was about $3000 less than the original standard efficiency RTU replacement quote and $15,992 less than the original dual fuel RTU quote. Thanks to the guidance of the One-Stop HVAC consultant, PRG found a solution that met their organization’s energy efficiency goals without compromising on cost. PRG expects to see lower utility bills, even during extremely cold weather, thanks to their new dual-fuel RTUs.
"The One-Stop Efficiency Shop will ensure you are taking the proper steps and getting a system that specifically meets your needs. Having someone to handle the paperwork doesn't hurt either."
Problems
- Aging, inefficient RTUs
- Time-consuming equipment research and rebate process
Results
- Greater equipment efficiency
- Significantly reduced project costs due to grants and rebates
- Lower utility bills
Rebates and Savings
- 1714 therms saved
- 1249 kWh saved
- $2443 in rebates
- $6608 in Minneapolis Green Cost Share funding
