New sustainable buildings are increasingly in demand, but energy-efficient retrofits on existing buildings are often more cost effective, less disruptive, and ultimately better for the environment. At Skanska, we are working with the Cambridge Housing Authority (CHA) to make the Lyndon B. Johnson Apartment complex one of the greenest buildings in Cambridge.
The LBJ Apartments, a public housing development for senior and disabled residents, were first occupied in October of 1973. The $29 million comprehensive modernization will include the largest solar panel installation in Cambridge and a highly efficient gas-fired heating system and central cooling system, reducing the CHA's carbon footprint by over 2.5 million pounds each year.
Retrofitting old structures requires initial investment, but it makes financial sense in the long-term. When completed next fall, the new apartments will consume 50% less energy, saving $255,000 a year in energy costs. Projects like this demonstrate that green retrofits are good for the environment - and the wallet.
Paul Hewins is general manager and executive vice president for Skanksa USA's New England region, Boston.