55 Bunker Hill Street - Charlestown, MA
"This project is an excellent example of how we continue to move Boston forward," said mayor Thomas Menino. "Projects like this prove that low-income housing can also be energy-efficient housing. We're saving energy, creating jobs, saving the taxpayers' money and improving low-income neighborhoods all at the same time. On all fronts, this project is clearly a win-win."
J.M. Electrical installed Alerton controls, emergency lighting and wiring for new energy efficient boilers in 24 buildings in the largest community for low- and moderate-income housing. This portion of the work was completed as part of the BHA's $63 million energy performance contract with leading energy efficiency and renewable energy company Ameresco, Inc.
"J.M. Electrical is proud to be part of this important project that will provide residents in Boston's public housing with these energy efficient upgrades," said Adam Palmer, project manager, J.M. Electrical. "We are excited to work with the Boston Housing Authority to reduce their energy usage and to help save the City of Boston in energy costs. We encourage everyone to join the effort in greening our city. Creating energy efficiency reduces our carbon footprint, saves money and creates local jobs for the Commonwealth."
According to a recent study conducted by the Department of Housing and Urban Development, public housing is, on average, less energy efficient on a per-square-foot basis than all other U.S. residential households. Reducing public housing energy costs by 10% could save nearly $200 million per year in operating expenses.
The BHA has participated in earlier energy performance contracts that saved it more than $17 million. Those contracts allowed the BHA to fully replace the original 1938 heating system at the Mary Ellen McCormack development in South Boston, as well as upgrade heating and water systems at BHA state-funded developments throughout the city.