Smart Systems, Stronger Savings Incentives drive energy-efficient HVAC upgrades across Ohio By Christina O’Keeffe and Michael Senger OAQDA
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As part of OAQDA’s mission to improve air quality while supporting economic development, CAIP helps businesses and communities access financial assistance for air quality improvement projects, which may include reducing energy use through better building design and more efficient, advanced innovative technologies. Whether it’s a commercial facility, manufacturing building or multi-family property, CAIP makes it easier for developers, property owners and institutions to invest in clean, efficient solutions. One example of CAIP’s impact is the 2443 Auburn, LLC project, a 56-unit multi-family residential development focused on student housing in Cincinnati. With OAQDA’s support, they recently implemented a suite of improvements, including high efficiency air-source heat pump systems, domestic hot water heat pumps and envelope improvements. The upgrades delivered a 53.7% energy performance improvement, surpassing CAIP’s 50% benchmark.
Bringing HVAC advancements to Northeast Ohio
The success of the 2443 Auburn, LLC project serves as a model for what’s possible in other urban areas across Ohio. In Northeast Ohio, the region’s mix of universities, hospitals and multi-family housing creates strong opportunities to replicate this success – particularly in areas like University Circle in Cleveland. Many communities in the region have aging HVAC systems, especially in student housing, healthcare and multi-family properties.
Rendering courtesy of OAQDA / Uptown Rental Properties
hio’s building owners are facing growing demands to improve indoor air quality, lower operating costs and support cleaner, more efficient building operations. The Ohio Air Quality Development Authority (OAQDA) is helping them do just that through programs like the Clean Air Improvement Program (CAIP), which supports high-efficiency HVAC upgrades and energy-smart building strategies.
SYSTEMATIC SUPPORT With OAQDA’s backing, the 2443 Auburn, LLC in Cincinnati implemented a suite of high-efficiency HVAC upgrades and energy-smart building strategies. The project’s success serves as a model for what’s possible in other urban areas across Ohio.
These are prime candidates for retrofits that lower energy costs and improve indoor air quality. These projects may also qualify for federal funding that helps reduce the
upfront costs of clean energy technologies like heat pumps, solar PV and thermal storage. When paired with CAIP financing, this support makes high-efficiency building upgrades even
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