REPORT TO COUNCIL
SUBJECT
Title
Action on a Strategic Partnership Agreement with Battelle Memorial Institute, Pacific Northwest Division, to Study the Effectiveness of Heat Pumps in Existing Homes
Report
BACKGROUND
In accordance with California Public Utilities Code (PUC) Section 385, covering Public Benefits Charge, and the City's Public Benefits Program Policy Statement adopted by Council on May 12, 1998, Silicon Valley Power (SVP) charges a non-bypassable usage charge in order to fund cost-effective energy efficiency services and other activities. Staff has developed a wide range of cost-effective energy efficiency and renewable energy programs for customers. Staff frequently searches for new technologies which will provide additional efficiency opportunities for residents.
In order to expand its programs, SVP periodically participates in research and development efforts to investigate new technologies or ways to improve the energy efficiency achieved through technology solutions. SVP partners in larger efforts undertaken regionally or nationally to economically leverage the expertise and investment by other industry partners. Battelle Memorial Institute manages the U.S. Department of Energy's Pacific Northwest National Laboratory and its laboratory homes used to research new technologies.
SVP, along with other utilities, has been investigating the addition of ductless mini-split heat pumps (DHP) into its energy efficiency program portfolio. These DHP systems have several advantages: 1) they are highly effective at heating individual rooms or zones within a home, allowing for heating or cooling of only occupied rooms; 2) they allow flexibility in placement options, including wall mounted, ceiling mounted, or placed in a drop ceiling; 3) they are easy to install because no duct work is required; 4) they are more efficient than ducted systems because up to 30% of heat is lost through leaking ducts; and 5) they can be customized with built-in timers, sl...
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