Underhill Energy Committee Correspondence

RE: April Energy Committee agenda

2015-04-06T17:36:00.001-04:00

All,

Here's a link to a draft of the mission statement. Feel free to use Google's comment feature (by selecting some text and clicking the Insert Comment button--).

Steve

From: Christopher Miller [mailto:cpmiller_m@yahoo.com]
Sent: Sunday, April 05, 2015 8:35 PM
To: Bob Murphy (bmurphy@veic.org); Peter Duval; Peter Bennett; Steven Webster; Jerry Adams; Tom Moore; Chris Miller; Underhill Energy Committee Correspondence Log
Subject: April Energy Committee agenda

All,
I do not have minutes of last months Energy Committee yet. Who is doing the proposed update to the Energy Committee mission statement? I'd like to add that to the agenda

Right now I have:

1) Rutland Select board recent anti-renewable siting resolution

2) wables siting in Town of Underhill

3) Solarize Update

What else?

Thanks,

Chris

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Energy Committee April meeting agenda

2015-04-06T15:46:00.000-04:00

Hi Brian,

Here is our list of agenda items for the Energy Committee meeting Wednesday.

1) Rutland Select board recent anti-renewable siting resolution

2) Renewables siting in Town of Underhill

3) Solarize Update

4) Energy Committee mission statement

Thanks,

Chris

RE: April Energy Committee agenda

2015-04-06T13:04:00.001-04:00

Hmmm… I think that's me. I'll crank it out tonight.

What's a wable?

Steve

All,
I do not have minutes of last months Energy Committee yet. Who is doing the proposed update to the Energy Committee mission statement? I'd like to add that to the agenda

Right now I have:

1) Rutland Select board recent anti-renewable siting resolution

2) wables siting in Town of Underhill

3) Solarize Update

What else?

Thanks,

Chris

April Energy Committee agenda

2015-04-05T20:34:00.000-04:00

All,
I do not have minutes of last months Energy Committee yet. Who is doing the proposed update to the Energy Committee mission statement? I'd like to add that to the agenda

Right now I have:

1) Rutland Select board recent anti-renewable siting resolution

2) wables siting in Town of Underhill

3) Solarize Update

What else?

Thanks,

Chris

Meeting Minutes 20141210

2014-12-16T15:01:00.001-05:00

Meeting Minutes 20141210

Town of Underhill
Energy Committee
10 December 2014

 DRAFT MINUTES

 CALL TO ORDER
Jerry Adams, Pete Bennett, Peter Duval, Tom Moore, Bob Murphy, Steve Webster, and Chris Miller in attendance, the regular meeting was called to order at 6:40pm in the Town Hall Kitchen, with Chris in the chair and Peter D. recording minutes as secretary.

 Agenda
******
Due to the snow storm, Pete B. asked to move Town Infrastructure to the top of the agenda.

Public Comment
**************
None
 
Town Infrastructure
*******************

Pete B. said that the town staff is not using the town hall heat pumps because they are having trouble controlling heat pumps in tandem with the existing boiler. They feel that there is a problem with the design of the system. Bob discussed this with Sherri, too, and learned that Ramona turns on air conditioning to compensate for overheating in her office. Pete B. said that they are also concerned about freezing pipes, which they feel compels the use of the boiler. Bob feels that insulation should have fixed the pipe issue. Jerry said that he suggested moving the pipe in question at the time of the insulation project, but that the decision was made to leave it in place. Bob will spend some more time with Sherri to get sort out the problem and propose a solution.

Pete B. also asked about the post office, which has a new heat pump. He is concerned about the under-the-eave mounting of the heat pumps at the post office and town hall. Bob related his encounters with the post office staff and agreed that there is some more work to be done in setting up the systems and showing the staff how to use them.

Jerry described clamping an aquastat on a hydronic pipe that is at risk of freezing; as the temperature of the pipe drops, the boiler sends out some hot water, which keeps the system from freezing.

6:50

Solar Communities
*****************
Steve provided some more details from the Solarize Upper Valley program. There is a volume pricing RFP that provides greater discounts as the number of projects in the buying group increases. It is a 15 week process and there are standards system designs with adders for variables such as larger systems and longer interconnection runs.

Discussion turned to implementation in Underhill/Jericho, with concern noted about fairly and transparently choosing a single vendor for the project, and whether the town and even the Energy Committee should be involved at all. There was also a concern about keeping the number of committee members working on the project below quorum to avoid running afoul of the Open Meeting Law. Jerry suggested that Cliff Peterson would have good advice.

MOTION
Tom moved, and Jerry seconded, to ask the selectboard for feedback on idea. Passed unanimously.

Peter D. asked that a "carport" option included.

Town Garage
***********
Bob visited the site to see how the lighting project was progressing. The 255w T5 fixtures are being installed. There was a question about insulation disturbance, which has been resolved.

The heat recovery ventilator is also being installed. Jerry now thinks that it will not be adequate to remove the moisture from snow melt. Other towns clean their equipment with a firehose before garaging. Underhill only has a pressure cleaner. This practice difference may dominate the efforts of the ventilation system. Tom asked if there were alternatives for removing the snow and water. Jerry said the area around the garage is paved with gravel, which is tracked in by the trucks. The gravel falls off the trucks and makes it difficult to squeegee water off the floor.

PACE
****

Bob explained the renewed push for PACE financing, with new marketing materials being produced and the financing rate (1.99%) made more competitive. Pete B. said that High Meadows is interested in thermal efficiency via on-bill charges.

7:12 (Pete B. Leaves)

Peter D. noted a sweet, antifreeze odor in the building, which was confirmed by Tom and others — perhaps a leak in the boiler system.

Cold Climate Heat Pumps
***********************
Bob mentioned the $300 upstream incentive for heat pumps. There are no conditions for the incentive, so the customer should be attentive to pricing and be sure that the incentive is accounted for in any quotes from installers. There were 300 customers on a wait list for the incentive. The incentive program will extend through 2015.

Bob will have an iPhone controllable, single-head Mitsubishi 15kBtu system installed on Tuesday. He also has a DHW heat pump. Bob is in a trial for a heat pump clothes drier. Discussion about the relative incentives for the different heat pump devices.

Tom mentioned that he is working on a three-customer community solar system.

7:27

Community Energy and Climate Action Conference
**********************************************
Steve attended this year's meeting and focussed on community solar presentations. Peter asked about the keynote speaker, James Kunstler, who came to prominence in energy and planning with his book "The Geography of Nowhere." Underhill will become a "slum" in his analysis as central cities become increasingly desirable for their services. Steve said the speech was good, but as he accumulates all of his observations about the world, it's "really a downer."

Steve reported that the attendance was lower this year, but the presentations were helpful.  
7:30

Home Energy Audits
******************

Jerry would like to do some more home audits. He has an active contact. Bob has a list of previous contacts. Peter D. asked if there is a video of an actual home energy audit, which could be used for marketing. Bob said the Capstone has a Button Up video, which is at the library.

Steve said that the financing issue has been broadly resolved, os there's no reason not to get going on the audits. Chris said the we need to follow through on all of the audit requests to maintain credibility as an energy committee.

Other Items
***********
Bob requested help with improving the post office basement door. Discussion of a good design ensued. Tom recommended 5/8" CDX to sandwich the 3" foam.

Better Buildings By Design is 4-5 February. Energy Committee members can get a discounted admission.

Steve's 120kW net metering system is going ahead. Discussion about trends in energy. Bob mentioned that Sunpower is launching a new plant in Mexico.

Peter D. showed his Efficiency Vermont Home Energy Report, which "rivals the CCRPC in energy information obfuscation." Bob said that 100,000 randomly selected customers have received the reports. There have been many complaints received by customer service at Efficiency Vermont.

Minutes
*******
MOTION
Bob moved, and Jerry seconded, to accept the minutes of 12 November 2014 as submitted. Passed Unanimously.

 ADJOURNMENT
***********
On a MOTION by Steve, seconded by Bob, the meeting was unanimously adjourned at 7:48.

 Respectfully Submitted,
 Peter Duval, Secretary

  Approved ______________________________________ date:__________________
  _______________________
Chris Miller, Chair

Meeting Minutes 20141112

2014-11-17T21:45:00.005-05:00

Meeting Minutes 20141112

Town of Underhill
Energy Committee
12 November 2014

 DRAFT MINUTES

 CALL TO ORDER
Jerry Adams, Pete Bennett, Peter Duval, Steve Webster, and Chris Miller in attendance, the regular meeting was called to order at 6:34pm in the Town Hall Kitchen, with Chris in the chair and Peter D. recording minutes as secretary.

 Agenda
******
Steve W. asked to add Solar Community to the agenda.
 
6:40

 Town Plan Draft Energy Chapter
******************************
Chris reviewed recent activity on the Energy Chapter. Melanie Needles explained the anomaly in the efficiency graph as the accounting of a light bulb incentive campaign. The CCRPC additions will be deleted.

  6:45

Solar Communities
*****************
Three approaches to accelerating solar installations were discussed.

Steve described a Thetford organization that creates buying groups by issuing requests for proposals for bulk solar installations. They have been able to negotiate PV installations down to less than $3/W. Jerry noted that his system was $4.50/W.

Peter D. described the SunCommon community solar project at Evergreen Erb’s as a condominium.

Steve also described his 120kW hosting of a group net metering project, which is sized to meet the limit of 150kW per single-phase line. Jerry is also considering hosting a similar system.
 Peter D. mentioned two considerations for these systems: land impact, and narrowing the specifications to minimize risk and control costs. Discussion ensued about different applications and configurations, including landfill, rooftop, ground-mount and parking cover.

Steve will investigate and develop this idea further.
 
7:02

 Member Recruiting
*****************
Chris reviewed the membership history of the committee. Originally, the committee had 7 members. When Pete B. joined the membership increased to 8. The resignation of Chuck returns the membership count to 7.

Pete B. mentioned Brian Hurley as a potential member. Jerry mentioned Steve H.

After some discussion of the optimal size of the committee, Steve offered that 37 members would be too many.

7:07

Town Infrastructure
*******************
Pete B. related a conversation with town staff about the operation of the heat pump, which will take some tweaking to work effectively with the boiler. The installation under the eave without cover was a poor decision. The post office heat pump should also be protected.

Chris described the selectboard meeting with Bob. Pete B. volunteered to go again with Bob to discuss the advantages of consultation with the committee.

Peter D. asked if we should build a doghouse for the town hall front yard heat pump.

Discussion turned to heat pumps, generally. Steve asked if anyone had installed a residential unit. Pete B. said that Efficiency Vermont’s delays in announcing heat pump incentives had slowed the market.

7:20

Energy Options for Today
************************
Steve said that has saw mostly new faces at the event. Publicity had gone to all neighboring Front Porch Forums. Chris suggested that next time we should have a signup sheet. Jerry handed out a cost comparison table, updated with recent prices. Chris identified coefficient of performance as an issue that received a lot of questions from the audience. Pete B. said that Efficiency Maine’s website has very good information about heat pumps, also Vermont Fuel Price Report.

Peter D. said that he would like have hourly climate data for Underhill’s microclimates. Chris said that he has a weather station but does not log data.

7:38

Other Items
***********

Jerry would like to do some more home audits and asked if others would like to help, with a positive response from several members.

7:44 

Minutes
*******
MOTION
Steve moved, and Pete B. seconded, to accept the minutes of 08 October 2014 as submitted. Passed Unanimously.

 ADJOURNMENT
***********
On a MOTION by Pete B., seconded by Steve, the meeting was unanimously adjourned at 7:46.

 Respectfully Submitted,
 Peter Duval, Secretary

  Approved ______________________________________ date:__________________
  _______________________
Chris Miller, Chair

Fwd: they're getting tough

2014-11-13T09:23:00.001-05:00

From: Peter Bennett <ptbennett@alum.mit.edu>
Subject: they're getting tough
Date: November 13, 2014 at 8:58:09 AM GMT-5
To: Steve Webster <swebster@sbschools.net>, Jerry Adams <adamseng3@comcast.net>, "'Chris Miller'" <cpmiller_m@yahoo.com>, Tom Moore <router123@aol.com>, "'Peter Duval'" <pkduval@gmail.com>, "'Bob Murphy'" <bmurphy@veic.org>
Cc: bbigelow@underhillvt.gov

I guess we need to keep an eye on all this.

http://digital.vpr.net/post/braintree-considers-disconnecting-its-town-website

Peter

Meeting Minutes 20141008

2014-10-14T11:25:00.000-04:00

Meeting Minutes 20141008
Town of Underhill
Energy Committee
08 October 2014

DRAFT MINUTES

CALL TO ORDER
Jerry Adams, Pete Bennett, Peter Duval, Bob Murphy, Steve Webster, and Chris Miller in attendance, the regular meeting was called to order at 6:38pm in the Town Hall Kitchen, with Chris in the chair and Peter D. recording minutes as secretary.

Agenda
******
Steve W. asked to add Solar Community to the agenda. Peter D. asked to add Town Garage to the agenda.

6:42
Steve Haenel, Underhill resident, arrived and set off a round of introductions.

Renewable Energy Vendor Presentation
************************************
Steve W. presented the tentative format for the event: 5 minute presentations followed by general questions and then time to visit vendors individually. Steve wrote an article for the Mountain Gazette and sent a draft to Chris, deadline for publication is tomorrow. Confirmed vendors include Suncommon, Real Goods and Solar Specialists. Many others have been invited.

6:46
Tom Moore arrived.

Steve reserved the town hall for 28 October, 7pm-9pm. Chris volunteered to bring cider and cups. Pete B. asked about the contacted vendors. Steve read a list of solar thermal, solar PV and heat pump vendors. Pete B. suggested AllEarth. Tom suggested adding car vendors. Bob suggested Vermont Energy and Maheux.

Advertising and promotion activities were discussed, including Mountain Gazette, Front Porch Forum, flyers, Clark's electronic billboard.

A non-vendor informational presentation was discussed. Bob volunteered to give the presentation. Steve H. suggested that people will want to know about applicable law and incentives. Bob offered to bring a projector and screen, and recommended dsireusa.org.

7:05

Town Plan Draft Energy Chapter
******************************
The committee discussed the 3 October 2014 draft of the chapter as revised by Chittenden County Regional Planning Commission.

Many problems were identified in the charts and data, including: the data exhibited an inexplicable spike; the charts are uninformative, poorly designed and poorly referenced; there is no consideration of propane; wood is a major fuel but its associated CO2 emissions are not quantified; Underhill's CO2 emissions shown as equivalent to the emissions of the entire US in both a table and the main text. Chris felt that information would confuse or mislead people. Tom said that it is not ready. Steve W. observed that we have no confidence in the data Pete B. said that it raises more questions than answers.

7:20

Discussion turned to the main revision of the text, paragraph 8.2. Chris read the paragraph and noted that the reference to compact fluorescents was dated. Steve W. suggested changing references to electricity to energy.

Peter D. commented that all of the text, and much of our past effort, has been considered relative to the past rather looking forward to the goal, and that can lead to a failure to accomplish the goal, by local suboptimization. A gradient descent optimization, following the steepest path downhill, can lead one down the wrong side of a hill and too high an elevation. Tom rephrased it as baby steps don't work, every once in a while a giant step needs to be taken. Peter responded that at least a giant planning horizon is needed so that the entire terrain is understood and a path to the goal identified, which may even be uphill for awhile.

Peter D. said that the plan is completely tractable. The only reason that the town plans have then same chapters is that the planners and planning consultants looked at the statute and followed its pattern and that's why there is this "cookie cutter" language. There is nothing that requires town plans to follow this pattern. We could start from scratch using Underhill ideas and issues.

Jerry said that the current plan is bulky compared to former plans and the planning commission is trying to reduce it, so that deleting the CCRPC additions would be well received.

Chris said that the plan is not educational, is a document that gets buried, and that we need to be expedient to meet the deadline.

Peter D. said that the planning industry generally looks to copy from models. If we did put out a significantly different model, say that included a passivhaus energy standard, it wouldn't affect many houses in Underhill, but it could lead to bigger towns to follow suit.

Tom said that we have to deal with what we have in front of us.

Steve W. suggested that Peter write a new draft for later review in parallel with this draft.

MOTION
Jerry moved, and Tom seconded, to keep paragraph 8.2 (approximately line 25-34) with edits changing "compact fluorescent" to "energy-efficient", "electricity use" to "energy use" and delete all other new text, charts, tables and data. Passed unanimously.

7:35
Post Office
***********
Bob reported that the ceiling has been completely insulated, with the mini-split to be installed soon. Bob, Tom and Jerry removed a lot of rock wool and debris by hand. Jerry moved the plumbing vent so that it now exits the roof. Tom took care of patching the floor and roof where the big vent pipe was removed.

The total bill from Building Energy was $7265, less the Efficiency Vermont incentive of about $1600, left a net project cost of $5708. The heat pump will be $3000. The garage high bay lights will cost $2215 with a $750 Efficiency Vermont incentive. All will fit within the budget of the VHEC grant.

The blower door test was a disappointing 1318 CFM50, compared to 1730 CFM50 before the project began -- about 25% reduction. Bob would like to get to a 35% reduction to get an additional $250 incentive from Efficiency Vermont. A smoke pencil test revealed major air flow at the windows, wainscoting, front door weatherstrip, Bilco door and furnace. Bob estimates that the air flow could be reduced another 400 CFM. He said that Mark Diego recommended sealing the basement door with a new frame and framed foam plug with Q-Lon gasket. Discussion of the ductwork versus the door ensued. Bob feels that an hour with some caulk guns would help with other leaks.

Discussion of whether to hire out the job of making the new basement door. Bob will ask Building Energy for a quote on the project, and order the high bay lights for the garage.

MOTION
Pete B. moved and Steve W. seconded to recognize the very good work done by Jerry, Bob and Tom on the Post Office project. Passed unanimously.

Peter D. asked if, when it fails, the furnace would be replaced with another furnace, or something else and whether removing the furnace now, then air sealing, would help avoid the problem of localized suboptimization. Bob said that there is no likelihood that a new furnace would be installed.

Chris asked about the control for the two heating systems. Bob said the project is an experiment. Jerry said that he has used identical thermostats, located side-by-side, with significant offset between the controls. Peter D. suggested using some real-time data loggers to monitor the building. Bob said that he hoping to get some help on this from VEIC.

7:55

Member Recruiting
*****************
Chris read an ad for Front Porch Forum. Tom suggested recruiting at the vendor night. The process for recruiting and appointing was discussed and several questions emerged. Chris will discuss this with the selectboard and town administrator.

8:05

Steve suggested putting time limits on the agenda items. Agenda items, Solar Community and Energy Assessments were tabled without objection.

Town Garage
***********
The status of the town garage was briefly discussed and Bob expressed concern about the town's energy-related decisions being made without consultation.

Peter D. asked if, since the garage was still in limbo, perhaps the VHEC grant money could be used on the post office to achieve a much tighter post office.

Bob said that the lights really need to be fixed, and they can be reused if have to be taken down for the roof repair.

MOTION
Steve W. moved, and Pete B. seconded, to send Chris and Bob to a selectboard meeting to discuss the need for consultation. Passed unanimously.

Chris observed that the selectboard's resolve to repair the roof is fading because it is so expensive, and yet at the same time the building is so young, it is too early to replace.

Minutes
*******
MOTION
Bob moved, and Tom seconded, to accept the minutes of 10 September 2014 as submitted. Passed Unanimously.

ADJOURNMENT
***********
On a MOTION by Jerry, seconded by Bob, the meeting was unanimously adjourned at 8:12.

Respectfully Submitted,

Peter Duval, Secretary

Approved ______________________________________ date:__________________

_______________________
Chris Miller, Chair

Fwd: Energy Chapter of the Town Plan

2014-10-08T15:43:00.000-04:00

Begin forwarded message:

From: Christopher Miller
Subject: Fw: Energy Chapter of the Town Plan
Date: October 6, 2014 at 1:08:46 PM GMT-4
To: Bob Murphy , Gerard Adams , Tom Moore , Steve Webster , Peter Bennett , Peter Duval
Reply-To: Christopher Miller

All,
Please find the attached revised Energy Chapter. Sarah is requesting the Energy Committee to review and comment.

Regards,
Chris

----- Forwarded Message -----
From: Sarah McShane To: Christopher Miller  Sent: Friday, October 3, 2014 9:17 AM 
Subject: Energy Chapter of the Town Plan

Good Morning Chris,

Happy Friday to you. I hope this finds you well. The Chittenden County Regional Planning Commission supplied an energy analysis of the town for inclusion in the Energy Chapter of the Town Plan. Would you mind sharing the attached revised Energy Chapter with the Energy Committee for review and comment? Feel free to contact me if you have any questions.

Once we receive comments from the Energy Committee, the Planning Commission will put the chapter online for public review and comment.

Thanks so much. Enjoy your weekend.

-Sarah

High Performance Manufactured Home

2014-09-24T18:52:00.001-04:00

Subject: High Performance Manufactured Home

Energy Committee,

There is a high performance manufactured home in the parking lot of the Innovation Center ("GE Building")128 Lakeside Avenue, Burlington. It is a manufactured home, designed to be placed on a foundation, but it is the size and shape of a mobile home.

It is less expensive to own than a mobile home, and with financing, it produces cash savings from the start.

Li Ling Young (lyoung@veic.org) gave me a tour last week. I think that it is leaving soon, so hurry down to visit the building. Check out the heat pump ERV.

-Peter

Meeting Minutes 20140910

2014-09-19T11:06:00.001-04:00

Meeting Minutes 20140910
Town of Underhill
Energy Committee
10 September 2014

DRAFT MINUTES

CALL TO ORDER
Jerry Adams, Peter Duval, Chris Miller, Tom Moore, and Steve Webster in attendance, the regular meeting was called to order at 6:43pm in the Town Hall Kitchen, with Chris in the chair and Peter D. recording minutes as secretary. Bob Murphy joined the meeting at 6:58.

Agenda
******
The posted agenda was not modified.

Harvest Market
**************
Tom reported that the tent, tables and chairs are ready.
Chris signed up in the Google Doc for set-up for all three days. Jericho Energy Task Force is not joining in the booth.

Jerry is also helping with set-up and Saturday morning.
Bob arrived (6:58).
Steve is going to produce a poster about the Solar Resolution and arrange for the energy calculator form that acts as the entry to the LED raffle that Bob is organizing.
Peter suggested using the EPA individual greenhouse gas calculator and is working on a bookmark with suggested reading. He asked for reading recommendations.
Tom learned that NESEA is not organizing a home tour this year (http://www.ases.org/solar-tour/).
Bob will have Button Up Day information. Tom suggested offering the Button Up DVD, which Peter suggested could also be entered into the collection at DRML.
Jerry will bring a wattmeter to the booth.
Peter showed some books that will be listed on the bookmark.

7:27

Open Meeting Law
****************
Chris reported on the response to his email message to Brian Bigelow and VLCT about how we could use the correspondence blog. Information sharing and administrative activities are fine, but discussing any matter or document drafting are not. Peter suggested using the blog to post subcommittee reports, so that members can prepare for meetings and a full quorum review can occur in one meeting cycle.

7:37

Post Office Project
*******************
Tom reported that the Energy Committee's post office project has been planned and will be undertaken soon. It was agreed that the project would start 16 September at 8:30, and if additional time is needed the work would continue on the 26th.

Bob reported that Roland Maheux will install the cold-climate heat pump 10 October at 7:30.

7:45

Renewable Energy Vendor Presentation
************************************
It was agreed that the event, "Energy Options Today," will be held Tuesday, 28 October, 7:00-9:00, most likely in the town hall. There was discussion about impact of significant heat pump market penetration on the winter peak electrical demand. Steve recommended a time budget of 5 minutes per vendor.

Member Recruiting
*****************
Chris encouraged everyone to search for a new member.

8:02

Minutes
*******
MOTION
Bob moved, and Tom seconded, to accept the minutes of 13 August 2014 as presented. Passed unanimously.

Adjournment
***********
MOTION
Bob moved, and Tom seconded, to adjourn meeting at 8:05. Passed unanimously.

Respectfully Submitted,

Peter Duval, Secretary

Approved ______________________________________ date:__________________

_______________________
Chris Miller, Chair

Meeting Minutes 20140813

2014-08-18T21:23:00.000-04:00

Meeting Minutes 20140813
Town of Underhill
Energy Committee
13 August 2014

DRAFT MINUTES

CALL TO ORDER
Jerry Adams, Pete Bennett, Peter Duval, Bob Murphy, Steve Webster, Tom Moore, Chris Miller in attendance, the regular meeting was called to order at 6:49pm in the Town Hall Kitchen, with Chris in the chair and Peter D. recording minutes as secretary.

Agenda
******
Steve asked to add Solar Inventory to the agenda.

Harvest Market
**************
Chris described work already accomplished on the Harvest Market booth. The site is the same as in prior years. Whether we will be able to get power to the booth is an open question.

Bob read through some online minutes of the Jericho Energy Task Force and determined that they will not be able to participate in the booth this year.

Discussion ensued about possible activities at the booth and each committee member identified specific contributions and ideas:
Bike Generator with Lights
Nissan Leaf
Poster of Past Accomplishments by Year
Solar Inventory
Tower of Power
Tarm Wood Pellet Boiler Poster
GMP Heat Pump Display
Energy Co-op Heat Pump Demonstration

Heat pump discussion included notes that the current rebate is $1000, available only to all-electric heat customers, the future rebates are yet to be determined, and the high interest in cold-climate air-air heat pumps may lead to an "up-stream" (rebates go directly to supplier/wholesaler) reservation system.

Peter asked about providing information about the impact of heat pumps on summer time peak demand. Steve asked about promoting conservation first, and whether we have conservation-oriented literature.

Discussion about estimating household energy consumption with a questionnaire and rewarding participants with a lamp or lamp raffle.

Action items were assigned to each committee member:
Bob:
* Same material as last year
* GMP heat pump literature
* LED lamp raffle
Tom:
* Tents, chairs, tables
Jerry:
* Power cord
* Tarm brochures
Steve:
* Contact VEEP to see what they can offer for free
* Household energy consumption model
Chris:
* Contact JETF
* Contact Chuck about last year's posters
* Follow-up with Harvest Market about power
Pete B.:
* Heat pump literature
* Demonstration heat pump
Peter D.:
* Online schedule sign-up
* Big picture: Japan v. Vermont consumption? Jevons Paradox? Bookmark? Post office report? Energy open house tour?

7:34

Open Meeting Law
****************
Chris identified two issues that affect the committee, agenda notice, and meeting minutes. In both cases, the documents need to be publicly posted on the web, agendas at least 48 hours before a meeting, and draft minutes within 5 days after a meeting.

Pete B. identified a third issue, whether discussion can occur via email outside of the meeting. Peter D. said that the blog can capture all correspondence and provides public access to the documents that the committee receives. Chris said that the issue of whether, or how much discussion can occur remains unresolved, and asked Peter D. to discuss the issue with Brian Bigelow.

7:51

VHEC Grant Presentation
***********************
Chris said that the Selectboard requested substitute projects for the town garage light project.

There is preliminary work that we need to do before the post office project can proceed, build a new bulkhead door, and remove the big vent pipe, repair the floor, remove insulation, repair the roof, and extend the plumbing vent. Jerry suggested running the vent horizontally out the gable. Tom, Bob and Jerry plan to assess the project on Saturday, and undertake the work, Friday, 29 August.

Bob noted that the town hall heat pump will be elevated on a new foundation on August 21st, and suggested that a roof be constructed over the unit.

More discussion ensued on the town garage roof project and lighting project.

8:08

Renewable Energy Vendor Presentation
************************************
Bob said that SunCommon has contacted him again about making a presentation. Discussion about maintaining vendor neutrality, lead to setting a loose date of October for the program. Chris said that we will work on the program at the next meeting.

Solar Inventory
***************
Bob reviewed some details of the Solar Resolution, which set a goal of 50 photovoltaic or thermal systems, starting from 16 previously installed systems, for 34 new systems. Efficiency Vermont paid incentives on 31 projects from 01 July 2012 to 26 November 2013. SunCommon claims 29 systems in Underhill.

Steve will work on getting testimonials and photos of solar projects in Underhill.

8:22

Bob said that Vermont Energy and Climate Action Network (VECAN) and Central Vermont Community Action Council (CVCAC), which has changed its name to Capstone Community Action, are sponsoring a Button-Up Day, 1 November.

Pete B. asked that we discuss two agenda items at the next meeting, member recruiting and changing the meeting day to Monday or Tuesday.

Minutes
*******
MOTION
Pete B. moved, and Tom seconded, to accept the minutes of 09 July 2014 as presented. Passed Unanimously.

Adjournment
***********
Without objection, the meeting was adjourned at 8:30.

Respectfully Submitted,

Peter Duval, Secretary

Approved ______________________________________ date:__________________

_______________________
Chris Miller, Chair

Blog Authoring and Subscribing

2014-08-13T11:39:00.001-04:00

Hello Energy Committee,

I have had Blogger send fresh Blog Author invitations to those of you
who are not already authors. There are two blogs:
* underhillenergycommittee.blogspot.com, which is for the public
initiatives of the Energy Committee, things that would be of interest to
most people, most of the time
* ueccorrespondence.blogspot.com, which is for everything else,
including minutes and email exchanges

There are two things to do:
1) If you have received the invitations from Blogger -- there may be 1
or 2 (you'll have to respond to both) -- please follow the instructions
in the invitation.
2) View each of the blogs in your web browser, and on the right pane of
the page, "Subscribe by email" to each of the blogs.

Now you'll automatically receive posts for blog as email, and be able to
send messages/posts to everyone on the committee.
Using these blogs for all of our communication will keep us well in
compliance with the spirit of the Open Meeting Law.
Remember, this communication is all instantaneous and public.

-Peter

Meeting Minutes 20140709

2014-07-14T22:44:00.001-04:00

Meeting Minutes 20140709
Town of Underhill
Energy Committee
09 July 2014

DRAFT MINUTES

CALL TO ORDER
Jerry Adams, Peter Duval, Pete Bennett, Chuck Weger and Chris Miller in
attendance, the regular meeting was called to order at 6:45pm in the
Town Hall Kitchen, with Chris in the chair and Peter D. recording
minutes as secretary.

Agenda
******
With Bob Murphy absent, some items on which he would report were deleted
from the agenda: VHEC grant proposal, Vermont Energy Challenge, Heat
Pump Vendor Presentation. Open Meeting Law Changes was also deferred to
a later time.

Town Plan
*********

Jerry, Pete B., Peter D. and Chris attended the 16 June Planning
Commission meeting.

Chris said that the Planning Commission accepted the changes of the June
will forward the Energy Chapter to the Regional Planning Commission for
comments.

Pete B. felt that the Planning Commission was not ready to accept the
Energy Committee's view that the Regional Planning Commission
suggestions did not make a lot of sense, and that there is more
negotiation ahead.

Chris agreed that the process is not finished, and that his
understanding is that the RPC comments will come back to the Energy
Committee. So for now, "the ball is in their court."

Peter D. noted that we had approved two drafts. The first draft, which
included the high performance energy code, was approved by 6 members,
and the second, which did not include the energy code, was approved by 4
members. He felt that it did not appear that the Planning Commission had
read the first draft.

He expressed concern that this was the result of informal communication
between the boards. He mentioned Jerry Adams, Trevor Squirrel and Cliff
Peterson as having multiple positions in town. It is a powerful
position, being a gate keeper of communication between the boards.

Peter D. said that we should bring forward the idea of a high
performance energy again because in the current plan the Energy
Committee is directed to provide regulation and fee recommendations to
the Planning Commission. This is reflected in regulation at other levels
of government and cited California's 2020 net-zero code. He said that he
preferred the Passive House standard because it is a performance
standard, cost-effective, necessary for meeting other energy standards
(net-zero, energy plus) has an international industry behind it, and is
automatically enforced.

MOTION
Jerry moved, and Pete B. seconded, to discontinue talking about the town
plan.

Pete B. said that we should have a little more discussion. He felt that
it would be a "legal rat's nest" to have a stronger energy code than the
state, and that we had instead decided to ask the town to enforce the
state code and promote better practice.

Chris said that the state code is a substantial change from the status
quo, and he feels that construction in Underhill is cost-sensitive and
contrasted it with high-cost LEED-certified construction.

Pete B. read aloud the strategy from the June draft of the Energy
Chapter, and said that because of legal issues that Planning Commission
is unwilling to go beyond the state energy code.

Peter D. asked what the legal issues are.

Pete B. said that that it was the view of the Planning Commission that
an energy code could not be put in the regulations.

Chuck asked, "why not?"

Pete B. said that it had to do with going beyond the state code.

Chuck asked if that wasn't the point of having local control and local
government.

Pete B. said that people would sue.

Jerry said that houses are built with a first-cost concern. If the code
prevented "double-wides" from being installed, for example, then it
would be exclusionary and elitist.

Pete B. said there might be legal issues, and that is the Planning
Commission's view. The Energy Committee's job is give ways to promote
higher building practices.

Chuck said that enforcement is impractical.

Peter D. said that is why the Passive House standard is a good choice,
because there is an infrastructure of consultants and the only way to
get a certification is to have an independent commissioning of a
building by a passive house consultant. The process is well-established,
which is superior to the one that Efficiency Vermont is trying to create
with its own standard.

Pete B. called the question, which passed 3-2 to end discussion. The
motion to discontinue talking about the town plan passed 3-2. Discussion
continued.

Pete B. said that the Energy Committee can still come up with ways to
promote better building practices and even go to Planning Commission at
some point.

Chuck encouraged education

Chris agreed with the notion of education and also suggested exploring
incentives. He felt it was hard to explain going beyond the state standard.

Chuck said it is immaterial whether the local standard is higher or
lower than the state's, and that showing the lifetime economic good
sense of better building practices is effective.

Peter D. said that it argues against the idea that Passive House is
expensive. A sloppy building commits and condemns future people to great
expense.

Jerry said that most people are not thinking about the long-term costs.

Chris agreed. He said that the state standard is a big deal because it
makes it easy to put a statement about enforcement into the town plan.

Pete B. said that our role is to convince people to go beyond the
standard and use carrots.

Jerry said that he installed a solar system that has a long payback and
is deteriorating. He is disappointed.

Chuck quipped about our having already ended the discussion and then
said that part of the problem is that the economics are wrong because
all costs are not included.

Minutes
*******

Discussion turned to the minutes, with a compliment from Chris.
MOTION
Pete B. moved, and Chuck seconded, to accept the minutes of 14 May 2014
as presented. Passed unanimously.

Member Items
************

Chuck asked how to submit a resignation. Discussion about whether email
or paper notice is needed. Chuck will email Brian.

Chris distributed frequently asked questions about the Open Meeting Law.
Some discussion ensued. Peter D. suggested using the correspondence log
blog to make all electronic communication public automatically. Pete B.
pointed out the number of public notice places called for in the FAQ.
Peter D. expressed concern that minutes might not be preserved in the
town vault.

Jerry brought up the failed bid process for the town garage repair. He
expects that no work will be done this year. Discussion ensued. Jerry
thinks that installing the garage heat recovery system is the next step.
Discussion about alternate uses of the grant funding.

Chuck was presented with an imaginary gold watch and thanked for his
unique contributions to the work of the Energy Committee.

Adjournment
***********

On a MOTION from Pete B. and second by Chuck, the meeting was
unanimously adjourned at 7:35.

Respectfully Submitted,

Peter Duval, Secretary

Meeting Minutes 20140611

2014-06-18T14:07:00.000-04:00

Meeting Minutes 20140611

Town of Underhill

Energy Committee

11 June 2014

DRAFT MINUTES

CALL TO ORDER

Bob Murphy, Tom Moore, Jerry Adams, Peter Duval, Pete Bennett and Chris Miller in attendance, the regular meeting called to order at 6:38pm in the Town Hall Kitchen, with Chris in the chair and Peter D. recording minutes as secretary.

Minutes

*******

MOTION

Tom moved, Jerry seconded to accept the minutes of 14 May 2014 as submitted. Passed unanimously.

Town Plan

*********

Chris said that he has been asked to present the Energy Committees draft of Chapter 8 -- Energy to the Planning Commission (PC) next week, and he would like to consider feedback on the chapter before the presentation.

Jerry reported that the PC discussed one aspect of the Chapter 8, the "gold standard" for new construction. The PC probably won't accept a draft that contains it. The following day, he emailed the Committee Draft to the PC Administrator for forwarding to the rest of the PC. He suggested looking at the bronze and silver standard.

Chris asked Jerry to clarify what he meant by gold, silver and bronze. Bob described some standards, in increasing rigor:

* State standard, Residential Building Energy Standard, RBES

* Energy Star, which was broken into three named standards:

1) Code Plus

2) Energy Star

3) High Performance

Chris read the building code objective from the Committee Draft: "The town should require a High Performance Home certification as a requirement for a certificate of occupancy for new buildings."

Jerry said the town plan "goes in a drawer, until there's a problem." Later, someone could sue the town based on a claim that the plan is exclusionary.

Chris pointed out that the Committee had removed 'shall' from most of the document, and asked Jerry if 'promote' would be more acceptable.

Pete B. asked why the town should require new construction to meet a higher building performance standard.

Peter D. said that buildings have a long life, much longer than the life the person who decides to build them.

Bob said that he wished the town would enforce the existing code. Discussion ensued about the details of enforcement. The state requires that the code compliance documents be filed with the town clerk. Using the "owner/builder" form absolves the builder from complying with the state standard.

Pete B. asked if there was a revision that we could consider. Chris asked for a straw poll on modifying the code objective. Peter D. said that the PC could change the chapter on its own, and that it is the Energy Committee's role to forward its best work. Tom said that the Energy Committee would do a better job revising the chapter than the PC.

Chris asked for a motion.

Tom suggested offering an incentive for high performance buildings, with suitably "fluffy" wording to make it a recommendation to the town.

Jerry said that there will be at least one area of the plan that will not be fluffy: the town will not takeover any private roads.

Peter D. suggested writing a letter about the state standard enforcement issue, and focussing on the higher performance standard in the plan.

Pete B. asked if there are other mandates, or codes to consider. Jerry asked about the STRETCH code.

Discussion of enforcing the state standard.

Pete B. proposed wording for objective. Discussion ensued.

MOTION

Pete B. moved, Tom seconded to replace the objective with a "strategy": "The town should enforce current state energy codes as a requirement for the issuance of a certificate of occupancy. At the same time, the town should promote residential building practices which exceed these current state requirements." Passed 4-1, 1 absent.

Discussion was directed to the section on emissions standards.

Tom moved, Jerry seconded to strike (line 84) ", in consultation with the Conservation Commission," Passed unanimously.

Jerry asked if the references to the survey had been removed. Peter D. confirmed that they were removed at the last meeting.

Pete B. asked about the process. Chris encouraged all members to attend the PC meeting.

Peter D. suggested inserting a recommendation for a dark sky policies. Discussion ensued about the wording of the recommendation.

MOTION

Jerry moved, and Bob seconded to insert (at approximately line 192) a strategy "The town shall promote the minimization of night lighting, commensurate with safety and utility, in both public and private properties." Passed unanimously.

VHEC Grant

**********

Bob previously circulated the grant application by email. Most of the projects can be accomplished under the grant funding limit. He reported on quotes for the various projects: $5700 for the garage lights (Green Mountain). LEDs would cost about $3000 more. Jerry reported that the garage project could be delayed. No contractor interest has been shown so far in the roof project. Bob said that a delay was alluded to in the grant document, so it should not be a problem.

The post office audit was the basis for the project and requoted the project. The net, considering incentives, was $4404. Pete B. asked if there was a benefit to the town for this project. Bob noted that the postal service had to make an extraordinary requisition this season for heating oil. Tom said that the improvements do not cost the town any money and become part of the town-owned building, regardless of whether the post office remains.

Bob noted concern about the low temperature operation of the heat pump. Different models function at different low temps. Bob consulted with Vermont Energy Contracting in addition to Roland Maheux. It was agreed that the model selection will be confirmed before the project is undertaken.

In reviewing the heat pumps, it was determined that the new air-conditioning system at the town hall is actually a heat pump, with a lower operating limit of 5 degrees Fahrenheit. Bob plans to recommend that the Selectboard raise the outdoor packages above the snow, so that they can be used for shoulder season heating (a $500 project, beyond the scope of the VHEC grant).

Town hall main room lighting will cost $1000 for equipment. The Energy Committee will take care of the labor.

The exterior light at the post office is also included as equipment only.

It was agreed to go forward with discussing the projects with the selectboard, in anticipation of receiving the grant.

Solar/VHEC Challenge

********************

Bob said that we will be receiving a project-by-project report from the Renewable Energy Resource Center for the past two years. SunCommon has said that in the past two years it has completed 29 projects in Underhill. The goal was 40 renewable systems. It appears that the goal was met. Pete B. will check with Sunward, which did solar hot water.

Heat Pump Vendors

*****************

Bob noted that SunCommon is interested in giving a presentation on heat pumps. Pete B. asked about a "neutral" presentation by Efficiency Vermont and whether the state incentives are forthcoming. The incentives were just recently enacted in law, and it will take about a year for implementation. There is a contact at Efficiency Vermont who Bob can invite.

Pete B. reported that the Co-op will have a leasing program. Heat pumps are of high interest to the public. Bob described a system that he is planning to install at his house.

Discussion turned to system-wide effects of large scale adoption of air-source heat pumps and electric cars.

This agenda item will be carried over to the next meeting.

On a MOTION from Pete B. and second by Tom, the meeting was unanimously adjourned at 8:19.

Respectfully Submitted,

Peter Duval, Secretary

Underhill Town Plan, Chapter 8, Committee Draft 20140514

2014-05-24T18:54:00.001-04:00

Energy Committee,

The committee's draft, as of our May 14 meeting, is attached. The "diffed" version shows the edits, compared to Peter Bennett's April 22 draft.

The building code "Objective" probably should have been labeled a "Strategy." I wish it also listed Passivhaus/PassiveHouse and NetZero and any stronger verified performance standard as alternatives, along with a special review option for experimental buildings that might achieve the intent of reducing energy consumption, renewable production, or ecological restoration in a way that is not well analyzed by the suggested codes. Here's an improved version, I think:

"Strategy: For new buildings, a High Performance Home certification should be required for the issuance of a certificate of occupancy"

-Peter

CHAPTER 8: ENERGY

Section 8.1: Background

In 2008, the Underhill Selectboard created an Energy Committee with a charge to

research the energy issues for the Town and to make recommendations for changes and

best practices to the Planning Commission and the Selectboard. The guiding principle of

the Energy Committee's recommendations is for the Town as an entity and for Town

residents to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. See Natural Resources §§ 1.10 & 1.18.

This will be accomplished through setting town policies that require energy efficiency in

Town infrastructure and encouraging residents to do the same in their own homes and by

utilizing renewable energy resources.

In the early 2000's the Town voted to become a part of the "10 % Challenge", a

voluntary program to raise public awareness about global climate change and to

encourage households and businesses to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions by at least

10 percent. The Energy Committee has already held informational sessions about how

residents can lower their energy use, (thus lowering greenhouse gas emissions) and what

resources are available to community members to help them become more energy

efficient.

In addition to this work, the Town should encourage measurable energy efficiencies and renewable energy production through regulations and fees structures.

Section 8.2 Energy Consumption Reduction

Policy: The Town shall work to reduce energy consumption of Town

equipment and Town properties and also encourage Town residents

to do the same.

Goal: The Town shall have an energy efficient infrastructure

Completed:

The Town has implemented the recommendations of the energy audit for the Town Hall in fiscal year 2009-2010. The Town is completing the recommendations of the energy audit for the Post Office in fiscal year 2014.

The Town has conducted an energy audit for the Town Garage and scheduled energy efficiency improvements in the capital plan for FY 2014.

On-going Strategies:

The Town shall continue to maintain and improve the energy efficiency of Town buildings through capital planning. See Infrastructure § 4.3.
As a part of having an energy efficient infrastructure, Town vehicles shall adhere to all emission standards as established by the state and federal government.
The Town should use local natural resources whenever effective to reduce Town energy expenditures.
Energy performance values should be established for any new Town of Underhill infrastructure construction.

Goal: To encourage public and private entities to reduce energy use.

Objective: The town should require a High Performance Home certification as a requirement for a certificate of occupancy for new buildings.

Completed: The Underhill Energy Committee organized Underhill's participation in the Vermont Home Energy Challenge (VHEC). Sponsored by Efficiency Vermont and the Vermont Energy and Climate Action Network (VECAN) the VHEC is a program designed to increase the number of comprehensive home energy efficiency improvement projects in the state. Under the Challenge, town energy committees and other local partners compete with other towns to see which town can get the most homes weatherized within a one-year period.

Underhill tied for 1^st place (with Jericho) in its region with 27% of target realized. As a result, the town won a $10,000 grant which will be put to use in energy efficiency projects for the benefit of the Town.

On-Going Strategies:

The Energy Committee shall continue to educate residents in ways to reduce their energy consumption especially in the area of reducing thermal energy expenditures.

The energy committee will continue to monitor the implementation of PACE ( Property Assessed Clean Energy), a financing vehicle whereby the Town would loan money to residents for home energy improvements. If feasible, from a town management standpoint, the Energy committee would ask the Select Board to submit this to town voters for approval.
The Planning Committee shall consult with the Energy Committee and review Town regulations and fee structures to consider ways to encourage energy efficient construction. One possible solution is to offer building fee rebates based on the proven energy efficiency of new construction and existing structure improvements. A recommendation shall be made by the Planning Commission to the Selectboard about fee rebates or other strategies to achieve energy savings in conjunction with regulatory amendments.
The Energy Committee, in consultation with the Conservation Commission, shall make recommendations to the Planning Commission and Selectboard to consider targeted emission standards for Town infrastructure, as well as suggested methods for achieving targeted standards.
The Town shall support the further development of public transportation systems and alternative transportation systems such as multi-modal paths in accord with the planning goals set forth in the Transportation chapter of this Plan. See Transportation, Chapter 5.

Section 8.3: Development of Renewable Energy Resources

Goal: Encourage the development of renewable energy sources in

Underhill.

Strategies:

The Planning Commission shall review Town regulations to determine if they are flexible enough to accommodate development of renewable energy sources in identified use areas.
If necessary, the Planning Commission shall propose amendments to the regulations and hold public forums on the proposed changes.
When drafting amendments to accommodate development of renewable energy sources, the Planning Commission shall consult both the Conservation Commission and the Energy Committee.

Meeting Minutes 20140514

2014-05-24T17:33:00.002-04:00

Meeting Minutes 20140514
Town of Underhill
Energy Committee
14 May 2014

DRAFT MINUTES

Bob Murphy, Tom Moore, Jerry Adams, Steve Webster, Peter Duval, Chuck Weger and Chris Miller in attendance, the regular meeting called to order at 6:35pm in the Town Hall Kitchen, with Chris in the chair and Peter recording minutes as secretary.

VHEC Grant
**********

Bob began the discussion with an information update:
1) Efficiency Vermont (EVT) incentives can be combined with the grant.
2) The street light program has been fully subscribed for this year, so no funds are available for street light replacement.
Bob reviewed potential projects, with estimates:

Town garage lighting project would install 14 4-tube T5 fluorescent fixtures. The EVT incentive pays $100 per fixture and $100 per motion sensor. For the fixtures, with a total cost of $4200, less the EVT incentive of $1400, leaves a net charge to the VHEC grant of $2800.

Post office insulation project would fix the DWV stack, remove basement vent, air seal and install new insulation. The project, with a total cost of $5590, less incentives of $1500, leaves a net charge to the VHEC grant of $4090.

Town hall lighting project would replace fluorescent fixtures in the main room. We are waiting on a detailed quote. Incentives are minimal. The current estimate is approximately $1000 net charge to the VHEC grant.

Discussion ensued about the sequencing of repairs at the town garage. The roof replacement should be done before the lighting project is undertaken. There is a 31 December 2014 deadline for lighting verification.

Tom suggested installing a ductless mini-split at the post office. The total cost would be approximately $5000. Some discussion about the whether the town hall would be a better showcase for the unit, and whether the AC-only mini-split that was just installed at the town hall could be retrofitted, or would have to be replaced.

Peter suggested a dark-sky optimized lighting project for the post office.

Individual projects were voted by priority:

MOTION
1) Jerry moved, Peter seconded to allocate $5590 of the VHEC grant to the post office insulation project. Passed unanimously.
MOTION
2) Tom moved, Jerry seconded to install a mini-split somewhere at the town hall; but if it is not recommended on closer evaluation, then it would be installed at the post office. Passed unanimously.
MOTION
3) Chuck moved, Bob seconded to use the EVT rebate money on dark sky exterior lighting at the post office, and any remaining rebate money on the town hall parking lot. Passed unanimously.
MOTION
4 Tom moved, Steve seconded to renovate the fluorescent fixtures in the main room of the town hall. Passed unanimously.

Town Plan
*********

Working from a hard copy of Peter Bennett's draft "Chapter 8: Energy," with Steve and Peter suggesting on a number of deletions, and Chris suggesting a couple of insertions the edits which were accepted without objection:

1) At line 22, insert "and renewable energy production" after "measurable energy efficiencies"
2) At lines 25-28, delete "It may also…tree canopy."
3) At lines 30-49, delete "In the Underhill…should be investigated."
4) At line 71, replace "feasible" with "effective"
5) At line 106, delete "about" from "Selectboard to consider about targeted emission"
6) At line 108, revise "achieving those targeted standards by 2014." to "achieving targeted standards."
7) At line 116, delete "alternative" from "development of alternative renewable"
8) At line 129-135, delete "4. The Planning Commission shall…fuel the Town garage."

Discussion of building energy codes (High Performance High, Energy Star, Code Plus), the lack of enforcement of the state code, and the merits of a verifying code standard.

MOTION
Peter moved, Steve seconded to add at line 77:
"Objective: The town should require a High Performance Home certification as a requirement for a certificate of occupancy for new buildings." Passed, 6-1.

Harvest Market
**************
Chuck brought to the committee's attention that it is time to plan for Harvest Market, and produced the registration material for a booth. The committee expressed sadness at the imminent loss of Chuck's good company and reliable organizing of the Harvest Market booth and extended best wishes for his retirement from the committee. Bob agreed to organize the Harvest Market Booth.

Bob mentioned that domestic hot water heat pumps will be getting a substantial incentive this year, $550, on an approximately $900 unit.

VHEC Grant Revisited
********************
Tom received a communication from Brian Bigelow expressing confidence that the town garage roof replacement project would be completed in time to pursue the town garage light project.

MOTION
Steve moved, Tom seconded to substitute the town garage lighting for the mini-split project, if Tom was convinced that the lighting project is feasible and the garage project would be completed in time. Passed 6-1.

On a MOTION from Chuck and second by Steve, the meeting was unanimously adjourned.

Respectfully Submitted,

Peter Duval, Secretary

Meeting Minutes 20140409

2014-04-21T15:35:00.004-04:00

DRAFT MINUTES
Meeting Minutes 20140409

Town of Underhill
Energy Committee
09 April 2014

CALL TO ORDER
*************
Members Chris Miller, Bob Murphy, Jerry Adams, Peter Bennett, Chuck Weger and Peter Duval (6:40) attended the 09 April 2014 regular meeting of the Underhill Energy Committee, called to order at 6:35 pm in the Underhill Town Hall Kitchen, with Chris in the chair and Peter D. acting as secretary. Brian Hurley attended as a member

MINUTES APPROVAL
****************
The minutes of the 26 March 2014 meeting were approved as drafted.

LEAP
****
Bob reported that the LEAP conference attracted about 650 people, down for a peak of about 900. Conversations at his booth were mostly about LEDs, high propane bills, and heat pumps. Rep. Welch and Sen. Sanders were there.

Jerry also attended -- and went to the session on air source heat pumps. Red Rock Mechanical is offering a single-head Fujitsu 15kBtu package for $4k. The maximum separation between the indoor and outdoor units is 100 feet. With HVDC and finicky refrigerant tuning, it's not a DIY project.

Discussion of heat pump performance characteristics followed. COP can be as high as 9 with warmer temperatures;. A $1000 rebate is being considered by the legislature; it is unclear whether weatherization will be required. Pete B. reported that the Co-op will have a "major" heat pump initiative. Peter D. described his experience using heat pumps in Japan.

VHEC
****
Chris mentioned that the VHEC award was in a news item on VPR.

Bob read from the grant award letter and project proposal form, noting that the award had to used to reduce energy consumption and costs for the town.
Peter B. listed some questions:
* Who decides?
* Who submits the grant?
* Does it have to be one package proposal?

Discussion of the politics and finances of the projects and the Energy Committee ensued.

The post office, town hall lighting, school lighting project, street lighting, and town garage lighting project were discussed.

The post office "showcase" project would involve already identified weatherization measures and additional efforts: remove/repair roof penetrations, clean and reinsulate the attic, remove the basement from the conditioned envelope and replace the old furnace with heat pump, isolate public area heating zone, demonstrate a temporary exterior vestibule, install state-of-the-art (day)lighting.

The school lighting project would replace fluorescent fixtures in the Underhill Central School with improved lighting fixtures. The project already has an Efficiency Vermont incentive to do the lighting project, a cash-neutral financing option, and represents a subdistrict of the town. The VHEC grant rules suggest that it may not be combined with the Efficiency Vermont incentive.

The town hall lighting project would replace T12 linear fluorescents fixtures in the main room with new lighting fixtures.

The town garage lighting project would replace sodium vapor fixtures in the town garage with new lighting fixtures.

The street lighting project would replace existing street lights with new fixtures. There is an existing street lighting incentive program, but it is rumored to be fully subscribed for this year.

Chris asked that a detailed list of project options be presented at the next meeting.

TOWN PLAN
*********
Jerry reported that there is no deadline, but we need to bring something forward to the Planning Commission.

Peter D. mentioned some items that could be addressed in the next town plan, including a strong energy code, Traffic Committee recommendations, waste carting contract, and a dark sky initiative.

Chris asked that members review the draft and send out comments before the next meeting.

OTHER BUSINESS
**************

Bob reported on energy consumption at the town hall, which has been reduced about 40% since we began the program of efficiency projects.

Chuck will be leaving Underhill in June.

ADJOURNMENT
***********
On a motion from Pete B. with a second by Chuck, the meeting was unanimously adjourned at 8:25.

Respectfully Submitted,

Peter Duval, Secretary

Meeting Minutes 20140326

2014-03-31T23:00:00.000-04:00

Town of Underhill
Energy Committee
26 March 2014

DRAFT MINUTES

Bob Murphy, Tom Moore, Jerry Adams, Steve Webster, Peter Duval, and Chris Miller in attendance, the regular meeting called to order at 6:40pm in the Town Hall Kitchen, with Bob in the chair and Steve acting as secretary.

Annual Reorganization
*********************

On nominations by Tom, new officers were elected:
Chris Miller, Chair
Jerry Adams, Vice Chair
Peter Duval, Secretary

Chris immediately assumed the chair, and Peter began acting as secretary.

Town Plan
*********

Jerry reviewed the process. Underhill does not benefit much from CCRPC. The Energy Committee should submit its information for the next town plan to the Planning Commission in April. Bob is going to go to the next regional energy meeting with Melanie Needles of CCRPC.

VHEC
****

Underhill tied with Jericho for first in our region, with 9 completed projects. We received a $10,000 award. An awards banquet will be held Friday 5:30pm in Montpelier. Bob will attend, possibly Peter.

Town Garage lighting is a project that the Selectboard would like to see funded. This would be a fixture for fixture replacement. The existing 8 fixtures are 400W HPS. The proposal is to replace them with fluorescent fixtures.

Discussion ensued about the use of the funds for regular expenses of the town versus extraordinary projects. There were also questions about the obsolescence of fluorescent lights and whether natural light might be used in the currently windowless building.

Alternate sites and uses discussed: street lighting, the post office, the schools.

Chris asked that the members compile a list of possible projects for the committee's next regular meeting.

Chris left the meeting at 7:50, with Bob resuming the Chair.
Chuck joined the meeting by Skype at 7:50.

Solar
****
Steve discussed creating a catalog of existing projects. Jerry mentioned using the landfill for a larger project. Much discussion of power lines followed.

Chuck left the meeting at 8:00.

On a motion from Steve and second by Tom, the meeting was unanimously adjourned.

Respectfully Submitted,

Peter Duval, Secretary

Welcome

2011-12-14T13:40:00.001-05:00

This blog is for recording and publishing the correspondence of the Underhill Energy Committee, a statutory town energy committee of the Town of Underhill, Vermont.