Sustainable Construction 

in Indian Country

Energy Evaluation and Recommendations

November 27, 2012

Akwesasne

Housing Authority

Hogansburg, NY

Elder Housing Sunrise Acres
i 

Table of Contents

Executive Summary .................................................................................................................................. 1

1. Site Description: Sunrise Acres ............................................................................................................ 2

2. Phase 1: Building Description .............................................................................................................. 3

 2.1 Building Envelope ............................................................................................................................. 3

 2.2 HVAC ................................................................................................................................................ 4

 2.3 Domestic Hot Water .......................................................................................................................... 4

 2.4 Lighting ............................................................................................................................................. 4

 2.5 Additional Plug Loads ....................................................................................................................... 5

3. Phase 2: Building Description .............................................................................................................. 5

 3.1 Building Envelope ............................................................................................................................. 5

 3.2 HVAC ................................................................................................................................................ 6

 3.3 Solar Domestic Hot Water ................................................................................................................ 6

 3.4 Lighting ............................................................................................................................................. 6

 3.5 Additional Plug Loads ....................................................................................................................... 7

4. Energy Analysis Approach .................................................................................................................... 7

5. Energy Consumption and Analysis ....................................................................................................... 9

 5.1 Utility Rates ....................................................................................................................................... 9

 5.2 Energy Consumption Profiles ....................................................................................................... 10

 5.3 Breakdown of Energy Consumption & Costs .................................................................................. 12

6. Load Reduction and Efficiency Improvements Measures ................................................................... 14

 6.1 ECRM 1: Lighting Upgrade ............................................................................................................. 14

 6.2 ECRM 2: Replace Old Refrigerators ............................................................................................... 15

 6.3 Install Low Flow Fixtures ................................................................................................................. 15

 6.4 ECRM 6: Boiler Upgrade ................................................................................................................ 17

7. Renewable Energy Related Measures ............................................................................................... 18

 7.1 ECRM 7: Geothermal...................................................................................................................... 18

 7.2 ECRM 8: Solar Thermal Domestic Hot Water Upgrade .................................................................. 18

 7.3 ECRM 9: Photovoltaic Array ........................................................................................................... 19

 7.4 ECRM Recommendation Summary ................................................................................................ 20

 7.5 Additional Energy Reduction Measures .......................................................................................... 21

8. Educational Outreach ......................................................................................................................... 22

9. Rebates & Tax Credits ........................................................................................................................ 23

10. Green Features/Sustainable Development ....................................................................................... 24

 10.1 Renewable Energy Sources ......................................................................................................... 24

 10.2 Geo-Thermal Energy .................................................................................................................... 25

 10.3 Optimum Solar Harvesting ............................................................................................................ 25

 10.4 Solar Domestic Hot Water Systems .............................................................................................. 26

 10.5 Solar Tube Indoor Lighting ........................................................................................................... 26

 10.6 Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Panel System and Net- Metering ............................................................ 26

 10.7 Local Utility Company and Net-Metering Policies ......................................................................... 28

 10.8 Sustainable Neighborhood Development ..................................................................................... 28

 10.9 Insulating Concrete Forms (ICFs) ................................................................................................. 30

11. Overview of Phase 1 & Phase 2 Energy Consumption ..................................................................... 31
1 

Executive Summary

St. Regis Tribal and housing authority leadership believes that an energy efficient, healthy home is the 

foundation of society and that a quality home provides a pathway to achieving an enriched lifestyle. 

Sunrise Acres Phase Two illustrates the Tribe and the housing authority’s leadership role in the 

successful design and development of a sustainable neighborhood. Sunrise Acres-Phase 1 illustrates 

the Tribe’s commitment to updating an existing neighborhood to a green, sustainable neighborhood. 

There are 116 million residential households currently in the United States with an average of 500,000 

new homes built annually. This accounts for 21.5% of the national energy consumption and CO2 

emissions, and about 38% of the nation’s electricity use. About 85% of the housing stock was 

constructed prior to 2000. Older buildings generally have less stringent energy codes, are poorly 

insulated, suffer from excessive air leakage, and have inefficient mechanical, and lighting systems. 

This report is an energy evaluation which provides a comparison and analysis of the 20 older 

residential units to the 20 newer residential units at the Sunrise Acres Development. The report also 

provides strategies to upgrade the older residential units making them more energy efficient. 

The Akwesasne Housing Authority which is located on the St. Regis Indian Reservation in Hogansburg, New 

York, manages the Sunrise Acres elderly housing development. It was constructed in two phases. The Phase 1 

Sunrise Acres project cost $1,089,035 and was built beginning in 1998 with 1937 ACT funding. The Phase 2 

project, built in 2011, cost approximately $7 million, of which $4 million was built with Recovery Act funds and $3 

million was NAHASDA funding. 

This report provides an energy and cost comparison analysis between Phase 1 and Phase 2 buildings, 

includes strategies to reduce the annual operation cost for the Phase 1 buildings through load reduction 

and energy efficiency improvements, and highlights the green construction features incorporated into 

the Phase 2 buildings. 
2 

Figure 1: Ariel view of Sunrise Acres with 1998 buildings (Phase 1) 

on the right and 2011 buildings (Phase 2) to the left. 

1. Site Description: Sunrise Acres

The Phase 1 development was built in 1998 using HUD 1937 Act Funds and was designed by 

Architectural & Engineering Design Associates. The total project cost was $1,089,035. It included six 

apartment buildings, an administration building, and a warehouse. Each 3,497 ft2

 one-story building 

has its own mechanical room and is divided into four 2-bedroom apartments, comprising a total of 20 

units. The Phase 1 buildings were built with traditional 2x6 wood frame construction with a primary 

heating source provided through a radiant floor system fueled by kerosene. National Grid provides the 

electricity and the kerosene is provided by #9 Fuels. 

The Phase 2 development was completed in the summer of 2011. The total project cost was $7 million 

of which $4 million was built with Recovery Act funds and $3 million was NAHASDA funding. The 

Sunrise Acres Expansion Project was completed just southwest of the original complex. This second 

phase was designed by Beardsley Design Associates and provided five additional apartment buildings, 

a community center, parking area and pavilion on 28 acres of tribal land. Each 4,050ft2

 one-story multifamily building also has its own mechanical room and is divided into four 2-bedroom apartments, 

comprising a total of 20 units. These new units were built with a 6” insulating concrete form (ICF) wall 

system and utilize a geothermal system as their primary heating and cooling source. Each building has 

one meter for the 4 units which registers the building’s electricity consumption. Electricity use is partially 

supplemented by six solar photovoltaic arrays where each array produces 5.04 kW. The Phase 2 units 

are part of the National Grid’s net-metering program. 

Phase 1

Phase 2
3 

2. Phase 1:		Building Description

The development is comprised of a total of six one-story buildings each approximately 3,497 ft2; two of 

the six buildings have two apartments, while the others have four apartments for a total of 20 units. 

Figure 2 is an illustration of a Phase 1 elder housing building with four units. 

2.1 Building Envelope

 Figure 2: Phase 1 Elder Housing 

Walls: Each unit is separated by a 1-hour fire rated wall. The typical wall construction from the inside 

to outside is 1/2” gypsum board, 2x6 wood frame construction with a thermal resistance rating (R-value) 

of R-19 batt insulation, and exterior siding over Tyvek house wrap over 7/16” oriented strand board 

(OSB) sheathing. It is estimated that the wall assembly is an R-20. 

Roof: The roof is hipped with a 3.5:12 slope. It is constructed with wood trusses, is covered in dark 

brown asphalt shingles, and has R-38 insulation above the ceiling. 

Floor: The ground floor is a 4” reinforced concrete slab on grade with 1” polystyrene rigid insulation 

under the slab. The main living areas of the apartments have carpet while the kitchen, bath, and 

laundry room have sheet vinyl flooring. 

Windows: Since the window schedule was missing from the building plans provided, during the site 

visit the team observed that the windows are Andersen windows with double-pane glass and a vinyl 

frame.
4 

Figure 3 & 4: Boiler & Kerosene Oil 

tank for a Phase 1 building.

2.2 HVAC

Heating: The primary heating source for each apartment unit is a 

cast-iron boiler in each building, which heats a radiant floor slab 

system, Figure 3. Most of the boilers are a Weil Mclain Gold Oil 

Model P-WTGO-3 with an Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency 

(AFUE) of 85% and provides roughly 100,000 British thermal unit 

(Btu), although some of the boilers have been replaced over the 

last 10 years. Figure 4 shows the fuel tank outside of each 

building which connects to the cast-iron boiler and can hold 

approximately 250 gallons of kerosene. Additional heating is also 

supplied by space heaters used by the residents in the winter 

months. 

Cooling: The primary cooling source for each apartment is a 

window air conditioning unit which the resident purchases and the 

housing authority installs. Each apartment has roughly one AC unit with an 

estimated cooling efficiency, or Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) of 8.5. 

Ventilation: Ventilation air is provided by building infiltration and the residents 

opening windows. Each bathroom has an exhaust fan originally rated at 70 CFM, 

but is estimated to be performing at 35-50 CFM. According to the building plans for 

the six Phase 1 Sunrise Acres buildings, bathroom exhaust fans and the dryer vents 

are located in the attic. 

2.3 Domestic Hot Water

Each apartment has a Reliance 40-gallon electric domestic water heater with model 

number 5-40-2DRT4-Z. It is estimated that each heater has a 53-gallon first hour 

rating and uses approximately 4,773 kWh per year, Figure 5. 

2.4 Lighting

When day-lighting from the windows is insufficient, lighting in the building is provided by a 2’x4’ 

fluorescent light in the kitchen and light fixtures throughout the apartment. The Akwesasne Housing 

Authority is currently retrofitting the 60-Watt (60W) incandescent lamps with compact fluorescent lamps 

(CFLs) and the T12 fluorescent lamps with T8s. Since each of the Phase 1 apartments are the same 

size it was assumed that each unit uses the lighting described in Table 1. 

Location Fixture Type Watts Operating Hours kWh Usage

2 Bedrooms 2‐lamp 60W Inc. 240 1,460 350

Kitchen 2‐lamp 34W 4' T12 72 2,190 158

Kitchen sink 2‐lamp 20W 2' T12 50 730 37

Living room 3‐lamp 60W Inc. 180 2,920 526

Bathroom 1‐lamp 60W Inc. 60 365 22

Bathroom sink 2‐lamp 60W Inc. 120 365 44

Laundry 1‐lamp 60W Inc. 60 365 22

Hallway/stair 1‐lamp 60W Inc. 60 365 22

Exterior 1‐lamp 60W Inc. 60 1,095 66

Total Watts per Unit    902 9,855 1,245

1,245 kWh * 16 cents = $199.20 $199.20 ‐ $74.76 = $124.44  over Phase 2 costs

Table 1: Phase 1 Unit Lighting 

Figure 5: DHW tank 

for a Phase 1 building.
5 

2.5 Additional Plug Loads

Additional plug loads in the building include typical residential appliances: TVs, washer/dryer, 

refrigerators, stoves, microwaves, and task lighting. Although the housing authority is currently 

replacing, refrigerators, microwaves, and washers with ENERGY STAR appliances, for the project base 

model it was assumed that the Phase 1 units had non-ENERGY STAR appliances. 

3. Phase 2:		Building Description

There are a total of five one-story apartment buildings each approximately 4,050 ft2 with an identical 

floor plan as the Phase 1 buildings consisting of four apartments for a total of 20 units, Figure 6. The 

expansion project also included a training center, parking area, outdoor pavilion, and outdoor lightemitting diode (LED) lighting. 

Figure 6: Phase 2 Elderly Housing 

3.1 Building Envelope

Walls: Each unit is separated by a 2-hour fire rated wall. The typical wall construction from the inside 

to outside is 5/8” gypsum board over a Buildblock 6” ICF wall system, over 1/2” OSB sheathing with 

exterior siding. It is estimated that the wall assembly is an R-20. 

Roof: The roof is hipped with an 8:12 slope. It is constructed with wood trusses, is covered in a 

standing seam metal roof system, and has 6” of blown in cellulose insulation over 6” R-21 fiberglass 

batt insulation above the ceiling for a combined insulation value of R-46. 

Floor: The ground floor is a 4” reinforced concrete slab on grade with 2” polystyrene rigid insulation 

under the slab. The main living areas of the apartments have carpet while the kitchen, bath, and 

laundry room have sheet vinyl flooring. 

Windows: According to the architectural drawings, the windows are Andersen tilt-wash double hung 

400 series windows with low-e glazing. Vertical blinds were also installed for all windows.
6 

Figure 10: Solar tube lighting for a Phase 2 

building outside (left) and inside the unit (right).

Figure 7: Geothermal system for the 

Phase 2 buildings.

Figure 9: Solar DHW for a Phase 2 building 

(left) and electric DHW tank (right).

Figure 8: HRV system for the Phase 2 

buildings.

3.2 HVAC

The Phase 2 Sunrise Acres buildings feature a number of 

sustainable/renewable energy features. 

Heating/Cooling: The primary heating and cooling source for 

each apartment unit is the geothermal system, which heats a 

radiant floor slab system, Figure 7. The system includes a total of 

35 wells which serve the housing units and 9 wells which serve 

the training center. To learn about geothermal systems, see 

10.2.

Ventilation: Ventilation air is provided by heat recovery 

ventilators (HRVs), Figure 8. As recently constructed houses 

incorporate tighter energy efficient features, HRVs are used to 

remove indoor air pollutants that once escaped through cracks 

around windows and doors. Without this HRV system, the indoor 

air pollutants will become trapped inside the home creating an 

unhealthy interior environment. The HRVs provide constant air 

exchange to the bathrooms and from the hallway outside the 

bedrooms. 

3.3 Solar Domestic Hot Water

Each apartment building is provided domestic hot water (DHW) 

from a solar tube system, Figure 9. Each building’s mechanical 

room contains two tanks with a holding capacity of 80 gallons; one 

tank heated by the solar system, and one conventional electric hot 

water tank. Water from the solar holding tank flows into the 

electric tank as needed. This provides a 50% savings compared 

to the Phase 1 buildings. 

3.4 Lighting

Natural lighting is provided by windows and solar tube lighting 

in each apartment, Figure 10. When day-lighting from the 

windows is insufficient, lighting in the building is provided by a 

2’x4’ fluorescent light in the kitchen and light fixtures with CFL 

bulbs throughout the apartment. Since each of the Phase 2 

apartments are the same size it was assumed that each unit uses 

the lighting described in Table 2. 
7 

Location Fixture Type Watts Operating Hours kWh Usage

Living room (5) 1‐lamp 13W CFL   65 1,460 95

Kitchen 2‐4', 1‐42", and 2‐12" T8   130 2,190 285

Hallway (2) 2‐lamp 13W CFL 52 730 38

Laundry 1‐2' T8 fixture 13 2,920 38

Bathroom 1‐lamp & 3‐lamp 13W CFL   52 365 19

3 Closets 1‐lamp 34W 2' T8   34 365 12

Bedroom 1 2‐lamp 13W CFL 26 365 9

Bedroom 2 2‐lamp 13W CFL 26 365 9

2 Exterior 1‐lamp 13W CFL   26 1,095 28

Total Watts per Unit 424 9,855 534

534 kWh * 14 cents = $74.76 $199.20 ‐ $74.76 = $124.44 savings over Phase 1

Table 2: Phase 2 Unit Lighting 

3.5 Additional Plug Loads

Additional plug loads in the building include typical residential appliances: TVs, washer/dryer, 

refrigerators, stoves, microwaves, and task lighting. All appliances installed (refrigerators, microwaves, 

and washers) were ENERGY STAR rated. 

4. Energy Analysis Approach

A comprehensive energy analysis was conducted on two sites. The approach involved several steps. 

First, initial information was collected from the tribal housing authority about each building’s design, 

occupancy data, energy consumption, and energy costs. This included the following: 

 Building plans 

 Utility consumption data for the last 12 months 

 Geographical location and climate data 

 Details about unit occupancy, mechanical equipment, HVAC systems, and lighting fixtures from 

interviews with tribal housing authority staff and during a site visit 

Second, utility consumption was then compared with annual heating and cooling degree day data to 

determine any correlation between energy usage and climate conditions; the results were examined for 

anomalies. Third, during a site field visit from July 31 - August 1, 2012, data, observations, and photos 

were recorded. 

Fourth, a baseline energy model was constructed in computer modeling software that performs building 

energy simulations. The HVAC load design and analysis software e-Quest version 3.64 was used to 

model the building. This modeled data was calibrated to match the actual building energy usage from 

the utility bills. This baseline was then used for evaluating the energy cost reduction measures 

(ECRMs). The software program uses these measures to calculate the energy consumption and 

energy costs the building is expected to use over an entire typical weather year if the ECRMs are 

implemented. The weather file for e-Quest was taken from the Massena, New York, weather station. 

Model inputs are taken from information collected during the site visit and information provided by the 

client. Assumptions made for the e-Quest model include: 
8 

 Because these units are for elders, the residents spend most of their time at home. 

Therefore, it is estimated that the tenants will primarily be in the units 80% of the time 

during the week (approximately 134 hours/week) and 20% of their time outside of the 

home. 

 Temperature settings of 72 degrees (F) during the winter; 75 degrees (F) in the summer. 

 0.5 air changes per hour (ACH). 

 Although the housing authority is currently replacing, refrigerators, microwaves, and 

washers with ENERGY STAR appliances, for the base model it was assumed that the 

Phase 1 units had non-ENERGY STAR appliances. 

 Lighting power density of approximately 0.90 Watts per square foot for each unit. 

 Bathroom exhaust fans originally rated at 70 CFM. 

Subsequently, computer analyses of the ECRMs were performed. The baseline model was then 

adjusted to reflect the implementation of these ECRMs and the computer model generated the 

expected energy consumption and utility costs. When necessary, some ECRMs are evaluated outside 

of the modeling software using spreadsheet calculations. 

Finally, the estimated savings and additional costs of implementing ECRMs are evaluated in a life cycle 

cost analysis. This analysis assumes a 20-year life cycle and calculates the internal rate of return (IRR) 

and the net present value (NPV) of each ECRM and a package of ECRMs. IRR is essentially the 

annual yield on an equivalent investment. A project is a good investment if its IRR is greater than the 

rate of return that could be earned by an alternative investment (other projects, bonds, bank accounts, 

etc.). For this project 5% as the minimum acceptable rate of return is assumed. The NPV calculation 

uses a discount rate to find the present value of savings occurring at a future date. The discount rate is 

your minimum acceptable rate of return, or your time value of money. Again, 5% is assumed. 

Investments have a positive NPV when the IRR is greater than the discount rate. Therefore projects 

with IRR greater than the discount rate and a positive NPV are considered to be good investments and 

are recommended. 
9 

5. Energy Consumption and Analysis

5.1 Utility Rates

Utility data was provided for the 12-month period of June 2011-May 2012. The Phase 1 Sunrise Acres 

units have five meters per building (one for each unit) and receive electricity through National Grid. The 

buildings are classified at a residential rate and are delivered electricity at an average rate of $0.16 per 

kWh. The buildings receive kerosene from #9 Fuels at an average rate of $3.90 per gallon. These 

rates include meter fees, delivery fees, and taxes. After modeling the baseline in e-Quest, Table 2 

indicates that the average annual energy use intensity (EUI) of a Phase 1 (4 unit) building is 

approximately 70 kBtu/ft2

 and the average annual energy cost intensity (ECI) is approximately $2.34/ft2. 

These two values are used to benchmark the energy performance of the Phase 1 buildings as seen in 

Table 3.1

Average Annual Consumption Annual Costs Average Unit Cost 

Electricity 18,520 kWh $ 2,948 36% $ 0.16 $/kWh 

Kerosene 1,340 gallons delivered $ 5,229 64% $ 3.90 $/gal delivered 

Total: $ 8,176 x 4 buildings = $32,705 total 

Total Facilities Area 3,497 ft2

 

Electricity Use Intensity 5 kWh/ft2

/yr Kerosene Use Intensity 0.38 Gallons/ft2/yr 

Energy Use Intensity 70 kBtu/ft2

/yr Energy Cost Intensity $ 2.34 ft2

/yr 

Electricity is provided by National Grid and kerosene is supplied by #9 Fuels 

Table 3: Average Annual Utility Consumption for Phase 1 Elderly Housing 

The Phase 2 units have one meter per building and receive electricity through National Grid. These 

buildings are classified at a commercial rate and are delivered electricity at an average rate of $0.14 

per kWh. The Phase 2 units are partially supplemented by six solar photovoltaic arrays (one per 

building) and each produces 5.04 kW (30.24 kW total). The Phase 2 buildings are part of the National 

Grid’s net-metering program which provides credit for electricity produced. The Akwesasne Housing 

Authority may receive credit for any excess electricity that is produced. The buildings are heated by a 

geothermal system and do not consume any kerosene. When modeled in e-Quest, Table 3 indicates 

that the average annual EUI of a Phase 2 (4 unit) building is approximately 25 kBtu/ft2

 and the average 

annual ECI is approximately $1.01/ft2

. 

Average Annual Consumption Annual Costs Average Unit Cost 

Electricity 30,181 kWh $ 4,110 100% $ 0.14 $/kWh 

Kerosene 0 gallons delivered $ 0 0% $ 0.00 $/gal delivered 

Total: $ 4,110 x 5 buildings = $20,552 total 

Total Facilities Area 4,050 ft2

 

Electricity Use Intensity 7 kWh/ft2

/yr Kerosene Use Intensity 0 Gallons/ft2/yr 

Energy Use Intensity 25 kBtu/ft2

/yr Energy Cost Intensity $ 1.01 ft2

/yr 

Electricity is provided by National Grid and kerosene is supplied by #9 Fuels 

Table 4: Average Annual Utility Consumption for a Phase 2 Elderly Housing 

Comparing Table 3 and 4 indicates an approximate 58% annual utility savings and a 50% annual cost 

savings between the Phase 1 buildings and the Phase 2 buildings.

 

1

 The Energy Use Intensity (EUI) is measured in kBtu which is a common energy unit used in benchmarking and 

allows for comparing different fuel sources. The higher the EUI, the less efficient the building is. 
10 

5.2 Energy Consumption Profiles

Twelve months of electric and kerosene data provided by the Akwesasne Housing Authority was 

analyzed.2

 The utility data covers the months from June 2011 through May 2012. For this period the 

closest weather station, Massena, New York, recorded 6,588 heating degree days and 574 cooling 

degree days.3

 Degree days are indicative of the duration and intensity of the heating and cooling 

seasons and are used in this analysis to track how electricity and gas usage correspond to seasonal 

weather changes. 

Figure 11 compares the Phase 1 Sunrise Acres buildings’ average electricity usage with cooling degree 

days and the billed electricity usage. Electricity is used for lighting, cooling, domestic hot water, plug 

loads, fans, and pumps. The base electrical load for the building is approximately 1,400 kWh per 

month. The graph shows that additional electricity use corresponds with the cooling degree days 

except for the additional use in October which could be attributed to a delayed change in seasons. The 

higher usage in the winter months up through April could be from space heaters used by the residents 

in the winter months. This implies that the apartments could be drafty and therefore implementing 

weatherization strategies would help create a tighter building envelope reducing the need for additional 

space heating. 

Figure 11: Average Annual Electricity Consumption for Phase 1 buildings vs. Cooling Degree Days 

 

2

 The IHA pays all utility bills for elder residents. 

3

 This climate data came from: http://www.weatherdatadepot.com/
11 

Figure 12 compares the gallons of kerosene delivered to the Phase 1 Sunrise Acres buildings with 

heating degree days. Kerosene is used to power the boiler which provides heating for the units. The 

graph shows that kerosene was not delivered in the summer months and some winter months had 

considerably low amounts of kerosene delivered. This is most likely because there was leftover 

kerosene in the 250 gallon tank to carry over into the following month. 

‐1,500

‐1,000

‐500

0

500

1,000

1,500

0

5,000

10,000

15,000

20,000

25,000

30,000

35,000

Heating Degree Days

kBtu of Kerosene

kBtu of Kerosene Model HDD

Figure 12: Average Annual Kerosene Delivered for Phase 1 buildings vs. Heating Degree Days 

The Phase 2 Sunrise Acres buildings have a geothermal heating system and only consume electricity. 

Their electricty comes from the Natiional Grid and a supplementary grid-tied photovoltaic panel system. 

Figure 13 compares the Phase 2 Sunrise Acres buildings’ electricity usage with heating and cooling 

degree days. The low electricity use in February was a result of a billing error by National Grid. 

0

200

400

600

800

1000

1200

1400

1600

0

1,000

2,000

3,000

4,000

5,000

6,000

Degree Days

Electric Usage (kWh)

kWh from Bills Model

Cooling Degree Days Heating Degree Days

Figure 13: Average Annual Electricity Consumption for Phase 2 buildings vs. Degree Days 
12 

5.3 Breakdown of Energy Consumption & Costs

Using the eQUEST modeled energy data, an energy consumption profile was created for the Phase 1 

Sunrise Acres 20 units. Figure 14 shows the estimated energy consumption breakdown for a typical 4 

unit apartment building. The largest category of energy usage is space heating (74%), the second 

largest is plug loads (9%), and the third largest is lighting (8%). 

Figure 14: Average Annual Energy Consumption for a Phase 1 4 unit building 

The energy cost breakdown is illustrated in Figure 15.4

 When energy consumption is converted to cost, 

the most costly operational categories are: space heating ($6,668), plug loads ($979), and lighting 

($869). These are the first areas that should be targeted for energy savings. 

Figure 15: Average Annual Energy Cost Breakdown for a Phase 1 Sunrise Acres building 

 

4

 The difference in percentages between the consumption and cost charts is due to the use of two different energy 

sources, kerosene and electricity, and the difference in cost between the two. 
13 

Using the eQUEST modeled energy data, an energy consumption profile was created for the Phase 2 

Sunrise Acres 20 units. Figure 16 shows the estimated energy consumption and cost breakdown for a 

typical 4 unit apartment building.5

 The largest category of energy usage is space heating (28%) costing 

$1,111, the second largest is plug loads (21%) costing $805, and the third largest is DHW (20%) 

costing $782. These are the first areas that should be targeted for energy savings. 

Figure 16: Average Annual Energy Consumption & Costs for a Phase 2 (4 unit) building 

 

5

 Since there is only one energy source used, electricity, there is not a difference in the consumption and cost 

percentage breakdowns. 
14 

6. Load Reduction and Efficiency Improvements Measures

Energy conservation is best achieved through a multifaceted approach that involves load reduction, 

efficiency improvements, and renewable generation. Addressing any of these strategies will save 

energy. 

Load reduction, whether no cost or low cost, should be the first step. Load reduction involves 

managing energy consumption by simply turning things off when not needed or implementing control 

systems to help manage unnecessary energy use. Examples of load reduction include using nighttime 

thermostat setbacks or turning off lights in well-lit areas on sunny days to reduce lighting loads. 

Envelope upgrades such as adding insulation or window shades can result in load reduction but usually 

require large capital expenditures. 

Energy efficiency improvements should be considered next. While typically more expensive than load 

reduction, energy efficiency improvements are more cost effective than implementing renewable energy 

generation. Efficiency improvements involve replacing old or failing systems with modern technologies 

which perform the same function while consuming less energy. Examples of energy efficiency 

improvements include installing boilers with greater heating efficiency, installing lighting with increased 

luminous efficacy, or installing ENERGY STAR appliances. 

The final step is energy generation. This step offsets a portion of the remaining energy consumption 

with onsite energy generation. Onsite energy generation is purposefully recommended after load 

reduction and efficiency improvements. Accomplishing the first two steps makes it possible to install 

lower capacity, therefore less expensive, generation systems, such as: 

• A solar photovoltaic array system 

• A solar domestic hot water system 

• A geothermal system 

The following sections of the report address load reduction and efficiency improvements and compares 

their annual energy and cost savings. 

6.1 ECRM 1: Lighting Upgrade

Research shows that an average household dedicates about 6% of its energy budget to lighting.6 

Switching to energy-efficient lighting is one of the fastest ways to cut energy bills. CFLs last about 10 

times longer and use about 75% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs. A typical CFL can 

pay for itself in energy savings in less than 9 months and can continue to cut down energy costs each 

month. Furthermore, incandescent bulbs are slowly being phased out and in a few years will no longer 

be produced. 

The electrical plans for Phase 1 were provided and indicated that there are a total of 68 lamps in the 

building. As mentioned earlier, lighting in each apartment is provided by a 2 lamp 4’ 34W T12 

florescent fixture and a 2 lamp 2’ 20W T12 (over the sink) in the kitchen and from the ceiling fixtures in 

the living room and bedrooms. In the baseline model for e-Quest, it was assumed that each light fixture 

would have a 60W incandescent lamp providing a total average of 1.03 W/sq. ft. for the whole building. 

The baseline in e-Quest was then compared to replacing the 60W incandescent lamps with 13W CFLs, 

decreasing the lighting intensity to 0.32 W/sq. ft. Table 5 shows that this lighting upgrade would save 

the building an estimated 4% in annual energy consumption and an estimated $591 in annual utilities. 

While the building would be saving 3,696 kWh annually for lighting and cooling the building, more 

energy would be required for space heating (30 gallons of Kerosene) since CFLs generate less heat 

than incandescents, therefore requiring the HVAC system to work more to heat the rooms. 

 

6 http://www.energysavers.gov/tips/indoor_lighting.cfm 
15 

ECRM 1: CFL Lighting7 

Annual Energy Savings Economic Analysis 

kWh Gallons of 

Kerosene Cost8 % Energy Investment IRR NPV 

3,696 -30 $591 4% $69 860% $4,283 

Table 5: Lighting Upgrade Energy Savings 

The investment cost is based on replacing the 60W incandescent lamps with CFL lamps (a total of 52 

CFL lamps in the building) at an estimated rate of $1.72 per CFL9

 and replacing the T12 with T8 

fixtures (a total of 16 lamps). The IRR and NPV analysis are based on a 10 year study period and 

indicates that such a lighting upgrade will prove to be economical and cost-effective. Therefore this 

initiative is highly recommended.

6.2 ECRM 2: Replace Old Refrigerators

Refrigerators consume the most energy of all household appliances due to the 24 hour a day/ 7 day a 

week operational schedule. With recent improvements in insulation and compressor technology, new 

refrigerators use much less energy than older models. ENERGY STAR qualified refrigerators are in fact 

required by the U.S. Department of Energy to use 20% less energy than models not labeled with the 

ENERGY STAR logo. The refrigerator currently in use in each of the four units of the building is a 1989 

Westinghouse RT143GCDA which costs $206 annually to run, whereas an equivalent new ENERGY 

STAR model would only cost $39 annually to run. Table 5 shows the savings for upgrading to 

ENERGY STAR refrigerators in a Phase 1 (4 unit) building. 

ECRM 2: ENERGY STAR Refrigerator Replacement 

Annual Energy Savings Economic Analysis 

kWh Cost % Energy Investment IRR NPV 

2,992 $479 4% $1,600 27% $1,997 

Table 6: Energy Star Refrigerator Replacement 

6.3 Install Low Flow Fixtures

Although stormwater and domestic water management was not addressed as part of the building 

energy analysis, a large amount of energy savings can be achieved by reducing the amount of hot 

water used on a daily basis. Research shows that along with energy, access to fresh, clean water is 

also becoming a dwindling resource and shortages in certain areas of the United States are already 

causing water to be the next leading concern. Reducing water consumption will not only save water, 

but it will reduce energy to heat hot water. 

Low-flow showerheads and aerators are inexpensive, simple to install, and save hot water heating 

costs. We recommend low flow showerheads (1.6 GPM or less), faucet aerators (1.0 GPM or less) and 

kitchen sink aerators (1.8 GPM or less). Some faucet aerators will reduce flow to 0.5 GPM. 

6.3.1 ECRM 3:		Install Low‐flow Showerheads

The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has developed a WaterSenseTM label to 

identify water efficient products such as showerheads, aerators, and toilets. Similar to the ENERGY 

STAR label, all WaterSense labeled products are certified to be at least a certain percentage more 

efficient than standard models while still achieving an equal or better performance as standard models. 

For instance, WaterSense labeled showerheads must use at least 20% less water than standard 

showerheads and perform as well or better than standard showerheads. Standard showerheads 

 

7

 Each measure table calculates savings for one building. 

8

 The cost savings of each measure does not reflect the investment. 9 Price of CFLs was taken from: http://www.easywebcalculators.com/cf.htm
16 

typically consume 2.5 gallons per minute (gpm) of water while WaterSense showerheads must use no 

more than 2.0 gpm.10 

The 4 units of each building have standard showerheads. Switching to 4 low flow units will save 

approximately 1,219 kWh and 10,950 gallons of water annually. Figuring $0.16 per kWh, this will save 

$195 on annual water heating costs and $41 on water usage costs (at $3.70/1000 gallons) totaling 

$236 in savings as shown in Table 7. 

ECRM 3: Low-Flow Showerheads 

Annual Energy Savings Economic Analysis

kWh Gallons of Water Cost % Energy Investment IRR NPV

1,219 10,950 $236 2% $200 118% $2,605 

Table 7: Low-Flow Showerhead Replacement 

6.3.2 ECRM 4:		Install Low‐flow Sink Aerators

WaterSense labeled faucets and aerators must use at least 30% less water that standard units and 

perform as well or better than standard units. Standard faucets typically consume 2.2 gpm of water 

while WaterSense units must use no more than 1.5 gpm.11 According to the Water Systems Council 

(WSC), the typical U.S. household consumes 10.9 gallons per day per person for everyday faucet 

use.12 Hence, significant water savings can be achieved from upgrading conventional units. In addition 

to water savings, some energy savings can be achieved as low-flow fixtures also reduce the total hot 

water demand. 

All of the units’ sinks have standard aerators. Switching to 8 low flow units will save approximately 697 

kWh and 8,760 gallons of water annually. Figuring $0.16 per kWh, this will save $112 on annual water 

heating costs and $32 on water usage costs (at $3.70/1000 gallons) totaling $144 in savings as shown 

in Table 8. 

ECRM 4: Low-Flow Aerators 

Annual Energy Savings Economic Analysis

kWh Gallons of Water Cost % Energy Investment IRR NPV

697 8,760 $144 1% $160 90% $1,556 

Table 8: Low-Flow Sink Aerator Replacement 

 

10 http://www.epa.gov/watersense/docs/showerhead_factsheet508.pdf 11 http://www.epa.gov/watersense/docs/ws_bathroom_faucets508.pdf 12 http://www.watersystemscouncil.org/VAiWebDocs/WSCDocs/2026952INSERT_CONSERV.pdf 
17 

6.3.3 ECRM 5:		Install Low‐flow Toilets

WaterSense labeled toilets must use at least 20% less water that standard toilets and perform as well 

or better than standard toilets. Standard toilets typically consume 3-5 gallons per flush (gpf) of water or 

more while WaterSense toilets must use no more than 1.28 gpf.13 

Toilets should be replaced with high efficiency units using ≤ 1.28 gallons per flush. Switching to 4 low 

flow units will save approximately 13,105 gallons of water annually. Figuring $3.70 per 1,000 gallons, 

this will save $48 on annual water usage costs as shown in Table 9. 

ECRM 5: Low-Flow Toilets 

Annual Energy Savings Economic Analysis

kWh Gallons of Water Cost % Energy Investment IRR NPV

13,105 $48 <1% $1,200 78% $11,344 

Table 9: Water-Saver Toilet Replacement 

6.4 ECRM 6: Boiler Upgrade

The boiler system currently in use in each of the four units of the building is a Weil Mclain Gold Oil 

Model P-WTGO-3 with an Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) of 85% and provides roughly 

100,000 Btu. If this system was replaced with an ENERGY STAR rated system with a 3.6 Coefficient of 

Performance (COP), 140 gallons of kerosene may be saved annually resulting in an annual cost 

savings of $547. The lifespan of boiler is calculated at 20 years. This upgrade will pay back within its 

lifespan (15 years), therefore implementation of this measure is recommended. 

ECRM 6: Boiler Upgrade 

Annual Energy Savings Economic Analysis 

Gallons of 

Kerosene Cost % Energy Investment IRR NPV 

140 $547 8% $8,000 3% -$1,128 

Table 10: Boiler Upgrade Energy Savings 

 

13 http://www.epa.gov/WaterSense/docs/ws_het508.pdf 
18 

7. Renewable Energy Related Measures

7.1 ECRM 7: Geothermal

The primary heating source for each apartment unit is provided by a radiant floor slab system powered 

by a cast-iron boiler in each. Cooling is provided by the resident’s individual window air conditioning 

units which have an estimated EER of 8.5. If the current kerosene boiler system is replaced with a 

geothermal heat pump system with a 14.5 Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) for cooling and a 

3.6 COP for heating, 1.262 gallons of kerosene may be saved annually resulting in an annual cost 

savings of $2,346. The lifespan of the geothermal system is calculated at 20 years. This upgrade will 

pay back in just under its lifespan (19 years) if the tax credit is utilized, therefore implementation of this 

measure is recommended. While the cost/savings nearly zeros out, there are environmental savings 

from not using coal fired electricity. 

ECRM 7: Geothermal Upgrade 

Annual Energy Savings Economic Analysis 

kWh Gallons of 

Kerosene Cost % Energy Investment IRR NPV 

-16,090 1,262 $2,346 50% $45,000 0% -$15,014 

With 30% Tax Credit: $31,500 4% -$2,156 

Table 11: Geothermal Upgrade Energy Savings 

7.2 ECRM 8: Solar Thermal Domestic Hot Water Upgrade

A Phase 1 building currently uses around 4,600 kWh to heat water per year. Evacuated-tube solar 

collectors could offset most of the electricity used for heating hot water. Panels are available capable of 

producing 14,700 Btu/day in the Northern New York region. The panel size is around 41ft2 (varies by 

manufacturer) and the building would need two panels to produce all of the building’s hot water needs. 

It is estimated that the panels would have a first cost of nearly $2,000. The economics of this are 

favorable with a 4 year payback before incentives. If the 30% federal tax credit is taken advantage of, 

the cost would be reduced to $1,400 and would pay back in 3 years. Despite the economics, the space 

required for installation is considerable. A storage tank may also be necessary for the hot water loop. 

Consulting with a system designer to establish the best setup for the building is recommended. Table 

12 summarizes the analysis of this measure. 

ECRM 8: Solar Thermal DHW Upgrade 

Annual Energy Savings Economic Analysis 

kWh Cost % Energy Investment IRR NPV 

3,214 $514 5% $2,000 25% $4,199 

With 30% Tax Credit: $1,400 37% $4,770 

Table 12: Solar Thermal DHW Upgrade Energy Savings 
19 

7.3 ECRM 9: Photovoltaic Array

The purpose of a photovoltaic array is to reduce the use of traditional energy sources and create 

renewable energy. This system captures solar energy and converts it to electricity for use in the home 

which cuts down on the amount of energy that must be purchased from the utility company. When 

analyzed using the PV Watts calculator,14 the following results indicate that a 5.0 kW array in the 

Massena, NY, area will produce 5,814 kWh annually. The investment cost is calculated with the $9,000 

federal/state tax credit. This measure is recommended for implementation only if the tax credit is 

utilized. The calculator shows that this array, with the tax credit, would pay back within the photovoltaic 

25 year lifespan (23 years). 

ECRM 9: Photovoltaic Array 

Annual Energy Savings Economic Analysis 

kWh Cost % Energy Investment IRR NPV 

5,814 $930 9% $30,000 -2% -$16,085 

With 30% Tax Credit: $21,000 1% -$7,514 

Table 13: Photovoltaic Array Energy Savings 

 

14 The PV Watts calculator can be found at: http://rredc.nrel.gov/solar/calculators/PVWATTS/version1/ 
20 

7.4 ECRM Recommendation Summary

The purpose of the table below is to combine the ECRMs recommended for implementation, and 

calculate the combined energy savings for these measures. Package 1 includes CFL, refrigerator, lowflow measures, boiler, solar thermal DHW, and photovoltaic array upgrades. Package 2 includes CFL, 

refrigerator, low-flow measures, geothermal, solar thermal DHW, and photovoltaic array upgrades. 

When analyzed in the e-Quest model, the following results indicate these measures should be 

implemented as the package of ECRMs will pay off well within the lifetime of the photovoltaic array and 

solar thermal (25 years). 

ECRM

Savings Economic Analysis

kWh

Gallons

of

Kerosene

Gallons

of

Water

Cost %

Energy Investment IRR NPV SP15

ECRM 1 CFL upgrades 3,696     $591 5% $69 860% $4,283 0

ECRM 2 ENERGY STAR

Refrigerators 2,992     $479 4% $1,600 27% $1,997 3

ECRM 3 Low‐Flow

Showerheads 1,219    10,950 $236 2% $200 118% $2,605 1

ECRM 4 Low‐Flow Aerators 697    8,760 $144 1% $160 90% $1,556 1

ECRM 5 Low‐Flow Toilets     13,105 $48 <1% $1,200 78% $11,344 25

ECRM 6 Boiler Upgrade 140    $547 8% $8,000 3%  ‐$1,128 15

ECRM 7

  

Geothermal   ‐16,090 1,262    $2,346 50% $45,000 0%  ‐$15,014 19

With Incentives $31,500 4%  ‐$2,156 13

ECRM 8

  

Solar Thermal DHW 3,214     $514 5% $2,000 25% $4,199 4

With Incentives $1,400 37% $4,770 3

ECRM 9

  

Photovoltaic Array 5,814     $930 9% $30,000  ‐2%  ‐$16,085 32

With Incentives $21,000 1%  ‐$7,514 23

Package 1

  

All Recommend

ECRMs ‐ Boiler

Upgrade

17,632 140    $3,489 34% $43,229 5% $245 12

With Incentives $22,400 15% $20,082 6

Package 2

  

All Recommend

ECRMs ‐ 

Geothermal

1,542 1,262    $5,288 77% $80,229 3%  ‐$13,640 15

With Incentives $53,900 8% $11,435 10

Table 14: ECRM Recommendation Summary

 

15 Simple Payback in years. 
21 

7.5 Additional Energy Reduction Measures

Triple Pane Low‐E Window Upgrade

The current windows of the building are typical double pane windows with clear glazing. By replacing 

them with triple pane window that have low emissivity, 30 kWh and 167 gallons of kerosene may be 

saved annually resulting in an annual cost savings of $655. The lifespan of windows is calculated at 20 

years. The window replacement with triple pane windows will not pay back in the lifespan of the 

windows (24 years), therefore implementation of this measure is not recommended. 

Triple Pane Low-E Window Upgrade 

Annual Energy Savings Economic Analysis 

kWh Gallons of Kerosene Cost % Energy Investment IRR NPV 

30 167 $655 10% $16,000 -2% -$7,463 

Table 15: Triple Pane Low-E Window Upgrade Energy Savings 
22 

8. Educational Outreach

A twelve month utility data analysis showed that although the 

occupancy levels for each apartment was generally only one 

person, the electricity consumption for each apartment greatly 

varied. This may be a factor due to individual lifestyles and 

personal habits. It may therefore be extremely beneficial for 

the Akwesasne Housing Authority to create educational 

outreach programs and seminars on sustainable living habits 

and practices. Energy education programs not only will help 

the housing authority save money on utilities, but help elders 

develop the habit of saving energy. Projects directly involving 

the elders help them to learn about energy resources and 

take an active role in teaching others, particularly younger 

generations, the importance of using energy efficiently. 

As table 16 illustrates, there is a wide range of electrical consumption by the individual units. In the 

Phase 1 buildings the highest usage is 7,116 kWh by apartment 15 in building 5. The lowest usage is 

2,136 kWh by unit 2 in building 1. Phase 1 buildings 1-6 are electric with combined kerosene for 

heating. In addition, each unit is individually metered. The residents pay an average of 0.16 cents per 

kWh. The average kWh consumption per building (4 units) is 18,520. 

In the phase 2 buildings, the highest usage is averaged at 10,555 kWh and the lowest is 8,510 kWh. 

These kWh usages are higher because of the geothermal system and the five buildings being all 

electric. Each of the five buildings has their own meters servicing four units in each building. The 

residents pay an average of 0.14 cents per kWh. The average kWh consumption per building (4 units) 

is 36,909. 

The individual meter service delivery fees and taxes reflect the additional 0.02 cents costs for the 

residents residing in the phase 1 building. 

Annual Electricity Use By Apartment 

Phase 1 Phase 2 

Bldg 

# 

Unit 

# 

# of 

Occup

ants 

Kerosene 

Use 

(Gallons)

Electricity 

Use 

(kWh)

Total 

Use in 

kBtu

Bldg 

# 

Unit 

# 

# of 

Occup

ants 

Electricity 

Use 

(kWh)

Total 

Use in 

kBtu

1 

1 1 

1419 

2,924

238,224 9 

21 1 9,431

128,714 

2 1 2,136 22 1 9,431

3 1 4,049 23 1 9,431

4 1 4,560 24 1 9,431

2 

5 1 

1150 

3,049

179,977

10 

25 1 8,770

119,693 

6 1 4,216 26 1 8,770

3 

7 1 

1213 

4,001

238,024

27 1 8,770

8 1 6,798 28 1 8,770

9 2 4,098

11 

29 1 8,870

121,058 

10 1 6,872 30 1 8,870

5 

15 1 

1226 

7,116

227,391

31 1 8,870

16 1 4,291 32 1 8,870

17 1 3,520

12 

33 1 8,510

116,144 

18 1 3,227 34 1 8,510

6 

19 2 

945 

3,289

146,272

35 1 8,510

20 1 2,175 36 1 8,510

7 

11 1 

1501 

5,498

272,584 13 

37 1 10,555

144,058 

12 1 3,853 38 1 10,555

13 1 6,776 39 1 10,555

14 1 4,362 40 1 10,555

Table 16: Annual Electricity Use by Apartment 

Figure 17: Protect the Earth for future 

generations. 
23 

9. Rebates & Tax Credits

As mentioned earlier, electricity for the Phase 1 Sunrise Acres development is provided by National 

Grid and kerosene is supplied by #9 Fuel. In order to help fund some of the upgrades and ECRMs 

outlined in this report, it may prove useful to investigate different funding opportunities. National Grid 

residential electric customers in Upstate New York are eligible for several incentives. Rebates are 

available for properly recycling inefficient refrigerators, freezers, and for the improvements of multifamily residential units through the Energy Wise Multi-Family Program. This program will offer the 

following incentives to the Akwesasne Housing Authority: 

Type Amount 

Evaluation to assess energy usage and increase 

energy efficiency 

FREE 

Installation of up to ten compact fluorescent bulbs 

per dwelling unit 

FREE 

Installation of low flow showerheads & aerators FREE 

Installation of hot water pipe & tank wrap FREE 

Rebate towards refrigerator replacement costs $300 

 The following are offered by the National 

Grid Non-Residential Program: 

Fluorescent Lighting $15-$50/fixture 

LED $15-$50/fixture 

Lighting Sensors $20-$60 

Refrigerator/Freezer Recycling $30/unit 

Additional rebates and savings may be found through different manufacturers of the appliances 

installed in the new buildings and through state and federal rebates and tax credits. For example, GE 

Appliances offers two rebates up to $150 for domestic hot water heaters that are ENERGY STAR 

certified.16 

While tax-exempt entities, including Indian tribal governments, may not take advantage of federal tax 

credits, tribes also often operate taxable entities or may structure financing to allow the trade or sale of 

tax credits. Tribes should seek legal advice regarding tax credits and financing options. Also, the 

following federal tax credit information may be found at the ENERGY STAR website: 

http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=tax_credits.tx_index. 

Tax Credit: 30% of cost with no upper limit

Expires: Saturday, December 31, 2016

Details: Existing homes & new construction qualify.   

   Both principal residences and second homes qualify.

Includes: Geothermal Heat Pumps

   Small Wind Turbines (Residential)

   Solar Energy Systems

For more information on state and federal rebates and tax credits, visit DSIRE’s website at: 

http://www.dsireusa.org/incentives/index.cfm?re=0&ee=0&spv=0&st=0&srp=1&state=NY 

 

16 Visit http://www.geappliances.com/rebates_promotions/available-rebates.htm?ecrzip=49047&ecrproducttype 

for more information. 
24 

10. Green Features/Sustainable Development		 Successful sustainable tribal communities begin with strong leadership and planning. Sustainable 

developments represent a change in direction in how tribal communities have been designed and 

developed. The Phase 2 20 units and training center have incorporated the integration of walkable 

areas, high performance buildings using ICF construction, LED outdoor lighting, and renewable energy 

sources. This subdivision transformed traditional stick built housing into housing that will be physically 

and financially viable over the long-term. The new subdivision also illustrates how the design of place 

influences lifestyle choices and quality of life issues by providing infrastructure for positive outcomes for 

residents through the Diabetes Center for Excellence Program housed in the training center, LED 

outdoor lighting for safety, walkable pathways and landscaped grounds. 

The green design elements, renewable energy features, and costs included in the Phase 2 20 elder 

units, training center, outdoor infrastructure, and pavilion are featured in this section. The total project 

cost was $7 million of which $4 million was ARRA funds and $3 million was NAHASDA funds. 

10.1 Renewable Energy Sources

Renewable energy sources to either supplement or create complete energy independence is not 

inexpensive. The housing authority, to decrease high utility bills and still ensure healthy indoor comfort, 

provided geo-thermal heating (heating and cooling was also provided at the training center), solar 

domestic hot water, a grid-tied solar pv panel system, and solar tube lighting in the buildings’ interior. 

The total project cost was $1,400,000. Renewable energy summary costs are listed below: 

Total Renewable Energy Costs 

1. Geo-thermal ground loop control system @ $820,000 for HVAC-radiant floor heat 

2. Geo-thermal @ $320,000 for 53 wells and piping (44: housing buildings; 9 training center) 

3. 6 Solar PV Panels and DHW Systems @ $260,000 

4. Grand Total = $1,400,000 
25 

10.2 Geo‐Thermal Energy

A geothermal or ground source heat pump system transfers heat stored in the 

earth and pumps it into the indoor air delivery system in the winter. In the 

summer, the ground acts as a heat sink, and the heat is transferred from the 

interior through the heat exchanger back to the ground. The energy produced 

is concentrated naturally existing heat which is clean and sustainable. The 

system relies on the ground beneath the surface being warmer than the air 

above it in the winter and cooler in the summer. 17 Figure 19 illustrates a 

closed loop geo-thermal system. The Sunrise Acres Phase 2 Development 

has a total of 53 geo-thermal wells. Each apartment building has 7 wells and 

the training center has 9 wells. An extensive HVAC system and 

mechanical system is located in each building for system operation, 

temperature controls, monitoring and maintenance (Figure 18). 

Each system is daily monitored electronically through a lap top computer 

software system. Temperature controls, system failures and adjustments are 

handled through this software system. 

 

17 More information about geothermal heat pumps may be found at the U.S. Department of Energy’s website: 

http://www1.eere.energy.gov/geothermal/heatpumps.html

Figure 18: Mechanical Room 

Figure 19: Closed Loop Geo-Thermal System 

Figure 20: 

Computer 

Monitoring 

System 
26 

10.3 Optimum Solar Harvesting

The climate of the region plays a significant role in the design and production of the renewable energy 

sources. Building and solar photovoltaic system orientation are critical to a solar energy system. Key 

factors that influence harvesting are the number of degrees east or west of true south and the amount 

of shading from trees. The subdivision was designed with optimum solar harvesting in mind. Decisions 

for buildings and PV panel systems site locations for optimum sun light harvesting were incorporated 

into the subdivision design. 

10.4 Solar Domestic Hot Water Systems

As section 3.3 outlines, each apartment building is provided domestic hot water from a solar tube 

system. Inside each building’s mechanical room there are two tanks with a holding capacity of 80 

gallons. One tank holds water heated by the solar system and other is an electric hot water tank. Water 

from the solar holding tank is stored in the electric tank. 

10.5 Solar Tube Indoor Lighting

Sunlight brings a room and a home to life. Using the sun to light indoor spaces, 

known as day lighting decreases the use of electrical lights, energy 

consumption, and costs. An example of the solar tube lighting used in the 

Phase 2 buildings is shown in Figure 21. 

10.6 Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Panel System and Net‐	Metering

Tribal elders spend a large percentage of their time at home. They expect their homes will support their 

lifestyle choices. Energy consumption is essential for maintaining their lifestyles. Electric is required 

for heating, cooling, cooking, entertaining, and a host of other daily lifestyle activities. Decreasing and 

supplementing electric costs was a key objective of the new development. A solar Photovoltaic System 

tied into the utility grid through net-metering was designed and implemented. 

The solar panel system chosen was two strings: 2 x 12 (24 Kyocera KD210) = 5040 watts DC. The 

Phase 2 buildings are completely electric and receive electricity from National Grid and are 

supplemented by a Photovoltaic System, as seen in Figure 22. There are a total of six arrays and each 

240V array is connected to one building. An array is a group of photovoltaic modules connected 

together.

Figure 21: Solar Tube Lighting 

 Figure 22: Inverter (left) and photovoltaic system for Phase 2 buildings (right) 
27 

Calculating the project electric kWh production is shown in Table 13 based on the system size and 

location. The reservation is located in a cold humid climate zone. The region has high heating needs, 

medium cooling needs, and annual precipitation of more than 20 inches. The winters are cold with 

warm humid summers. The closest climate data for calculating estimated monthly electricity production 

for a fixed tilt 5.04 kW solar PV array tilted at 44.9o

 is Massena, New York. This is the same size as the 

system used for the Phase 2 Sunrise Acres buildings. The chart comes from to the National 

Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL)’s website PVWatts.com, and indicates each array should 

produce 5,814 kWh/year, and can save an estimated $813.96 per year on utility bills.18 Table 17 

provides estimated monthly electricity production for one PV array. 

Month Solar Radiation 

(kWh/m2/day) 

AC Energy 

(kWh) 

Energy Value ($) 

1 3.13 401 56.14 

2 4.28 484 67.76 

3 4.97 608 85.12 

4 5.12 574 80.36 

5 5.02 558 78.12 

6 5.55 578 80.92 

7 5.55 593 83.02 

8 5.23 554 77.56 

9 4.44 476 66.64 

10 3.67 423 59.22 

11 2.44 277 38.78 

12 2.32 287 40.18 

Year: 4.31 5,814 813.96 

Table 17: Expected monthly electricity production from one PV array 

 

18 http://rredc.nrel.gov/solar/calculators/PVWATTS/version1/US/code/pvwattsv1.cgi 
28 

During a site visit on July 30, 2012, information was collected from each PV inverter inside each 

building to record how much electricity was produced by each array. This information was recorded in 

Table 18. As compared to the expected monthly production of a PV array, the results indicate that the 

PV system has been in operation for roughly fourteen months. When compared to the average annual 

utility data for a New Sunrise Acres building, these PV panels are producing roughly 1/6 or 20% of what 

a new Sunrise Acres building is consuming. Table 15 provides information on the estimation of kWh 

produced by each PV array. 

Building # Array kWh 

Produced

Hours of 

Operation

Lbs. of CO2 

Saved 

Estimated 

Cost Savings 

9 7,285 4,670 12,280 $1,019.90 

10 6,951 4,680 11,817 $973.14 

11 7,276 4,680 12,369 $1,018.64 

12 5,945 3,997 10,107 $832.30 

13 7,402 4,666 12,584 $1,036.28 

14 (Training 

Center)19

7,322 4,661 12,448 

$1,025.08 

TOTAL 42,181 22,693 71,605 $4,880.26 

Table 18: kWh Produced by each Photovoltaic Array for New Sunrise Acres buildings

10.7 Local Utility Company and Net‐Metering Policies

National Grid is the utility company serving the reservation. National Grid provides 

electric services to upstate New York customers. The utility also has a net metering 

policy that allows customers to connect their renewable energy source to the 

electric grid and save money by off-setting electrical costs or contributing excess 

production to the grid. Net metering is the practice of using a single meter (Figure 

23) to measure consumption and generation of electricity by a small generation 

facility (such as a house with a wind or solar photovoltaic system). The net energy 

produced or consumed is purchased from or sold to the power provider. 

When analyzing the utility bills for Phase 2 buildings over the last year, it was 

only during the months of September and October that the buildings received credit for generating more 

kWh than was used. During the rest of the year the new buildings consumed more electricity than was 

produced by the PV system. 

10.8 Sustainable Neighborhood Development

Sustainable neighborhoods create healthy and safe lifestyle choices. Walkable communities provide 

their residents with the healthy benefits of exercise. Research has shown that the rise in obesity in the 

United States has coincided with decades of development patterns that have made walking difficult or 

impossible. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the National 

Center for Health Statistics, 30% of U.S. adults 20 years of age and older (over 60 million people) are 

obese. Being overweight or obese puts people at risk for cardiovascular disease, diabetes, 

hypertension, high cholesterol, stroke, cancer, and higher rates of anxiety and depression. Even 

 

19 This report focuses only accounts for the residential units. Therefore the Training Center was not included in 

the energy analysis. 

Figure 23: Meter 
29 

people who are not overweight suffer declines in physical and mental health if they are sedentary. The 

direct medical costs of physical inactivity were estimated by the CDC to total more than $76 billion in 

2000. 

The Surgeon General advises that 30 minutes of walking 5 days a week will significantly reduce the 

risks to adults for the aforementioned health conditions while contributing to healthy bones, muscles, 

and joints. Walkable communities are a critical element in encouraging and supporting healthy 

lifestyles. 20 

The Tribe has created opportunities for healthy lifestyle choices. The new subdivision has outdoor LED 

lighting to ensure safety in evening activities. Attractive outdoor landscape and walking paths ensure 

participation in physical activities. In addition, the training center houses the Diabetes Center for 

Excellence Program, a program that works with tribal residents to decrease diabetes through 

education, diet, healthy cooking classes, and exercise. 

 

20 Healthy & Walkable Communities, July 2007: 

http://putnam.lib.udel.edu:8080/dspace/bitstream/handle/19716/2851/HealthyWalkable.pdf?sequence=1 

Figure 24: LED Outdoor Lighting, Training Center, Walking Paths, and Landscaping 
30 

10.9 Insulating Concrete Forms (ICFs)

The Sunrise Acres Phase 2 buildings make use of an alternative building material, insulating concrete 

forms, (ICFs).21 ICFs are walls and roofs constructed of concrete but the forms are left in place to 

serve as a continuous insulation and sound barrier to reduce energy loss and infiltration. With this 

construction, the major features are: 

 Superior insulation 

 High thermal mass 

 Low infiltration 

With the use of ICF’s, there is an estimated 25% to 50% 

energy savings as compared with that of wood or steel 

framed homes. 

As Figure 25 shows, 35% of a building’s energy loss 

occurs through the walls, 25% through the roof, 20% 

through leaks around windows and doors, and 15% under 

the floor. ICFs were used to reduce these areas of energy 

loss by creating tighter buildings and therefore increasing 

energy efficiency. 

 

21 For more information on ICFs: http://www.toolbase.org/Technology-Inventory/walls/Insulating-Concrete-Forms 

Figure 25: A diagram showing where energy 

loss occurs in a residential building.
St. Regis Phase 1 Units

Built in 1998

875 sq. ft.

2 Bedrooms

Stick Built

Lighting:

Plug Loads:

Refrigerator: Westinghouse Model # RT143GCDA, 

 Manufactured 8/1989, Annual kWh Usage: 1,285,

 Annual Cost at $0.16/kWh: $205.60

HVAC:

Building Envelope:

Domestic Hot Water:

Heating: Kerosene

Cooling: Window Air Conditioning Units

Attic Insulation: R-38

Wall Insualtion: R-19 Batt Insulation, Total wall R-20

Electric, each building has 4 DWH totaling 160 gallons

Energy Use 

Intensity:

62 kBtu/SF/yr

Energy Cost 

Intensity:

$2.06/SF/yr

Residential utility rate

4 meters/unit and 1 meter for

entire building totaling 5

meters/building

Average Annual kWh Cost:

0.16 cents

Average Annual kWh Cost

per Building: $7,190

Average Annual kWh Cost

per Unit: $1,798 (57% 

difference from new units)

Sunrise Acres, Hogansburg, NY

LocaƟon Fixture Type WaƩs

OperaƟng 

Hours

kWh 

Usage

2 Bedrooms 2-lamp 60W Inc. 240 1,460 350

Kitchen 2-lamp 34W 4' T12 72 2,190 158

Kitchen sink 2-lamp 20W 2' T12 50 730 37

Living room 3-lamp 60W Inc. 180 2,920 526

Bathroom 1-lamp 60W Inc. 60 365 22

Bathroom sink 2-lamp 60W Inc. 120 365 44

Laundry 1-lamp 60W Inc. 60 365 22

Hallway/stair 1-lamp 60W Inc. 60 365 22

Exterior 1-lamp 60W Inc. 60 1,095 66

Total WaƩs per Unit 902 9,855 1,245

$199.20 - $74.76 = $124.44 

over Phase 2 costs 1,245 kWh * 16 cents = $199.20
St. Regis Phase 2 Units

Lighting:

Plug Loads:

Refrigerator: ENERGY STAR Whirlpool, Annual kWh Usage: 537,

 Annual Cost at $0.14/kWh: $75.18 

HVAC:

Building Envelope:

Domestic Hot Water: Solar DHW System, 1 building = 

 4 units/80 gallons

Heating: Geo-thermal: Electric

Cooling: ENERGY STAR Window Air Conditioning Unit

Attic Insulation: 6” Blown in cellulose insulation and R-21 Fiberglass

 batt insulation equalling R-46

Wall Insualtion: 4” Extruded Polystyrene (2” on both sides of wall)

Built in 2011

1,000 sq. ft.

2 Bedrooms

6” ICF Wall 

System

(Insulated Concrete Form)

Commercial utility rate

1 meter per building serving 

4 units

Average Annual kWh Cost:

0.14 cents 

Average Annual kWh Cost 

per Building: $4,110 

Average Annual kWh Cost 

per 

Unit: $1,028 (57% 

difference from old units)

Energy Use 

Intensity:

25 kBtu/SF/yr

Energy Cost 

Intensity:

$1.01/SF/yr

Sunrise Acres, Hogansburg, NY

LocaƟon Fixture Type WaƩs

OperaƟng 

Hours

kWh 

Usage

Living room (5) 1-lamp 13W CFL 65 1,460 95

Kitchen 2-4', 1-42", and 2-12" T8 130 2,190 285

Hallway (2) 2-lamp 13W CFL 52 730 38

Laundry 1-2' T8 fixture 13 2,920 38

Bathroom 1-lamp & 3-lamp 13W CFL 52 365 19

3 Closets 1-lamp 34W 2' T8 34 365 12

Bedroom 1 2-lamp 13W CFL 26 365 9

Bedroom 2 2-lamp 13W CFL 26 365 9

2 Exterior 1-lamp 13W CFL 26 1,095 28

Total WaƩs per Unit 424 9,855 534

534 kWh * 14 cents = $74.76 $199.20 - $74.76 = $124.44 

savings over Phase 1