CS61 Energy Code Feasibility Study in Bellingham, Massachusetts
Energy code feasibility study for a 800-unit Mid-Rise Multifamily in Massachusetts. Compares multiple design paths. Recommended: HPWH (All-Electric). View full study.
- Study Type
- Energy Code Feasibility Study
- State
- Massachusetts
- Units
- 800
- Building Type
- Mid-Rise Multifamily
- Fuel Type
- All-Electric OR Mixed
- Recommended Path
- HPWH (All-Electric)
Goal
To find the most cost-effective compliance path, this report isolates energy code related costs from total construction. We use real bid data from vendors & clients to create a reliable framework for aligning incentives and design, with all recommendations confirmed by detailed energy modeling.
Project
- Bellingham, MA 02019
- 6 Buildings | 800 Units | 1,007,269 sqft
- New Construction | Active Adult Community | Multifamily | Mid-Rise
- All-Electric or Mixed | Stretch | HERS ≤ 45 OR HERS ≤ 42 (mixed) | ESTAR MFNC v1.2
Overview
Read This: This report compares different ways you can build the project and meet energy code, looking at both cost and incentives, with the ultimate goal as finding the most affordable path.
- The overview outlines the key differences between each of the paths we show in this report and why we recommend the one we picked over the others.
- The recommended design section is where we share the requirements and incentives for the path we think is best based on affordability.
- The path comparison section shows the detailed requirements and incentives for each path we compared, basically showing our work if you want to dig in.
Path Summaries
HPWH (All-Electric): (Recommended) This is the least expensive path at approximately $47.48/sf net, and it is straightforward to build. It keeps the project fully electric, which preserves eligibility for available incentives and aligns with the direction Massachusetts energy code is heading. For most projects, this is the right choice.
Electric (All-Electric): (Alternative) At approximately $49.99/sf net, this path costs about $2.50/sf more than the HPWH path, but it offers the simplest, most foolproof construction process of the three. It carries the same all-electric advantages, including incentive eligibility and code alignment, so the tradeoff is purely cost versus ease of build. Choose this path when reducing construction complexity matters more than trimming the last few dollars per square foot.
Gas (Mixed-Fuel): (Not Recommended) This is the most expensive path at approximately $59.34/sf net, roughly $10/sf more than the HPWH path, and it is also the most labor-intensive to build. Mixed-fuel construction earns no incentives and runs against Massachusetts's long-term electrification direction. The only reason to choose this path is a market that specifically demands gas service.
Path Summaries
Code Path
Permit / Certificate of Occupancy Requirements
High Rise Buildings
Recommended Design
This section outlines the design requirements, product recommendations, and incentives for the design that we believe will be the most affordable path to meeting energy code.
Recommended Design - Incentives
Incentives Available: $1,600,000 - $2,800,000
- MassSave Multifamily High Rise Program Energy Star Tier ($1,400,000) (Program Breakdown): You get this rebate for having your building(s) certified for the Energy Star MFNC v1.2 program. This requires pre-approval via an application to be submitted before construction starts. This rebate comes in the form of a check within 4 months of certification documentation being provided to MassSave, typically this is 4 months after construction is complete.
- Induction Cooktop Adder ($200,000): A MassSave market transformation adder of $250 per unit for installing an induction cooktop in each dwelling unit. This rebate comes in the form of a check within 4 months of certification documentation being provided to MassSave, typically this is 4 months after construction is complete.
- DOER Alternative Energy Credits (Program Breakdown) ($0 - $1,200,000): This rebate is received for installing APS eligible air source heat pumps (click here for the list). There is an extensive process to get this incentive. It comes in the form of a check approximately 6-12 months after the heat pumps are installed and fully operational.
- IMPORTANT: Although an estimate is provided, this incentive can vary widely typically between $300-1,500 per heat pump. It’s based on expected kWh usage of the system as well as the market value of the alternative energy credits when sold.
Recommended Design - Units
| Item | Detailed Specifications |
|---|---|
| Exterior Walls | R-30 spray foam insulation in cavity (3.5" closed cell insulation & 2" open cell insulation) OR R-21 cavity insulation with R-5 continuous insulation. |
| Slab | R-10 fully insulated slab. |
| Floor Over Unconditioned Space | R-30 cavity insulation. |
| Floor Over Podium | R-30 continuous insulation. |
| Below Grade Walls | N/A |
| Rim Joists | Seal interior rim cavity with R-30 spray foam insulation (3.5" closed cell insulation & 2" open cell insulation). |
| Roof | R-30 continuous insulation at roof deck with R-19 cavity insulation. |
| Windows & Glass Doors | Double pane, U-0.26 / SHGC 0.26. |
| Doors | Opaque: R-4.75. |
| Air Sealing | ≤0.30 CFM50 per sqft of shell area; (Air sealing protocol) |
| HVAC | Ductless mini-split cold-climate heat pump; SEER2 20; HSPF2 10; ENERGY STAR CCHP (Studio) (1 Bed) (2Bed). |
| Ductwork | N/A |
| Duct Sealing | N/A |
| HVAC Grading | Fan Flow Test: N/A Watt Draw Test: N/A Refrigerant Charge: N/A |
| Mechanical Ventilation | Ducted or Ductless ERV; 50 CFM; ≥ 83% sensible recovery efficiency (Ducted) (Ductless). |
| Local Mechanical Exhaust | Bathroom(s): ≥ 50 CFM intermittent & ≤ 3.0 sones OR ≥ 20 CFM continuous & ≤ 2.0 sones. Kitchen(s): ≥ 100 CFM intermittent & ≤ 3.0 sones OR continuous, ≥ 5 ACH. Both: Exhaust directly outdoors, ENERGY STAR certified, can utilize ERV. |
| Thermostats | N/A |
| DHW | HPWH; UEF 3.80; in conditioned corridor; (Product Rec). |
| DHW Piping | Supply piping insulated to R-3 minimum; Max length of longest hot water run: Studio: 28.1 ft; 1 Bed: 31.7 ft; 2 Bed: 37.8 ft. |
| Water Fixtures | WaterSense Certified Fixtures (Lavatory: ≤1.2 GPM; Shower: ≤2.0 GPM; Kitchen: ≤2.2 GPM). |
| Refrigerator | ≤ 550 kWh annual usage; ENERGY STAR; Electric (Product Rec). |
| Dishwasher | ≤ 240 kWh annual usage; ENERGY STAR; Electric (Product Rec). |
| Clothes Washer | ENERGY STAR; Electric (Low Cost) (Luxury) |
| Clothes Dryer | Standard electric dryer; Vented; (Low Cost) (Luxury) |
| Stove / Oven | Standard electric range; (Product Rec). |
| Lighting | Designated Solar Zone: Reserve a contiguous area equal to at least 40% of the total horizontal roof area. Contiguity: Zone free of obstructions, minimum 5 ft wide. Structural Capacity: 5 PSF collateral dead load. Electrical Infrastructure: Conduit pathways and reserved breaker space. |
| Solar Ready | Applicability and Minimum Spaces: Group R-2, 20% of new parking spaces must be EV-Ready. Minimum Circuit Requirement: At least one 40-amp dedicated branch circuit per EV-Ready space. A larger shared circuit with an Automatic Load Management System (ALMS) is allowed per Table C405.13.1: 40A allows up to 2 shared spaces, 60A up to 4, 80A up to 8, 100A up to 10. Wiring suitable for 6.6 kW or higher AC Level II EVSE. Termination and Receptacle: Branch circuit run from the service panel to within 6 ft (1828 mm) of the EV-Ready parking space. Termination must be a NEMA receptacle or SAE J1772-2017 / SAE J3400 (NACS/Tesla) connector. Labeling and Identification (C405.13.2): Construction documents must indicate the branch-circuit termination point and the proposed future EVSE location, and must include future-EVSE amperage, wiring schematics, ALMS info (if used), and electrical load calculations verifying the panel and any on-site distribution transformer have sufficient capacity to simultaneously charge all required EV-Ready spaces. In-panel directory marking ("EV READY") and on-space marking follow 527 CMR 12 (MA Electrical Code). Conductor Sizing: Conductors and outlets for the EVSE shall be sized and installed per the MA Electrical Code (527 CMR 12). |
| EV Ready | Same as ELECTRIC |
| HPWH Ready | N/A |
| Paperwork & Modeling | HERS/ERI energy model, 2021 IECC checklists, ENERGY STAR checklists, incentive documentation. |
| Testing & Verification | Blower Door Test, Mechanical Ventilation Testing, Local Exhaust Fan Testing, Room Balancing, Predrywall & Final Inspection. |
Recommended Design - Common Areas & Clubhouse
| Item | Common Areas (Residential Bldgs) | Clubhouse |
|---|---|---|
| Exterior Walls | Wood: R-13 + R-7.5 CI or R-20 + R-3.8 CI or R-30. Steel: R-13 + R-7.5 CI (CI mandatory). | Same |
| Below-Grade Walls | R-7.5 CI | Same |
| Slab | R-10 edge, 24" depth | Same |
| Rim Joists | Wall insulation + air barrier continuous through rim | Same |
| Roof | R-30 CI at deck (attic: R-49) | Same |
| Windows | Fixed U-0.34; Operable U-0.43; SHGC 0.40 | Fixed U-0.30; Operable U-0.32; SHGC 0.40 |
| Doors | Glazed entrance U-0.60; Opaque U-0.37 | Glazed entrance U-0.77; Opaque U-0.37 |
| Air Sealing | Continuous air barrier; penetrations, rough openings, and electrical boxes sealed; unit-to-corridor doors gasketed; common spaces under 1,500 sqft verified by inspection | Continuous air barrier; whole-building blower door 0.35 CFM75/sqft max. |
| HVAC | Ducted split HP: SEER2 15.2 / HSPF2 7.8. Ductless: 16 / 8.2. Packaged: 15.2 / 7.7. PTAC/PTHP/room AC: ENERGY STAR. Manual J/S sizing. | Same, plus cold-climate HP (COP 1.75 at 5F, no resistance except defrost); each cooling system under 54 kBtu/h or add economizer. |
| Duct Sealing | Per system, final: 6 CFM25/100 sqft or 60 CFM (no returns); 8/80 (1-2 returns); 12/120 (3+). Rough-in: 3/30, 4/40, 6/60. Ducts + AHU in conditioned space. | Same |
| Mechanical Ventilation | OA to all occupied common spaces. Lobby/Office: 5 cfm/person + 0.06/sqft. Fitness: 20 + 0.06/sqft. Corridor: 0.06/sqft. Laundry: 5 + 0.12.sqft. Installed at or above design. DCV: spaces over 500 sqft and 25 people/1,000 sqft. | Same, plus ERV required: any system 8,000+ hrs/yr with 10%+ OA; shorter-runtime systems above 10,000 / 8,000 / 2,750 cfm (10-20 / 20-30 / 30-40% OA), any size at 40%+. 70% sensible / 60% enthalpy. |
| Local Exhaust | Restrooms, laundry, janitor, mechanical rooms; ducted directly outdoors and ENERGY STAR certified. | Same |
| Thermostats | Programmable, 5F setback | Same |
| DHW | Point-of-use electric, UEF 0.93 | Same |
| DHW Piping | R-3 (1.5" and under); R-4 (larger) | Same |
| Water Fixtures | WaterSense: Lav 1.5 GPM; Toilet 1.28 GPF; Urinal 0.5 GPF | Same |
| Appliances | ENERGY STAR refrigerators, dishwashers, washers, dryers | Same |
| Lighting | 100% LED. LPD (W/sqft): Corridor 0.41; Lobby 0.84; Office 0.74; Fitness 0.72; Laundry 0.53; Stair 0.49; Mech/Elec 0.43; Storage 0.38 | Same |
| Lighting Controls | Occupancy sensors (corridors/stairs may dim to 50%); auto time switches; daylight controls where zone exceeds 100 W (300 W total sidelit) | Same |
| Solar Ready | Per residential spec (40% roof zone, 5 PSF, conduit + breaker space) | Same |
| EV Ready | Per residential spec (20% of spaces) | 10% if dedicated clubhouse-only lot |
| Vestibules | Not required (lobbies under 3,000 sqft) | Self-closing vestibule at public entrances; exempt under 3,000 sqft |
| Efficiency Credits | N/A | 15 credits required; cold-climate HPs earn all 15 |
| Paperwork & Modeling | ENERGY STAR workbook + checklists + common-space HVAC supplement; HERS submittals at permit and CO; COMcheck lighting/mechanical | COMcheck envelope/lighting/mechanical; efficiency-credit docs; ventilation calcs |
| Testing & Verification | Ventilation balancing; duct leakage testing; HVAC functional testing (FT agent); lighting controls testing; rough-in + final inspections | Same, plus blower door |
Exterior Wall Assembly (HPWH Path)
Exterior Wall Assembly (ELECTRIC / GAS Path)
Rim Joist (HPWH Path)
Rim Joist (ELECTRIC / GAS Path)
Roof (All Paths)
Slab Edge (All Paths)
Floor Over Unconditioned (All Paths)
Floor Over Podium (All Paths)
Path Comparison
This section shows the detailed requirements and incentives for each path we compared, basically showing our work of how we determined the recommended path is the most affordable way of meeting energy code compliance.
Path Comparison - Incentives
ELECTRIC: $1,600,000 - $2,800,000
- MassSave Multifamily High Rise Program Energy Star Tier ($1,400,000) (Program Breakdown): You get this rebate for having your building(s) certified for the Energy Star MFNC v1.2 program. This requires pre-approval via an application to be submitted before construction starts. This rebate comes in the form of a check within 4 months of certification documentation being provided to MassSave, typically this is 4 months after construction is complete.
- Induction Cooktop Adder ($200,000): A MassSave market transformation adder of $250 per unit for installing an induction cooktop in each dwelling unit. This rebate comes in the form of a check within 4 months of certification documentation being provided to MassSave, typically this is 4 months after construction is complete.
- DOER Alternative Energy Credits (Program Breakdown) ($0 - $1,200,000): This rebate is received for installing APS eligible air source heat pumps (click here for the list). There is an extensive process to get this incentive. It comes in the form of a check approximately 6-12 months after the heat pumps are installed and fully operational.
- IMPORTANT: Although an estimate is provided, this incentive can vary widely typically between $300-1,500 per heat pump. It’s based on expected kWh usage of the system as well as the market value of the alternative energy credits when sold.
HPWH: $1,600,000 - $2,800,000
- MassSave Multifamily High Rise Program Energy Star Tier ($1,400,000) (Program Breakdown): You get this rebate for having your building(s) certified for the Energy Star MFNC v1.2 program. This requires pre-approval via an application to be submitted before construction starts. This rebate comes in the form of a check within 4 months of certification documentation being provided to MassSave, typically this is 4 months after construction is complete.
- In-Unit Heat Pump Water Heater Adder ($200,000): A MassSave market transformation adder of $250 per unit for installing a heat-pump water heater in each dwelling unit. This rebate comes in the form of a check within 4 months of certification documentation being provided to MassSave, typically this is 4 months after construction is complete.
- DOER Alternative Energy Credits (Program Breakdown) ($0 - $1,200,000): This rebate is received for installing APS eligible air source heat pumps (click here for the list). There is an extensive process to get this incentive. It comes in the form of a check approximately 6-12 months after the heat pumps are installed and fully operational.
- IMPORTANT: Although an estimate is provided, this incentive can vary widely typically between $300-1,500 per heat pump. It’s based on expected kWh usage of the system as well as the market value of the alternative energy credits when sold.
GAS: N/A - Gas heating and appliances disqualify you from MassSave Incentives.
Path Comparison - Net Cost Summary
| Path | Total Cost $/sf | Total Incentives $/sf | Net $/sf | OpEx Factor | Worst HERS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ELECTRIC | $51.50 | $1.59 | $49.99 | 1.00 | 44.00 |
| HPWH | $49.30 | $1.59 | $47.48 | 1.00 | 43.08 |
| GAS | $58.77 | $0.00 | $59.34 | 1.01 | 40.47 |
Path Comparison - Envelope
| Item | Path | Detailed Specifications | Cost $/sf | Incentive $/sf | Net $/sf | OpEx Factor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Exterior Walls | ELECTRIC | R9 continuous insulation with R-21 cavity insulation (Product Rec). | $1.75 | $0.00 | $1.75 | 0.90 |
| HPWH | R-30 spray foam insulation in cavity (3.5" closed cell insulation & 2" open cell insulation) | $3.50 | $0.00 | $3.50 | 0.90 | |
| GAS | R9 continuous insulation with R-21 cavity insulation (Product Rec). | $1.75 | $0.00 | $1.75 | 0.90 | |
| Slab | ELECTRIC | R-10 fully insulated slab. | $2.25 | $0.00 | $2.25 | 0.90 |
| HPWH | R-10 fully insulated slab. | $2.25 | $0.00 | $2.25 | 0.90 | |
| GAS | R-10 fully insulated slab. | $2.25 | $0.00 | $2.25 | 0.90 | |
| Floor Over Unconditioned Space | ELECTRIC | R-30 cavity insulation. | $1.20 | $0.00 | $1.20 | 0.90 |
| HPWH | R-30 cavity insulation. | $1.20 | $0.00 | $1.20 | 0.90 | |
| GAS | R-30 cavity insulation. | $1.20 | $0.00 | $1.20 | 0.90 | |
| Floor Over Podium | ELECTRIC | R-30 continuous insulation. | $1.50 | $0.00 | $1.50 | 0.90 |
| HPWH | R-30 continuous insulation. | $1.50 | $0.00 | $1.50 | 0.90 | |
| GAS | R-30 continuous insulation. | $1.50 | $0.00 | $1.50 | 0.90 | |
| Below Grade Walls | ELECTRIC | N/A | $0.00 | $0.00 | $0.00 | 1.00 |
| HPWH | N/A | $0.00 | $0.00 | $0.00 | 1.00 | |
| GAS | N/A | $0.00 | $0.00 | $0.00 | 1.00 | |
| Rim Joists | ELECTRIC | Seal interior rim cavity with R-21 spray foam insulation (3" closed cell insulation); Continuous insulation shall continue over floor transitions without interruption. | $0.20 | $0.00 | $0.20 | 0.90 |
| HPWH | Seal interior rim cavity with R-30 spray foam insulation (3.5" closed cell insulation & 2" open cell insulation). | $0.35 | $0.00 | $0.35 | 0.90 | |
| GAS | Seal interior rim cavity with R-21 spray foam insulation (3" closed cell insulation); Continuous insulation shall continue over floor transitions without interruption. | $0.20 | $0.00 | $0.20 | 0.90 | |
| Roof | ELECTRIC | R-30 continuous insulation at roof deck with R-19 cavity insulation. | $1.85 | $0.00 | $1.85 | 0.90 |
| HPWH | R-30 continuous insulation at roof deck with R-19 cavity insulation. | $1.85 | $0.00 | $1.85 | 0.90 | |
| GAS | R-30 continuous insulation at roof deck with R-19 cavity insulation. | $1.85 | $0.00 | $1.85 | 0.90 | |
| Windows & Glass Doors | ELECTRIC | Triple Pane Windows, U-0.18 / SHGC 0.18. | $13.00 | $0.00 | $13.00 | 1.10 |
| HPWH | Double pane, U-0.26 / SHGC 0.26. | $8.00 | $0.00 | $8.00 | 1.00 | |
| GAS | Triple Pane Windows, U-0.18 / SHGC 0.18. | $13.00 | $0.00 | $13.00 | 1.10 | |
| Doors | ELECTRIC | Opaque: R-4.75. | $0.50 | $0.00 | $0.50 | 1.00 |
| HPWH | Opaque: R-4.75. | $0.50 | $0.00 | $0.50 | 1.00 | |
| GAS | Opaque: R-4.75. | $0.50 | $0.00 | $0.50 | 1.00 | |
| Air Sealing | ELECTRIC | ≤0.23 CFM50 per sqft of shell area; henry blueskin AVB recommended at exterior wall (Air sealing protocol). | $0.60 | $0.00 | $0.60 | 0.85 |
| HPWH | ≤0.30 CFM50 per sqft of shell area; (Air sealing protocol) | $0.40 | $0.00 | $0.40 | 0.90 | |
| GAS | ≤0.27 CFM50 per sqft of shell area; henry blueskin AVB recommended at exterior wall (Air sealing protocol). | $0.55 | $0.00 | $0.55 | 0.85 |
Path Comparison - Mechanical
| Item | Path | Detailed Specifications | Cost $/sf | Incentive $/sf | Net $/sf | OpEx Factor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| HVAC | ELECTRIC | Ductless mini-split cold-climate heat pump; SEER2 20; HSPF2 10; ENERGY STAR CCHP (Studio) (1 Bed) (2Bed). | $14.60 | $0.00 | $14.60 | 1.25 |
| HPWH | Ductless mini-split cold-climate heat pump; SEER2 20; HSPF2 10; ENERGY STAR CCHP (Studio) (1 Bed) (2Bed). | $14.60 | $0.00 | $14.60 | 1.25 | |
| GAS | Ducted forced-air (hydro-air) system with a condensing tankless combi (96% adjusted efficiency, 199 kBtu/h) feeding a hydronic air-handler coil for heating; Air-source heat pump (SEER2 ≥ 16) sharing the same air handler for cooling; (Air handler) (Water Heater) (Condenser). | $17.50 | $0.00 | $17.50 | 1.35 | |
| Ductwork | ELECTRIC | N/A | $0.00 | $0.00 | $0.00 | 1.00 |
| HPWH | N/A | $0.00 | $0.00 | $0.00 | 1.00 | |
| GAS | Supply and return ductwork in conditioned space. | $3.00 | $0.00 | $3.00 | 0.95 | |
| Duct Sealing | ELECTRIC | N/A | $0.00 | $0.00 | $0.00 | 1.00 |
| HPWH | N/A | $0.00 | $0.00 | $0.00 | 1.00 | |
| GAS | The greater of 8 CFM25/100 ft² conditioned floor area or 80 CFM25 to outside (duct sealing protcol). | $0.25 | $0.00 | $0.25 | 0.90 | |
| HVAC Grading | ELECTRIC | Fan Flow Test: N/A Watt Draw Test: N/A Refrigerant Charge: N/A | $0.00 | $0.00 | $0.00 | 1.00 |
| HPWH | Fan Flow Test: N/A Watt Draw Test: N/A Refrigerant Charge: N/A | $0.00 | $0.00 | $0.00 | 1.00 | |
| GAS | Fan Flow Test: N/A Watt Draw Test: N/A Refrigerant Charge: N/A | $0.00 | $0.00 | $0.00 | 1.00 | |
| Mechanical Ventilation | ELECTRIC | Ducted or Ductless ERV; 50 CFM; ≥ 89% sensible recovery efficiency (Ducted). | $3.50 | $0.00 | $3.50 | 1.15 |
| HPWH | Ducted or Ductless ERV; 50 CFM; ≥ 83% sensible recovery efficiency (Ducted) (Ductless). | $3.00 | $0.00 | $3.00 | 1.15 | |
| GAS | Ducted or Ductless ERV; 50 CFM; ≥ 89% sensible recovery efficiency (Ducted). | $3.50 | $0.00 | $3.50 | 1.15 | |
| Local Mechanical Exhaust | ELECTRIC | Bathroom(s): ≥ 50 CFM intermittent & ≤ 3.0 sones OR ≥ 20 CFM continuous & ≤ 2.0 sones. Kitchen(s): ≥ 100 CFM intermittent & ≤ 3.0 sones OR continuous, ≥ 5 ACH. Both: Exhaust directly outdoors, ENERGY STAR certified, can utilize ERV. | $1.50 | $0.00 | $1.50 | 1.05 |
| HPWH | Bathroom(s): ≥ 50 CFM intermittent & ≤ 3.0 sones OR ≥ 20 CFM continuous & ≤ 2.0 sones. Kitchen(s): ≥ 100 CFM intermittent & ≤ 3.0 sones OR continuous, ≥ 5 ACH. Both: Exhaust directly outdoors, ENERGY STAR certified, can utilize ERV. | $1.50 | $0.00 | $1.50 | 1.05 | |
| GAS | Bathroom(s): ≥ 50 CFM intermittent & ≤ 3.0 sones OR ≥ 20 CFM continuous & ≤ 2.0 sones. Kitchen(s): ≥ 100 CFM intermittent & ≤ 3.0 sones OR continuous, ≥ 5 ACH. Both: Exhaust directly outdoors, ENERGY STAR certified, can utilize ERV. | $1.50 | $0.00 | $1.50 | 1.05 | |
| Thermostats | ELECTRIC | N/A | $0.00 | $0.00 | $0.00 | 1.00 |
| HPWH | N/A | $0.00 | $0.00 | $0.00 | 1.00 | |
| GAS | Programmable Thermostat (product rec). | $0.15 | $0.00 | $0.15 | 1.00 |
Path Comparison - Plumbing & Appliances
| Item | Path | Detailed Specifications | Cost $/sf | Incentive $/sf | Net $/sf | OpEx Factor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DHW | ELECTRIC | Electric Resistance Water Heater; UEF 0.93; in unit; (Product Rec). | $1.00 | $0.00 | $1.00 | 0.85 |
| HPWH | HPWH; UEF 3.80; in conditioned corridor; (Product Rec). | $2.85 | $0.20 | $2.65 | 1.20 | |
| GAS | Gas instant water heater UEF 0.96 (Product Rec). | $2.00 | $0.00 | $2.00 | 1.15 | |
| DHW Piping | ELECTRIC | Supply piping insulated to R-3 minimum; Max length of longest hot water run: Studio: 28.1 ft; 1 Bed: 31.7 ft; 2 Bed: 37.8 ft. | $0.15 | $0.00 | $0.15 | 0.95 |
| HPWH | Supply piping insulated to R-3 minimum; Max length of longest hot water run: Studio: 28.1 ft; 1 Bed: 31.7 ft; 2 Bed: 37.8 ft. | $0.15 | $0.00 | $0.15 | 0.95 | |
| GAS | Supply piping insulated to R-3 minimum; Max length of longest hot water run: Studio: 28.1 ft; 1 Bed: 31.7 ft; 2 Bed: 37.8 ft. | $0.15 | $0.00 | $0.15 | 0.95 | |
| Water Fixtures | ELECTRIC | WaterSense Certified Fixtures (Lavatory: ≤1.2 GPM; Shower: ≤2.0 GPM; Kitchen: ≤2.2 GPM). | $0.50 | $0.00 | $0.50 | 1.05 |
| HPWH | WaterSense Certified Fixtures (Lavatory: ≤1.2 GPM; Shower: ≤2.0 GPM; Kitchen: ≤2.2 GPM). | $0.50 | $0.00 | $0.50 | 1.05 | |
| GAS | WaterSense Certified Fixtures (Lavatory: ≤1.2 GPM; Shower: ≤2.0 GPM; Kitchen: ≤2.2 GPM). | $0.50 | $0.00 | $0.50 | 1.05 | |
| Refrigerator | ELECTRIC | 2 Bedroom & 1 Bedroom Units: ≤ 500 kWh annual usage; ENERGY STAR; (Product Rec). Studio Units: ≤ 450 kWh annual usage; ENERGY STAR; (Product Rec). | $0.75 | $0.00 | $0.75 | 1.00 |
| HPWH | ≤ 550 kWh annual usage; ENERGY STAR; Electric (Product Rec). | $0.75 | $0.00 | $0.75 | 1.00 | |
| GAS | ≤ 550 kWh annual usage; ENERGY STAR; Electric (Product Rec). | $0.75 | $0.00 | $0.75 | 1.00 | |
| Dishwasher | ELECTRIC | ≤ 240 kWh annual usage; ENERGY STAR; Electric (Product Rec). | $0.45 | $0.00 | $0.45 | 1.00 |
| HPWH | ≤ 240 kWh annual usage; ENERGY STAR; Electric (Product Rec). | $0.45 | $0.00 | $0.45 | 1.00 | |
| GAS | ≤ 240 kWh annual usage; ENERGY STAR; Electric (Product Rec). | $0.45 | $0.00 | $0.45 | 1.00 | |
| Clothes Washer | ELECTRIC | ENERGY STAR; Electric (Product Rec). | $0.55 | $0.00 | $0.55 | 1.00 |
| HPWH | ENERGY STAR; Electric (Low Cost) (Luxury) | $0.55 | $0.00 | $0.55 | 1.00 | |
| GAS | ENERGY STAR; Electric (Product Rec). | $0.55 | $0.00 | $0.55 | 1.00 | |
| Clothes Dryer | ELECTRIC | Electric dryer; Ventless; Heat pump; ENERGY STAR (Product Rec). | $0.65 | $0.00 | $0.65 | 1.40 |
| HPWH | Standard electric dryer; Vented; (Low Cost) (Luxury) | $0.55 | $0.00 | $0.55 | 1.05 | |
| GAS | Electric dryer; Ventless; Heat pump; ENERGY STAR (Product Rec). | $0.65 | $0.00 | $0.65 | 1.40 | |
| Stove / Oven | ELECTRIC | Standard electric range; Induction cooktop; Convection oven (Product Rec). | $0.65 | $0.20 | $0.45 | 1.15 |
| HPWH | Standard electric range; (Product Rec). | $0.50 | $0.00 | $0.50 | 1.00 | |
| GAS | Standard electric range; Induction cooktop; Convection oven (Product Rec). | $0.65 | $0.00 | $0.65 | 1.15 |
Path Comparison - Electrical
| Item | Path | Detailed Specifications | Cost $/sf | Incentive $/sf | Net $/sf | OpEx Factor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lighting | ELECTRIC | 100% high-efficacy (LED). | $3.50 | $0.00 | $3.50 | 0.85 |
| HPWH | 100% high-efficacy (LED). | $3.50 | $0.00 | $3.50 | 0.85 | |
| GAS | 100% high-efficacy (LED). | $3.50 | $0.00 | $3.50 | 0.85 | |
| Solar Ready | ELECTRIC | Designated Solar Zone: Reserve a contiguous area equal to at least 40% of the total horizontal roof area. Contiguity: Zone free of obstructions, minimum 5 ft wide. Structural Capacity: 5 PSF collateral dead load. Electrical Infrastructure: Conduit pathways and reserved breaker space. | $0.05 | $0.00 | $0.05 | 1.00 |
| HPWH | Same as ELECTRIC | $0.05 | $0.00 | $0.05 | 1.00 | |
| GAS | Same as ELECTRIC | $0.05 | $0.00 | $0.05 | 1.00 | |
| EV Ready | ELECTRIC | Applicability and Minimum Spaces: Group R-2, 20% of new parking spaces must be EV-Ready. Minimum Circuit Requirement: At least one 40-amp dedicated branch circuit per EV-Ready space. A larger shared circuit with an Automatic Load Management System (ALMS) is allowed per Table C405.13.1: 40A allows up to 2 shared spaces, 60A up to 4, 80A up to 8, 100A up to 10. Wiring suitable for 6.6 kW or higher AC Level II EVSE. Termination and Receptacle: Branch circuit run from the service panel to within 6 ft (1828 mm) of the EV-Ready parking space. Termination must be a NEMA receptacle or SAE J1772-2017 / SAE J3400 (NACS/Tesla) connector. Labeling and Identification (C405.13.2): Construction documents must indicate the branch-circuit termination point and the proposed future EVSE location, and must include future-EVSE amperage, wiring schematics, ALMS info (if used), and electrical load calculations verifying the panel and any on-site distribution transformer have sufficient capacity to simultaneously charge all required EV-Ready spaces. In-panel directory marking ("EV READY") and on-space marking follow 527 CMR 12 (MA Electrical Code). Conductor Sizing: Conductors and outlets for the EVSE shall be sized and installed per the MA Electrical Code (527 CMR 12). | $0.60 | $0.00 | $0.60 | 1.00 |
| HPWH | Same as ELECTRIC | $0.60 | $0.00 | $0.60 | 1.00 | |
| GAS | Same as ELECTRIC | $0.60 | $0.00 | $0.60 | 1.00 | |
| HPWH Ready | ELECTRIC | N/A | $0.00 | $0.00 | $0.00 | 1.00 |
| HPWH | N/A | $0.00 | $0.00 | $0.00 | 1.00 | |
| GAS | N/A | $0.00 | $0.00 | $0.00 | 1.00 |
Path Comparison - Soft Costs
| Item | Path | Detailed Specifications | Cost $/sf | Incentive $/sf | Net $/sf | OpEx Factor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paperwork & Modeling | ELECTRIC | HERS/ERI energy model, 2021 IECC checklists, ENERGY STAR checklists, incentive documentation. | $0.20 | $1.39 | -$1.19 | 1.00 |
| HPWH | HERS/ERI energy model, 2021 IECC checklists, ENERGY STAR checklists, incentive documentation. | $0.20 | $1.39 | -$1.19 | 1.00 | |
| GAS | HERS/ERI energy model, 2021 IECC checklists, ENERGY STAR checklists, incentive documentation. | $0.22 | $0.00 | $0.22 | 1.00 | |
| Testing & Verification | ELECTRIC | Blower Door Test, Mechanical Ventilation Testing, Local Exhaust Fan Testing, Room Balancing, Predrywall & Final Inspection. | $0.00 | $0.00 | $0.00 | 1.00 |
| HPWH | Blower Door Test, Mechanical Ventilation Testing, Local Exhaust Fan Testing, Room Balancing, Predrywall & Final Inspection. | $0.00 | $0.00 | $0.00 | 1.00 | |
| GAS | Blower Door Test, Total Duct Leakage Testing, Mechanical Ventilation Testing, Local Exhaust Fan Testing, Room Balancing, Predrywall & Final Inspection. | $0.00 | $0.00 | $0.00 | 1.00 |
Additional Design Considerations Not Represented In This Study
- N/A
