Northampton Clean Energy Roadmap-Final-2014
NORTHAMPTON CLEAN ENERGY ROADMAP
Prepared for the City of Northampton, Massachusetts
July 2014
COMMUNITY
ENERGY
STRATEGIES
PROGRAM
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Executive Summary .......................................................................................................................................................................................... iii
Acknowledgements ........................................................................................................................................................................................... v
Section 1: Introduction.................................................................................................................................................................................... 1
Section 2: Methodology ................................................................................................................................................................................. 3
Section 3: Community Energy Strategies for Northampton ............................................................................................................ 5
Strategy 1. Develop Community Solar Project .................................................................................................................... 6
Strategy 2. Develop Solar Canopies on City-Owned Parking Lots ............................................................................ 10
Strategy 3. Develop Solar Project at Glendale Road Landfill ....................................................................................... 14
Strategy 4. Expand Small Hydro Development ................................................................................................................. 18
Strategy 5. Assess Regional Anaerobic Digestion Project Opportunities ............................................................... 20
Strategy 6. Implement Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) Financing ........................................................... 24
Strategy 7. Develop Community Energy Efficiency Mobilization Plan ..................................................................... 27
Strategy 8. Implement LED Street Lighting Retrofits ...................................................................................................... 31
Strategy 9. Implement Energy Reporting Program ......................................................................................................... 34
Strategy 10. Increase Public Safety Through Improved Community Energy Resilience ...................................... 38
Strategy 11. Implement Electric Vehicle Purchasing Policy............................................................................................. 42
Strategy 12. Develop Regional Bike Sharing System ......................................................................................................... 45
Section 4: Conclusion and Outlook ......................................................................................................................................................... 48
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The wide variety of financial and technical assistance programs administered by the Massachusetts Clean Energy
Center (MassCEC) and the Department of Energy Resources (MassDOER) have helped to greatly increase
installed renewable energy generation capacity and broadened the application of energy efficiency measures
statewide. Nonetheless, additional efforts are required to fully enable the Commonwealth’s c lean energy
potential. The Community Energy Strategies Program (CESP), delivered in partnership with local officials and
community volunteers, was created to help communities identify and develop strategies for implementing the
mix of clean energy projects and incentives best suited to address local interests, needs, and opportunities for
clean energy development across all sectors. The goals of the CESP are:
Increase the use of renewable energy and renewable heating and cooling technologies, building energ y
efficiency, and sustainable transportation.
Assist communities and Regional Planning Authorities (RPA) to leverage existing programs to achieve
common clean energy goals.
Three communities and three RPAs (partnered with four of their member communities) were selected to
participate in this pilot program beginning in April 2013. Under the program, each community received grants
of services provided by specialized firms under contract with MassCEC. Participating towns and RPAs were led
through a planning process to (1) develop a clean energy working group, (2) establish local clean energy goals,
(3) review an inventory of potential clean energy projects and strategies, and (4) select clean energy projects and
strategies for inclusion into this final report, the Clean Energy Roadmap.
The Clean Energy Roadmap outlines a set of detailed, actionable steps to implementing a project, program, or
policy that will increase the use of renewable energy generation, renewable heating and cooling, building energy
efficiency, and sustainable transportation. It incorporates information gathered through consultations with
municipal and RPA staff, meetings with the clean energy working group, and public forums. As such, it serves
both as a record of the CESP process while also establishing a viable path for communities to achieve their clean
energy goals.
The Roadmap’s goals and supporting strategies were created under the leadership of the Northampton Clean
Energy Working Group. Composed of local leaders – and led by the Northampton Energy and Sustainability
Coordinator, Chris Mason– the Working Group collaborated with businesses, residents, and non-profit leaders
across the city. Together, they discussed clean energy project objectives, potential development concerns, as
well as opportunities and resources that could be leveraged to support clean energy projects in the community.
The Working Group also collaborated with technical experts to assess and refine the clean energy strategies in
this roadmap.
Through this process, Northampton stakeholders set an aggressive goal of reducing municipal energy use by 20
percent by 2015. In addition, Northampton has pledged to reduce energy consumption 20 percent below 2000
levels, create local clean energy jobs, and site 440 million kilowatt-hours of renewable energy as part of the
Pioneer Valley Planning Commissions regional goals. Achieving these goals will require significant energy use
reductions in governmental, residential, and commercial building and transportation sectors. It will additionally
require the development of new renewable energy resources to provide clean energy generation to
Northampton.
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The following strategies, further detailed in Section 3, were identified by Northampton stakeholders as pathways
to achieve these goals. Each strategy provides a summary of key information including relevant background
objectives, benefits, potential risks, project costs economics, next steps, and poten tial contacts. Northampton’s
12 clean energy strategies include:
Clean Energy Strategies
Strategy 1. Develop Community Solar Project
Strategy 2. Develop Solar Canopies for City-Owned Parking Lots
Strategy 3. Develop Solar Project at Glendale Road Landfill
Strategy 4. Expand Small Hydro Development
Strategy 5. Assess Regional Anaerobic Digestion Project Opportunities
Energy Efficiency and Resilience Strategies
Strategy 6. Implement Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) Financing
Strategy 7. Develop Community Energy Efficiency Mobilization Plan
Strategy 8. Implement LED Street Lighting Retrofits
Strategy 9. Implement Energy Reporting Program
Strategy 10. Increase Public Safety through Improved Community Energy Resilience
Sustainable Transportation Strategies
Strategy 11. Implement Electric Vehicle Purchasing Policy
Strategy 12. Develop Regional Bike Sharing System
As described in the following pages, Northampton has a history of successful clean energy planning and project
development; however, a continued focus will be needed to achieve Northampton’s long-term clean energy
goals. By implementing these strategies, Northampton can take concrete steps to achieving its clean energy
goals while also positioning itself as a leader in the Commonwealth and across the United States.
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC) is dedicated to accelerating the success of clean energy
technologies, companies and projects in the Commonwealth – while creating high-quality jobs and long-term
economic growth for the people of Massachusetts. Since it began oper ating in 2009, MassCEC has helped clean
energy companies grow, supported municipal clean energy projects, and invested in residential and commercial
renewable energy installations, creating a robust marketplace for innovative clean technology companies and
service providers.
The Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources (MassDOER) Green Communities Division strives to
help all 351 Massachusetts cities and towns find clean energy solutions that reduce long-term energy costs and
strengthen local economies. The division provides technical assistance and financial support for municipal
initiatives to improve energy efficiency and increase the use of renewable energy in public buildings, facilities ,
and schools.
The Northampton Clean Energy Roadmap benefited from the active leadership and engagement of the
Northampton Clean Energy Working Group. Led by Northampton Energy and Sustainability Officer Chris
Mason, the Working Group guided and supported the implementation of Northampton’s Community Energy
Strategies process and the resulting Clean Energy Roadmap. Members of the Northampton Clean Energy
Working Group include:
M.J. Adams, Northampton Board of Public Works
Suzanne Beck, Northampton Chamber of
Commerce
Mac Everett, Ward 3 Neighborhood Association
Wayne Feiden, Northampton Planning &
Sustainability Department
Marin Goldstein, Center for EcoTechnology
Rich Horton, Community Enterprises
Bill Hubbard, Northampton Senior Center
Marianne LeBarge, Northampton City Council
Deirdre Manning, Smith College
Chris Mason, Northampton Energy & Sustainability Officer
Terri Masterson, Northampton Economic Development
Director
Adin Maynard, Northampton Energy & Sustainability
Commission
David Murphy, Northampton City Council
Josh Shanley, Northampton Emergency Management
Coordinator
Peter Wingate, Community Action!
Meister Consultants Group (MCG) was hired by MassCEC to design and implement the community dialogue
that supported community leaders in creating the Clean Energy Roadmaps. MCG is a Boston-based sustainability
consulting firm that uses innovative problem solving approaches to advise clients on clean energy strategy
development, stakeholder dialogue, and program implementation. MCG has an active clean energy practice,
with deep expertise in creating and implementing policies and programs for local jurisdictions.
Stone Environmental conducted GIS analysis of clean energy resources and infrastructure to aid community
understanding of existing clean energy opportunities. Additionally, Stone created the companio n maps
illustrating communities’ clean energy strategies by sector. Stone is a Vermont -based GIS consulting firm
specializing in collaborative, creative geospatial and web mapping solutions for government and business with a
focus on renewable energy and environmental stewardship.
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SECTION 1:
INTRODUCTION
Northampton has a history of success in implementing clean energy projects, with a strong commitment to
innovation and a track record of robust community engagement. The City is a sustainability leader within the
region, and was the first Massachusetts municipality to pass regulations enabling PACE financing. In 2008, the
city published the Sustainable Northampton Comprehensive Plan, which set goals for community-wide energy
efficiency and renewable energy. Regionally, Northampton is active within the Pioneer Valley Planning
Commission (PVPC). It has committed to reduce energy consumption 20 percent below 2000 levels, create local
clean energy jobs, and site 440 million kilowatt-hours of renewable energy by 2020 as part of the PVPC Clean
Energy Plan. Northampton has also developed its own aggressive Municipal Energy Reduction Plan with the goal
of reducing municipal energy use 20 percent by 2015.
PAST ACCOMPLISHMENTS
The City of Northampton has full-time staff dedicated to providing support for clean energy development. Chris
Mason, the City's Energy and Sustainability Coordinator, works closely with all municipal departments to further
Northampton’s energy goals and work within the community to promote clean energy and energy efficiency
development. The City also has a formally established Energy and Sustainability Commission, a body comprised
of city staff and community members which has worked on energy issues in the community since the 1980s. This
network of actors has a history of completing successful clean energy projects in collaboration with
Massachusetts agencies, non-profits, and the Northampton community.
Northampton has received a Green Community designation from Massachusetts for its commitment to activities
which encourage renewable energy and energy efficiency. It was also selected as a STAR community, a nation -
wide pilot which works to improve the sustainability of U.S. cities. Ongoing project work and policies which have
led to these honors include:
Energy Efficiency
The Northampton Mayor’s office issued a LEED Certification requirement which mandates that any new
City buildings or major renovations achieve LEED certification and earn as many points in energy
efficiency, transportation, and renewable energy as possible.
The City of Northampton adopted a high -efficiency vehicle purchasing policy in 2010.
Renewable and Alternative Energy
Northampton has three active municipal rooftop solar installations on schools and learning centers.
These are:
A 106 kW solar PV system at Smith Vocational and Agricultural High School
A 13 kW solar PV system at James House Community Learning Center
A 10 kW solar PV system at John F. Kennedy Middle School
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The City converted the fuel source of all its current municipal buildings to natural gas, propane, or heat
pumps.
A solar hot water system was installed at the waste water treatment facility in 2012.
A passive solar wall was installed for air heating at the Smith Vocational and Agricultural High School.
Energy Policy and Planning
The City Council adopted a Stretch Energy Code in 2009, which established energy efficiency standards
for buildings that are more stringent than the base Massachusetts requirements.
Northampton expedites the permitting and siting process for large-scale renewable energy projects.
In 2012, the City Council voted to allow for the development of PACE financing programs for efficiency
and renewable energy projects on private properties.
Community Education, Outreach and Engagement
The Energy Concierge Program was developed as a collaborative project between the City of
Northampton, the Center for EcoTechnology (CET), National Grid, and Columbia Gas to provide outreach,
education, and technical assistance to commercial and industrial property owners on incentives and
technology options for energy efficiency and renewable energy.
Northampton had the highest number of participants in Massachusetts for Green Start, a renewable
energy purchase program.
Smith Vocational and Agricultural High School has added coursework on high-efficiency buildings.
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SECTION 2:
METHODOLOGY
NORTHAMPTON CLEAN ENERGY WORKING
GROUP
The Northampton Clean Energy Working Group guided implementation of the CESP. The Working Group was
supported by a project team made up of local officials and technical experts from the City of Northampton,
MassCEC, MassDOER, Meister Consultants Group, and Stone Environmental. Composed of local leaders
representing a diversity of perspectives, Working Group members included representatives from local
government, businesses, nonprofit groups, major building or facility owners, community groups, and other key
stakeholders (see Acknowledgements for the full list of Northampton Working Group members). Working Group
members provided the following support over the course of the program.
Outreach and Mobilization: Working Group members actively communicated with their colleagues,
peers, and local stakeholders to ensure broad outreach took place. They mobilized local networks to
recruit community member participation at the Community Energy Forums.
Working Group Meetings: The Working Group met at key points in the CESP process to inform
development of the roadmap, review inputs, discuss potential outcomes, and make concrete
recommendations. In particular, Working Group members identified local community concerns and
goals that guided development of the Northampton Clean Energy Roadmap. They additionally reviewed
and approved clean energy strategies.
Community Clean Energy Forums: Members participated in the planning, development, and
implementation of public events and meetings, especially Community Energy 101 and 201 Forums.
Project Representation: Members served as program ambassadors, representing the program at
community events and reaching out to local stakeholders to encourage active participation in the
development of the community clean energy roadmap.
CLEAN ENERGY 101 COMMUNITY FORUM
The Clean Energy 101 Community Forum was a public meeting that brought together local officials and
stakeholders to learn about the CESP process, discuss Northampton’s clean energy goals with Working Group
members, and propose potential clean energy projects that could be implemented in the city.
During the 101 Forum, stakeholders proposed more than 80 potential clean energy projects, which could be
implemented in the community. These projects formed the Clean Energy Inventory, which served as the starting
point for assessing potential strategies that could be integrated into the Northampton Clean Energy Roadmap.
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From this list, the Working Group identified 12 strategies that could best achieve Northampton’s goals in the
near to medium term. These projects served as the starting point for the clean energy strategies developed in
this Roadmap (see Section 3).
CLEAN ENERGY 201 COMMUNITY FORUM
The Clean Energy 201 Community Forum was a public meeting where local officials and stakeholders engaged
technical experts to discuss benefits, drawbacks, and development options for potential clean energy strategies.
The Working Group identified the following four potential strategies for community stakeholders to review with
experts at the 201 Forum:
Local Marketing for Energy Efficiency: Local energy efficiency experts discussed the potential to
expand local marketing and increase greater energy efficiency adoption in Northampton.
Anaerobic Digestion Development: Officials from MassCEC discussed the opportunities and
challenges of anaerobic digestion technology.
Landfill Solar: MassDEP explored the potential for developing solar on the city’s closed landfill.
Bike Share Programs: Stakeholders discussed the challenges and opportunities of implementing a bike
share program in cooperation with surrounding communities and local higher education institutions.
TECHNICAL AN ALYSIS
Throughout the process, the project team conducted technical analysis to assess strategy development
pathways and increase the likelihood that the proposed clean energy strategies will be implemented in the
future. For example, where appropriate, Stone Environmental conducted mapping (GIS) analysis to identify sites
that could support clean energy development which also addressed local community concerns. Additionally,
Meister Consultants Group worked with local and state officials – among other resource providers – to identify
potential funding sources or technical resources that could support project development.
CLEAN ENERGY ROADMAP
Taking into account findings from the Working Group, community members, and technical experts, the project
team drafted the Northampton Clean Energy Roadmap. Local and state officials and Northampton Working
Group members provided critical feedback on the draft roadmap. The project team integrated edits and
submitted a final draft of the Northampton Clean Energy Roadmap, which was reviewed and approved by
Working Group members as well as MassCEC and MassDOER.
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CLEAN ENERGY
COMMUNITY ENERGY
STRATEGIES FOR
NORTHAMPTON
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STRATEGY 1. DEVELOP COMMUNITY SOLAR
PROJECT
A Northampton community solar project will allow residents that are unable to own their
own solar installations to purchase locally produced solar electricity , saving them money
and contributing to community renewable energy goals.
OBJECTI VES
Coordinate the development of a community solar project for Northampton residents.
Save participating residents money on their electricity bills.
Reduce community greenhouse gas emissions and promote the development of large -scale
solar.
BACKGROUND AND STRATEGY DESCRIPTION
Many Northampton residents are unable to take advantage of the growing Massachusetts solar market because
they either rent their residences or because their homes are unsuitable for solar. Community solar initiatives are
one way to allow these residents to take advantage of low-cost solar power. Under the community solar model,
a developer builds a PV system at an off-site location and participating residents agree to purchase energy from
that system, typically at a discount compared to electricity from traditional electricity sources. There are a range
of business models, such as direct ownership by local investors or development and financing by a third-party
entity. Current Massachusetts net metering regulations are some of the most favorable in the nation for
community solar projects and several municipalities have already established programs with the support of
private developers.
As part of this strategy, Northampton staff will work with local volunteers to develop a c ommunity solar
program, which will:
Evaluate potential community solar ownership models.
Identify potential city-owned or privately-owned sites within Northampton to support a community
solar installation.
Recruit potential community solar program participants.
Assist with the procurement of a community solar program vendor.
With prices for solar installations at all-time lows and new state incentive programs that will favor community
solar installations, a coordinated effort to develop a community solar initiative could significantly benefit the
Northampton community.
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BENEFITS
A community solar project will allow Northampton residents to save on their energy bills and
take advantage of state solar incentives which they currently contribute to as Massachusetts
utility ratepayers. Potential savings will depend on a range of factors, from the installed cost of
the community solar project to the business model selected for developing the project.
If the City of Northampton chooses to lease city-owned property for the installation of a
community solar initiative, this will result in annual lease payments from the system owners.
Depending on the size of the system, these payments could be worth tens of thousands of
dollars a year.
A large ground-mounted solar system in Northampton could also generate new tax revenue.
Property taxes for ground-mounted PV systems are typically made through a Payment In-Lieu of
Tax (PILOT) agreement. Like lease payments, these new tax payments could be worth tens of
thousands of dollars depending on the scale of the system and the specifics of any city
agreement with the system owner.
RISKS
Launching a community solar initiative will require significant stakeholder outreach. This could
require investments of time from community volunteers and city staff. Even with a robust
stakeholder outreach effort, there is no way of knowing whether community interest will be
sufficient to develop a community solar project.
Implementing a community solar initiative will require significant support from volunteers within
Northampton to coordinate outreach, assist with vendor procurement and help with ongoing
administration of the community project. Volunteers may not be willing to commit the time
needed to implement this strategy.
Larger, ground-mounted solar PV systems require open land (roughly 5 acres per megawatt)
near utility interconnection points. Northampton may not have suitable sites for a community
solar project, meaning the system may need to be installed outside city limits, decreasing
potential community benefits (i.e. tax payments or lease payments in the case of systems sited
on city property).
Site selection will be critical to the success of a community solar project. Some planned large
ground mounted solar projects in Massachusetts have met with opposition from abutting
property owners. Given this, any Northampton community solar project should seek to include
neighboring property owners early in the planning process to elicit their feedback and mitigate
potential concerns.
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PROJECT COSTS & ECONOMICS
Table 1- Potential Community Solar Implementation Costs and Benefits
To the City of Northampton To the Northampton Community
Financial Costs
of Strategy
Staff time to coordinate community
volunteers. This may be minimal or
substantial depending on level of
volunteer involvement.
Volunteer time to coordinate program
development and implementation could be
minimal or significant depending on level of
city involvement. May require third-party to assist with
evaluation of business models and
potential vendors.
Financial
Benefits of
Strategy
Property tax payments and/or lease
payments depending on final system
location. These could range from $8,000 to
$30,000 per year.
Participating community members will likely
see reduced energy bills.
Table 2 - Available Resources
Organization Type of Assistance Description
IRS Tax Incentives
The federal government provides both a 30% investment tax credit
as well an accelerated 5-year depreciation schedule for qualifying
solar PV installations. These incentives greatly improve PV system
economics, but require system owners to have federal tax liabilities.
MassDOER SREC Incentives
Massachusetts utilities are required to purchase a portion of their
total load from qualifying in-state solar PV systems. Solar Renewable
Energy Certificates (SRECs) are the mechanisms through which load
serving entities meet this requirement. A community solar
installation will generate SRECs that will then be sold to
Massachusetts electricity suppliers.
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NEXT STEPS
Task Description Task Lead
1. Meet with community volunteers to discuss interest in developing
community solar project and create local working group to lead
effort.
City Staff
2. Issue a Request for Expression of Interest to seek non-binding
expressions of interest and proposed business models from
private, public, and nonprofit organizations to develop
community-owned solar array(s) in Northampton.
City Staff
3. Select one to three acceptable business model(s). City Staff & Working Group
4. Survey the community for interest in each business model and to
estimate potential project size(s). City Staff & Working Group
5. Issue an RFQ from private, public, and nonprofit organizations to
develop community-owned solar array(s) in Northampton based
on the business model(s) selected.
City Staff & Working Group
MORE INFORMATION
MassDOER: The MassDOER developed a guide book to community shared solar projects titled Community
Shared Solar: Implementation G uidelines for Massachusetts Communities, which includes a review of business
and procurement models. This guide also includes model contract documents.
http://www.mass.gov/eea/docs/doer/renewables/solar/community-shared-solar-implementation-
guidelines-with-contracts-032913.pdf
NREL: The National Renewable Energy Laboratory has developed a national guide for communit y shared
solar projects titled A Guide to Community Shared Solar: Utility, Private and Nonprofit Project Development .
This also includes a review of potential business models and project financing strategies.
http://www.nrel.gov/docs/fy12osti/54570.pdf
Brewster and Harvard Solar Garden: The Massachusetts towns of Brewster and Harvard have developed
community shared solar projects.
http://www.brewstercommunitysolargarden.com/
http://www.harvardsolar.org/
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STRATEGY 2. DEVELOP SOLAR CANOPIES ON
CITY-OWNED PARKING LOTS
Parking lots are typically underutilized spaces within a community, and solar parking
canopies provide one option to use these properties to support the development of
local renewable energy projects.
OBJECTIVES
Increase opportunities for local renewable energy development.
Develop innovative clean energy projects on lands that are typically underutilized.
Lower municipal energy bills through long-term solar power purchase agreements and benefit
from other potential revenue streams, including lease payments and tax revenues.
BACKGROUND AND STRATEGY DESCRIPTION
During the community engagement process, Northampton stakeholders expressed interest in identifying sites
for development of solar parking canopies in the community. Solar parking canopies are structures that are
anchored into a parking lot that overhang parking spaces. Solar cells are affixed to the roof of the canopy
structures. Similar to rooftop or ground-mounted solar, solar canopies developed over parking lots can also
provide a good opportunity for communities interested in developing large -scale solar PV systems. Though solar
canopies have historically been cost-prohibitive, due in large part to the material costs of constructing
freestanding canopies, developers report that because of falling installation costs they are now cost-competitive
with grid power. In addition, solar canopies now benefit from new Massachusetts incentives that have been
structured to encourage reuse of already-utilized land such as parking lots.
Due to falling costs, and federal and state incentives, solar PV has become increasingly cost competit ive in
Massachusetts over the past few years. Many municipalities in the Commonwealth are seeing significant energy
bill savings after signing power purchase agreements (PPAs) with third party developers who own and operate
solar installations on municipal properties. These PPAs enable local governments to purchase discounted power
through long-term fixed-price contracts.
Solar canopies have a number of benefits in addition to renewable power generation, including the following:
Potential to integrate storm water collection technologies (e.g. rain barrels, swales, etc.), reducing
pollution and run-off from paved surfaces and decreasing loads on municipal wastewater infrastructure.
Provide shade to parked cars in the summertime.
Decreased snow build up and removal requirements in the wintertime.
The potential to be integrated with future emergency power infrastructure.
As a result, Northampton stakeholders have indicated that solar canopies are an attractive option for the City. If
developed through a municipal PPA or lease, a solar canopy project will require little to no upfront capital
investment, provide guaranteed power production, and result in substantial energy cost savings (depending on
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site-specific design issues and vendor installation costs). The City may also wish to evaluate direct ownership
models where the city will build, own, and operate the PV system.1
Under this strategy, Northampton will evaluate the feasibility of developing solar canopy projects on publicly
owned parking lots. This strategy includes site evaluations, analysis of costs and benefits of different ownership
models, and development of a procurement strategy. This strategy could be integrated with other solar
strategies outlined in this report (i.e. community solar and landfill solar) through a joint procurement process.
BENEFITS
Developing a solar canopy strategy will allow Northampton to better understand the potential of
renewable energy projects to lower municipal operating costs and increase city revenues.
A municipal solar purchasing strategy will result in the development of procurement documents
that can be used for other municipal clean energy projects.
Many of the key questions and concerns that municipal officials and staff may have about solar
canopies can be thoroughly evaluated as part of the strategy development process.
RISKS
The City will need to conduct feasibility studies of Northampton parking lots and will also need
to invest staff time in developing a strategy should these sites prove viable.
Northampton-owned parking structures may not be suitable for solar canopy installations.
Solar canopies may require Northampton to adjust how parking lots are maintained and
plowed, however canopies can be designed to minimize these impacts.
1 While this solar ownership model is available to municipalities, local governments cannot take advantage of federal tax benefits that can
substantially improve solar project economics. This model also requires cities to assume SREC market risk.
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PROJECT COSTS & ECONOMICS
Table 3 – Solar Canopies on City-Owned Parking Lots Implementation Costs and Benefits
To the City of Northampton To the Northampton Community
Financial Costs
of Strategy
Staff time to evaluate canopy solar
procurement strategies and potential
contracting models. Not applicable.
Limited costs associated with hiring a firm
to conduct site feasibility studies.
Financial
Benefits of
Strategy
Solar projects on municipal properties will
generate a number of new revenue
streams for the City including savings from
discounted power purchases, increased
property tax payments, and potential lease
revenues.
Not applicable.
Table 4 - Available Resources
Organization Type of Assistance Description
MassDOER Project Development
Assistance
The Department of Energy Resources (MassDOER) has a number of
model documents and guides for local governments developing solar
projects. These could be used as models for any Northampton solar
procurement. http://www.mass.gov/eea/energy-utilities-clean-
tech/green-communities/ems.html
MassDOER SREC Incentives
Massachusetts utilities are required to purchase a portion of their
total load from qualifying in-state solar PV systems. Solar Renewable
Energy Certificates (SRECs) are the mechanisms through which load
serving entities meet this requirement. Solar canopies will generate
SRECs that can be sold to Massachusetts electricity suppliers.
IRS Tax Incentives
The federal government provides both a 30% investment tax credit as
well an accelerated 5-year depreciation schedule for qualifying solar
PV installations. These incentives greatly improve PV system
economics, but require system owners to have federal tax liabilities.
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NEXT STEPS
Task Description Task Lead
1. Issue an RFP for a feasibility study to identify appropriate size and
locations for small PV arrays on city-owned parking lots and
facilities.
Energy & Sustainability Commission,
Central Services
2. Select vendor and complete study. Report to Energy &
Sustainability Commission. Central Services
3. Present findings and recommendations to City Council. Energy & Sustainability Commission,
Central Services
4. Evaluate appropriate procurement pathways including whether to
procure under an RFP or RFQ and whether to conduct a joint
procurement with the landfill solar project (Strategy 3).
Energy & Sustainability Commission,
Central Services
5. Develop and publish procurement documents. Public Works, Central Services
CONTACTS
Organization Name Position Email
MassDOER Eileen McHugh Public Procurement/Municipal
Energy Programs Manager eileen.mchugh@state.ma.us
MORE INFORMATION
Massachusetts SREC Program: The MassDOER has carved-out a portion of the RPS Class I Renewable
Energy requirement to support distributed solar photovoltaic (PV) energy facilities. The RPS Solar Carve-Out
is a market-based incentive to support residential, commercial, public, and non-profit entities in developing
1600 MW of solar photovoltaic (PV) across the Commonwealth. http://www.mass.gov/eea/energy-utilities-
clean-tech/renewable-energy/solar/rps-solar-carve-out/
Federal Business Investment Tax Credit (ITC): The business ITC is equal to 30% of expenditures, with no
maximum credit. Eligible solar energy property includes equipment that uses solar energy to generate
electricity, to heat or cool (or provide hot water for use in) a structure, or to provide solar process heat.
http://programs.dsireusa.org/system/program/detail/658
Federal 5-Year MACRS Depreciation: Under MACRS, businesses may recover investments in certain
property through depreciation deductions. A number of renewable energy technologies, including solar PV,
are classified as five-year property. http://programs.dsireusa.org/system/program/detail/676
MassDOER Guide to EMS Procurement: The MassDOER prepared this document to help municipalities and
school departments understand how to improve the energy efficiency of public buildings through Energy
Management Services (EMS) contracting. This document provides a guideline for implementing EMS
projects. http://www.mass.gov/eea/docs/doer/green-communities/pubs-reports/ems-guide.pdf.
Additionally, for model procurement documents, see:
http://www.mass.gov/eea/energy-utilities-clean-tech/green-communities/ems.html
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STRATEGY 3. DEVELOP SOLAR PROJECT AT
GLENDALE ROAD LANDFILL
Reduce Northampton’s energy costs and create new sources of revenue by developing
a third -part y owned solar PV system at the C ity’s closed landfill.
OBJECTIVES
Develop and implement a strategy for installing a solar photovoltaic system (PV) at the
Northampton landfill on Glendale Road.
Reduce City energy costs by signing a net metering credit contract and develop alternative
revenue streams through property tax and lease payments.
BACKGROUND AND STRATEGY DESCRIPTION
Solar PV has become increasingly cost competitive in the last few years and federal and state incentives have
made solar attractive in Massachusetts. Closed landfills can be excellent sites for solar development, as these
properties are typically large open spaces with limited reuse value. A number of municipalities have worked with
private developers and MassDEP to repurpose closed landfills for solar PV system development. These cities and
towns have been able to sign lease and power purchase agreements that result in sign ificant new revenue
streams for their communities. New Massachusetts solar incentives will provide added value for PV systems on
landfills, making landfill solar development even more attractive in the Commonwealth.
The Northampton landfill on Glendale Road has previously undergone a site analysis by the Smith College
Engineering Design Clinic class. This preliminary analysis found the site to have good potential for the
installation of a megawatt-scale ground-mounted solar array that could meet roughly 50% of the City’s annual
electricity demand. This site could also potentially be developed to benefit the Northampton community more
widely under a community solar model or in conjunction with city-wide solar canopy procurement (see
Strategies 2 and 3).
Under this strategy, Northampton will further evaluate the Glendale Road landfill for solar deve lopment and
create a solar development strategy. This will include internal coordination of Northampton staff as well as staff
from MassDEP and MassDOER. This strategy will be implemented in coordination with the solar canopy strategy
to leverage staff resources and lower overall project development costs.
BENEFITS
Developing a landfill solar project will allow Northampton to better understand the potential of
renewable energy projects to lower municipal operating costs and increase city revenues.
Developing a solar landfill project could result in long -term lease and tax payments for
Northampton as well as reduced electricity costs.
Page | 15
RISKS
While the closed landfill at Glendale Road has been evaluated for solar, other fatal flaws may be
found during the site assessment and project development process that make the site
unsuitable for solar.
The state is beginning a new round of solar incentives and project developers may not find
these new incentives as attractive as under previous programs. If this is the case, the economics
of the Glendale Road landfill project may not be compelling enough for Northampton to go
forward with a project.
In other communities, neighboring property owners have expressed concern about the
development of large-scale solar installations near their properties. Given this, Northampton
should work to include neighborhood groups in the earliest stages of the development proce ss.
PROJECT COSTS & ECONOMICS
Table 5 – Solar Project at Glendale Road Landfill Implementation Costs and Benefits
To the City of Northampton To the Northampton Community
Financial Costs
of Strategy
Northampton staff will need to dedicate
time to develop and implement a
procurement strategy. Not applicable. Project oversight and coordination with
the solar vendor will also require staff time
commitments.
Financial
Benefits of
Strategy
Potentially significant cost savings from a
long-term power purchase agreement and
other revenues.
The Glendale Road landfill could be developed
in whole or in part as a community solar
project, which will provide discounted power
to participating Northampton residents.
Page | 16
Table 6 - Available Resources
Organization Type of Assistance Description
MassDOER Technical Assistance
The Department of Energy Resources (MassDOER) has a number of
model documents and guides for local governments developing solar
projects. These could be used as models for any Northampton solar
procurement. http://www.mass.gov/eea/energy-utilities-clean-
tech/green-communities/ems.html
MassDOER SREC Incentives
Massachusetts utilities are required to purchase a portion of their
total load from qualifying in-state solar PV systems. Solar Renewable
Energy Certificates (SRECs) are the mechanisms through which load
serving entities meet this requirement. A landfill solar installation will
generate SRECs that can be sold to Massachusetts electricity
suppliers.
MassDEP Technical Assistance
MassDEP works with communities to support the development of
clean energy projects on closed landfill sites through the Clean
Energy Results Program.
http://www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/massdep/climate-
energy/energy/program/
NEXT STEPS
Task Description Task Lead
1. Convene a community discussion regarding development of
solar projects in Northampton. This should integrate both
solar canopies on parking structures and the landfill
property. Make recommendations to the City Council.
Energy & Sustainability Commission
2. Evaluate appropriate procurement pathways including
whether to procure under an RFQ or RFP and whether to
procure both the landfill and solar canopies together.
Energy & Sustainability Officer, Public
Works, Central Services
3. Develop and publish procurement documents. Public Works, Central Services
CONTACTS
Organization Name Position Email
MassDOER Eileen McHugh EMS Procurement
Lead eileen.mchugh@state.ma.us
MassDEP David Howland Western Region
Clean Energy Lead david.howland@state.ma.us
Page | 17
MORE INFORMATION
Massachusetts SREC Program: The MassDOER has carved-out a portion of the RPS Class I Renewable
Energy requirement to support distributed solar photovoltaic (PV) energy facilities. The RPS Solar Carve-Out
is a market-based incentive to support residential, commercial, public, and nonprofit entities in developing
1,600 MW of solar PV across the Commonwealth. http://www.mass.gov/eea/energy-utilities-clean-
tech/renewable-energy/solar/rps-solar-carve-out/
Federal Business Investment Tax Credit (ITC): The business ITC is equal to 30% of expenditures, with no
maximum credit. Eligible solar energy property includes equipment that uses solar energy to generate
electricity, to heat or cool (or provide hot water for use in) a structure, or to provide solar process heat.
http://programs.dsireusa.org/system/program/detail/658
Federal 5-Year MACRS Depreciation: Under MACRS, businesses may recover investments in certain
property through depreciation deductions. A number of renewable energy technologies, including solar PV,
are classified as five-year property. http://programs.dsireusa.org/system/program/detail/676
MassDOER Guide to EMS Procurement: The MassDOER prepared this document to help municipalities and
school departments understand how to improve the energy performance of public buildings through Energy
Management Services (EMS) contracts. This document provides a guideline for implementing an EMS
project. http://www.mass.gov/eea/docs/doer/green-communities/pubs-reports/ems-guide.pdf.
Additionally, for model procurement documents, see:
http://www.mass.gov/eea/energy-utilities-clean-tech/green-communities/ems.html
MassDOER Guide to Solar on Landfills: The MassDOER developed a step-by-step guide to developing
landfill solar projects. It describes key site criteria and reviews various potential development pathways
available to municipalities under Massachusetts law.
http://www.mass.gov/eea/docs/doer/green-communities/pubs-reports/pvlandfillguide.pdf
Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection: MassDEP actively works with local governments
to provide assistance in developing clean energy projects on closed landfill sites.
http://www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/massdep/service/energy/landfills/
http://www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/massdep/climate-energy/energy/program/
Page | 18
STRATEGY 4. EXPAND SMALL HYDRO
DEVELOPMENT
Explore opportunities to e ncourage the development of small hydroelectric generating
stations at existing dam sites within Northampton.
OBJECTIVES
Encourage the development of small hydroelectric projects at appropriate sites within the City.
BACKGROUND AND STRATEGY DESCRIPTION
Small-scale hydroelectric power can be a low-cost, environmentally friendly source of power, and Northampton
has a number of waterways and existing dams that may be suitable for this energy generation technology. Both
Cookes Dam on the Mill River and Paradise Pond on the Smith Campus, have been discussed as potential sites
for small-scale hydro power, and the Smith site has already been the subject of favorable feasibility analysis.
Under this strategy, Northampton will work with interested stakeholders to encourage the development of these
and other appropriate sites within the community. The Energy and Sustainability Commission will develop
suitable strategies for furthering these potential projects in the near term. This will include outreach and support
to dam owners and, if appropriate, providing assistance with project development. In order to minimize the
potential environmental impacts of this strategy, only dam sites not likely to be removed in the near future will
be evaluated.
BENEFITS
Encouraging the development of small hydro facilities at existing dams will have a number of
greenhouse gas benefits for the Northampton community.
The strategies used to encourage local dam owners to develop small hydro projects by the
Energy and Sustainability Commission may be used to support the development of other
renewable energy technologies in Northampton.
RISKS
The dams listed in this strategy may have fatal flaws that could prevent private development of
the sites.
PROJECT COSTS & ECONOMICS
Implementation of this strategy requires minimal effort by the City of Northampton beyond arranging
discussions between project stakeholders as necessary. Potential resourc es for a small hydro project are
currently limited. However, developers and site owners are likely to be able to develop projects under a third
party ownership model.
Page | 19
NEXT STEPS
Task Description Task Lead
Present this strategy to the Energy and Sustainability Commission for
further discussion and development. If the Commission is supportive,
reach out to dam owners to gauge interest in small hydro project
development.
Energy & Sustainability Committee
CONTACTS
Organization Name Position Email
Smith College Deirdre Manning
Director of
Environment and
Sustainability
dmanning@smith.edu
MassCEC Amy Barad Program Director abarad@masscec.com
MORE INFORMATION
Massachusetts RPS: The Massachusetts Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) requires load serving entities to
purchase a portion of their power from qualified renewable energy facilities. Certain hydroelectric
generating facilities can qualify under this incentive program.
http://www.mass.gov/eea/docs/doer/rps/higher-mw-limits-for-hydro-ma-rps.pdf
Low Impact Hydro Institute: The Low Impact Hydro Institute has established a certification program that
ensures that qualifying facilities meet certain wildlife and sustainability-related standards.
http://www.lowimpacthydro.org/
NREL: The National Renewable Energy Labs has developed a resource guide for small hydro power facility
development. This guide reviews key elements of successful small hydro projects and also discusses how to
estimate the power generating potential of existing dam sites.
http://www.nrel.gov/docs/fy01osti/29065.pdf
FERC Small Hydro Licensing Resources: The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) has regulatory
oversight and licensing authority over small hydroelectric generating plants.
http://www.ferc.gov/industries/hydropower/gen-info/licensing/small-low-impact.asp
Page | 20
STRATEGY 5. ASSESS REGIONAL ANAEROBIC
DIGESTION PROJECT OPPORTUNITIES
Conducting an organic s waste -shed analysis in Northampton and the surrounding region
is necessary to evaluate the potential for constructing an anaerobic digester , which can
generate renewable energy fro m organic feedstock.
OBJECTIVES
Increase local renewable energy production and reduce GHG emissions.
Reduce disposal of organic waste in landfills.
Support local farmers by managing manure and creating soil amendments that can improve soil
health or productivity.
BACKGROUND & STRATEGY DESCRIPTION
Organics-to-energy technologies take organic waste – including materials such as food waste, animal waste
(manure), or yard waste – and convert them to renewable electricity and heat. Anaerobic digesters, a specific
type of organics-to-energy technology, breaks down organic matter in the absence of oxygen (i.e. anaerobic
digestion), thus producing biogas, which can be combusted to produce electricity or refined and used as
renewable natural gas. Heat generated during the process can also be used for a variety of applications,
including space heating for residences, process heat for industrial applications, and heating for greenhouses,
among others.
Northampton could collaborate with PVPC and other nearby communities to assess the feasibility of
community-supported organics-to-energy projects within the region by completing a comprehensive, multi-
community waste-shed analysis. This work can build on the ongoing organics collection pro jects in the region,
such as Amherst’s MassCEC-sponsored anaerobic digestion (AD) feasibility study, among others. Under this
strategy, PVPC, Northampton, and other communities will survey regional organic feedstock producers and
haulers to identify the type and volume of organi c feedstock, existing contractual requirements, distance waste
is hauled, location of potential AD sites for processing, and suitability of organic feedstock for processing in AD
systems.
BENEFITS
The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) has established a solid
waste disposal ban that applies to businesses and institutions disposing of one ton or more of
food waste per week. The regional organic waste-shed assessment will enable Northampton to
identify opportunities to divert organic waste from landfills and potentially assist local businesses
comply with the Massachusetts organic waste ban.
The project will support development of renewable energy generation from organic waste, thus
reducing GHG emissions in the region.
Page | 21
By identifying regional opportunities and feedstock to support development of an anaerobic
digestion facility, Northampton will strengthen agriculture in the region by assisting farmers
reduce environmental impacts of manure disposal and providing a sustainable supply of organic
soil amendments.
If co-located with the existing Northampton waste water treatment plant, increased truck traffic
to the facility to deliver organic material could be balanced with decreased volumes of biosolids
resulting from the AD process.
RISKS
The pre-feasibility study could reveal that there are no viable opportunities for anaerobic
digestion in Northampton or the surrounding region. In the event that this occurs,
Northampton’s investment in the study will not result in a future AD project.
Properly siting an AD facility will require careful consideration, particularly as an AD facility will
increase truck traffic in the surrounding community.
PROJECT COSTS & ECONOMICS
Table 7 – Assess Regional Anaerobic Digestion Opportunities Costs and Benefits
To the City of Northampton To the Northampton Community
Financial Costs
of Strategy
Staff time to coordinate community outreach and
evaluate research results will be a major cost driver of
the assessment. In addition, the City will likely incur
some costs for consultants or experts, who oversee the
research process on behalf of Northampton.
Not applicable.
Financial
Benefits of
Strategy
No direct financial benefits from implementing the
feasibility study. Not applicable.
Page | 22
Table 8 - Available Resources
Organization Type of Assistance Description
MassCEC Organics-to-Energy
Grant funding
MassCEC provides up to $50,000 in grant funding to assist
municipalities or other public entities assess opportunities for
organics-to-energy projects within their jurisdiction. A potential AD
development site must be identified to use MassCEC Organics -to-
Energy grant funding.2
MassDEP Technical and
Financial Assistance
MassDEP has developed a matrix of financial and technical assistance
programs, which are available to Massachusetts stakeholders
interested in developing anaerobic digestion projects.3
NEXT STEPS
Task Description Task Lead
1. Identify and task staffing resources to develop concept and
application process. City Staff
2. Reach out to pertinent municipal staff at the City of Northampton,
PVPC, and other regional communities about the assessment.
City Staff, Energy & Sustainability
Commission
3. Identify funding sources to hire contractors for the study. Potential
funding sources may include MassCEC Organics-to-Energy funding.
Contact MassCEC to discuss options, and then prepare and submit
funding application.
PVPC
4. Develop scope of work for the study. Interview three or more
contractors who could perform the study and solicit bids from
contractors. Review bids and select contractor.
PVPC
5. Work with selected contractors to conduct assessment. City Staff, Energy & Sustainability
Commission
CONTACTS
Organization Name Position Email
MassCEC Amy Barad Program Director,
Organics-to-Energy abarad@masscec.com
PVPC David Elvin Senior Planner delvin@pvpc.org
2 Support can be used for (a) technical assistance to develop requests for qualifications (RFQs) or requests for proposals (RFPs) and other
owner’s agent services; (b) public engagement processes to identify organics processing options that are compatible with community needs
and objectives; and (c) pre-feasibility studies for particular sites, generator clusters, or technical approaches to manage organic waste
streams. Cities are required to provide at least a 5% in matching funds. For more, see:
http://www.masscec.com/solicitations/technical-services-public-entities-only.
3 For more, see: http://www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/massdep/climate-energy/energy/anaerobic-digestion/anaerobic-digestion-financing-
and-technical.html
Page | 23
ENERGY EFFICIENCY &
RESILIENCE
COMMUNITY ENERGY
STRATEGIES FOR
NORTHAMPTON
Page | 24
STRATEGY 6. IMPLEMENT PROPERTY ASSESSED
CLEAN ENERGY (PACE) FINANCI NG
Property Assesse d Clean Energy Financing may be an attractive mechanism for
Northampton commercial property owners to finance large clean energy projects.
OBJECTIVES
Implement a PACE financing program for renewable energy, energy efficiency, and building
resilience technologies.
BACKGROUND AND STRATEGY DESCRIPTION
Property Assessed Clean Energy Financing (PACE) has been implemented by a number of municipalities across
the United States. Under a PACE program residential or commercial property owners are loaned funds to
conduct energy efficiency upgrades or install renewable energy systems. PACE loans are paid back through a
special property tax assessment. This mechanism allows the loan to be transferred to new property owners and
also allows loans to have debt terms that would not typically be available through traditional clean energy
finance programs.
Current Massachusetts law allows for municipalities to create PACE programs, and Northampton has passed an
ordinance to do so.4 However, as currently structured by Massachusetts law, a municipal PACE program will be
impractical without changes to the state’s authorizing legislation. Under current state law, Northampton is
required to sell bonds to finance the program, creating significant implementation challenges. There is a bill
currently before the legislature (S.177) that proposes to enable Northampton to proceed with a local PACE
program. This bill requires both the Department of Energy Resources (MassDOER) and MassDevelopment to
coordinate state PACE financing activities, significantly simplifying implementation for Northampton. Legislators
are also working to expand the current bill to allow property owners to finance climate resilience -related
improvements through the PACE mechanism, as well.
Given current law, activities under this strategy are limited to efforts to support the passage of revised PACE
legislation. Under this strategy, Northampton will implement a PACE program if state law changes to make it
practical to do so. Additionally, Northampton will implement a residential PACE program if changes to federal
regulations allow such programs to go forward. 5
4 For more, see: http://www.northamptonma.gov/1051/PACE-Ordinance
5 Currently, the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) has ruled that PACE financing is not appropriate for residential properties as PACE
lien obligations would subordinate loans guaranteed by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, the government sponsored national mortgage loan
aggregators.
Page | 25
BENEFITS
Passage of new PACE legislation in Massachusetts will improve access to energy efficiency and
renewable energy financing. PACE financing will serve to complement a number of existing
energy efficiency programs in the Commonwealth.
To date, no dedicated financing options exist for property owners who are interested in investing
in climate resilience measures, such as backup power and flood proofing. Passage of PACE
legislation in Massachusetts will create new opportunities for building owners to make these and
other critical improvements to their buildings.
RISKS
Specific risks associated with a PACE program established by Northampton will depend on the
final signed legislation and executive branch regulatory rulemaking.
Risks related to individual energy efficiency or renewable energy projects are highly dependent
on site specific variables and technology options.
PROJECT COSTS & ECONOMICS
Table 9 – Implement Pace Financing Study Costs and Benefits
To the City of Northampton To the Northampton Community
Financial Costs
of Strategy
Northampton staff will need to dedicate
time to develop and implement a PACE
program. Participating building owners will incur costs
related to retrofitting their properties.
Financing charges will also likely apply.
A local PACE program may require
Northampton to incur costs related to
marketing the program and collecting
financing payments through the current
property tax collection system.
Financial
Benefits of
Strategy
Not applicable.
Participating building owners will benefit from
lower energy bills and potentially improved
property values.
Page | 26
NEXT STEPS
Task Description Task Lead
1. Publicly advocate for the passage of updated PACE legislation
through city channels, nonprofit organizations, and individual
Northampton residents.
Energy & Sustainability Committee
2. If necessary, develop and present updated city ordinance on
PACE for City Council to review and adopt.
Energy & Sustainability Committee,
Mayor
3. Implement commercial PACE initiative in partnership with state
agencies. Mayor’s Office
CONTACTS
Organization Name Position Email
State Senate Senator Brian Joyce State Senator brian.joyce@masenate.gov
MassDevelopment Laura Canter Executive Vice
President lcanter@massdevelopment.com
MORE INFORMATION
MassDOER Study on PACE Program Options: The MassDOER commissioned a study on PACE financing
options. This study has informed PACE legislation currently before the legislature.
http://www.mass.gov/eea/docs/doer/pub-info/doer-pace-study.pdf
Massachusetts Senate Bill 177: Sponsored by Senator Joyce, S177 proposes to implement a state-wide
PACE financing program through the coordinated efforts of MassDevelopment and MassDOER.
https://malegislature.gov/Bills/BillHtml/126653?generalCourtId=11
PACENow.org: This national nonprofit works to encourage the development of PACE financing programs
across the United States. Their website includes a number of resources related to PACE programs that may
be useful to local governments implementing programs. http://pacenow.org/
Page | 27
STRATEGY 7. DEVELOP COMMUNITY ENERGY
EFFICIENCY MOBILIZATION PLAN
In order to meet community climate change goals, a si gnificant proportion of the
Northampton community will need to invest in energy efficiency. Under this strategy,
Northampton will develop a data -driven, comprehensive energy efficiency mobilization
plan.
OBJECTIVES
Develop a comprehensive community energy efficiency mobilization plan that, when
implemented, will reduce greenhouse gas emissions and lower energy bills in Northampton .
Use existing data sources to segment the Northampton energy efficiency market and develop
targeted strategies to engage a wide cross-section of the community.
Better understand Northampton’s building energy use and develop a more comprehensive
picture of greenhouse gas emissions sources in the community.
BACKGROUND AND STRATEGY DESCRIPTION
A number of Massachusetts cities and towns have developed and implemented community engagement
strategies in collaboration with utility efficiency vendors to increase adoption of energy efficiency measures.
While these programs have been successful at mobilizing some segments of communi ties, significant
opportunities remain for residents and business owners to make energy efficiency investments. Community
members have expressed an interest in creating a local “cultural shift” that motivates individuals to seek out
progressively more advanced energy efficiency opportunities in their homes and workplaces. This effort will be
greatly enhanced by developing a more detailed and nuanced understanding of community members’
motivations and attitudes towards energy efficiency investments.
Under this activity, Northampton will work to develop a comprehensive energy efficiency engagement strategy
that is carefully tailored to the unique needs of the community and based on a detailed market segmentation
and analysis. This strategy will use resident surveys, city building databases, and other advanced analytics to
create a comprehensive plan that includes elements such as:
Neighborhood-level efficiency service targeting and messaging.
Priority recruitment of the City’s leading employers and greenhouse gas emitters.
Integration with existing utility energy efficiency program offerings.
As part of this strategy, Northampton will hire a firm to develop and implement market surveys, create data-
driven micro-targeting strategies, and develop a comprehensive plan to drive energy efficiency investment in
Northampton. Stakeholder groups including utility representatives, local employers, neighborhood groups, and
others will be invited to participate in the development of the plan.
Page | 28
BENEFITS
Developing a data-driven understanding of potential energy efficiency customers will lead to
more effective efforts to market utility energy efficiency programs and deep energy retrofit
initiatives.
Inviting community members to take part in the strategy development process will assist in
future recruitment efforts and ensure that the final strategy resonates with a wide range of
stakeholders.
RISKS
Developing a mobilization strategy will require Northampton to invest both staff and financial
resources into creating the plan. The final effectiveness of the implemented strategy cannot be
determined in advance and may be only incrementally better than more traditional energy
efficiency marketing efforts.
The data necessary to develop a detailed marketing plan may not be available or may be too
costly to obtain.
Lack of energy efficiency adoption is a complex issue and a community awareness campaign my
not effectively motivate individuals to improve the energy performance of their homes and
businesses.
PROJECT COSTS & ECONOMICS
Table 20- Develop Community Energy Efficiency Mobilization Plan Costs and Benefits
To the City of Northampton To the Northampton Community
Financial Costs
of Strategy
$40,000-50,000 for a firm to conduct an
on-line community survey and develop an
energy efficiency targeting database. Volunteer time to coordinate outreach to
community members and recruit participants
for resident survey activities. Staff time to coordinate development of
the community mobilization strategy.
Financial
Benefits of
Strategy
Not applicable for this project phase. Not applicable for this project phase.
Page | 29
Table 11 - Available Resources
Organization Type of Assistance Description
National Grid
Data, Program
Coordination,
Financial Incentives
Provides historic and ongoing energy use and savings data,
coordinates with the MassSAVE program, and provides MassSAVE
incentives.
Columbia Gas
Data, Program
Coordination,
Financial Incentives
Provides historic and ongoing energy use and savings data,
coordinates with the MassSAVE program, and provides MassSAVE
incentives.
Center for
EcoTechnology
Data, Program
Coordination,
Marketing
Provides historic and ongoing data on CET’s local efficiency
programs. Opportunity to coordinate with CET’s ongoing efficiency
programs and collaborate on marketing and outreach.
MassDOER
Program
Coordination,
Networking, Financial
Assistance
Opportunity to coordinate with MassDOER’s ongoing Green
Community program and access information on and connections to
other efficiency outreach projects in Massachusetts.
MassCEC
Program
Coordination,
Networking, Financial
Assistance
Opportunity to coordinate with MassCEC’s ongoing community
outreach programs and access information on and connections to
other efficiency outreach projects in Massachusetts.
Community
Action
Program
Coordination,
Marketing
Provides historic and ongoing data on Community Action’s low
income electric efficiency and weatherization programs.
Opportunity to coordinate with ongoing programs and collaborate
on marketing and outreach.
Smith College Interns, Engineering
Studies
Intern assistance in developing and implementing marking and
outreach efforts. Technical assistance in evaluating potential and
measuring efficiency improvements.
Greater
Northampton
Chamber of
Commerce
Networking,
Marketing
Provides a connection with local businesses and support for
marketing and outreach efforts.
NEXT STEPS
Task Description Task Lead
1. Identify resources to hire a consultant to help develop the energy
efficiency mobilization plan.
Energy & Sustainability
Officer
2. Conduct an online survey to determine community interest in an enhanced
efficiency outreach program and to recruit local volunteers to assist with
strategy development process. This work will be conducted with the
assistance of the Energy & Sustainability Commission.
Mayor’s Office,
Energy & Sustainability
Officer
3. Procure a consultant to help develop the plan. The Energy & Sustainability
Commission will assist in this effort.
Energy & Sustainability
Officer
4. Assist with stakeholder recruitment, data collection and other plan
development activities. Community volunteers and program partners will
support this activity.
Energy & Sustainability
Officer,
5. Publish the final community energy efficiency mobilization strategy and
begin implementation.
Mayor’s Office,
Energy & Sustainability
Officer
Page | 30
CONTACTS
Organization Name Position Email
MassDOER Jim Barry
Western
Massachusetts Green
Communities
Coordinator
jim.barry@state.ma.us
Columbia Gas Elizabeth Cellucci Director of Energy
Efficiency ecellucci@nisource.com
National Grid Sneha Sachar Program Strategy -
Massachusetts sneha.sachar@nationalgrid.com
CET John Majercak Executive Director john.majercak@cetonline.org
Community Action! Peter Wingate Energy Director pwingate@communityaction.us
Smith College Deirdre Manning
Environmental
Sustainability
Director
dmanning@smith.edu
MORE INFORMATION
MassSAVE: Mass Save is an initiative sponsored by Massachusetts gas and electric utilities and energy
efficiency service providers that provides a wide range of services, incentives, trainings, and information
promoting energy efficiency that help residents and businesses manage energy use and related costs.
http://www.masssave.com/
Cambridge Energy Alliance: The Cambridge Energy Alliance (CEA) is a part of city government and helps
Cambridge residents and businesses identify and arrange financing for all cost-effective energy efficiency
improvements for their homes and businesses. CEA works with organizations that provide energy auditing
capability, construction expertise, and financial resources. It serves as a case study that can inform
Northampton of options for implementing a city-run energy efficiency program.
http://cambridgeenergyalliance.org/
Renew Boston: Renew Boston is a network of energy efficiency providers helping to assist qualified Boston
tenants, homeowners, and landlords in making energy impr ovements to their homes and properties. The
City of Boston and its partner Mass Save provide eligible Bostonians with no-cost home energy assessments
and incentives for energy efficiency upgrades, including insulation, air sealing, water saving devices, and
high-efficiency light bulbs. It serves as a case study that can inform Northampton of options for
implementing a city-run energy efficiency marketing initiative. http://www.renewboston.org/
Page | 31
STRATEGY 8. IMPLEMENT LED STREET LIGHTING
RETROFITS
LED s treet lights can significantly lower municipal electricity consumption and energy
bills. This strategy will implement a comprehensive LED retrofit initiative.
OBJECTIVES
Replace older street lights with modern, efficient street lights.
Decrease City GHG emissions, electricity costs, and maintenance costs.
Improve lighting quality and design along Northampton streets.
BACKGROUND AND STRATEGY DESCRIPTION
Street lights accounted for around 12% of Northampton’s municipal electricity consumption in 20096 but 30% of
total electricity costs. LED street lights are solid-state lights that can significantly reduce energy consumption
and maintenance costs compared to traditional mercury vapor and high pressure sodium street lights. Field tests
have shown that, on average, replacing high-pressure sodium street lights with LED equivalents can results in a
39% energy savings7 and LED technologies may also reduce light pollution due to their ability to focus light at
targeted areas. In recent years, costs for LED street lighting technologies have declined substantially and
Northampton has already completed one successful LED lighting project and seen significant cost and energy
savings from that effort.
To date, there have been a number of regulatory hurdles for Massachusetts municipalities interested in replacing
their existing street lights with LED technologies. However, recent changes to National Grid’s street lighting tariff
and its policies related to replacing light fixtures have made LED street lights more attractive for local
governments to install. Under this strategy, Northampton will procure a vendor to complete a street light
analysis. This comprehensive study will provide information and estimates about potential energy savi ngs, as
well as under- and over-lighting conditions in the city. Based on the results of this study, North ampton will move
forward with procurement, potentially under a guaranteed savings performance contract. Northampton may also
explore working with the Metropolitan Area Planning Council (MAPC) under future bulk procurement
solicitations.
6 City of Northampton. (May 2010). Municipal Energy Reduction Plan. Retrieved from:
http://www.northamptonma.gov/DocumentCenter/View/80
7 Pacific Northwest National Laboratory. (June 2013). Demonstration of LED Street Lighting. Prepared for the U.S. Department of Energy.
Retrieved from: http://apps1.eere.energy.gov/buildings/publications/pdfs/ssl/2013_gateway-msslc_kc.pdf
Page | 32
BENEFITS
Completing a street lighting analysis will allow Northampton to maximize the benefits of future
street lighting retrofits and reduce lighting intensity in over-lit areas.
Installation of LED street lighting will create significant energy bill savings for Northampton and
lower the City’s greenhouse gas emissions.
LEDs lights last longer than traditional lighting technologies, meaning they require less overall
maintenance, which lowers operating costs.
RISKS
While installing LED street lights through a performance contract will guarantee the City’s
annual energy savings, this can reduce overall potential cost savings.
As a new technology, costs for LED street lights have declined considerably in recent years. If
Northampton completes an LED retrofit project in the near term, the City will not be able to
benefit from potential future cost declines for LED technologies.
PROJECT COSTS & ECONOMICS
Table 32- Implement LED Street Lighting Retrofits Costs and Benefits
To the City of Northampton To the Northampton Community
Financial Costs
of Strategy
Northampton will likely pay costs
associated with a street lighting study if
the City chooses not to proceed with an
LED lighting procurement under a
performance contract. Not applicable.
Implementing an LED street lighting
program will require moderate staff time
to coordinate contractor activities.
Financial
Benefits of
Strategy
Energy savings will depend on the number
of lights retrofitted, however Northampton
could reduce its city-wide electricity costs
by up to 15%. Not applicable.
Reduced annual City energy budgets and
reduced maintenance costs.
Table 13 - Available Resources
Organization Type of Assistance Description
Metropolitan Area
Planning Council
(MAPC)
Technical Assistance
and Aggregate
Procurement
MAPC is assisting Massachusetts municipalities with LED street
light procurement through an aggregated procurement program.
This involves vendor qualification, development of a street lighting
study, and pricing for a comprehensive LED retrofit through a
performance contract. http://www.mapc.org/led-street-lighting
Page | 33
NEXT STEPS
Task Description Task Lead
1. Contact MAPC and inquire about participation in their next round
of LED street lighting procurement. Energy & Sustainability Officer
2. Assist with evaluation of vendors submitting qualifications to
MAPC procurement. Energy & Sustainability Committee
3. Optional: If selected vendor and/or price structure is not
acceptable, Northampton will issues an RFP for LED streetlight
design and procure its own vendor.
Energy & Sustainability Officer
4. Selected vendor completes comprehensive outdoor lighting
review and creates retrofit pricing plan. Street lighting vendor
5. Northampton approves or rejects lighting proposal. City Council
6. If proposal is approved, vendor moves forward with lighting
retrofit plan. Street lighting vendor
CONTACTS
Organization Name Position Email
MassDOER Eileen McHugh EMS Procurement Lead eileen.mchugh@state.ma.us
MAPC Patrick Roche Energy Coordinator proche@mapc.org
MORE INFORMATION
Metropolitan Area Planning Council (MAPC): The MAPC has developed a municipal street light
procurement toolkit that provides a step-by-step approach to completing municipal LED lighting initiatives.
This toolkit includes model procurement documents, a detailed discussion of municipal street light buy-back
options, and a review of potential issues decision makers should evaluate before starting an LED street light
program. http://www.mapc.org/led-street-lighting
National Grid Street Light Tariffs: National Grid maintains a number of separate tariffs for street lights.
Project proponents should be familiar with these different tariff models when consi dering street lighting
projects. http://www.nationalgridus.com/masselectric/business/rates/4_other.asp
MassDOER Green Communities: MassDOER can provide support and guidance for municipalities exploring
street lighting projects, particularly related to state procurement law.
http://www.mass.gov/eea/docs/doer/green-communities/pubs-reports/led-street-lighting-slides-09-11-
13.pdf
http://www.mass.gov/eea/energy-utilities-clean-tech/green-communities/ems.html
Page | 34
STRATEGY 9. IMPLEMENT ENERGY REPORTING
PROGRAM
Developing a building energy reporti ng program for large commer cial and multi -family
properties allows future tenant s to better understand potential energy bills and
incentivizes landlords to make energy efficiency investments.
OBJECTIVES
Implement a building energy reporting ordinance for large commercial and multi-family
buildings.
Create transparency in the Northampton commercial real estate and residential rental property
market related to building energy consumption.
Create a data platform for tracking community progress towards reducing building greenhouse
gas emissions.
Increase potential tenant access to building energy consumption information, so tenants can
make informed, cost-effective choices about renting work or living spaces.
BACKGROUND AND STRATEGY DESCRIPTION
Potential residential and commercial renters have limited information about the energy performance of the
buildings they may decide to lease. Increased access to building energy performance data could incentivize
buildings owners to invest in energy efficiency. Building Energy Reporting and Disclosure Ordinances are an
increasingly popular means to achieve this. These programs are typically structured to include the following
responsibilities of building owners and municipalities:
Building owners:
Annually benchmark the energy performance of their properties using EPA’s Portfolio Manager
tool.
Report ENERGYSTAR scores and other key energy-related building metrics to the municipality.
Local government:
Publish building energy performance data online to create market transparency and inf orm
prospective tenants.
Energy reporting programs have been implemented in a number of larger U.S. cities, but smaller municipalities
have not yet implemented such programs. Cities with programs include: Boston, Washington, D.C., Seattle, San
Francisco, Chicago, and Philadelphia.
Under this strategy, the City of Northampton will develop an ordinance that will require all buildings over a
certain size threshold to annually report their energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions data. The City
will then make that data available to potential building tenants in order to create market transparency , which
could incentivize property owners to invest in energy efficiency. This effort will also allow Northampton to better
track community greenhouse gas emissions and help to further understand opportunities for energy efficiency
improvements.
Page | 35
BENEFITS
Benchmarking allows policy makers to track progress towards local and regional emissions
reduction targets and modify policies accordingly.
Commercial and residential renters will have access to disclosure reports and will be able to
make informed decisions about selecting more cost-effective and efficient spaces.
Benchmarking the energy performance of a building is a first step for many building owners
before investing in energy efficiency technologies. By requiring benchmarking, a municipality
ensures that property owners are fully aware of the energy consumption profile of their
properties.
RISKS
Energy disclosure programs require utilities to provide aggregated building energy data for all
tenants in a building. If a utility is unwilling to provide this information to a property owner,
implementation could be challenging.
Energy disclosure programs require an enforcement mechanism to ensure building owners
comply with ordinance reporting requirements. This is likely to be unpopular with property
owners.
Startup costs may be prohibitive for smaller local governments and a regional implementation
approach may be more appropriate.
Tenants may feel that landlord disclosure of the energy consumption of the property they rent is
a privacy concern. However, for many buildings this will not be as much of an issue, considering
that building-wide energy consumption cannot be disaggregated to deter mine the energy
consumption of an individual tenant.
If the City is unable to develop and implement a building energy reporting and disclosure program, it could
explore other strategies for improving energy efficiency in commercial and multi-family properties including
(1) direct outreach and education for property owners and tenants regarding energy efficiency opportunities and
(2) development of commercial PACE financing programs if possible (see Strategy 6 on PACE financing).
Page | 36
PROJECT COSTS & ECONOMICS
Table 44- Implement Energy Reporting Program Costs and Benefits
To the City of Northampton To the Northampton Community
Financial Costs
of Strategy
Moderate commitment of staff time to
write ordinance, develop the program, and
educate the public about the reporting
requirements.
Minimal costs associated with property owner’s
compliance with annual energy reporting
requirements. Potential costs associated with technical
assistance from a part-time contractor.
Financial Costs
of Strategy
No direct financial benefits for municipal
government.
Moderate financial benefits for commercial and
residential renters who choose to lease more
energy efficient properties.
Improvements in property values for building
owners that choose to invest in energy
efficiency.
Table 15 - Available Resources
Organization Type of Assistance Description
Institute for
Market
Transformation
(IMT)
Model Policy
Documents
The Institute for Market Transformation is a national nonprofit that
supports the development of building benchmarking and disclosure
ordinances across the U.S. They can provide model program
documents and other resources related to benchmarking programs .
U.S. EPA Benchmarking
Education Resources
The U.S. EPA has a range of educational materials related to building
energy benchmarking and the use of their Energy Star Portfolio
Manager tool. The can also provide direct technical assistance to
local governments implementing building benchmarking programs.
NEXT STEPS
Task Description Task Lead
1. Further discuss building energy disclosure ordinance with
municipal staff, energy committee, and other relevant
stakeholders to gain consensus regarding this strategy.
Energy & Sustainability Officer, Energy &
Sustainability Committee
2. Identify potential outside support resources from
MassDOER, U.S. EPA, and/or the Institute for Market
Transformation to develop draft ordinance.
Energy & Sustainability Officer
3. Reach out to the local gas and electric utilities to discuss
reporting data needs and get support for providing whole
building energy data to property owners.
Energy & Sustainability Officer
4. Discuss potential regional collaborative efforts with other
surrounding communities (potentially through PVPC or other
regional organizations).
Energy & Sustainability Officer, Energy &
Sustainability Committee
5. Develop a draft ordinance and conduct public outreach to
solicit feedback from the community. Energy & Sustainability Committee
Page | 37
6. Pass ordinance and implement program. City Council, Energy & Sustainability
Officer, Energy & Sustainability Committee
CONTACTS
Organization Name Position Email
Institute for Market
Transformation (IMT) Andrew Burr
Director, Building
Energy Performance
Policy
andrew@imt.org
City of Boston Carl Spector
Director, Climate and
Environmental
Planning
carl.spector@cityofboston.gov
MORE INFORMATION
City of Boston: The City of Boston passed a building energy reporting and disclosure ordinance in the
spring of 2013. This could be used as a potential model for Northampton. Regulations enacted defining the
implementation of the City of Boston’s ordinance are available here:
http://www.cityofboston.gov/eeos/reporting/
Institute for Market Transformation (IMT): The IMT is a national nonprofit that supports the development
and implementation of building energy reporting and disclosure ordinances throughout the country. They
maintain a dedicated website focused on benchmarking policie s.
http://www.buildingrating.org/
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency: The U.S. EPA has a number of training resources available related
to its Energy Star Portfolio Manager benchmarking tool. EPA provid es online trainings and has supported a
number of local governments with implementation of their building benchmarking programs.
http://www.energystar.gov/buildings/
Page | 38
STRATEGY 10. INCREASE PUBLIC SAFETY
THROUGH IMPROVED COMMUNITY ENERGY
RESILIENCE
Extreme weather events such as Hurricane Sandy have exposed the vulnerability of
energy systems. By increasing the resilience of critical infrastructure through energy
storage, micro grids , and renewable technologies, the community of Northampton can
improve its preparedness and energy independence.
OBJECTIVES
Develop a long-term plan to harden critical Northampton facilities against long -term power
outages and potential brownouts.
Evaluate energy storage for critical City infrastructure, along with integration of clean energy
generation and resilient micro-grids.
BACKGROUND
Recent severe weather has highlighted the importance of energy system resilience to public health and safety
and local governments in Massachusetts are responsible for providing emergency response services and
emergency shelter facilities to their residents. Given this critical responsibility, the City of Northampton is
currently working with Sandia National Labs, National Grid, and a consultant to evaluate City infrastructure for
suitability for emergency power and micro-grid systems. Results of this evaluation highlighted several City
buildings that will be the focus of future energy resilience planning.
Potential technologies explored include combined heat and power, solar-battery backup systems, and micro-
grids. While many of these technologies are well-established, financing and funding for energy resilience
projects has been a challenge. Under this strategy, the City of Northampton will work t o access state funds to
develop energy projects that improve the energy security of these sites. Massachusetts recently made available
$40 million for improving public safety through improved energy infrastructure and some of this funding was
available during the fall of 2014. This activity included close collaboration with National Grid and state partners
in order to ensure that projects will be successfully integrated into the existing power grid. Additionally, this
strategy should be coordinated with efforts to evaluate solar at City parking lots and other city properties (see
Strategy 2).
BENEFITS
Improved emergency preparedness, public safety, and public health during grid failure events.
Increased energy independence and potential lowered energy costs if renewable generation and
battery storage are integrated into the resilience strategy.
Many energy resilience technologies have potential co -benefits of reducing energy consumption
and lowering greenhouse gas emissions.
Page | 39
RISKS
Developing energy resilience infrastructure projects that are designed to operate during power
outages is more complicated than more traditional distributed generation technologies. This
added complexity may make some projects either too expensive or technically unfeasible.
Regulatory barriers to energy storage technologies may prevent development of some energy
resilience projects.
State funding for energy resilience projects will likely be highly competitive and Northampton
may not be able to access the funds necessary to implement resilience projects.
PROJECT COSTS & ECONOMICS
Table 56- Improve Community Energy Resilience Costs and Benefits
To the City of Northampton To the Northampton Community
Financial Costs
of Strategy
Implementing this strategy will require
significant commitment of staff time.
Northampton may need to provide
funding for a portion of the installation of
distributed energy resilience systems.
These costs could be substantial or
minimal depending on the availability of
funding from other sources and the
ownership structures chosen.
Not applicable.
Financial
Benefits of
Strategy
Potentially substantial ongoing savings
from onsite generation technologies.
Potentially substantial in the event of a long-
term power outrage.
Table 17 - Available Resources
Organization Type of Assistance Description
MassDOER Feasibility Studies
MassDOER provided competitive funding for feasibility studies for
energy resilience distributed technologies in the second half of 2014.
Examples can be found here: http://www.mass.gov/eea/energy-
utilities-clean-tech/renewable-energy/resiliency/resiliency-
initiative.html
National Grid Technical Assistance,
Rebates
National Grid provides rebates and funding for technical studies of a
range of energy resilience technologies, including combined heat
and power and energy efficiency. These funds are provided through
the MassSAVE program.
Page | 40
NEXT STEPS
Task Description Task Lead
1. Review results of recent energy resilience reports and develop prioritized list
of potential projects.
Energy & Sustainability
Officer
2. Apply for MassDOER funding for technical studies when available. Energy & Sustainability
Officer
3. Conduct feasibility assessments with state funds for critical sites. Study Vendor
4. Evaluate results of feasibility assessments and move forward with projects
where appropriate City Staff
CONTACTS
Organization Name Position Email
MassDOER Amy McGuire Project Coordinator amy.mcguire@state.ma.us
MORE INFORMATION
Rebuild Smart Report: The National Electric Manufacturers Association has developed a report that reviews
key technologies decision makers should consider integrating into resilient energy systems.
http://www.nema.org/Storm-Disaster-Recovery/Documents/Storm-Reconstruction-Rebuild-Smart-Book.pdf
Economic Benefits of Grid Resilience Report: Developed by the U.S. Dept. of Energy, the Economic
Benefits of Increasing Electric Grid Resilience to Weather Outages report outlines the costs and benefits of
grid resilience technologies from a national perspective.
http://energy.gov/sites/prod/files/2013/08/f2/Grid%20Resiliency%20Report_FINAL.pdf
MassDOER Grid Resilience Program Summary: The MassDOER provided funding for local governments to
evaluate energy resilience projects during 2014.
http://www.mass.gov/eea/docs/doer/energy-resiliency-fact-sheet.pdf
Page | 41
SUSTAINABLE
TRANSPORTATION
COMMUNITY ENERGY
STRATEGIES FOR
NORTHAMPTON
Page | 42
STRATEGY 11. IMPLEMENT ELECTRIC VEHICLE
PURCHASING POLICY
The City of Northampton can lead by example by developing a policy which requires
plug -in vehicles to be purchased for fleet replacements. These vehicles will serve to
increase community awareness about electric vehicles and foster interest in improved
charging infrastructure.
OBJECTIVES
Implement a municipal electric vehicle purchasing policy that requires Northampton to purchase
or lease plug-in vehicles when cost effective and appropriate.
Reduce transportation costs by shifting away from petroleum-based fuels.
Reduce tail-pipe and greenhouse gas emissions by deploying electric vehicles.
Promote awareness of plug-in vehicle technologies within the Northampton community.
BACKGROUND
Plug-in electric vehicles are now widely available in the United States. Mainstream vehicle manufacturers have
introduced a number of new plug-in vehicle models in recent years, including Toyota, Ford, GM, Nissan, Honda,
and Mitsubishi, among others.8 Plug-in vehicles include both battery electric vehicles (BEVs), which operate
solely on battery power, and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), which can operate either from battery
power or through an internal combustion engine. These vehicles have a number of advantages over traditional
internal combustion engine vehicles, including the following:
Reduced greenhouse gas and criteria pollutant emissions.
Reduced operating costs when running in electric mode (experts report that typical plug-in vehicles
running in electric mode operate at an equivalent of $1 per gallon).
Potentially significant reductions in petroleum consumption depending on driving patterns, charging
frequency, and source of electricity generation.
As of 2013, Northampton residents and businesses had 24 plug -in electric vehicles registered in the City. This
ranked Northampton as 17 out of 351 Massachusetts municipalities on a per car basis. Northampton has taken
significant steps to develop public electric vehicle charging infrastructure and currently has eight public charging
stations. These have been funded with grants from the Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources
(MassDOER). The City is also exploring leasing several electric vehicles using state grants.
Under this strategy, Northampton will develop an electric vehicle (EV) purchasing policy that requires the City to
buy or lease electric vehicles when appropriate and cost effective. This policy could also include an evaluation of
internal car-sharing opportunities to better distribute the increased capital costs of EVs. This policy will be similar
to the City’s current energy efficient vehicle procurement policy that was adopted as part the Northampton’s
Green Communities designation.
8 A full list of currently available electric vehicles is available at: http://www.pluginamerica.org/
Page | 43
BENEFITS
Plug-in electric vehicles contribute to emission reductions, decreased dependence on
hydrocarbons, and improve air quality.
Plug-in electric vehicles lower municipal fuel costs and overall vehicle operating costs.
Implementing a plug-in vehicle procurement policy will also promote local awareness of the
availability and performance of this relatively new vehicle technology.
RISKS
Electric vehicles may not be appropriate for all municipal vehicle types, so the policy should be
carefully crafted to ensure that vehicles are only procured where appropriate.
Battery electric vehicles do have limited ranges and may not be appropriate for all purposes.
Any purchase of BEVs should evaluate potential issues related to battery life and driving range.
This is not an issue for PHEVs as these vehicles can operate on standard gasoline when the
vehicle’s battery has been fully discharged.
Risks related to battery integrity in the event of an accident are a concern for first responders.
Given this potential issue, the state has developed an electric vehicle license plate. This plate is
intended to ensure that first responders take appropriate precautions when working around
damaged electric vehicles.9
PROJECT COSTS & ECONOMICS
Table 68- Implement Electric Vehicle Purchase Policy Costs and Benefits
To the City of Northampton To the Northampton Community
Financial Costs
of Strategy
Increased incremental cost of purchasing
electric vehicles over standard-fuel models.
This is roughly $10,000 per vehicle without
subsidies. Not applicable. Minimal staff time to develop and
introduce an ordinance or other policy
mechanism requiring electric vehicle
procurement.
Financial
Benefits of
Strategy
Decreased fuel costs and lower regular
maintenance costs. At current prices,
electric vehicles can operate at the
equivalent of $1 per gallon of gas.
Not applicable.
9 For more, see: http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120424-pr-ev-plates.html
Page | 44
Table 19 - Available Resources
Organization Type of Assistance Description
MassDEP Financial Incentives
MassDEP has previously provided grants to local governments to
procure electric vehicles and charging stations through the MassEVIP
program. Future funding under this initiative may be available at a
later date.
NEXT STEPS
Task Description Task Lead
1. Create internal City working group to discuss potential for development of
City plug-in vehicle purchasing policy.
Energy & Sustainability
Officer, Energy &
Sustainability Commission
2. Develop draft City ordinance modeled after existing energy efficient vehicle
purchasing policy.
Energy & Sustainability
Officer
3. Introduce draft ordinance to City council for review and public discussion. City Staff
4. Implement policy as appropriate during regular vehicle purchasing cycles. City Staff
CONTACTS
Organization Name Position Email
MassDEP Sejal Shah MassEVIP Program sejal.shah@state.ma.us
MORE INFORMATION
Plug-in Electric Vehicle Action Tool: The Center for Climate and Energy Solutions provides a resource for
learning about PEVs and best practices. Although state DOTs are the primary audience, many of the
suggested actions and resources in the tool are applicable to other public entities such as local governments
and other state agencies. http://www.c2es.org/pev-action-tool
Siting and Design Guidelines for Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment: This report provides design
guidelines and best practices to help local governments, businesses, homeowners, developers, and other
interested parties identify and diagram key siting and design issues for electric vehicle charging equipment.
http://www.transportationandclimate.org/siting-and-design-guidelines-electric-vehicle-supply-equipment
Massachusetts Electric Vehicle Incentive Program (MassEVIP): MassEVIP helps Massachusetts cities and
towns acquire electric vehicles and charging stations by offsetting the higher initial cost of these advanced
technologies. http://www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/massdep/air/grants/massevip.html
Page | 45
STRATEGY 12. DEVELOP REGIONAL BIKE
SHARING SYSTEM
Northampton, in collaboration with surrounding cities and towns, can increase
transportation options for residents by partnering with vendors to develop and
implement a regional bike sharing pro gram.
OBJECTIVES
Reduce vehicle use and increase access to alternative transportation modes.
Develop bike-share initiative that encourages exercise and healthy living.
Integrate bike sharing system into regional public transit system to extend tr avel range of transit
customers.
BACKGROUND & STRATEGY DESCRIPTION
Bike sharing programs are emerging as a popular option to increase mobility in cities such as Boston, New York,
London, and Paris. A bike sharing program provides a rentable fleet of bik es, which can obtained from and
returned to docking stations around communities, often for a relatively small fee. The service is akin to car -
sharing services like ZipCar. Though most common in large cities, bike sharing programs are beginning to be
implemented in smaller municipalities, such as Boulder, Colo.,10 Salem, Mass.,11 and Madison, Wis.12 A potentially
promising model uses “smart bikes” equipped with GPS technology to help monitor and manage the program,
instead of more traditional bike share station s. Such an approach may be more suitable for municipalities like
Northampton in the Pioneer Valley, as it provides greater flexibility for a regional approach. In fact, in
collaboration with several regional municipalities, the PVPC is currently implementing a feasibility study to assess
these issues in addition to regional bike sharing models, customer demand, financial feasibility, and capital
funding requirements (and sources), among other issues.
In addition to connections with the regional bus transit system, a regional bike-sharing program that includes
Northampton will help interconnect the region’s bike and pedestrian paths with Amtrak passenger rail service ,
which is being realigned to serve the downtown Northampton station, as well as the existing station in
Springfield. As an extension of the existing public transit infrastructure, in order to be financially viable, bike
share programs may need integrated funding strategies that seek funding beyond user fees.
Based upon findings of its feasibility analysis, Northampton will work with PVPC to develop a request for
proposals (RFP) to procure a vendor to design and implement the regional bike sharing concept. In response to
the RFP, vendors will be expected to:
Describe their proposed business model and services, including risks, benefits, and key considerations.
Describe proposed bike sharing routes, locations for bike stations, and target audience for the Pioneer Valley
region.
10 For more, see: https://boulder.bcycle.com/default.aspx
11 For more, see: http://www.salem.com/pages/salemma_webdocs/spins?textPage=1
12 For more, see: http://momentummag.com/features/bike-share-finds-success-in-small-cities/
Page | 46
Describe funding and capital requirements, as well as expected operational costs and revenues, with the aim
to make the program self-sustainable over time.
BENEFITS
By collaborating with a successful bike sharing vendor, Northampton and PVPC will continue
developing a more resilient transportation network that is less reliant on fossil fuels.
The bike sharing program will provide travelers with more alternatives to auto travel for
commuting, shopping, errands, and visits, thereby improving the interconnectedness of the
region’s transportation network.
RISKS
There is a risk that there will be an insufficient number of qualified program vendors willing to
respond to the RFP. Northampton and PVPC should assess whether there are enough bike
sharing program vendors that will be willing to respond to the RFP with sufficient experience
and expertise to run a program on a regional scale.
Profitability has historically been a challenge for bike share programs, and in a number of cases
municipalities have had trouble securing sufficient funds to operate the system. It is essential
that bike sharing program providers can provide evidence in their proposals that they can
operate a financially stable program at a regional scale.
PROJECT COSTS & ECONOMICS
Table 20- Develop Regional Bike Share Program Costs and Benefits
To the City of Northampton To the Northampton Community
Financial Costs
of Strategy
Staff time to support the development and
coordination of the RFP and evaluate responses.
Additional costs may include the use of outside
consultants, lawyers, or experts to assist in the
development of procurement documents or evaluate
proposals.
Not applicable.
Financial
Benefits of
Strategy
Financial benefits if bike share program can offset
need for additional transportation options of fleet
purchases.
Financial benefits if bike share
program can offset need for
additional transportation options.
Table 21 - Available Resources
Organization Type of Assistance Description
MassDOT
Bicycle
Transportation
Technical Assistance
Mass Department of Transportation provides a number of resources
to assist Massachusetts regions improve biking infrastructure.
www.massdot.state.ma.us/GreenDOT/BikeandPedCoordinators.aspx
Page | 47
NEXT STEPS
Task Description Task Lead
1. Review results of the PVPC “bike sharing feasibility study” and determine
whether to proceed. Conduct preliminary interviews with bike sharing
program vendors, as appropriate, and identify key questions and
requirements for a successful bike sharing program in Northampton and the
Pioneer Valley.
PVPC and
Northampton Staff
2. Identify appropriate procurement pathways including whether to procure
under an RFQ or RFP.
PVPC and
Northampton Staff
3. Develop and publish procurement documents. PVPC and
Northampton Staff
4. Collect and evaluate responses. PVPC and
Northampton Staff
5. Select winning bid (if any) and proceed with project implementation. PVPC and
Northampton Staff
CONTACTS
Organization Name Position Email
Massachusetts
Department of
Transportation
Daryl Amaral Bike/Pedestrian
Coordinator daryl.amaral@dot.state.ma.us
PVPC Josiah Neiderbach Planner jneiderbach@pvpc.org
MORE INFORMATION
Bikeshare.com: This industry website provides news related to the bike share industry, including
information about local government efforts around the country and updates on new innovations in the
industry. http://www.bikeshare.com
Social Bicycles (bike sharing vendor): Social Bicycles offers affordable and scalable bike share technology,
equipped with a GPS-enabled locks that work with regular bike racks. http://www.socialbicycles.com
Alta (bike sharing vendor): Alta designs, deploys, and manages bicycle sharing systems. They provide
solutions for all aspects of bike share, from location assessment and business modeling to system
maintenance and expansion. http://www.altabicycleshare.com
Page | 48
CONCLUSION AND
OUTLOOK
Over the past several years, Northampton has made significant progress in clean energy, developing projects in
the residential, commercial and municipal sectors across the city. For example, Northampton was recently
selected as a STAR community, a nation-wide pilot which works to improve the sustainability of U.S. cities. City
schools have installed large solar arrays and the municipality has committed to building all new structures to
LEED standards. Additionally, businesses and industry were engaged through an innovative Energy Concierge
pilot program to encourage increased energy efficiency projects. Clearly, the community is also engaged and
interested in promoting sustainability and clean energy throughout Northampton.
With this Northampton Clean Energy Roadmap, Northampton has clarified its clean energy vision for the future.
The strategies outlined in this roadmap represent the next step in the city’s clean energy development process.
By implementing these projects, Northampton can take concrete steps towards achieving its clean energy goals
while positioning itself as a clean energy leader in the Commonwealth and across the United States.