County approves small energy-efficiency project after utility funding covers bulk of cost

The Strafford County commission approved installation and repair of pipe insulation in Riverside Buildings A–C after staff reported that Unitil will contribute $29,475 toward a $30,800 proposal from a mechanical contractor. Facilities director Douglas Kane told the commission that the remaining county share would be $1,325 for insulation alone, or $3,275 if the commission also pays for permanent pipe labels and arrows.

Kane said the project targets boiler rooms and other areas with significant heat loss and that a post-project report from GDS Associates will estimate energy savings. Commissioners approved proceeding; staff said they will return with final savings estimates when the work is complete and will explore other insulation opportunities across county facilities.

Commissioners discussed the broader program of energy improvements and noted payback periods varied across potential projects; staff agreed to follow up with documented payback-period estimates once the contractor completes the work and the consultant prepares a wrap-up report.