City staff outline HVAC electrification, plug-load controls and chiller fixes in decarbonization design

Consultants detailed energy-efficiency measures included in the 50% design package: HVAC electrification (replacing natural-gas heating with heat-pump systems), improved thermostat and controls, plug-load reduction and targeted mechanical fixes at the wastewater plant. Regina, a program manager with the design team, summarized the HVAC approach as "converting the natural gas HVAC to a heat pump line of HVAC," and emphasized structural, ventilation and electrical-panel checks that must precede installations.

Staff acknowledged the electrification measures raise peak electrical demand and will trigger electrical-capacity upgrades with the utility. Bryce Beck said PV sizing and service upgrades are being balanced with electrification loads so the project remains financially prudent and compliant with grant timing. Council asked for confirmation that heat-pump tonnage would match existing capacity; staff confirmed the units were intended as like-for-like in tonnage but that electrical capacity (not thermal capacity) is the component likely to require upgrading.