The New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) is the recipient of the “Energy Project of the Year” award for a number of heating and lighting upgrades to Castle Hill Houses – a complex of 14 residential buildings and more than 2,000 apartments in the Bronx. The Association of Energy Engineers (AEE) selected NYCHA’s energy management project among others in a regional judging that included several states.

To receive consideration for the prestigious award, the energy management project has to be in operation for at least six months and proven to bring down installation costs and operating savings. NYCHA is the only housing authority to win an AEE award in 2010, thanks to the energy conservation measures that NYCHA has implemented at the development.

After 50 years of operation, the original heating and lighting systems required a thorough upgrade. At the same time, the need to be fiscally and environmentally conscious was a major concern for the Authority. In an effort to improve residents’ comfort and quality of life, NYCHA installed upgraded climate controls and lighting systems. Highlights of the project include Wireless Energy Modules in each apartment that monitor apartment temperatures, voltage, and demand. The new, efficient lighting in common areas provides added safety for residents. Most importantly, this project created green construction jobs for residents who were assisted by NYCHA’s Resident Employment Services program.

The Castle Hill project has fulfilled the vision of PlaNYC, an overall plan for the sustainability of New York City. The plan’s creator and New York City Mayor, Michael R. Bloomberg personally visited the site to congratulate the project team on a job well done.