The panels, designed by Hydronic Shell Technologies, can be installed without moving tenants and feature built-in insulation, heating, cooling and ventilation.
Innovation in Energy Efficiency for Old Buildings
In an effort to combat emissions generated by heating and cooling older buildings, Hydronic Shell Technologies introduces a revolutionary solution. This startup has designed prefabricated panels that incorporate insulation, heating, cooling and ventilation all in one. Most notably, these panels are installed externally, allowing tenants to remain in their homes during the process.
The Inspiration Behind Technology
David Goldstein, engineer and founder Phone Number List of Hydronic Shell, was inspired to create these panels after New York required the reduction of energy use in large buildings in Working on a multifamily building decarbonization project, Goldstein faced two main challenges: the economics of retrofitting projects and the logistics of making these improvements to inhabited buildings.
An Innovative and Effective Design
The Hydronic Shell design uses hot and cold water circulating through pipes in the façade to provide heating and cooling. In addition, it includes the replacement of old windows and an integrated ventilation system, significantly improving air quality in buildings that usually lack complete HVAC systems.
Benefits and Energy Savings Potential
These retrofits have the potential to reduce energy use by more than % in inefficient buildings. This is due to the new extra insulating “envelope” and the possibility of connecting the pipes to an efficient heat pump. Hydronic Shell is also looking for financial partners to provide loans to building owners, which could easily be repaid with savings on energy bills.
First Pilot Project
The first pilot project will take place next year in a seven-story low-income apartment building in Syracuse, New York. This project has received funding as one of six winners of the Housing Affordability Breakthrough Challenge.
Community Participation and Future Plans
The local community will have an active role in choosing the aesthetic design of the façade. Additionally, BlocPower, another startup focused on the sustainability of old buildings, will partner on this project. In the long term, Hydronic Shell plans to standardize the production process to adapt to the unique dimensions of each building, with the goal of meeting the enormous challenge of retrofitting in cities like New York in the coming decades.