Hampden authorizes $256,195 HVAC heat-pump project with $58,800 rebate expected

On April 27 the Town of Hampden Select Board authorized the administrator to apply for an energy-incentive commitment letter and to award an HVAC heat-pump installation contract to AEG Advanced Energy Group.

Town staff presented the project and a rebate commitment: "The total project cost would be $256,195.75," staff said, and noted a rebate commitment from National Grid/Eversource of $58,800. Staff and board discussion established that the rebate will be applied at the time of billing rather than reimbursed after payment; staff said the contractor will process the incentive on behalf of the town but the town’s administrator signs the commitment letter.

Arithmetic consistent with the figures presented yields a net project cost after the rebate of $197,395.75. The board then moved and seconded two actions: authorize the administrator to apply for the rebate commitment letters and award the project to AEG Advanced Energy Group for the net cost reported; the motion passed by voice vote.

Project scope cited includes replacement/installation of multiple mini-split units serving selected rooms at the old town hall, with the board noting some rooms will be excluded and other spaces may reuse existing equipment. Staff said funds from the appropriation could be repurposed to remove old refrigerant and cover remaining installation costs where appropriate.

Next steps: administrator to sign the rebate commitment letters, finalize the contract with AEG and schedule installation work. Staff will report back on any change orders and final net cost once rebate paperwork is processed.