CCY Architects has taken a significant step toward sustainability with the installation of an all-electric rooftop heat pump.
Installed as a part of ongoing renovations to the firm’s primary office in Basalt, Colorado, this initiative is part of CCY’s ongoing commitment to reducing its carbon footprint and promoting energy efficiency in our practice and beyond. Working in collaboration with the Community Office for Resource Efficiency (CORE), the firm is setting an example for the region with this forward-thinking approach to heating and cooling.
“In renovating our primary workspace, our goal was to figure out how to convert the 1999 building to all-electric,” says CCY’s Sean O’Bryant. “Our previous gas rooftop unit was a conventional choice, however, as we started looking at more sustainable options, the all-electric heat pump emerged as the best fit from both an environmental and financial perspective.”
The new rooftop heat pump is designed to be both efficient and resilient in cold climates, a crucial factor given the region’s weather patterns. "Many commercial buildings still rely on gas, but CCY’s decision to go electric demonstrates that this technology works in cold climates. It’s a powerful statement for sustainability in the Roaring Fork Valley, showcasing that all-electric systems are viable, even in challenging environments.” Tim Johns, Senior Energy Concierge at CORE.
This move has positioned the firm to purchase renewable energy credits from Holy Cross Energy, meaning our office operates on 100% renewable energy. This achievement indicates our early commitment to the Roaring Fork Valley’s transition toward a greener grid. Holy Cross Energy's commitment to providing 90% renewable energy by 2025 and 100% by 2030 means that CCY’s stewardship is not only impactful today, but will continue to contribute to a cleaner energy future.
The decision to install an all-electric heat pump aligns with CCY’s values and broader sustainability goals. “Environmental stewardship and wellness are central to our practice: our firm has implemented a Sustainable Action Plan, and are committed to the AIA 2030 Challenge,” says CCY Partner, Alex Klumb. “Our design solutions, driven by site conditions, allow us to optimize a building’s overall design for its environmental conditions. We implement solutions that rely on both passive and active strategies to minimize our projects’ impacts on the environment.”
The financial investment required was one of the key challenges of the project, not just for the heat pump itself, but also for upgrading the office’s electrical capacity to support the system. However, CCY saw the long-term benefits far outweighing the costs. This comprehensive solution also integrates fresh air supply into the building, enhancing indoor air quality through a robust air exchange.
As CCY continues to renovate their office, this heat pump installation is just one phase in a larger plan to modernize and make their operations more sustainable. “This project is a great first step, but it’s just the beginning,” says O’Bryant. “We’re looking forward to incorporating renewable energy options and exploring additional ways to improve energy efficiency as we continue to upgrade the quality of our working space.”
This partnership between CCY Architects and CORE is just one example of how businesses in the Roaring Fork Valley can take actionable steps to reduce their environmental impact. By adopting cutting-edge, sustainable technology, CCY hopes to pave the way for a greener future in both the local architecture industry and the broader Colorado community.
CCY Architect Sean O'Bryant & CORE Senior Energy Concierge Tim Johns
