MBSA (Massachusetts School Building Authority) Heat Pump Study Final Report

This report, prepared for the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) by engineering firm Salas O’Brien, presents findings from a comprehensive heat pump feasibility study for Massachusetts public schools. The study was conducted to inform the development of a program for converting heating and cooling systems in public K-12 schools across the Commonwealth to heat pump systems, in support of Massachusetts’ goal for net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.

Eighteen schools were selected for on-site evaluation based on eight priority typologies: School Type, Age of Building, Building Size, Fuel Source, HVAC Distribution Type, Cooling Distribution Type, Electrical Classification, and Ratio of Roof to Site Acreage. These typologies reflect the diversity of Massachusetts’ broader school inventory. For each school, the study assessed existing HVAC systems, structural capacity for new equipment, ground source heat pump feasibility, and the electrical service capacity and probability of needing an upgrade to support heat pump conversion.

The study found that schools with existing hydronic (water-based) heating and cooling distribution systems are likely to require less invasive retrofits and lower associated project costs, as much existing infrastructure — including terminal equipment and air handling units — can be reused. Conversely, schools without hydronic systems or existing cooling may require more extensive scope and higher costs. Approximately half of the evaluated schools are anticipated to need electrical service upgrades.

The report provides estimated project costs disaggregated by HVAC system type, building size, age, and school type, and evaluates both air-source heat pump (ASHP) and ground-source heat pump (GSHP) configurations. It also includes considerations specific to MSBA’s Accelerated Repair Program (ARP).