The Greening of Aryaloka: Heat Pump Installation Complete!

Generosity in Action:

Aryaloka has been given a transformative opportunity to enhance our retreat center’s comfort, sustainability, and energy efficiency. A generous anonymous donor has stepped forward to fully fund the installation of heat pumps, eliminating the financial burden on our community!

A message from the donor: “Regarding this donation, while I went through multiple major medical events and separating from my partner, I realized that the thing that was giving me peace of mind through the whole process was my practice. Aryoloka is my spiritual home and that is priceless. I feel blessed to have such an amazing place with the management it has. “

After thoroughly reviewing quotes from two installers, we expanded the project scope to ensure comprehensive heating and cooling across all three floors of both domes. Based on quality, cost, and alignment with our values, we chose ACE Energy Services to complete the installation. The company’s owner, Tim Gould, is a dedicated Sangha member who understands Aryaloka’s needs.

With this support, the Board felt we could move forward confidently, reducing our reliance on propane, lowering long-term costs, and creating a more comfortable and sustainable space for practice. Given the 40% increase in Aryaloka’s propane costs last year, the heat pump installation is timely! Amazingly, the installation of eight heat pumps took only seven days.

Below are details that were submitted to the Board, compiled by Frank Quintiliani. Thank you to Frank, who did the research, coordinating and planning for this project! 

We are still investigating the viability of installing solar panels to further reduce our carbon footprint and reduce our electric costs. We’ll keep you updated as we find out more.

Summary for Aryaloka Board of Directors:

Key Benefits of Heat Pump Efficiency

• The proposed heat pump system will supplant propane heating with electric-powered heating at a much higher efficiency.
• The existing propane heating system will remain in place as a backup, with the thermostat set at 50F.
• Heat pumps operate at 300-400% efficiency, meaning that for every unit of electricity used, they generate 3-4 units of heating energy.
• In contrast, propane heating is far less efficient and relies on burning fossil fuels, which results in higher costs and carbon emissions.
• In the summer, the system will provide air conditioning, offering twice the efficiency of top-rated window AC units.

Cost & Savings Analysis

• Current propane heating cost: $1,100/month ($13,200/year).
• Total system cost: Two quotes. $38,770, 2nd quote $40,777.
• Electricity increase: While electricity usage will rise, the overall heating costs should drop significantly due to the heat pump's efficiency.
• Long-term savings: The proposal suggests a lower 25-year cost compared to continuing propane heating.

Recommended Graphs for Board Review

1. 25-Year Cost Comparison: Illustrates that even with electricity costs, the heat pump system saves money long-term compared to propane.
2. Carbon Emissions Over 25 Years: Shows the drastic reduction in carbon footprint by switching to heat pumps.