Research Newsletter Winter 2025
This post complements our quarterly research newsletter, which features updates on CEE's research projects. Sign up to get this information in your inbox.
VSHP as an AC Replacement
Background: This field evaluation pilot is assessing energy and cost savings that can be achieved by installing cold climate variable speed heat pumps (VSHPs) as replacements to central air conditioning (AC) equipment in residential customers’ homes in ComEd’s service territory. This research will help ComEd evaluate this technology and the best methods for including VSHPs in the ComEd Energy Efficiency Program based on performance and economics.
Update: The research team recently produced a final report on an extended analysis of the original project to further explore the modulating behavior of coil-only VSHP systems installed on existing furnaces. They found that coil-only VSHP systems can, in fact, modulate the fan when paired with a multi-speed air handler and thermostat with the necessary control settings. The research team also identified opportunities for contractor training and rebates to motivate ideal control configurations and appropriate thermostat selection. The full report will be published this winter.
View the fact sheet on the report
This project is funded by ComEd.
Equitable decarbonization in the Upper Midwest
Background: 
The project team will apply their experience across three midwestern research and implementation organizations, in conjunction with manufacturer partners, to test solutions and tools for participants in a City of Minneapolis residential decarbonization program. The team will develop decision-making tools, methods, and training for practitioners to incorporate building envelope improvements with air source heat pump (ASHP) selection and installation.
Update: The team is making progress on all project tasks, including development of a ResStock building database, ASHP monitoring, and load estimating methods. Research staff have an initial version of the duct measurement protocol prepared and are seeking additional feedback from subject matter experts. Two CEE research analysts are training to conduct the duct testing. The team expects to conduct measurements for the first house by the end of January. They will begin recruiting 50 houses in total for testing in early February.
View the Building America project page
This project is supported by funding from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Building America program.
Unlocking the potential for safe energy retrofits over inaccessible crawlspaces
Background: This project will convene a field study to test the application of AeroBarrier in crawlspaces that are too constricted for human entry. The work aims to determine whether an AeroBarrier seal deployed at the ceiling of these types of crawlspaces can allow these previously off-limit properties to benefit from energy retrofits and weatherization programs by controlling the ingress of moisture and radon into the home.
Update: CSBR, the project lead, has developed a monitoring plan and purchased the equipment. The research team expects to install the monitoring equipment in the first set of selected homes this winter. As of this update, seven houses have been screened, and four houses have been selected to test this method. In addition to continuously monitoring indoor air quality, the team will analyze pre- and post-sealing energy use to evaluate the impact of the AeroBarrier crawlspace sealing.
This project is supported by a grant from the Minnesota Department of Commerce, Division of Energy Resources through the Conservation Applied Research and Development (CARD) program, which is funded by Minnesota ratepayers.
Upcoming conferences
Update: CEE research staff, as well as colleagues from the Efficient Technology Accelerator program, will be participating in several conferences this winter and spring to exchange the latest research on energy efficiency in buildings and emerging technologies that support decarbonization efforts. CEE staff will be present at the 2025 Midwest Energy Solutions Conference in Chicago, the 2025 ASHRAE Winter Conference in Orlando, the ACEEE Hot Water / Hot Air Forum in Portland, and the National Home Performance Conference in New Orleans. Learn more on our events page.
MEDIA CONTACT
Tim Hanrahan, thanrahan@tamilfolksongs.com