Upstate Through Wall Heat Pump Demonstration Program

NYSERDA is seeking applications from owners, managers, or operators of multifamily buildings to serve as demonstration host sites for Packaged Terminal Heat Pumps (PTHPs) through the Clean Heat for All: Room Heat Pump Program. Eligible buildings must contain at least five (5) dwelling units, be located in New York State counties within climate zones 5 or 6, and have existing through-wall openings suitable for PTHP installation. Approved applicants will join a qualified pool of demonstration host sites and may partner with manufacturers selected under PON 5907 to plan and implement PTHP field demonstrations with installations expected to begin by the 2026 heating season (October/November 2026).

Field demonstration hosts may receive low or no-cost PTHP demonstration projects including PTHP equipment, owner-led make-ready work, project design and engineering, installation and commissioning, and ongoing service and performance monitoring (subject to funding availability and caps). Additional benefits include high-efficiency heating and cooling, increased temperature control, improved indoor air quality, real-world performance data on PTHP equipment to inform future implementation decisions, and potential emissions reduction to help building owners reach LL97 targets.

Suitable through-wall openings include three categories: Standard Size Packaged Terminal Air Conditioners (PTACs) in standard-size wall sleeves (typically 16 inches high and 42 inches wide); PTACs in Hydronic Cabinets where room heat pumps replace existing PTACs in hydronic heat cabinets; and Through-the-Wall Air Conditioner (TTWAC) compatible sleeves designed to house through-wall air conditioners. Climate zones 5 and 6 are designated in New York State. Product specifications and climate zone maps are provided in the associated attachments. Building owners, operators, or managers may submit online applications on a continuous basis.