Department of Environmental Conservation

Degrees Held:

BA, University of Puget Sound 2007- Economics

Degree in Progress:

MS Building Systems, 2012 (expected)

Project:

The energy benefits of trees: investigating shading, microclimate and wind shielding effects in Worcester, Massachusetts

Contact:

Email: emorzuchemorzuch(at)eco.umass.edu

Mail: 160 Holdsworth Way
University of Massachusetts
Amherst, MA 01003

Position:

Research Assistant

Committee Members:

Dr. Ben Weil, Dr. Simi Hoque, and Dr. David Bloniarz

Support:

Department of Conservation and Recreation
University of Massachusetts, Department of Environmental Conservation

Project Abstract:

Most scientific studies concerning energy conservation benefits of trees have been completed in cooling dominated climates or have involved model-based engineering studies. An infestation of the Asian Long-horned Beetle (ALB) has initiated an extensive tree removal program in Worcester, Massachusetts. This provides a natural, controlled experiment to quantify the energy use impact of trees in a real-world setting. Starting in August 2008, approximately 30,000 trees have been removed, with the greatest concentration of tree eradication occurring in two residential neighborhoods. Large-scale tree removal completely transforms the landscape. Due to the reduction in shade, near-ground temperature increase is substantial. With the trees gone, the increased velocity of cold winter winds is noticeable for neighborhood residents. Our analysis quantifies the shade and shelter effects of trees at the neighborhood scale. Twenty-nine blocks are defined in the affected neighborhoods, with each block containing between 15 and 40 homes. Corrected and normalized electricity and natural gas data is aggregated for each block and compared before and after tree removal. A statistically significant finding of a 98 percent increase in mean cooling-related electricity usage from the summers of 2008 to 2009 after trees were removed is found. Results from the winter heating load impacts are forthcoming. The results of this research will aid in the development and implementation of energy conserving tree-planting and retention programs and policies pursuant to the Clean Energy and Climate Change Plan of 2010 in Massachusetts.