City of Houston Launches Initiative with Daikin to Equip Homes with Advanced Air Conditioning and Heating Solutions, Providing More Comfort and Energy Efficiency for Homeowners

August 13, 2024 -- Houston, Texas -- Today, Daikin Comfort Technologies North America, Inc. (Daikin) announced a new collaboration with the City of Houston to install up to 30 high efficiency, horizontal discharge, inverter FIT Heat Pumps units over the next three years. These units will be provided to low-to-moderate-income households, including many seniors over 62, in homes renovated through the Housing and Community Development Department’s Home Repair Program. Daikin is launching this collaboration during the company’s 100th year anniversary and National Air Condition Appreciation Days.

Adding to the momentous news, Mayor John Whitmire declared today as 'Daikin Air Conditioning Appreciation Day' in Houston, in honor of the company’s dedication to sustainability and community well-being.

“The City thanks Daikin for this collaboration. Houstonians, especially seniors, must have the resources to stay comfortable during extreme temperatures. This partnership reflects our dedication to caring for the well-being of our community,” said City of Houston Mayor Whitmire.

“We are proud to partner with the City of Houston to launch this program that can directly advance their vision for decarbonization and increasing grid resiliency through higher efficiency.” said CEO Satoru Akama. “Through this program, Homeowners will have a premium system that will not only provide comfort but save on their monthly bills and do so in a way that lowers site emissions of CO2 compared to traditional, non-inverter systems. At Daikin, we are focused on changing the culture of air conditioning in North America and are looking forward to having a direct impact in our hometown.”

The new Daikin units will provide homeowners with high quality, premium systems that offer internet connectivity for remote monitoring and control. The installations will coincide with the department’s Home Repair Program reconstruction plans, ensuring that the units are integrated into renovated homes, making a meaningful difference in the lives of many.

“Daikin’s generosity is truly commendable, and we look forward to installing these advanced systems into the newly renovated homes through our Home Repair Program,” said Assistant Director Cedrick LaSane, City of Houston Housing and Community Development Single Family program.

This initiative aims to improve the quality of life while building more sustainable and resilient communities.

City of Houston Council Member Sallie Alcorn added, “Through these new energy-efficient solutions, Daikin is helping the city promote a more sustainable environment for our community, and we are thankful for their example of how public-private partnerships can make a positive difference in society.”

Information about the City of Houston Housing and Community Development Home Repair Program can be found at: www.houstontx.gov/housing/home-repair.html.

Learn About Air Conditioning Appreciation Days

This announcement comes during Air Conditioning Appreciation Days, which runs from July 3 until August 15 to recognize and celebrate modern air conditioners. The City and Daikin both recognize the need for not only new units for Houstonians but technology that can aid citywide efforts to improve infrastructure demand.

Throughout this time, Daikin recommends homeowners and facilities to clean filters, schedule maintenance checkups and learn about the latest technologies that are designed to lower energy usage.

The City of Houston Housing and Community Development (HCD) department makes long-term investments to improve the lives of Houston residents by creating opportunities for every Houstonian to have a home they can afford in a community where they can thrive. Our department will invest approximately $450 million in federal, state, and local funds this fiscal year to construct and maintain affordable homes, reduce barriers to homeownership, support the work of social service providers, build public amenities, and facilitate disaster recovery efforts. Learn more about programs and resources for Houstonians at http://houstontx.gov/housing.