Target Albany Facility: 30 Years of Performance and a Data-Driven Approach to Decarbonization 

For nearly three decades, Target’s Albany distribution center has relied on Cambridge S-Series space heaters to maintain efficient and reliable heating. Originally installed in the mid-1990s, these custom painted white units have provided consistent performance with minimal maintenance. Now, after nearly 30 years of service, Target chose to replace the units with a direct, high-efficiency upgrade—a testament to the longevity and reliability of the original equipment.

Built to Last: Albany’s Direct Replacement

The decision to replace the aging S-Series units was based on their proven durability. Historical building studies from the 1990s highlighted the efficiency and effectiveness of these units when they were first installed, demonstrating a high-performance solution tailored for large distribution centers. Over the decades, these heaters have consistently delivered reliable heating with minimal maintenance, validating the original investment. Target opted for a direct replacement, ensuring continued reliability and efficiency without the need for a complete system overhaul.

Data from an old facility study provides additional insight into the performance of the heating system at Albany:

  • Facility Size: 1.4 million square feet, with a ceiling height of 36 feet.
  • Construction: R-14 Roof insulation and R-10 Walls, optimizing heat retention.
  • Heating System Configuration:
    • 14 units @ 2,200 MBH / 10 HP
    • 3 units @ 2,200 MBH / 7.5 HP
    • All units rooftop mounted.
  • Operating Conditions:
    • 21 hours/day, 7 days a week
    • Design temperature: 55°F at an outdoor temperature of -6°F
    • Thermostat setting: 59°F, with an average recorded temperature of 61°F
  • Building Expansion: Added 240,000 square feet in 2002 to accommodate growing operational needs.
  • Calculated Operating Costs:
    • At an indoor temp of 55°F, estimated heating costs ranged from $0.10/ft² to $0.17/ft² depending on fuel prices.

Expanding the Story: Energy Efficiency in Topeka and Ohio

Beyond Albany, Target is exploring opportunities to optimize energy use in additional distribution centers. Our experts conducted energy analyses for Target’s Topeka, Kansas, and Columbus, Ohio, facilities to evaluate potential carbon reductions and cost savings.

Topeka, KS: A 1.2 million-square-foot facility currently heated by direct-fired make-up air (MUA) units was analyzed for potential upgrades. The study found that transitioning to high-efficiency natural gas heating could reduce annual carbon emissions by approximately 1,030 metric tons and lower fan energy consumption by 71%, leading to significant operational savings.

Columbus, OH: The energy analysis revealed that upgrading to high-efficiency natural gas heating could result in potential annual energy cost savings of approximately $177,000 compared to traditional MUA systems. Additionally, carbon emissions could be reduced by over 1,500 metric tons annually, contributing to Target’s broader sustainability goals.

A Data-Driven Approach to Facility Optimization

Target is taking a strategic approach to optimizing its distribution centers, balancing reliability, energy efficiency, and sustainability. In Albany, longevity and minimal maintenance made direct replacement the right choice. In Topeka and Ohio, the focus shifts to carbon reduction and operational savings, leveraging energy analysis to guide future decisions.

Looking Ahead

By using data to inform facility upgrades, Target is identifying the most effective solutions for long-term operational efficiency and sustainability. Whether the goal is maximizing equipment lifespan or reducing energy use, Cambridge remains a resource in this process.

Want a carbon analysis done on your facility to see how much you could be saving on carbon and energy costs? Find your local representative today!

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