Efficient Rooftop Units Market Progress Evaluation Report #1

The Northwest Energy Efficiency Alliance (NEEA) contracted with Apex Analytics to conduct the first Market Progress Evaluation Report (MPER) for the Efficient Rooftop Units (Efficient RTU) program. Conducted between June 2023 through May 2025, the study assessed market awareness, availability and adoption of efficient RTUs as alternatives to standard models. As the program’s first MPER, the evaluation established baseline measurements through document reviews, surveys, interviews, and focus groups with HVAC contractors, distributors, building decision makers, and manufacturers’ representatives.

The study found that six manufacturers currently offer efficient RTU products, including two of the five leading RTU manufacturers. While adoption is still emerging, integrated energy recovery ventilator (ERV) models appear to be gaining more traction than bolt-on options. Most market actors are familiar with efficient RTUs, though they are often viewed as specialized solutions due to higher upfront costs and installation considerations. To support broader adoption, the study recommends additional case studies and demonstration projects to highlight the value and feasibility of efficient RTUs. It also suggests refining strategies to ensure that these products are included in equipment specifications and purchase agreements, and tailoring outreach to better align specific technologies with the needs of different market segments.