Meeting slated for Wednesday, April 3
All Greene County Community School District are encouraged to attend a informational session about using solar power to reduce utility expenses at the district’s three school buildings. The meeting will be held Wednesday, April 3, at 6 pm in the middle school auditorium.
School superintendent Brett Abbotts explains in a letter to school district families and community members that during 2023, the district paid nearly $440,000 for electricity. That prompted some corrections in the current systems, including reprogramming the HVAC systems in all three buildings; analyzing internal control systems at each building to ensure they’re working correctly; using energy setback options when appropriate; reminders to shut off lights when rooms aren’t in use; putting LED fixtures operating on motion sensors in nearly every classroom and hallway; and consulting with Alliant Energy for billing options.
“These steps have helped, but we are looking to achieve even greater results,” Abbott writes.
Working with two Iowa-based solar companies, the district could realize savings of $237,000 on electric bills through the addition of solar arrays at each building.
Cost of the project could be financed by issuing notes against the district’s physical plant and equipment levy (PPEL).
The April 3 meeting will provide more details about the solar project, the solution that it would provide to the school district, project financing, positive impacts on the school district and taxpayers, and a projected timeline.
For those who are unable to attend, information will be shared via social media immediately following the presentation.
