District discusses solar panel feasibility amid pricing challenges and Rocky Mountain Power agreements

The Ogden City School District Board of Education meeting on March 6, 2025, focused on the potential benefits and challenges of implementing solar energy solutions in local schools. Key discussions highlighted the fluctuating costs of solar panels and the importance of market conditions in determining the feasibility of such projects.

Board members expressed mixed feelings about investing in solar energy, citing previous experiences with inflated costs. For instance, the price for solar installation at Hillcrest was reported to be nearly double that of Eastridge, leading to a decision against proceeding with the project at that time. The board emphasized the need for transparency in solar pricing and the potential for significant savings if managed correctly.

Concerns were raised about the longevity and return on investment for solar panels, particularly in light of rising costs and the degradation of panels over time. The board noted that if solar prices were to decrease, there could be opportunities to revisit solar installations, especially in conjunction with other projects, such as bus storage facilities.

Additionally, the board discussed the limitations of their current agreement with Rocky Mountain Power, which does not provide adequate compensation for excess energy generated by solar arrays. This has led to a strategy of sizing solar installations to meet approximately 80% of building energy demands, avoiding unnecessary expenditures on overproduction.

The meeting concluded with recognition of the contributions of team members, particularly Logan, who has been instrumental in advancing the district's energy initiatives. The board remains open to exploring solar energy options in the future, contingent on favorable market conditions and project viability.