District initiates $4M lighting and controls project to reduce utility costs

In a recent special meeting held by the Uvalde Consolidated Independent School District (CISD) on April 24, 2025, discussions centered around a significant energy efficiency project aimed at reducing operational costs through updated lighting and controls. The meeting highlighted the district's plans to transition from outdated T8 fluorescent lighting to more efficient systems, which are expected to yield substantial savings over the next two decades.

The proposed project includes an investment of approximately $4 million, with a nearly even split between lighting upgrades and control systems. The lighting component is estimated to cost just over $2 million, while the controls will be slightly under that amount. This initiative is not only focused on energy savings but also on reducing ongoing maintenance costs associated with the aging fluorescent bulbs and ballasts that currently require frequent replacement.

A key aspect of the project is its self-funding nature. The district anticipates that the energy savings generated—estimated at around $200,000 annually—will cover the debt service on a loan taken out to finance the upgrades. This approach allows the district to avoid pulling funds from its existing budget, making it a financially viable option. The company overseeing the project has guaranteed that if the projected savings are not met, they will cover any shortfall, thereby transferring the financial risk away from the district.

Concerns were raised during the meeting regarding the prioritization of this project over other pressing needs, such as replacing aging equipment that is nearing the end of its operational life. However, the rationale for moving forward with the lighting and controls first was based on the immediate financial benefits and the potential for self-funding, which would not be the case if more extensive mechanical and electrical upgrades were included.

The district is also set to benefit from rebates offered by the local electric provider, AEP, which could amount to approximately $30,000, further enhancing the financial feasibility of the project.

In conclusion, the Uvalde CISD's decision to pursue this energy efficiency project reflects a strategic approach to managing operational costs while addressing the aging infrastructure within the district. As the project moves forward, the district will need to monitor the implementation closely to ensure that the anticipated savings materialize, thereby validating the financial model that underpins this initiative.