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Board discusses exploring solar panels and energy grants for district buildings
Summary
Board members and staff said they are investigating grants and vendor proposals to install solar panels or other efficiency upgrades on school properties that could generate savings and possibly produce revenue over time.
NATCHITOCHES, La. — Board members raised solar panels and energy-efficiency projects as potential ways to reduce district energy costs and generate long‑term savings.
Board member Mr. Matwyer and others referenced examples of districts that have installed large rooftop or ground-mounted solar arrays and used energy savings or net metering to lower operating costs. The board discussed pursuing grants that cover not only rooftop panels but also energy-efficiency upgrades to kitchen equipment and HVAC systems. One vendor referenced in the discussion was Roof Connections; staff said the initial step is gathering utility meter records and 12 months of usage data to size potential systems and identify grant eligibility.
Speakers cautioned that building orientation, roof pitch, and local utility buyback rates affect feasibility. They also cited past experience that rooftop penetrations require careful waterproofing; alternatives include ground arrays where property is available. Staff said they will pursue grant opportunities and obtain usage data for a feasibility assessment and will return with findings and cost estimates.
Ending: Staff to gather utility data and pursue grants, then report back to the board with feasibility and cost estimates.
