Board approves $1.34 million change order to add solar array at Springfield High; district expects rebates and lower electric bills
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Summary
Board approved Change Order No. 2 for Springfield High to install a solar array for $1,341,495. District officials said federal and state rebates will reimburse a large portion of costs and forecast substantial monthly savings comparable to Lanphier High School.
The board approved a $1,341,495 change order (Change Order No. 2) with O. Shea Builders to install a solar array at Springfield High School.
At the meeting Mr. Grossen, a facilities staff member, presented the change order and described the scope as "the installation of the ... solar array system." The board clarified the original building contract had been designed to accommodate panels but did not include procurement and installation. "We built the building to hold the solar panels, not to purchase them and install them," a board or staff member said.
Director Miller (business-office staff) described rebate and savings expectations, saying Lanphier's solar installation has generated rebates and monthly savings: the district expects roughly $1,100,000 in rebates for Lanphier and anticipates similar monthly savings at Springfield High. Miller said Lanfair/Lanphier's summer generation produced nearly $15,000 in savings in a very sunny month and an average of $8,000 to $10,000 per month, providing a multi-thousand-dollar yearly benefit.
Board members asked how the rebates and savings will be applied. Miller said rebate proceeds will be processed through Fund 60 (capital projects) and will be used toward the Springfield installation; the ongoing monthly electricity savings will reduce the district's electricity line item and free up budget capacity, but will not directly pay down an existing deficit.
The motion to approve the change order passed on a roll-call vote with seven aye votes.
