Committee backs Oak Square solar proposal for two district buildings; will proceed to trustees and city council
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Summary
The committee recommended awarding a solar project to Oak Square for the new high school and the Calcutt building, including two EV chargers offered at no extra cost; presenters said the panels would be owned by the district and the contract is time‑sensitive because of expiring federal tax credits.
The Central Falls School Building Committee voted to accept a recommendation to advance a solar proposal from Oak Square, covering the new high school and the Calcutt building.
The recommendation follows an RFP that drew four responses; the district’s energy consultant endorsed Oak Square based on Rhode Island experience, technical feasibility, M/WBE participation and the financial model. The consultant projected annual energy savings on the order of $39,250 and noted the economic value over the contract term would be roughly in the neighborhood of $800,000 in avoided utility costs and transferable energy credits.
Ownership and procurement: presenters said the district would own the panels for 20 years while leasing roof space to the vendor; the vendor would be responsible for disposal at the end of the life term. The proposal includes two electric-vehicle charging stations (one at the high school and one at Calcutt) at no additional cost if the district chooses the locations. Committee members asked about roof warranties, life expectancy of panels and the leasing structure; staff said warranties would remain in place and the district’s net‑metering contract informed the value calculation.
Time sensitivity and next steps: speakers emphasized there is a window to capture federal tax credits that may soon expire and recommended moving the recommendation to the full board of trustees and the city council for authorization. The committee approved the recommendation by voice vote; the recorded minutes do not contain a roll‑call vote.
Quote: “We have a 20 year, we will own the panels. We are leasing the roof to the company to put the panels on, and then they are charged with disposal after the 20 of these,” said Speaker 3 in discussion of ownership and end‑of‑life responsibilities.
What’s next: staff will finalize contract language and present the recommendation to the board of trustees and to city council for final authorization.