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Concord MLP readies middle-school solar and battery project; board flags debt timing
Summary
Staff described a $7.5 million middle-school solar-and-battery capital program, contractor selection and safety coordination with the fire department, and told the board debt service from projects may peak in 2028 — staff will manage timing and messaging to reduce public friction.
Staff told the Concord Municipal Lightboard that the middle-school solar and battery program will be a major capital project in the coming years and that the board already has authorization to borrow for it.
Jason (director) said the full project — solar plus energy storage and related switchgear — could total roughly $7.5 million spread across several capital lines and that some cost elements will be recorded in O&M. He said the board has the authorization now and that, while the first battery may not be purchased immediately, the project could proceed sooner if circumstances allow.
"We have the authorization now," Jason said when a finance committee member warned that large warrant articles in 2028 could face override headwinds. Jason added the staff will be mindful of public messaging and noted debt-service projections that show a potential debt-service impact around 2028 of roughly $2.5 million a year on the electric side.
Staff also reported they have selected Fractal (a Texas-based contractor) to develop the RFP for battery procurement and related systems and that they are coordinating with the fire department and state fire marshal on safety planning; staff emphasized additional safety reviews because initial siting would place the battery roughly 50–75 feet from the school gymnasium and constrained site area may require careful design.
The board discussed timing, lead times for transformers and equipment, and options to phase work to manage cash flow and construction schedules. Staff noted that some project elements were already authorized by a prior Town action, and that the exact procurement and installation schedule may be adjusted to reduce debt-service peaks and avoid rate shock for residents.
Next steps: staff will continue technical design, finalize RFPs, continue safety coordination with school and fire officials, and return with refined project timing and debt-service scenarios.
