Commissioners authorize no‑cost facility assessment from Verigee to identify energy savings

Rick Anderson of Verigee presented a proposal for a no‑cost facilities assessment intended to identify energy‑efficiency projects and guaranteed savings under Indiana law.

Anderson said the company would review lighting, HVAC, windows, doors and insulation and return a project recommendation with estimated costs and guaranteed savings. He cited Indiana Code IC 36‑1‑12.5 as the enabling statute and the Inflation Reduction Act as a source of federal investment tax incentives for solar, geothermal and battery technologies. "It doesn't cost the county anything to do the assessment," Anderson said, calling the process "a pretty seamless process." He estimated results would be available in six weeks to three months.

A commissioner moved to allow Verigee access to county utility bills and buildings for the assessment; the board approved the motion by voice vote. Commissioners asked staff to coordinate building walkthroughs and provide the auditor's utility information to Verigee.

Why it matters: The assessment could identify projects that lower county operating costs and qualify for state and federal incentives. The board emphasized the assessment is informational — any specific project would require further review, formal procurement and separate approval at a later meeting.

Next steps: Verigee will provide a scope and schedule and county staff will arrange building access and data sharing. The county can then evaluate any recommended projects and required procurement path.