Ojai council approves $2.7M energy modernization program to capture federal incentives
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Summary
The council authorized a Phase 1, $2.7 million energy modernization program with Climate Tech, approving a Measure C appropriation of $909,000 this fiscal year and a resolution to proceed. Staff and Climate Tech said the package leverages $250,000 in a Clean Power Alliance grant and anticipated Inflation Reduction Act incentives.
The Ojai City Council voted to authorize the city manager to execute an energy modernization agreement with Climate Tech and to appropriate Measure C funds for the project.
Climate Tech and city staff told the council the Phase 1 program costs $2,700,000 and is expected to generate more than $3,300,000 in cumulative savings over the life of the measures. Staff said the package includes HVAC standardization, LED lighting upgrades, site electrification and targeted renewables. The company noted a Clean Power Alliance Building Assistance Electrification grant of $250,000 has already been awarded to the city, and staff cited an anticipated Inflation Reduction Act rebate amount (about $302,000) that is time‑sensitive.
Council members asked how confident the city could be in the 30‑year savings projections. Ashley of Climate Tech said the firm builds conservatism into its models, uses engineering eQuest modeling and California Energy Commission guidance for rate escalators, and relies on Tier 1 solar panels and measurement‑and‑verification practices to ensure savings are realized: “our models are based on conservatism and wanting to make sure that…we’re providing measurement verification services after the fact,” she said. Staff added that certain federal incentive deadlines make a prompt start important.
City staff said the immediate fiscal‑year request is $909,000 to cover work this year, with additional spending phased in future years. They also said the project would reduce carbon emissions by roughly 6,770,000 pounds over the program life. During the hearing multiple public speakers urged approval to secure expiring incentives.
Mayor Gilman moved to authorize the city manager to enter into the Climate Tech agreement and to approve the accompanying resolution and funding transfer; council approved the motion on a roll call vote.
The contract will allow staff to begin construction mobilization in March, followed by permitting and procurement. Staff said further feasibility reports for additional renewable phases will return to council in 2026.
Provenance: topic introduced in public hearing (SEG 1029) and final motion/vote recorded (SEG 1644–1756).