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Newport approves rooftop solar bids; district expects about $3.5 million savings over 30 years
Summary
The board approved rooftop solar base bids from McClure Co. for elementary and high-school projects and authorized follow-up work; the district estimates a roughly four-year payback and about $3.5 million in electricity savings over 30 years.
The Newport Board of School Directors approved rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) base bids for the elementary and high school and authorized administration to work with McClure Co. on alternative solar solutions. The motion passed on a roll-call vote of 7 ayes, 0 nays, 2 absent.
Jamison Magaro, director of finance and operations, told the board that Solar for Schools grants plus federal tax credits drive the projects’ economics, producing an estimated payback period of around four years and roughly $3.5 million in electricity savings over 30 years based on projected production and avoided costs. Superintendent Ryan Neuhard thanked bus contractors and other vendors for reliable service while noting district staff oversight of projects.
The board also approved a recreational surfacing proposal from STI of PA and confirmed drivers for Gabel’s Bus Service during the same meeting; each motion carried unanimously among voting members.
Why it matters: rooftop solar and efficiency projects are intended to lower long-term operating costs and reduce the district’s electricity spending; the board’s approvals enable contracting and implementation steps to move forward.
Implementation notes: the administration will coordinate with McClure Co. on system design and pursue grant and tax-credit filing as needed. Timing and construction schedules were not specified in the minutes; the board will receive updates at future meetings.
