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District weighing Schneider Electric controller buy to save about $60,000
Summary
Facilities staff told the board a limited-time Schneider Electric promotion could save roughly $60,000 if the district replaces aging HVAC controllers now; staff warned vendor support ends soon and replacing platforms later could cost far more.
District facilities staff recommended taking advantage of a limited Schneider Electric promotion to replace aging J‑series HVAC controllers now rather than waiting until manufacturer support ends.
Mr. White told the board the promotion would reduce the combined price of two controller projects from $75,870 to $64,660 — “total savings of about $61,62,000 over what it normally costs us to have that work done if we do it while this promo is on,” he said — and argued it makes fiscal sense to act while parts and support remain available.
White and other staff warned of long-term risks if the district delays: Schneider Electric is phasing out support, and after vendor support ceases districts can face higher hardware costs and emergency service rates. White said converting to a different automation provider would likely require replacing hardware and software across the district and could cost “over a million dollars.”
Staff described the district’s automation setup (per-room controllers reporting to school master controllers with remote access) and noted that some installed controllers date to about 2014 and may not accept upcoming milestones such as Niagara N5 software. Purchasing now would, staff said, buy an additional period of supported operation.
The board asked clarifying questions about long-term support, compatibility, and procurement options. Staff did not report a formal vote; they recommended returning with procurement documents and cost estimates for board action.
