Board weighs solar, efficiency work and Colorado Energy Office grants amid budget uncertainty

District staff briefed the Clear Creek School District No. Re-1 board on Aug. 12 about options to reduce energy costs across older facilities, including LED upgrades, motion sensors, HVAC controls, and solar. Staff and consultants (BER/Very) described potential savings but noted site-specific constraints: a local electric co-op resists renewable interconnection at one site, while other schools on Excel service lines face fewer barriers.

Erin summarized the consultant meetings and said the district could pursue lower-risk measures immediately and seek grant funding to minimize district capital exposure. "The Colorado Energy Office has $38 million for state and local building grants that we could qualify for by November," she said, noting grants could fund projects that are not limited to solar (for example, controls or lighting).

Board members discussed pursuing a 60% study or RFP to clarify costs and incentives, while also pursuing grant applications that could deliver faster savings with less risk. Staff said if an IGA or study reaches 60% and the district decides not to proceed, the district can stop the project with limited downside, allowing staff to gather more detailed data without full commitment. Members emphasized procurement compliance and asked staff to confirm whether an RFP is required for consultant/vendor engagement.

Next steps: staff will coordinate further with consultants to scope a 60% study, verify procurement/process questions with legal and finance, and pursue identified grant opportunities where appropriate.