Denton board hears $30K–$35K solar plan to boost water system resilience

At its July 8 meeting, the Village of Denton Board of Trustees heard a presentation on using solar power to increase the resilience of the municipal water system.

Presenter Jim Pearson described a two-phase plan that would install racking first and complete wiring in a later stage. "The cost of racking is $8,000, for a total of $30,000–$35,000," Pearson said, adding that battery storage would add about $10,000 and that the panels come with a 25-year warranty. The board discussed locations and implementation sequencing but did not take formal action at the meeting.

Chair Joe Hobelman said the project would also serve as a case study: the board supported work by University of Nebraska–Lincoln students to study Denton’s approach and provide planning input. Trustees discussed budgeting and next steps, including further technical review and possible funding sources, but no procurement or contract was authorized at the session.

The board expects staff to return with additional cost details and implementation options before any final decision. The meeting adjourned at 7:55 p.m.