After peppering staff with questions, the Hamilton Southeastern (HSE) School Board has cleared the way to install solar panels in three school buildings this year.  Work will begin as early as April, with full installation expected this summer.

The three buildings that will use the solar system are Sand Creek Elementary, Sand Creek Intermediate and the HIJ (Hamilton Southeastern Intermediate & Junior High).

Bob Rice, Energy Management Director for HSE Schools, told board members the savings in electricity means the project will pay for itself in 11 years.  The solar project will be financed through a 4-year bond issue that will not trigger a tax increase, per HSE Chief Financial Officer Mike Reuter.

The $2.8 million contract was awarded to the private firm AMERESCO, which has done similar projects for schools on the east and west coast, and solar projects for local governments in Indiana.

Rice told the board this project will produce more than cost savings over time, students will be able to learn about solar energy as part of the school curriculum.  He also touted the reduction in the carbon footprint, as well as awareness among students of jobs in the solar industry.

The board vote to approve the project was unanimous.

You can review the entire presentation to the board at this link.