ClimateTech and district partners presented a high-level feasibility assessment for an energy modernization program that would target lighting, HVAC, building automation, solar expansion and power resiliency measures.

Amber Fritch, regional manager for ClimateTech, said the program’s objectives are to improve comfort and learning environments, increase efficiency and resiliency, and reduce the district’s exposure to rising utility costs. "It's one of the best approaches I've seen so far," Fritch said of the district’s planning process.

Bernadette Carter of ClimateTech said district-installed solar has offset about 45% of the district’s energy costs and reported a 2024 baseline energy spend of nearly $1.5 million. Looking ahead, consultants presented two scenarios for 2030: a higher-case projection of about $2.4 million (assuming 10% annual escalation) and a conservative projection near $1.9 million (assuming 5% escalation) if no modernization measures are taken.

The feasibility assessment identified key scope items: conversion of approximately 14,000 non-LED fixtures to LED; sports-field lighting upgrades at two sites; roughly 390 HVAC units that are past useful life (15 years or older); expansion or retro-commissioning of the district’s photovoltaic systems; building-envelope work; and consideration of EV charging and targeted battery storage for critical backup.

Consultants discussed procurement options that can cap price risk, including guaranteed-maximum-price contracting, and emphasized pursuing grant and federal incentive opportunities to stretch bond funds. ClimateTech cited the federal Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) incentives as a significant funding opportunity but the transcript records a likely typographical date for the eligibility deadline; staff and consultants said the district is well-positioned to pursue those funds if projects are under construction by the federal deadline.

On safety concerns over batteries, ClimateTech said the company is vetting products and will recommend proven systems; they noted some jurisdictions have paused approvals pending further review. Consultants said a detailed assessment and engineering due diligence will follow if the board moves to implementation.

The board posed questions on material costs, tariffs and labor availability; presenters advised building program contingencies and designing projects to budget. No formal procurement decision was made at the study session; staff said implementation and contract considerations would return for board consideration.