Photovoltaic Solar Panel Installation Estimated 119,000 kWh per year

The Project... To Install a Building Integrated Photovoltaic (BIPV) solar array on the roof of John Winthrop Middle School in such a way that the cost of the system will be offset in total by the savings in electrical costs. Therefore making the Project Budget neutral.

The Projected Costs... Projected Project Cost = $ 994,000** Connecticut Clean Energy Fund (CCEF) $ 4.00 / kWh = $ 402,000 Bureau of School Facilities (BSF) 42% = $248,640 Cost to District = $343,360 Depending on the type of financing and the increase in electricity rates, the payback period is estimated between years. The system warranty is 20 years. After The payoff period, assuming a 4% increase in electric rates per year, the annual income from the system is estimated to be = $ 36,430 per year. ** Please note that this is an estimate due to the fact that the project cannot be actually sent out to bid prior to Bureau of School Facilities review.

Background After completing a very successful building project, Region 4 finds itself in the admirable position of having facilities that are energy efficient by today’s standards. When the project was defined and scope of work identified, solar technology was not as advanced as it is now and was not considered for inclusion in the project. Because it was not in the original scope of the project, a solar component could not be added. As the project progressed however, the concept was discussed by the Building Committee and efforts to pursue the idea as a separate project began.

Considerations 1) Orientation of Clear Sky. Both Valley and John Winthrop were found to be exceptional in this regard. The elevation and open space surrounding both sites is ideal for maximum solar effectiveness. 2) Type of System. Because of our needs and existing energy systems, a photovoltaic system was shown to be the best fit. 3) Suitability of Roof Form. Valley did not meet this criterion very well. The presence of so many varied roof forms did not lend itself to an efficient solar array. John Winthrop however with its large expanse of flat roof did. 4) Suitability of Roof Structure. Because the roof of John Winthrop was new, the installation of a conventional solar panel system has many drawbacks. Penetration of the roof would invalidate the manufacturer’s warranty and additional structure would be necessary to support these panels. A solution was found in a system that was associated with the roofing manufacturer which solved both of these concerns, the warranty and the weight of the panels. In fact as a result of utilizing this product, the manufacturer is willing to extend the warranty of the roof to coincide with the warranty of the solar panels (20 yrs.)

Major Benefit The major benefit of a solar photovoltaic system on John Winthrop Middle School is to use free, clean, solar energy to save at the current rate approximately $20,230/year (119,000 kWh x $0.17/ kWH) with a payback period of 13 – 15 years for the investment. NOTE: The cost of the system is fixed, while purchased electricity is forecasted to increase approximately 4 per cent annually.

Additional Benefits There are environmental, educational and community leadership opportunities associated with this project. The Connecticut Clean Energy Fund (CCEF) offers Professional Development opportunities for teachers and solar energy lessons that are aligned with the Connecticut Core Science Curriculum Framework. Curricula are available that focus on topics such as Alternative Energy Sources, Energy Conservation, and Clean Energy Sources, to name a few. The system itself provides students with a hands on opportunity to see these practices in action. Essex and Chester have both joined the CCEF and a citizens group has been formed in Essex to promote Community Involvement, Community Awareness and the direction of public policy towards Clean Energy. Region 4 has the opportunity to demonstrate its role in these community efforts.

Financial Incentives Significant savings in Energy Costs. Renewable Energy Credits. Since Region 4 is a non profit organization, it can sell its “Green Tags” to businesses that need to meet renewable energy standards. –119,000 kWh/yr x $ 0.03 = $ 3,570 per year

Why? Renewable Energy Source Significant Savings in Energy Costs Education & Public Awareness Community Leadership Why Now? Public Interest The Roof on John Winthrop is Relatively New CCEF Grant

Solar Panel Layout

Similar installation at New Britain High School

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