Energy Performance Contract Aid

Proposition #2 will authorize our district to access an additional 10% in the form of state aid.

Investing Smarter: Understanding our Energy Performance Contract 

Over the past year, our Board of Education has been pursuing a long-term Energy Performance Contract (EPC) with a company called, Energy Systems Group. Voter approval of Proposition #2 will authorize our district to request an additional 10% in state aid for the contract. If approved, the contract would mean approximately $2.5 million in savings over the next 18 years. 

What is an EPC? 
It’s a long-term contract and strategy to improve facilities while controlling costs. An EPC allows us to make capital improvements to enhance energy efficiency through upgrades to lighting, heating and cooling systems, insulation and building controls, without increasing the financial burden on taxpayers as we maintain and enhance high-quality learning environments. Another benefit: Work on enhancing our systems would be done in the coming years, not over the length of the contract.  

It means adding roof-mounted solar panels. It means replacing old lights with new, LED lights (think about how many lights are needed each day in each room of our 10 schools). It means more modern and efficient HVAC and control systems, among other enhancements. These improvements reduce electricity and gas expenses and decrease water use and the cost of upgrades is paid over time using guaranteed savings from lower energy bills. Instead of paying high utility costs for outdated systems, we invest in efficient equipment and infrastructure that lowers bills and use those savings to fund upgrades. 

Forward-Thinking Approach 

A key EPC feature is accountability. Energy savings are measured and guaranteed in future years, protecting the district if projected savings are not achieved. This structure enables us to make meaningful improvements now without increasing the community’s financial burden or taxes, while also supporting environmental sustainability by reducing energy use. EPCs help us do what we strive for daily: Make thoughtful, efficient decisions that support our students, respect our taxpayers, and invest wisely in the future of our schools.