D155 Cuts Operating Costs and Improves Sustainability with Solar Project
The largest roof-mounted solar system in the greater Crystal Lake area is now helping to power Prairie Ridge High School. The solar project cuts overall operating costs, reduces the district’s carbon footprint, and improves sustainability.
D155 is expected to receive $1.3 million in total rebates and tax incentives for the solar project. The total cost to the school district is expected to be approximately $200,000 once all incentives and rebates are factored in.
“While we’re powering Prairie Ridge, the district and taxpayers will benefit from financial savings. The district is expected to save $1.1 million in energy savings over 20 years based on calculation assumptions,” said Dr. Neil Lesinski, superintendent.
D155 applied for the Solar Renewable Energy Certificates (SRECs) and ComEd Smart Inverter Rebate grants, and the district qualified for the Investment Tax Credit (ITC).
The public school program in Illinois offers solar renewable energy credits (SRECs) for a 20-year period, providing a financial benefit based on the system’s energy production. For every 1,000 kW produced, schools receive a dollar amount of $59.81 per SREC. Over the 20 years, the projected value of the credits amounts to nearly $733,400 through the Illinois Shines program. In addition to these credits, the district will also benefit from reduced electricity costs on ComEd bills. The ComEd Smart Inverter Rebate totals $143,275, and the federal Investment Tax Credit amount is $454,500.
“D155 is one of the only districts in the state that has a true measure of guaranteed savings, meaning the district is guaranteed to get back what it invested into this project per the agreement with Allied Facility Partners,” said Dr. Kevin Werner, Chief Officer of Finance & Operations.
The Board of Education approved the Guaranteed Energy Savings proposal in November 2023. Prior to the installation of the solar panels, the roof manufacturer completed an inspection, and this past summer, 1,182 solar panels were installed.
“The roof at Prairie Ridge is about 10 years old, so it’s important to consider its condition before installing solar panels. Since we could install the panels without affecting the roof’s warranty, it made sense to launch our pilot solar program at Prairie Ridge,” said Troy Stinger, director of operations.
The capable peak production is 500 Kw/h. Students, staff, and visitors can monitor the savings in real-time on the solarfox® display in the foyer of Prairie Ridge High School. A link is also available on the website.
The district partnered with Allied Facility Partners from design through installation. This collaboration reflects a shared commitment to creating sustainable and fiscally responsible solutions for the benefit of current and future generations.
“Allied Facility Partners is proud to have partnered with District 155 to bring this innovative solar project to life. By leveraging solar energy and the available grants and rebates, Prairie Ridge High School is setting a positive example of environmental sustainability while achieving significant long-term cost savings for the district, taxpayers, and the broader community,” said Doug McMahan, Allied Facility Partners CEO. “We are eager to witness the lasting impact of this transformative project.”