Item Coversheet
Item Number:DISCUSSION ITEMS- II.-4.
Committee Meeting Date:3/2/2020
  
City of Roeland Park
Action Item Summary
Date:2/27/2020 
Submitted By: Keith Moody 
Committee/Department: Admin.
Title:Discuss Interest in Pursuing Solar Installations at Public Facilities
Item Type:Discussion



Recommendation:

Staff is seeking direction from the Governing Body if installing solar voltaic energy systems at public facilities is a project they would like to pursue. 

Details:

Staff has met with a local firm (MC Power) to take a preliminary look at the fiscal and logistical implications of installing systems at our two main energy consumption locations (City Hall and the Community Center complex).  MC Power has worked with Independence, Lee's Summit and Liberty on public solar energy installations.

 

Attached is a report reflecting MC Powers preliminary assessment which reflects both projects achieving a cost savings over the life of each project.  From a logistical/timing perspective the parking areas at City Hall and the Community Center are planned for improvement in 2020, the City would want to have parking areas under the proposed canopy mounted solar cells in the best possible condition before installing the canopies due to the limitations installing the canopies will have on future ease of maintenance (large equipment will not be able to get under them).  We could look at replacing the asphalt with concrete areas under the canopy and including that cost into the financing package for the solar project (around $45,000 of additional cost for each location).

 

The roofs where solar cells are anticipated to be installed should also be in good condition.  The roof at the community center was installed in 2015, it would not need replacing.  The City Hall roof is anticipated to be replaced in 2020/21.  From a timing perspective installing solar systems following the planned roof and parking improvements makes logistical and long term maintenance planning sense.

 

There are a variety of firms that specialize in providing comprehensive solar installation services starting with the assessment step, looking at design and equipment alternatives, completing designs, providing financing or arranging for investors should the installer prefer not to own the system, building the system, providing maintenance, and measuring performance.  Publishing a request for qualifications from firms who provide these services would be the next step should the governing body wish to pursue the concept.  An example RFQ is attached for reference.


How does item relate to Strategic Plan?

Solar installations to serve public facilities further the City's goal of sustainability and being environmentally friendly.

How does item benefit Community for all Ages?

If the cost of the project results in a lower overall cost of energy to the City over the life of the project, this is a benefit to community members of all ages.
Financial Impact

Amount of Request:  No expense at this point.
Budgeted Item?  Budgeted Amount:  N/A
Line Item Code/Description:  

Additional Information

Roof installation options include ballasted vs anchored options; avoids roof penetrations.  The system will need to be removed when a new roof is installed.

 

Parking canopy installations do provide a shading benefit to the cars parked under the canopy.

ATTACHMENTS:
DescriptionType
Preliminary Assessment of Solar System Concept for City Hall and Community CenterCover Memo
Example of RFQ for Solar Consulting ServicesCover Memo