The Omak School Board approved at its Jan. 26 meeting an issue of $370,000 in limited general obligation bonds to initiate a $600,000 energy savings project. The project is designed to reduce district energy costs by 15 percent.
The program was developed by Seattle-based Schneider Electric, which guarantees the savings as part of a contract with the school district. Schneider will pay the difference if the savings are not realized.
Improvements include alleviating excessive energy use through occupancy sensors, correcting poor lighting quality in classrooms and improving temperature control methods. Savings are estimated at $28,000 per year with $150,000 in funding coming from incentives by the Okanogan County PUD.
“Through this project, the Omak schools will realize a 15 percent reduction in its energy expenses without requiring additional funding from the community, said superintendent Arthur Himmler. “Through utility incentives and unique energy project financing, the district is stretching its limited funds to provide cost savings to the taxpayers while making the learning environment better for its students.”
Kruse Electric is the local contractor on the project, which is scheduled to be completed by the end of March.
© Copyright 2006 by North Cascades Broadcasting, Inc
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