Title
Consider approving Resolution No. 2019-65 authorizing the City Manager to negotiate and execute a professional services agreement with Shor Power to conduct a feasibility study for the installation of solar energy infrastructure and the associated potential costs and revenues, amend the budget accordingly; and take appropriate action
Body
BACKGROUND:
During recent City Council strategic planning sessions, sustainability - specifically looking at solar power alternatives - was identified as a key objective. Residents, businesses and governmental entities in Texas and across the county have tried to reduce the cost of electricity by considering solar panels on or near their buildings or structures. There are potential financial incentives for the construction of solar projects. Some the financial incentives for developers begin to decrease in 2020. Therefore, assessing the potential of solar energy installations at City facilities as a means to reduce the City’s cost and carbon footprint prior to the end of 2019 is important.
The City purchases electricity for City facilities including City Hall, Recreation Center, Branch Connection, fire stations, water pumping stations, police station, and recreation fields. The City budgeted $1,646,300 for electricity during the 2018-2019 fiscal year which is purchased from Cavallo Energy.
DISCUSSION:
To better understand the City’s options, a Request for Qualifications was developed and distributed to several potential consultants. Three responses were received, and all three companies were interviewed. Based on the submittals, interviews, and references, Shor Power was determined to offer the professional services that best matched the City’s Request for Qualifications.
This cost of the study is $49,840. This is cost is not in the fiscal year 2018-2019 budget. Therefore, the budget must be amended before the study can commence.
FISCAL IMPACT:
3. Unbudgeted Financial Impact ($49,480)
RECOMMENDATION:
City Administration recommends authorizing the City Manager to negotiate and execute a professional services agreement with Shor Power to conduct a feasibility study for the installation of solar energy infrastructure and the associated costs and revenues.
POSSIBLE COUNCIL ACTION:
1. I move to approve Resolution 2019-65 authorizing the City Manager to negotiate and execute a professional services agreement for a solar feasibility study of City facilities with Shor Power and amend the budget accordingly.
2. I move to approve Resolution 2019-65 authorizing the City Manager to negotiate and execute a professional services agreement for a solar feasibility study of City facilities with Shor Power, with modifications, and amend the budget accordingly.
3. I move to table the issue for further study or take no action.
ATTACHMENT(S):
1. Resolution 2019-65
2. Cost Proposal