Title
Consider approving Resolution No. 2021-094 ratifying the solar purchase and installation agreement with Native Solar LLC and authorizing the City Manager to approve change orders to the agreement for installation of solar panels on additional City facilities; and take appropriate action
Body
BACKGROUND:
On June 9, 2020, City Council adopted Ordinance No. 3640 amending the budget to provide funding for three solar installations. The City entered a contract with Native Solar to install solar panels on three City buildings: Manske Library, Recreation Center, and Fire Station #2. All three installations became active in early 2021. The final cost of the solar installations was $267,265 under the budgeted amount. There were several reasons for savings including procuring more efficient panels, fine-tuning the solar equipment configuration, and electrical system tie-in cost savings.
During the initial design of the solar photovoltaic (PV) system for Manske Library, a portion of the roof was deemed unusable. This part of the roof was reserved for potential sky lights. The library interior library renovations are now completed, however the sky lights were not installed. The original design of the solar PV system did not maximize the amount of light that could be captured while staying below the maximum electricity generation threshold established by ONCOR. The City has submitted change order to the contract is to Native Solar for additional panels and associated equipment at Manske Library. This change order will not utilize all of the remaining balance.
DISCUSSION:
The City has an opportunity within the contract with Native Solar to use the remaining funds to install additional solar infrastructure on other buildings that have previously been identified in the Solar Feasibility Study. The installation of additional solar infrastructure has the ability to provide long-term cost savings and provides sustainability benefits.
FISCAL IMPACT:
Budgeted Financial...
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