SUMMARY

Project Name: City Solar Photovoltaic Panel Program

Department: Public Works Department

Start Date: 7/01/2023

End Date: 6/30/2028

PROJECT DESCRIPTION:

The City and Schools Solar PV Program consists of the phased installation of solar photovoltaic (PV) panels on the roofs of various city municipal and school facilities.

RELATIONSHIP TO comprehensive PLAN:

Chapter 7 : Environment, Climate, and Food Equity

Goal 1. Climate Change Mitigation, Emissions, and Energy

Reduce community greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and the city’s overall carbon footprint to meet goals established for 2030 (45% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from 2011 levels) and 2050 (carbon neutrality).

ALIGNMENT WITH CLIMATE ACTION PLAN

The 2022 Climate Action Plan (Chapter 6) recommends the integration of renewable energy systems and close coordination between roof replacements and solar system installations as key actions to achieve carbon neutrality for all electricity that is used by City facilities by 2030.

PROJECT OBJECTIVES / STATUS:

Objective: This request for CIP funding is in alignment with a Key Action in the 2022 Climate Action Plan and is intended to expedite the deployment of renewable power generation on city facilities, including schools, to meet greenhouse gas emissions reduction goals. It reflects the City's commitment to environmental stewardship and "leading by example" with environmentally friendly and economically beneficial strategies and technology. The program decreases operational utility costs. There is an integral connection between timeline for solar PV installation and the timeline for roof replacement. It is optimal to install solar systems on new or fairly new roofs to eliminate the need to remove the system for roof repair or replacement. As the City formalizes a roof replacement program with annual projects, the CitySolar program will follow with the installation of systems on an annual basis until all opportunities have been developed. The Charlottesville High School roof would be prioritized solar project opportunity when funding becomes available.

Status: Depending on funding availability specific site(s) for installation are TBD. If a PPA is identified and determined to be a preferable procurement route, any existing funds that can be brought to the financial arrangement will improve the return on investment.