A major solar project in the future for Decorah Schools???

On Monday night the Decorah Community School Board heard a presentation from Perry Novak Electric related to what could be the largest single solar project in Iowa.  The project would involve roof panels for the High School, Carrie Lee Elementary and Decorah Middle School. The savings from the project could easily meet the costs involved.

But the project isn't that simple and lots of questions need to be answered. The proposed project would actually involve ownership of the panels by Northeast Iowa Security Band, with installation by Novak, and the Decorah Schools leasing the equipment for an extensive period of time, and eventually purchasing them from the bank.  The complicated project revolves around the tax status of organizations, the ability to get tax credits, as well as rebates via Alliant Energy.

The board expressed an interest in the project, but will begin to inquire regarding legal questions and wait to see if the Board of Directors of Northeast Iowa Security Bank is willing to proceed to the next level of discussion.