School District another step closer to solar installations

The Decorah School Board has authorized administration to seek bids for potential solar panel installations at Carrie Lee, Decorah Middle School, and Decorah High School. The estimated total cost for the three installations is about $190,000.  However, if the process is completed in time (by this fall), there would be a $25,000 Alliant Energy rebate. In addition the district is eligible for a $95,000 zero interest loan from the Iowa Energy Center to further offset the costs. Payback of the system could happen in about 15 years, with approximately $7500 in electrical cost savings each year.