10/28/09 - Gibson County

Greener GCSSD
By: Brandon Artiles
bartiles@wbbjtv.com
6:22 p.m.
 
The pioneer spirit is alive and well in the "pioneer country" of the Gibson County Special School District. GCSSD leaders are considering an initiative designed to save money on energy costs as utility bills continue to climb.
 
"We look to save approximately $130,000 per year, at a minimum, in energy savings," Terry Cunningham said. Cunningham, the financial director or Gibson County schools, said that an investment $1.4 million dollars will have to be made to get the proposed program started.
 
Cunningham said that at least half of the $1.4 million price tag will come from state energy efficiency grant. In addition to the grant, multiple low-interest government loans will subsidize another fraction of the project, according to Cunningham. The remainder of the funding will come from the GCSSD general fund balance.
 
The primary targets for energy improvements are the antiquated heating and air units at seven of the district's nine facilities. "We have approximately 31 HVACs, all but 2 of those units are anywhere from 20 to 30 to 36 years old," Cunningham said, Even more dated HVACs are being used at Dyer, Medina, and Yorkville Elementary Schools. Cunningham said that Kenton Elementary will also have more energy efficient lights installed.
 
According to Cunningham, the district pays $650,000 annually on utility costs and that a $130,000 a year reduction would save the system millions over the long term.
 
Cunningham said that they are still in planning stages and does not expect to be done with the process until next February. After planning is complete they will begin submitting applications for grants and will hope to have the project wrapped up in October 2010.