by Shane Henson — November 15, 2013—Chevron Energy Solutions recently announced that it signed a contract with the Lucia Mar Unified School District in San Luis Obispo County, California, to design and develop a program that will include solar energy systems, energy efficiency measures and improved lighting components.
The project will include 1.7 megawatts of solar generation capacity at seven district sites; upgraded heating, ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC) systems; irrigation controls; and energy-saving light-emitting diode (LED) lighting. In total, the project is expected to reduce the district’s utility-purchased electricity costs by approximately 75 percent, saving the district an estimated $20 million after paying all program costs over the 30-year project life.
Officials within the district chose to work with Chevron Energy Solutions in efforts to combat increasing energy costs now and down the line. Jim Hogeboom, Lucia Mar’s superintendent, says he believes this project will allow the district to better meet its financial, environmental and educational goals.
