SR 06:074 - Laserfiche WebLink

6C :m:J pLfASANTONc ~ City Council Staff Report March 21, 2006 Administrative Services Department SUBJECT Options for City-supported "PhotovoItaic Project" Activities STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Consider options for City support of Photovoltaic Project activities and direct staff accordingly. SUMMARY The current list of Council Priorities includes a goal of supporting "Environmental Awareness" and under that goal are a number of activities including one named "Photovoltaic Project" and defined as "pursue a public or private partnership for a photovoltaic project". Staff has explored a variety of activities that could be considered for implementation and is now looking for Council direction on which to focus attention. Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Council: BACKGROUND The Council's work plan includes the goal of developing a "Photovoltaic Project" which is described as "pursue a public or private partnership for a photovoltaic project". Council has also allocated a modest level of one-time funding. Separate from this work plan item, the City of Pleasant on has been involved with solar energy in two ways: we have participated with GRID Alternatives to include panels in affordable housing units, and panels were included in the construction of Fire Station #4. (See Exhibit A for a diagram of how solar panels work.) Financial incentives that have existed at the State and Federal levels for some time have recently been enhanced. Programs at the Federal level have increased the tax credit for commercial solar systems and offer new credits to homeowners. The credit covers 30% of system cost up to $2000 per system with some conditions (for more information see Forbes.com article attached as Exhibit B). The State of California has also enhanced support SR 06:074