SR 06:074 - Laserfiche WebLink

The brainstorming group met again in January and reviewed this list. The group was most interested in a combination of Options 3,4, and 5 as the best way of using City resources to increase the adoption of PV technologies. >- Option 1: Invest in Demonstration Projects Use funds to install solar panels on public buildings with high visibility to help publicize panel use. Possible locations that were discussed include buildings at the fairgrounds, library, police station, aquatics facility and/or other public facility. As an alternative, the City could partner with small business owners who may not be able to fund the entire cost of installing solar panels. Projects would likely be smaller but distributed more widely throughout the City. Advantages/Disadvantages . City funds would be leveraged . Support of small business in the community ties in with economic development goals . Current costs associated with solar panels are fairly high; a public demonstration project of any size would use a large portion of available funds . Partnering with others would help available funds go further but are still limited . Concern expressed that PV installations can become less visually noticeable over time >- Option 2: Increase support to GRID Alternatives Local organization GRID Alternatives is widely regarded as highly effective in fostering the use of alternative energy. The City of Pleasanton has provided $75,000 over the past two years for solar affordable housing rehabilitation. GRID Alternatives may be interested in expanding that program to include funding to support solar energy activities beyond those associated with affordable housing. Additional information about GRID Alternatives follows: "GRID Alternatives is a non-profit organization whose mission is to empower communities in need to meet their basic requirements of health, education, and economic opportunity by providing renewable energy and energy efficiency related services, equipment, and training. GRID Alternatives works collaboratively with communities and local organizations to identify specific needs and to develop renewable energy solutions that are environmentally, socially, and economically sustainable." (Taken from GRID Alternatives' website.) Advantages/Disadvantages . Faster implementation: supporting an existing organization means no start-up time associated with creating a new program or project . Access to experts: GRID Alternatives staff are focused on alterative energy including trends, new programs, etc. . Contribute to the financial health of a local non-profit . No additional staff capacity is needed SR 06:074