The Wabash County Board of Health Wednesday afternoon approved a project development agreement with Tick Tock Energy of Effingham, taking the first step toward a possible solar energy project at the Wabash County Health Department.
The action followed a presentation from Eric Pals of Tick Tock Energy, who outlined the proposed rooftop solar system, projected costs, available incentives and potential long-term savings.
Pals said the preliminary design calls for an 18.88-kilowatt DC solar array consisting of 32 solar panels. The system is projected to produce approximately 26,000 kilowatt-hours of electricity annually.
According to figures presented to the board, the Health Department currently has an annual electric bill of approximately $13,085. Pals estimated solar could reduce that expense by about 34 percent, with projected cumulative savings of approximately $92,000 over 15 years.
The preliminary project budget is $68,752. Pals said federal and state solar incentives could significantly reduce the Health Department's ultimate cost. He estimated approximately 68 percent of the basic project cost could be covered through incentives, although additional fees would reduce that percentage somewhat.
Wednesday's approval does not represent final authorization to purchase and install the solar system.
Under the project development agreement, Tick Tock Energy will develop construction plans, examine the building's electrical system and structure, and submit the proposed system to Mt. Carmel Public Utility for engineering review and approval. The proposed system could be adjusted depending on the results of that work.
Once that process is completed, Tick Tock Energy would return with a final construction contract and price. The Health Board would then have another opportunity to decide whether to proceed with installation.
Board members discussed the projected return as well as possible future maintenance expenses before indicating support for moving ahead with the development phase. One member said the maintenance estimates may be somewhat low but still described the project as a good idea.
Eric Pals of Tick Tock Energy makes a presentation to the Wabash County Health Board Wednesday.