Title
A Resolution authorizing city staff to file applications with KCP&L for the KCP&L solar power rebate program for the potential construction of solar facilities on City projects, and further authorizing the preparation of a request for proposals for additional municipal solar projects.
Body
Issue/Request:
A Resolution authorizing city staff to file applications with KCP&L for the KCP&L solar power rebate program for the potential construction of solar facilities on City projects, and further authorizing the preparation of a request for proposals for additional municipal solar projects.
Key Issues:
Currently Kansas City Power and Light (KCP&L) is offering a solar power rebate program to encourage the use of solar technology. The rebate program provides for up to $8M in rebates within the KCP&L coverage area and the program is available on a first come, first serve basis, therefore the Community and Economic Development Committee (CEDC) recommended placing a proposed Resolution on the December 18, 2018 City Council agenda. The proposed Resolution will authorize staff to take necessary and appropriate steps to position the City in a position to be considered for available solar power rebates in accordance with the KCPL program however does not commit or obligate the City in any formal fashion.
A copy of the presentation provided to CEDC has been included within this packet as well as general information pertaining to the KCP&L solar power rebate program.
If approved, staff would file one or more applications with KCP&L for the rebate program and prepare a request for proposal(s) from qualified firms/providers to design, procure, install, commission, operate and maintain solar photovoltaic system(s) for City facilities or operations.
Proposed City Council Motion:
I move for adoption of a Resolution authorizing city staff to file applications with KCP&L for the KCP&L solar power rebate program for the potential construction of solar facilities on City projects, and further authorizing the preparation of a request for proposals for additional municipal solar projects.
Background:
At the December 12, 2018 CEDC meeting, Zachary Burton, a recent graduate of Lee's Summit High School and Lindsay Case with MC Power Companies presented a status report on the Animal Control Shelter photovoltaic solar power project and provided information regarding the potential that exists for equipping City Hall with photovoltaic solar power and perhaps exploring other opportunities that may exist for municipal buildings and operations. As a result of the presentation and information, the CEDC encouraged City staff to work to place a Resolution on the December 18, 2018 City Council agenda to pursue the potential of additional photovoltaic solar power opportunities for the City and make application to the KCP&L solar rebate program.
In 2017, Zachary Burton, then a senior at Lee's Summit High School approached the City to consider the installation of photovoltaic solar power for the Animal Control Facility. Zachary consulted with a local photovoltaic solar business to research the potential installation and benefits of installing photovoltaic solar panels for the Animal Control Facility and presented the research findings to the Mayor and Council at the June 15, 2017 City Council meeting. The Council directed staff to work with Zachary and prepare a RFP to solicit proposals to install solar panels at the Animal Control Facility. MC Power was selected as the solar provider and contractor and through working with Zachary and MC Power Companies, the project was completed and placed into service in July of 2018. The Mayor and Council desired to consider the Animal Control Facility solar project as a "pilot project" and revisit the consideration of pursuing other opportunities after it's completion and operation for a few months.
Presenter
Mark Dunning, Assistant City Manager
Lindsay Case, MC Power Companies
Zachary Burton, UCM student, Lee's Summit resident and solar power advocate
Recommendation
Recommendation:
Staff recommends adoption of the Resolution.
Committee Recommendation
Committee Recommendation:
The CEDC encouraged staff to prepare a Resolution and to place the matter on the December 18, 2018 City Council agenda for consideration.