The City of Chandler is seeing a new dawn as it harnesses the power of the sun, executing a bold move towards sustainability by approving an expansive solar installation plan. The city has cemented a Master Energy Services Agreement with Ameresco, Inc., capped at $34 million, which will see solar panels being installed across multiple city facilities, according to the City of Chandler.
Just two years ago, in 2023, the Chandler City Council included Sustainability & Technology as a central focus in its Strategic Framework, reflecting an earnest commitment to reduce costs and bolster environmental resilience. This progression from commitment to action demonstrates a concrete step towards envisaged sustainability goals, as reported by the City of Chandler.
The groundwork laid by a comprehensive solar feasibility study culminated in detailed engineering plans for 23 city facilities earmarked for solar installations. Among them are key infrastructures like the Chandler Nature Center and several fire stations, which will see the implantation of ground-mounted, roof-mounted, and solar-covered parking configurations. It's a plan that, according to City of Chandler officials, could spell gross savings of about $42.4 million over the subsequent two decades.
Ameresco and the City of Chandler have agreed to a 20-year partnership to save energy. The solar equipment comes with a 25-year warranty and could last up to 35 years, offering long-term savings. Even with the large investment, the project is expected to pay for itself in just 15 years. Construction is set to be finished by 2026.
