Case study: Hickman County adds 180kW to municipal buildings

Like many counties, cities and universities across the country, Hickman County entered into an energy savings performance contract (ESPC) to install building improvements, such as new lighting technology, water-conserving fixtures, heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC) upgrades and solar panels, without tapping the county’s capital budget. The energy savings and other improvements pay for the upgrades over time. NORESCO, a national leader in energy efficiency and energy infrastructure solutions, worked directly with Hickman County to provide energy audits, design, construction and a funding guarantee of the project structured through the energy savings performance contract.

Brian Stone, Senior Account Executive, NORESCO, said, “Our energy savings project with Hickman County provides an innovative mix of renewable energy assets and traditional building improvements to help the county optimize energy and water savings and fiscal stewardship.”

In terms of the solar savings alone, Hickman County can expect to see about $20,000 in annual savings over the next three decades, and even more as rates increase. The rooftop solar systems are connected to the Hickman County Justice Center, Detention Center, Administration Building and Emergency Operations Office.