Indian River school district sees 30% spike in utility costs

PHILADELPHIA, New York (WWNY) — The Indian River Central School District has experienced a 30% increase in utility costs over recent months, prompting administrators to look at making even more energy-saving choices.

The district plans to spend $1.7 million on utilities and fuel for its buildings in the current budget — about $140,000 per month.

“Over the past several months, we’ve seen a 30% increase in our utilities cost,” said Superintendent Troy Decker. “Indian River wants to be good stewards for our community. To do so, we want school environments that will be sufficiently heated and sufficiently cooled, but to do so in a cost-effective and energy-efficient fashion isn’t going to be easy.”

Energy efficiency investments

The district has implemented several upgrades in recent years to reduce long-term costs, including replacing incandescent and fluorescent lights with LEDs and removing old boilers from some buildings.

“Basically purchasing things up front so that we save money in the future,” Decker said.

Geothermal technology expansion

Patrick Hanss, director of facilities, said he believes geothermal heat pumps are a key solution. They use less energy than traditional boilers and run on electricity.

“The HVAC systems of the past are just that,” Hanss said.

The district installed geothermal heat pumps at the middle school in 2023.

“These are basically air conditioners that we’re able to run either forwards or backwards to add or subtract heat from a building,” Hanss said. “I’m really proud of the mechanical space. This really turned out great.”

Solar power integration

The district also operates a 600-kilowatt solar array that helps supply power to the intermediate school.

“We also purchase solar credits as part of a program for municipalities that will help offset additional energy costs for the district as well,” Decker said.

While the upgrades required an upfront investment, Decker said they should pay for themselves as power costs continue rising.

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