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Consideration of request by the Sustainability Manager for approval to enter into a contract with Arch Electric for installation of solar photovoltaic arrays on five City buildings and approval to expend up to 10% of the 2026 funds in advance of approval of the 2026 capital improvement budget
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Submitted by:
Megan Conway, Sustainability Manager
Department:
Department of Public Works
A. Issue
In line with the goals of the 2020 City of Wauwatosa Energy Resolution to source at least 25% of all energy used for municipal operations from local renewable sources by 2025, reduce municipal greenhouse gas emissions 50% by 2030, and achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, staff seeks authorization to accelerate installation of rooftop solar photovoltaic systems on remaining municipal buildings to meet recently adjusted federal deadlines to secure federal funding from the Inflation Reduction Act.
The federal One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA/HR1), effective July 4, 2025, made significant changes to the Clean Energy Investment Tax Credits that provide 30% of solar photovoltaic project costs to municipalities and other public entities through the elective pay mechanism. While solar would still be a cost saving measure for the City over the life of the system without federal funding, there is an opportunity for substantial savings (over $175,000) through meeting these accelerated deadlines. Additionally, PSC-approved electricity rate increases will drive up utility costs again next year, increasing taxpayer savings with on-site renewable energy generation.
B. Background/Options
The City of Wauwatosa has invested in solar photovoltaic systems across our municipal buildings resulting in reduced greenhouse gas emissions and lower electricity costs. There are five remaining municipal buildings that have solar-feasible rooftops that do not yet have solar systems installed - Fire Station 51 (1610 Underwood Avenue), Fire Station 52 (4187 N Mayfair Road), Fire Station 53 (...
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