Superior studies solar upgrades to boost treatment plants’ solar power
Preliminary estimates suggest replacing older panels could raise solar’s share of electricity use to 30% at the wastewater plant and 83% at the water plant.
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Superior is studying solar upgrades at its wastewater and water treatment plants that preliminary estimates suggest could increase solar’s share of electricity use from about 14% to 30% at the wastewater plant and from 48% to 83% at the water plant. The proposed approach would replace older panels while reusing the existing mounting racks, a project presenter told the town’s Advisory Committee for Environmental Sustainability on Nov. 5.
The panels were installed roughly 15 to 20 years ago. Staff are also assessing whether other equipment, such as inverters, could be reused. The estimates are preliminary; the town has not completed its analysis.
The town is considering several ways to finance the work, including a power-purchase agreement, leasing, energy-services companies and energy-performance contracting. The options could be considered alongside other efficiency improvements, an Aug. 31 memo to Town Council says.
Staff expected to complete the solar repowering analysis by the end of November, with solar and financial scenarios likely to go to Town Council in early 2027. Those are expected timeframes; the council has not made a decision to proceed.