Number
071136
Version
ORIGINAL
Reference
Sponsor
ALD. ZIELINSKI
Title
Resolution directing the Office of Environmental Sustainability to report on the feasibility of city financing of solar installations and energy efficiency improvements.
Analysis
This resolution directs the Office of Environmental Sustainability to evaluate and report on the feasibility of City financing of solar installations and energy efficiency improvements.
Body
Whereas, Solar energy is a renewable energy source that has economical and environmental advantages over non-renewable sources; and
Whereas, Even with existing subsidies, the cost associated with installation of solar electric systems, solar thermal systems, and energy efficiency projects prohibits residential and commercial property owners from utilizing this alternative; and
Whereas, The City should assess the feasibility of a program whereby the City finances the installation of solar energy systems by securing a pool of funds from a bond or loan fund that gets repaid through assessments on participating property owners’ tax bills; and
Whereas, Under this program, the assessment would be spread over 20 years, the approximate time it takes to recover costs through energy savings, and the assessment would be transferable between owners; and
Whereas, Because a program whereby the City makes financing available for installation of solar energy systems has economical and environmental advantages, the City should assess the feasibility of implementing such program; now, therefore, be it
Resolved, That the Office of Environmental Sustainability is directed to evaluate and report on the feasibility of City financing of solar installations and energy efficiency improvements; and, be it
Further Resolved, That the Office of Environmental Sustainability should assess a program whereby the City finances the installation of solar energy systems by securing a pool of funds from a bond or loan fund that gets repaid through assessments on participating property owners’ tax bills, and whereby the assessment would be spread over 20 years, and the assessment would be transferable between owners; and, be it
Further Resolved, That if the Office of Environmental Sustainability finds that this program is feasible, the report should also make recommendations relating to how to implement this program; and, be it
Further Resolved, That all City departments are authorized and directed to cooperate with and assist the Office of Environmental Sustainability in carrying out its mission; and, be it
Further Resolved, That the Office of Environmental Sustainability may request assistance from non-city entities in carrying out its mission; and, be it
Further Resolved, That the Office of Environmental Sustainability shall submit its findings and recommendations to the Common Council within 6 months of adoption of this resolution.
Drafter
LRB07561-1
LCS
11/16/07