City eyes solar energy for corporation yard well

Orland is trying to move into the solar age by installing solar panels at a well at its corporation yard.

The City Council gave direction to city staff on Monday to seek more information on the project.

Interim City Manager Gail Wingard said he wants proposals to put in solar at that site to test the program.

If it is successful, the city could cut 50 to 80 percent of its electricity bill for operating the well, Wingard said.

"Solar could help control our costs," Wingard added. "We want to do it for four wells. Electric bills are a big expense to the city and water customers. If the wells are solar, we could control costs for the citizens."

A meeting with City Engineer Ken Skillman to discuss the issue is planned for today, Wingard said.

Councilman Bruce Roundy said Tuesday the project is in the exploratory stage.

No definitive action has been taken by the council, he said.

Instead, it directed Wingard to do more research, Roundy added, and find out if it is workable.

"Anything green is good with me," Roundy said, assuming it is affordable and he believes the other council members agree.

However, questions about the reliability of the solar panels and how long they last need to be considered as well.

Roundy said there have been lawsuits over some panels not working, so that is something the city must examine.

Finding a reputable company to provide the solar panels is a must, city officials said.

"I think these things could be worked out," Roundy said.

Contact Rick Longley at 934-6800 or rlongley@tcnpress.com.