Center Grove Community Schools

In 2023, Center Grove Community Schools partnered with CMTA to execute a $17M Guaranteed Energy Savings Contract (GESC) designed to significantly reduce the district’s energy usage. Initially, the district planned to install a modest solar array for a single building. However, CMTA conducted a comprehensive, no-cost assessment of all facilities to evaluate the feasibility of solar energy across the district and identify opportunities for energy improvements in HVAC systems, building automation, and more. This holistic analysis uncovered substantial savings that allowed the district to finance the creation of two net zero schools entirely through guaranteed energy savings. Upon completing its first year of operation, Maple Grove Elementary is poised to become Indiana's first net zero energy school, setting the standard for sustainable education facilities statewide.

The project scope involved the design and installation of renewable energy systems across the district, including:

• Implementation of a geothermal HVAC system at Maple Grove Elementary School
• Implementation of 2.4-MW of roof-mounted solar photovoltaic arrays across five facilities (Center Grove High School, Center Grove Middle School Central, Center Grove Elementary School, Sugar Grove Elementary School (Net Zero), Emergency Op Center)
• Implementation of a 1.3-MW of ground-mounted solar photovoltaic array serving two facilities (Maple Grove Elementary School (Net Zero), Transportation & Maintenance Center)
• Solar retro-commissioning for existing ground-mounted solar array at Walnut Grove Elementary School
• Integration of existing Building Automation System (BAS) controls at Center Grove Middle School North into new Trane BAS for improved energy efficiency and occupant comfort
• Retro-commissioning of existing BAS controls for 13 facilities, providing optimized setpoints and zone schedules, updated graphics, and optimal start sequencing and fan cycling

The project is projected to save the school district over 8.5 million kWh and $829,855 in annual energy and cost savings, enabling Center Grove to achieve two net zero elementary schools. Additionally, the district has received $970,132.98 in tax credits for the completed solar installations and is projected to receive an additional $3.4 million in 2026. These achievements underscore the district's commitment to sustainability, fiscal responsibility, and innovative energy solutions that will benefit both the environment and the community for years to come.