Maple Grove Elementary School

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 additional opportunities for energy improvements in lighting, 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.

As a result, the 109,500 ft² Maple Grove Elementary School is now on track to become Indiana’s first zero energy school, establishing a new standard for sustainable educational facilities. The facility underwent a complete geothermal HVAC conversion, coupled with the installation of a 1.007 MW ground-mounted solar array to offset the school’s annual energy consumption. To achieve full electrification, CMTA replaced all gas equipment and upgraded the facility’s conventional HVAC systems with state-of-the-art, energy-efficient water source heat pumps. By repurposing existing hydronic piping for the heat pump loop and retaining existing ductwork, CMTA helped the district minimize waste and reinforce environmental stewardship.

The facility’s new combined geothermal system and solar array is expected to save over 2 million kWh of electricity and $232,754 in utility costs annually. CMTA delivered this trailblazing project with industry-leading cost efficiencies, achieving a turnkey price of $85 per square foot, or $54 per square foot when accounting for the federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC)—an unmatched industry benchmark. The district has also received tax credits totaling $970,132.98 for the solar installations at Maple Grove and other district facilities. This project not only represents an innovation in cost-effective zero energy design but also showcases the significant environmental and economic potential of holistic energy solutions.