Los Angeles Daily News Press Release: City of Duarte Invests in Energy Savings Project

Duarte, CA – August 28, 2017 — In a strategic move to enhance budget efficiency, the Duarte City Council has approved a $500,000 investment in an energy-saving initiative for municipal facilities. This project is projected to yield significant savings, with estimates suggesting nearly $700,000 in energy costs over the next 15 years.

The funding for this project will primarily come from federal stimulus grants combined with a low-interest loan from the state, ensuring minimal impact on the city’s budget. Community Development Director Craig Hensley noted, “After factoring in the costs of the project, we anticipate a net savings of over $300,000 for the city in the next 15 years. We’re going to be more energy efficient, we’re going to save money, and we really think that’s a real positive thing.”

Patrick Weller, Vice President of PacificWest Energy Solutions, the Irvine-based company awarded the contract for the project, emphasized the growing trend among cities to utilize utility savings as a strategy to bolster their budgets. “Considering that many local government agencies have experienced reductions in their general funds from the state, implementing cost-reduction strategies has become urgent,” Weller stated.

The project will involve a comprehensive upgrade plan targeting lighting systems, lighting controls, as well as heating and air conditioning systems at key city facilities, including Duarte City Hall, the Senior Center, and the Recreation Building at Royal Oaks Park.

Financing arrangements are expected to be finalized within the next two months, with work set to commence in June.