Two popular Ames city buildings will soon be powered in part by the sun.
The Ames City Council approved a nearly half-million-dollar contract to install solar panels on the rooftops of the Fitch Family Indoor Aquatic Center and the Steven L. Schainker Plaza building. It’s part of Ames’ Climate Action Plan, which sets a goal of increasing the amount of energy the city generates from renewable sources such as solar power.
City staff recommended the council award a $463,760 contract to CB Solar Inc. of Des Moines. The company has completed 24 previous solar projects in Ames and is familiar with the city’s process for connecting solar systems to the electrical grid. The company also offered the strongest warranty package.
What the panels will do
The combined system, which is expected to last 25 to 30 years, will generate 231 kilowatts of power across both buildings. Each year, it will cut carbon emissions by 158 metric tons, which is equal to taking about 37 gas-powered cars off the road for a full year.
The city has budgeted $770,000 for the project. After a rebate from Ames Electric Services, the actual cost drops to about $347,820. The city may also qualify for a federal tax credit worth between 30% and 40% of the total project cost, though that credit is not guaranteed.
Solar panels at the aquatic center are expected to be finished by the end of 2026. Work at Schainker Plaza should wrap up by spring 2027.
Over 25 years, the solar system is projected to save the city nearly $497,000 in electricity costs, with the investment expected to pay for itself in about 18 years.
