Stephens Co. School System To Have Energy Audit Done

The Stephens County School System is allowing a company to examine whether or not the school system could upgrade some of its equipment and pay for it with the money saved through lower energy costs.

Last week, the Stephens County Board of Education voted unanimously to sign a letter of intent with a company called ABM.

Stephens County School Superintendent Bryan Dorsey said that the letter of intent allows ABM to begin doing an energy audit of the Stephens County school system and its facilities.

“Looking at what recommended savings they can guarantee, if they find those, then we would be upgrading equipment, lighting fixtures, with a guaranteed savings program,” said Dorsey.

Dorsey went on to say that the program would be budget-neutral to the Stephens County school system.

“They have to guarantee the savings out of our utilities,” said Dorsey. “If we do not make those savings, they actually pay the difference. It is money we are already paying on power, we will be paying less power, but we will be financing the equipment.”

Also, Dorsey said that there would be the possibility of the school system using future E-SPLOST money, if available to help pay for the improvements, freeing up money in the general fund.

Dorsey said that approving the letter of intent only allows ABM to go forward with the audit process to see if there is sufficient savings to pay for the improvements.

If there is not sufficient savings found to finance the improvements, Dorsey says there is no commitment by the school system.

Dorsey said this company comes well recommended from other school systems.

According to Dorsey, the energy audit will take a couple of months to complete.

In 2012, the Toccoa City Commission chose not to enter into a contract for similar work from another company, called Energy Systems Group, after months of debate, discussion, and negotiation.