By Chelsea Blair
In June, Greenbrier County Schools announced a comprehensive energy savings project that will significantly enhance the energy efficiency of school facilities throughout the county. After an extensive three-year analysis of all school lighting, HVAC systems, and utility costs, the CMTA Engineering Firm began the $14 million project. Through the Inflation Reduction Act, the school system was eligible for over $2 million in federal credits, bringing the project cost down to $12 million.
The project’s primary goals are to modernize infrastructure, reduce energy consumption, and generate substantial savings of approximately $500,000 annually to the school system and community. The project included replacing outdated HVAC systems, installing energy efficient LED lighting, and implementing advanced energy management systems across all schools in the county. Other than financial savings, the project also creates a healthier and more comfortable learning environment for students and staff, supporting the districts commitment to provide high-quality education.
With the installation of the solar panels at Rupert Elementary and Western Greenbrier Middle School, they now have the most extensive solar array of any school site in West Virginia, making these two schools net zero energy-cost facilities. Additionally, Rainelle Elementary School will receive solar panels in the summer of 2025, reducing consumption costs.
“We are dedicated to improving our facilities in fiscally responsible and environmentally sustainable ways,” said Superintendent Jeff Bryant. “This project not only represents a significant investment in our infrastructure but also demonstrates our commitment to future generations by reducing our environmental footprint and ensuring the longevity of our schools.”
CMTA, a leader in energy efficient engineering solutions, has overseen the implementation, ensuring that the project meets its goals and delivers the projected savings. Chief School Business Official David McClure stated, “CMTA is a leader in the industry, and we were excited to partner with them on this comprehensive project that will benefit students and reduce overall operating costs so we can redirect those resources to educating students.”
During the ribbon cutting of the new Solar Project at Western Greenbrier Middle and Rupert Elementary School on Oct. 3, many members of the School Board and the CMTA Engineering Firm were present to discuss the project.
President of the Greenbrier County School Board Jeannie Wyatt stated, “Our number one goal in Greenbrier County Schools is to provide what is best for our students and staff. We strive with this to have some of the greatest facilities,” she said. “Every year our energy costs continue to grow, so by partnering with CMTA, we now have facilities that are state of the art. They are sustainable and energy efficient, therefore we do not have to rely on outside resources for our energy.”
Elijah McDaniel, eighth grade student at West Greenbrier Middle School, spoke on behalf of the students, explaining the way the solar panel’s function, the benefits of the project, and how it is important to the school, students and staff.
Greenbrier County Schools and the community are excited to see the benefits of this project throughout the future.