Construction and renovation programs through the Ohio School Facilities Commission (“OSFC”) are helping schools across the state “go green” and save money by conserving energy. Recent legislation and rules now require new schools built in conjunction with the OSFC to be “solar-ready” and compliant with the Ohio Green School Initiative, which adopts the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (“LEED”) standards for all new construction. These requirements, which are expected to significantly decrease utility expenditures, arise at a time when increases in school energy demands are only being outpaced by increases in the utilities’ rates for service. Ohio schools need experienced counsel to assist them in leveraging the expanding advanced energy and sustainable development funding opportunities available to them when undertaking any construction or renovation projects.

The Bricker & Eckler LLP Green Strategies Group has the knowledge and experience to provide the following services related to the construction and renovation of energy-efficient school projects:

• Representation during planning, financing, design, and construction of LEED-certified building projects and other sustainable development programs and initiatives, including the Ohio Green Schools Initiative.

• Advising districts regarding the House Bill 264 Energy Conservation Program, which may allow schools to issue bonds not only to undertake renovations for energy efficiency, but also to install such alternative energy sources as geothermal units to heat and cool school buildings without relying on natural gas.

• Representation during planning, siting, financing, negotiating, and operating clean energy technologies such as solar, wind, and geothermal energy, which can provide schools with additional savings and income. For more information, see our companion brochure, entitled “Funding Your School’s Alternative Energy Program.”

• Assistance in development, implementation, and oversight of sustainability action plans, including energy efficiency, carbon footprint, and other cost savings programs.

• Advising clients regarding internal waste and energy management programs, such as those which we have successfully implemented at our own firm.

Through the implementation of green strategies, Ohio’s schools have the opportunity to reduce their energy costs and improve their bottom line, while at the same time educating both the next generation of Ohio citizens and the surrounding community about the benefits and importance of ensuring a sustainable future. The Bricker & Eckler LLP Green Strategies Group would be pleased to help your district achieve all of its environmental goals.

For more information about our Education practice, visit our Education Law Group
.