District to Save More than $200,000 Annually with Energy Efficiency Retrofit

In a move aimed at reducing both energy costs and the school district’s carbon footprint, Redwood City School District (RCSD) will undergo a comprehensive lighting retrofit across its facilities. The retrofit is expected to yield significant savings, cutting utility usage by 52% and reducing annual energy costs by $212,402—equivalent to 10% of the district’s current energy expenses.

This initiative comes as part of the State’s commitment to combating climate change, with specific regulations in place to phase out older fluorescent lighting by 2025. As per Assembly Bill 2208, which prohibits the sale of certain types of compact fluorescent lamps, the district’s retrofit will not only bring energy efficiency to its campuses, but also ensure compliance with California mandates.

By removing fluorescent lighting and replacing it with LED lighting, classrooms will be brighter, enhancing the learning environment. In addition, dimmable switches will be installed, allowing teachers and staff to adjust the lighting to suit the specific needs of students. 

Trustee Alisa MacAvoy, speaking at the November 6 School Board meeting, emphasized the long-term financial benefits of the project.

“These savings will go directly into general fund savings, which supports our operations, including funding for teachers and programs. This is incredibly valuable to us, especially as operational funding has become harder to get,” MacAvoy said.

The estimated $16.9 million cost of the retrofit will be covered by Measure S Funds, a local bond, approved by voters in November of 2022, that supports the district’s modernization efforts.

The project is expected to pay for itself through the savings generated by reduced energy costs, which will be used to fund future district operations, benefiting students and staff alike.

The School Board approved the contract for the project 4-1 during the November 20 public Board meeting.