The District of Sechelt is hoping adding solar panels will allow its new sewer treatment plant to qualify as a LEED Gold building.
But, to keep on budget they’re having to make some other changes.
LEED is a rating of environmental impact, and Sechelt needs to get the certification to qualify for some of the grants being used for the 25 million dollar project.
Project coordinator Paul Nash says adding solar will pay for itself down the road.
Councillor Chris Moore says it’s also a chance for Sechelt to lead by example with a solar system on a public building. He says it could help convince people that solar is a viable option for residential and other construction.
The 100-thousand dollar cost of the solar system will put a big dent in the remaining contingency fund, so Nash is recommending money ear-marked for a reclaimed water distribution system be pulled out of the budget. Instead that system will become a stand-alone project.
