Valpo touts new solar panels on city hall

Valparaiso Mayor Matt Murphy held a ribbon cutting Wednesday to mark the beginning of operation of 100 solar panels atop City Hall.

Our partners at The Times of Northwest Indiana report the project is part of an overall effort to add solar panels to several city buildings, which officials said would save the city $5.2 million over their 35-year lifespan.

In all, 772 panels have been installed on five city buildings, the publication said, including the City Services building and three wastewater treatment plants.

“It’s ironic to think that our historic city hall, built in 1919, is sporting some of the most technologically-advanced renewable energy,” Murphy said. “Just like in our own homes, energy costs for city facilities continue to rise, adding up to some of the city’s largest expenses so we’re pleased to find renewable energy options that save tax payers money and reduce our dependence on non-renewable energy.”

Valparaiso Executive Director of City Services and Public Works Steve Poulos said the city has spent about $800,000 on the solar project but will save about $145,000 in energy costs annually.

You can read the full story from The Times of Northwest Indiana’s Molly DeVore by clicking here.