Payson Roundup

The Payson Unified School District has received a $70,982 check from Arizona Public Service’s Solutions for Business Program.

The district earned the rebate for installing energy efficient equipment at several schools and the administration office.

APS says the district will save $1.4 million over the equipment’s lifetime, reduce 9,000 tons of greenhouse gas emissions, which is the equivalent of taking 1,300 cars off Arizona roads each year, and save 4,500,000 gallons of water.

“We are delighted that one of our valued customers has received a significant rebate at a time when funds are so critical for schools,” said Mike Cole, APS Gila / Navajo County energy delivery manager.

“It’s an absolute win for everyone involved. The Payson School District can serve as the community’s sustainability business leader, paving the way for others to emulate,” Cole continued.

Superintendent Casey O’Brien said that the project has already saved the district more than $60,000 in utility costs.

Last May, the school also received a $200,000 energy grant from the state School Facilities Board, for which APS and the district’s construction management company, Arcadis, helped apply.

Payson earned the rebates under the APS Solutions for Business Program, which offers financial incentives to business customers to improve energy efficiency.