Ameresco and Orange Unified School District Advance Solar Initiative to Boost Energy Savings and Sustainability
Ameresco, Inc. (NYSE: AMRC), a premier provider of energy infrastructure and renewable technology solutions, together with Orange Unified School District (OUSD), has announced major progress on an ambitious solar development program designed to lower energy expenses and enhance sustainable operations across district facilities. The initiative includes the installation of solar photovoltaic (PV) rooftop and carport systems at seven school campuses and is expected to generate approximately $6.3 million in cost savings over the next 25 years.
This significant district-wide clean energy project underscores OUSD’s commitment to improving energy efficiency and adopting innovative infrastructure that supports long-term financial and environmental goals. The partnership with Ameresco serves as a model for how K–12 school districts can leverage clean power investments to deliver both economic and educational benefits.
Expanding Solar Capacity Across the District
As part of the multi-site solar rollout, Ameresco developed customized rooftop and solar carport canopy systems at seven campuses—four elementary schools, one middle school, and two high schools located throughout Orange County, California. By implementing systems designed to maximize available roof space and parking areas, OUSD is making productive use of its physical footprint without disrupting campus operations or requiring additional land.
The solar generation infrastructure is being delivered under a long-term power purchase agreement (PPA). Through this arrangement, Ameresco will own, operate, and maintain the solar PV systems, while OUSD will purchase the electricity they produce at a predetermined, fixed rate for 25 years. This contractual structure removes the upfront investment burden traditionally required for solar implementation and ensures that the district has guaranteed energy savings, regardless of future volatility within the California energy market.
The seven installations are being built in phases, with five systems already complete and actively supporting school operations. The remaining two high school projects are scheduled for final energization and commissioning by the end of 2025, further increasing renewable energy production across the district.
A Long-Term Strategy for Energy Independence
According to OUSD leadership, the solar investment aligns closely with the district’s broader sustainability strategy—one that focuses on reducing consumption of fossil fuels, improving resiliency, and strengthening operational efficiency across campuses.
“Our strong and long-term partnership with Ameresco is helping us to decrease energy costs and work toward our goal to optimize efficiency across the district,” said Isela Vazquez, Senior Executive Director of Facilities Development & Planning at Orange Unified School District. “By investing in resilient energy technology, we’re investing in our district’s energy independence and ensuring our ability to provide the best possible education to every single one of our students.”
By generating renewable energy on-site, OUSD will be able to offset a substantial portion of electricity demand from the grid, lowering both utility bills and greenhouse gas emissions. In addition to direct savings, the program enhances reliability by reducing exposure to grid fluctuations, peak demand charges, and potential power disruptions.
The cost-saving potential also supports OUSD’s responsibility to direct limited financial resources toward student achievement. The nearly $6.3 million projected savings can serve as a funding source for classroom programs, facility upgrades, technology improvements, and student support services—all without requiring additional taxpayer contributions.
Serving Students and Communities While Supporting Sustainability
Orange Unified School District provides education and support to approximately 25,000 students spanning preschool through grade 12. Its geographic reach includes the cities of Orange, Villa Park, Anaheim, Garden Grove, Santa Ana, and portions of unincorporated Orange County. As a large and diverse district, implementing sustainable innovations can have broad and lasting community impact.
Schools not only serve as learning environments but also as focal points in local neighborhoods. OUSD’s solar adoption reinforces the importance of environmental stewardship within the community while offering students firsthand exposure to renewable energy and sustainability practices.
In many cases, public school initiatives like this can spark interest in academic programs related to science, technology, engineering, and renewable energy careers. They also provide an opportunity to engage students in practical lessons about climate responsibility and long-term resource management.
Ameresco’s Commitment to Supporting Educational Institutions
With extensive experience working alongside educational and public-sector customers, Ameresco continues to expand its footprint in the K–12 market. The company sees school districts as ideal partners for renewable energy and infrastructure improvements due to their long-term land assets, predictable energy use, and responsibility to ensure fiscal stability.
“These initiatives highlight how schools can strengthen their energy resilience while reducing costs,” said Lou Maltezos, President of Central & Western USA and Canada Regions at Ameresco. “We’re proud to see our long-standing partnership with the district delivering meaningful results and look forward to building on this success together.”
Ameresco’s role extends beyond installation. Through the PPA structure, Ameresco will continue to monitor and maintain each solar system, ensuring optimal performance and guaranteed reliability throughout their operational lifespan.
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