Argyle ISD rewarded for energy efficiency projects

The Argyle Independent School District was recently awarded two matching grants totaling $44,600 from Oncor for increasing the energy efficiency of the lighting systems in district gymnasiums and in Argyle Intermediate School.

The district received the grants through Oncor’s Take A Load Off, Texas School Matching Grant Program, which was created to help schools save energy by implementing improvements, according to an Oncor spokesman.

The high efficiency lighting systems will save nearly 129,000 kilowatt-hours of energy annually, equivalent to the carbon dioxide emissions of approximately 10,000 gallons of gasoline, according to U.S. Environmental Protection Agency calculations.

“The grants from Oncor were instrumental in the completion of these much-needed upgrade projects,” said Argyle Superintendent Telena Wright.  “While we’re enjoying the energy savings, our students and faculty are appreciating the better light quality in the classrooms and gyms.”

All public schools receiving electric service through Oncor wires are eligible to apply for matching grant funding to pay for energy efficiency upgrades.

“Schools are part of the fabric of the communities Oncor serves.  Oncor is excited about this unique grant program that helps schools facing budget challenges to invest in energy efficiency improvements,” Danny Hodges,  Oncor area manager, said.  “We look forward to continuing to work with districts like Argyle to make these much-needed projects happen.”

Grants are awarded for up to 50 percent of the cost of energy efficiency project installations, up to a maximum of $25,000. Grant applications are judged on several criteria including demonstrated financial need, the expected energy savings of the project, and the speed with which it can be completed.

“We’re proud of the accomplishments of Argyle ISD and thrilled to present these grants checks,” said Hodges.  “These are exactly the types of energy-saving projects the School Matching Grant Program was created to encourage.”

For more information on the Take A Load Off, Texas School Matching Grant Program and other efficiency programs, visit www.takealoadofftexas.com.