The array of solar panels assembled on top of the Pateros reservoir on Cemetery Road is near completion

PATEROS – The solar panel project installed at the new Pateros reservoir is 95 percent complete as of the latest update from the city administrator at the March meeting of the city council. Jord Wilson said the remaining parts to get the array online should arrive and be installed soon.

The city applied to the Energy Division of the state Department of Commerce (DOC) last September for the first half of a solar grant to pay for the installation ballast-mounted solar photovoltaic system that will result in an energy cost reduction for both the water and sewer departments.

DOC awarded the city two solar grants, one for $60,000 and the second $125.013, totaling $185,013.

An energy production assessment was completed and showed that between $4,000 and $5,000 a month would be saved in energy costs per year, said Wilson. “With the city investment, the project would break even in year 5 or 6. Life expectancy of the panels is greater than 30 years.”