District explores generators, glycol and batteries after outages threaten heating and food services

Southern Columbia Area School District facilities staff asked engineers and contractors to cost resilient options after recent multi‑day outages threatened heating systems, food services and classroom continuity.

At the facilities meeting, district staff and a technical presenter discussed whether the district could afford building‑level generators sized to run boilers and circulator pumps, or whether converting hydronic rooftop units to a glycol mix would be a lower‑cost, lower‑risk path to prevent freeze damage. "What would it take to get a generator for each building just to run the essentials so that things don't freeze?" a facilities official asked.

Speakers clarified that solar arrays without batteries do not provide islanded power during an outage; solar generation tied to the grid stops producing power when the grid is down. That raised conversation about batteries or transfer switches. One participant said bluntly, "Generator is the answer," while others noted that a properly sized transfer switch, ventilation and installation costs add complexity.

District personnel asked NRG/McClure or internal contractors to return by the next meeting with numbers: (1) estimated costs to convert at‑risk HVAC loops to a glycol mixture and whether the boilers can accept that mix; (2) generator sizing and transfer‑switch costs to power boilers and essential pumps; and (3) whether tying meters together or installing sub‑metering could simplify grant eligibility and equipment ties.

Facility leaders also discussed temporary measures such as renting or borrowing appropriately sized generators for short‑term response while pursuing longer‑term solutions such as targeted line work or partial undergrounding by the utility. The district expects to review cost estimates at the next facilities meeting and said those numbers will determine whether to seek grants, utility funding or pursue regulatory remedies.