Ripon Unified School District is moving forward with a sweeping energy efficiency project estimated at $12.7 million, after selecting Alliance Building Solutions (ABS) to lead the effort. The decision, reached unanimously by district trustees during Tuesday night's meeting, followed a recommendation by the district’s Request for Proposal Committee.

Headquartered in San Diego, ABS is recognized for its work in clean energy, HVAC upgrades, lighting, controls, and electrical solutions. The company, a privately held design-build energy services firm, specializes in delivering sustainable projects for educational, municipal, and private sector clients.

The project is ambitious in both scope and potential impact. Over the next 18 to 24 months, Ripon Unified anticipates saving as much as $38.5 million through a combination of improved efficiency and lower utility costs—more than triple the project’s initial price tag. Funding will be provided through a 0% PG&E On Bill Financing arrangement, alongside a tax-exempt Lease Purchase Financing Agreement with Metro Futures, Inc.

ABS conducted a no-cost audit across multiple district facilities, identifying a range of recommended upgrades. Among the proposed improvements: district-wide LED lighting retrofits, HVAC replacements—especially for aging units—mechanical upgrades, solar photovoltaic system installations, transformer replacements, and enhanced indoor air purification systems.

Implementing these upgrades is expected to lower energy consumption, improve building comfort and safety, and reduce ongoing maintenance needs. LED lighting retrofits should reduce both energy and maintenance costs while improving visibility. Building controls, such as modern thermostats, would help optimize performance. New HVAC systems are projected to lower utility bills and keep classroom temperatures consistent. Solar power arrays would offset much of the district’s remaining utility expenses, while transformer upgrades would ensure stable and efficient power throughout campus buildings. Enhanced air purification systems are also set to target airborne pollutants such as dust, mold, and chemicals.

ABS will manage the full scope of the project, from initial planning to final implementation, minimizing the need for district staff to coordinate the extensive upgrades.

District leaders say the overhaul marks a significant step toward sustainability and financial stewardship, positioning Ripon Unified as a model for cost-effective energy use in California’s public schools.