Before Signing on, Committee Wants More Facts About Renewable Energy Initative

Township committee members said they needed more information and more time in order to weigh the decision on whether or not to join in a renewable energy initiative that would place solar panels on the roof of the Cranford Public Library.

Citing these reasons, committee members informed Library Director John Malar at a meeting yesterday that proposing a resolution in support of the initiative at the next public meeting isn't possible, which is at 8 p.m. tonight.

Malar added that according to the Union County Improvement Authority, panels on top of the Cranford Public Library would reduce the electric cost for the building by at least 10 percent. The library is one of a list of almost 50 structures in the county approved for the initiative.

To meet the requirements of the program, Malar had asked the township to submit a letter by July 31 that states Cranford's interest in the program, and pass a finance board resolution in order to take part in the initiative's $45 million bonds funding the county wide projects. 

"We'd be producing less pollution. I think it'll serve as a good model for other initiatives down the road," he explained.

A project under the Union County Improvement Authority, townships who join the renewable energy initiative will bid together for alternative energy devices, to install on their properties.

Malar said he found out about the program after attending a UCIA meeting. He received a memo last week explaining the library was selected as one of the first buildings to participate in the initiative.

Committee members concerned about aspects of the program included Attorney Carl Woodward, who said towns are only allowed to opt out of the program in extenuating circumstances.

Responding to committee concerns, Malar said he would contact the Union County Improvement Authority for further information.

He plans to ask about the estimated cost of the project for the township and how the organization will divide up responsibility for the repayment of the bond.

In addition, he will ask what entity – the county or the township – would end up owning the solar panels on top of the Cranford Public Library roof.