Students See Brighter Futures With New Lighting

When one is asked to list a few of the numerous resources that a student needs, few recognize the significance of sufficient lighting. Luckily Willows Unified School District, located in Glenn County, recognized the importance and decided to finally do something about it.

The district applied to the California Energy Commission requesting Proposition 39 (K-12) funding for $552,070. Proposition 39 is a California voter approved initiative which closed a tax loophole that had rewarded businesses for moving jobs out of the state. These tax dollars are now being reallocated to invest in our children by providing an environment where students can be ready to learn.

The project which was completed in July 2015, replaced the majority of lighting at Willow High School and Murdock Elementary School, two of the four schools in the district. In addition, new efficient heating and cooling units were also installed. Together, the schools are estimated to save $46,000 per year in energy costs that can be used to educate students.

To see the list of approved Energy Expenditure Plans by district, visit the Energy Commission’s Proposition 39 (K-12) program webpage and click on Expenditure Plans Listing.