In a cost-saving effort, the city of Milton has been in the process of going through an energy audit.

And with preliminary project ideas prepared, here is a look some of the measures Milton could take up.

"We get to look at something that's good for the environment, while at the same time saving our taxpayers dollars," said Ed Spears, the city's director of economic development.

The potential upgrades mentioned in the audit include:

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The solar industry has substantially grown the last few years, with home solar panel usage increasing by 385% from 1,167 in 2018 to 5,666 in 2020 in Northwest Florida, according to annual reports filed with the state's Public Service Commission. 

City Councilman Vernon Compton echoed Spears' comments about this being a multi-pronged effort, adding he supports being more efficient on both the environmental and economic front.

"We're looking at ways to be more cost effective with taxpayer dollars. The more ways that we can conserve energy, both from a cost perspective, but also just wiser use of the energy, just makes sense for our city," Compton said. "So, I'm very supportive of looking at how we can be more effective in doing so."

Back in March, the city of Milton presented initial information on using solar energy through micro-grids for city-owned facilities as a way to mitigate energy consumption costs. Spears presented research then to the council on the feasibility of using solar energy across the city. 

According to Spears, Milton could be fully serviced by about 27 megawatts, which would require a facility that would be in the $54 million to $55 million range to generate enough electricity. Such a facility would require approximately 200 acres of land.

Compton noted there are large investments in renewable energy concepts, like solar power, taking place statewide. In the Panhandle, Florida Power & Light has opened up three solar farms — the newest of which sits in Escambia County.

"It does make sense because we have so much sunshine. So, solar energy opportunities are definitely there for us," Compton said. "Many times, there may be lots of other opportunities to generate energy and we should consider all of them."

Ultimately, Compton said pursuing these energy-saving measures was rewarding.

"We need the trees, but at the same time looking at solar energy, you need the sunlight in those areas that you put your solar energy infrastructure," Compton said. "So it requires a sort of bigger planning effort of where we can do what, but I'm interesting in doing both because I know how much people care about both clean water and clean air."

Spears said the city should have the partnership agreement with the company conducting the engineering evaluation of the projects finalized in June.