This week, Seattle-based Schneider Electric notified Clark County it is terminating a project to build and operate a central heating plant in downtown Vancouver.
Earlier this year, Clark County selected Schneider Electric to conduct feasibility studies and preliminary design on a plant to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and use of fossil fuels over the next 20 years. The plant was expected to generate heat for county buildings and electricity for sale to other customers, using recycled forest debris that would otherwise be burned in open “slash” piles.
In a letter to the Clark County Board of Commissioners, Schneider stated, “Specifically, after losing the ability to apply for the U.S. Department of Treasure Grant due to actions of the City of Vancouver, the receipt of bids from contractors indicate the actual project cost is nearly double what Clark County’s Feasibility Study had indicated.”
Initially, Schneider had committed to spend up to $28 million to build the plant, according to the county.
Clark county will work with Schneider and the City of Vancouver on any outstanding issues, according to a press release issued by the county. In addition, the county said it will continue to pursue alternate ways to implement its sustainability policy.
