Winona Area Public Schools receives a check for $5,523,230!
WINONA, MN., April 2026 — Winona Area Public Schools celebrated the receipt of a $5,523,230.35 reimbursement check from the IRS for two ground-source heat pumps installed at Washington-Kosciusko and Jefferson Elementary Schools. The ground-source heat pumps are eligible for energy tax credits through a funding mechanism known as Elective Pay.
They were installed as part of a facilities modernization effort to improve and maintain the two century-old buildings – historic neighborhood treasures – for the next generation of students. Both listed on the National Historic Register, the two schools had outdated HVAC systems that lacked cooling and ventilation, resulting in poor air quality and were unable to keep students safe and comfortable during periods of extreme heat or cold.
The district worked with Wold Architects & Engineers, Kraus-Andersen, and Darcy Solutions to renovate the two buildings and install ground-source heat pumps with a geothermal dehumidification system—one of the most efficient, cost-effective HVAC technologies to operate. The renovations began during summer 2023 and were completed in time for the 2024-25 school year.
The ground-source heat pumps provide both schools with reliable and efficient heating and cooling, consistent temperature control, improved air quality, and healthier, cooler classrooms for students and staff.
“The geothermal systems have made significant and positive improvements to the learning environment at Jefferson and W-K,” Superintendent Brad Berzinski said. “We were always hopeful that the projects would qualify for the tax credit, but we never counted on it. Now that the funding is secured, it opens up a world of possibilities for strategic, one-time capital investments that will benefit our students and staff for years to come.”
After filing for energy tax credits on December 11, 2025 with Baker Tilly, the district received its reimbursement on March 9, 2026 for a total reimbursement of $5,523,230.35.
The district earned a bonus credit by meeting prevailing wage and apprenticeship requirements. During the project, 12 apprentices gained hands-on experience in implementing next-generation geothermal technology, primarily with UA Local 6 Plumbers & Pipefitters and UA Local 10 Sheet Metal Workers.
Learn more about the projects at Winona Public Schools:
