Winona Area Public Schools in Minnesota receives a $5,523,230 check!
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.
The district worked with Wold Architects & Engineers, Kraus-Andersen, and Darcy Geothermal 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.
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:
