HomeMy WebLinkAbout2017-09-18 ENR Packet
AGENDA
CITY OF MAPLEWOOD
ENVIRONMENTAL AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION
Monday, September 18, 2017
7:00 p.m.
Council Chambers - Maplewood City Hall
1830 County Road B East
1. Call to Order
2. Roll Call
3. Approval of Agenda
4. Approval of Minutes:
a. July 17, 2017
b. August 21, 2017
5. New Business
6. Unfinished Business
a. Comp Plan 2040 Resiliency Chapter Review
7. Visitor Presentations
8. Commissioner Presentations
9. Staff Presentations
a. Environmental and Natural Resources Commission Terms and Appointment
b. Update on Maplewood Community Center Solar Panels
c. Update on Community Solar Garden Subscription Agreement
d. Update on Rush Line
e. Fall Clean Up Campaign Four Weeks in October
f. Nature Center Programs
10. Adjourn
Agenda Item 4.a.
MINUTES
CITY OF MAPLEWOOD
ENVIRONMENTAL AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION
7:00 p.m., Monday, July 17, 2017
Council Chambers, City Hall
1830 County Road B East
1. CALL TO ORDER
A meeting of the Environmental and Natural Resources Commission was called to order at 7:05
p.m. by Chair Palzer.
2. ROLL CALL
Keith Buttleman, Commissioner Present
Mollie Miller, Commissioner Present until 8:35 p.m.
Ann Palzer, Chair Present
Ted Redmond, Commissioner Present
Ryan Ries, Vice Chair Absent
Tom Sinn, Commissioner Present
Staff Present
Shann Finwall, Environmental Planner
3. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Commissioner Miller moved to approve the agenda as submitted.
Seconded by Commissioner Sinn. Ayes All
The motion passed.
4. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Commissioner Miller requested an amendment to the minutes on page 2, item 8 a. adding
Commissioner Miller stated that the commission should also consider recommending the city
sign onto the Compact of Mayors, which is a global initiative to reduce emissions.
Commissioner Redmond moved to approve the June 19, 2017, Environmental and Natural
Resources Commission meeting minutes as amended.
Seconded by Commissioner Miller. Ayes All
The motion passed.
5.NEW BUSINESS
a. 2040 Comprehensive Plan Overview
i. Environmental Planner, Shann Finwall gave an overview of the 2040
Comprehensive Plan. The Environmental and Natural Resources Commission will
review Chapter 3 Sustainability (now called the Resiliency Chapter) and Chapter 7
Natural Resources. The Commission should make recommendations on changes
or new language for the chapters by October. The Commissions
July 17, 2017
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Environmental and Natural Resources Commission Meeting Minutes
recommendations will then be forwarded to the Comprehensive Plan Steering
Committee.Thedraft ComprehensivePlanisscheduledfor completioninearly
spring, at which time it is forwarded to the Metropolitan Council and surrounding
communities for review. The final plan must be adopted by the end of 2018.
Environmental Planner Finwall indicated that Natural Resources Coordinator Gaynor
would be present during the August Commission meeting to review the Natural Resources
Chapter. That chapter was developed with the assistance of ecologists from Applied
Ecological Services. Much of that chapter is still relevant.
The Commission created a Comprehensive Plan Subcommittee to be made up of three
Commissioners that will review and research the new Resiliency Chapter.
Commissioners Miller, Redmond, and Sinn were appointed to the subcommittee. The
subcommittee will present research and findings and offer draft language for review by the
full Commission.
6.UNFINISHED BUSINESS
a. Urban Agriculture Zoning Review
i. Environmental Planner, Shann Finwall gave the update on the Urban Agriculture.
During tonights meeting the commission will finalize the review of crop agriculture
and begin discussions on direct consumer sales.
The ENR Commission finalized their review of crop agriculture and began discussions on
direct to consumer sales. Staff will bring back changes to the Commission for review and
approval. The urban agriculture zoning review is scheduled to be complete by the end of
the year.
7.VISITOR PRESENTATIONS
None present.
8.COMMISSION PRESENTATIONS
None.
9.STAFF PRESENTATIONS
a. Emerald Ash Borer Update
The ENR Commission reviewed a plan in 2011 which was adapted by the City Council.
The Natural Resources Coordinator, Ginny Gaynor will be addressing the ENR
commission in August to give an update on the Emerald Ash Borer policy and be looking
for input from the ENR Commission.
b. Capital Improvement Plan - Tuesday, July 18, 2017, 7 p.m.
During the Planning Commission Meeting there will be a public hearing about the CIP
Plan. The City Council will make the final decision on the CIP in December 2017.
c. National Night Out Tuesday, August 1, 2017
Tuesday, August 1, 2017, from 5 to 9 p.m. is National Night Out. Many neighborhoods
throughout Maplewood will be hosting a variety of special events such as block parties,
July 17, 2017
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Environmental and Natural Resources Commission Meeting Minutes
cookouts, mini carnivals and visits from police and fire personnel. Contact the Maplewood
PoliceDepartmentorvisit thewebsiteat www.maplewoodmn.govclickontheNational
Night out image for information on how to participate. If there are any volunteers contact
staff.
d. Master Water Stewards Tuesday, August 8, 2017
The master water stewards is recruiting the next cohort of stewards. The fresh water
society developed the master water stewards program in 2013 to equip citizens with the
knowledge and skills needed to improve water quality at the grass roots level. You
volunteer 50 hours of community service in the initial year of certificate, at least 25 hours
each subsequent year and attend 8 hours of continuing education to maintain the
certification. Go to the website www.masterwatershedstewards.org for more information
on this program.
e. Nature Center Programs
Environmental Planner, Shann Finwall presented the upcoming Nature Center Programs.
For more information contact the Maplewood Nature Center at (651) 249-2170.
10. ADJOURNMENT
Chair Palzer adjourned the meeting at 8:40 p.m.
July 17, 2017
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Environmental and Natural Resources Commission Meeting Minutes
Agenda Item 4.b.
MINUTES
CITY OF MAPLEWOOD
ENVIRONMENTAL AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION
7:00 p.m., Monday, August 21, 2017
Council Chambers, City Hall
1830 County Road B East
1. CALL TO ORDER
A meeting of the Environmental and Natural Resources Commission was called to order at 7:00
p.m. by Chair Palzer.
2. ROLL CALL
Keith Buttleman, Commissioner Absent
Mollie Miller, Commissioner Absent
Ann Palzer, Chair Present
Ted Redmond, Commissioner Absent
Ryan Ries, Vice Chair Present
Tom Sinn, Commissioner Present
Staff Present
Shann Finwall, Environmental Planner
Ginny Gaynor, Natural Resources Coordinator
Audra Robbins, Parks and Recreation Manager
There was no quorum for the ENR Meeting. The meeting was informational.
3. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Without a quorum the agenda was not voted on and items were discussed informationally.
4. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Due to a lack of quorum the commission could not vote on the approval of the July 17, 2017 ENR
Commission minutes. Approval of minutes will be carried over into the September meeting.
5.NEW BUSINESS
a. Wakefield Lake Water Quality Public Meeting (7 to 8 p.m.)
i. Environmental Planner, Shann Finwall introduced the item and the speaker for the
Wakefield Lake Water Quality presentation.
ii. Erin Anderson Wenz, Barr Engineering, addressed the commission and gave the
presentation for the Wakefield Lake Water Quality.
iii. Paige Ahlborg, Ramsey Washington Metro Watershed District, was present and
available for questions at the meeting.
Six Maplewood residents addressed the commission during the public meeting on the
Wakefield Lake Water Quality issues.
Mark Bradley, Maplewood
Rebecca Ketter, Maplewood
Nancy Monpettit, Maplewood
Kevin Berglund, Maplewood
August 21, 2017
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Environmental and Natural Resources Commission Meeting Minutes
No action was required for this meeting.
b. Comp Plan 2040 Natural Resources Chapter Review
i. Natural Resources Coordinator, Ginny Gaynor addressed the commission
regarding the Comp Plan 2040 and discussed the Natural Resources Chapter
Review.
The draft will go on to the steering committee in November and the city council will be
reviewing this at the end of the year.
c. Emerald Ash Borer Update
i. Natural Resources Coordinator, Ginny Gaynor addressed the commission
regarding the Emerald Ash Borer Update.
6.UNFINISHED BUSINESS
None.
7.VISITOR PRESENTATIONS
Maplewood resident, Mark Bradley, addressed the commission regarding a recommendation for
the definitions for the greenways including wildlife passages, preserve public, reserve private. He
also commented about the Rush Line.
8.COMMISSION PRESENTATIONS
a. Comprehensive Plan Subcommittee Resiliency Chapter
i. Environmental Planner, Shann Finwall briefly discussed the work the
Comprehensive Plan Subcommittee has undertaken on the Resiliency Chapter.
Staff will bring an update back to the ENR meeting in September.
9.STAFF PRESENTATIONS
a. July 20, 2017, City Council Meeting Review
i. Paris Agreement The city council passed a resolution of support for the Paris
Agreement. .
ii. Community Center Solar Panels - The YMCA leases the Community Center. As
part of the lease agreement, the City is required to repair the roof. There are solar
panels on the roof that needed to be removed because of the roof repairs. The
solar panels are currently in storage until the roof is repaired. Staff will update the
commission on this if there are any other changes or updates.
b. Energy Fair Harriet Island Park, September 9 and 10, 2017.
c. Metro Clean Energy Resource Teams Annual Event University of St. Thomas,
September 13, 2017.
d. Nature Center Programs
i. Ginny Gaynor read the upcoming Nature Center Programs. For more information
contact the Maplewood Nature Center at (651) 249-2170.
10. ADJOURNMENT
Chair Palzer adjourned the meeting at 9:21 p.m.
August 21, 2017
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Environmental and Natural Resources Commission Meeting Minutes
Agenda Item 6.a
MEMORANDUM
TO: Environmental and Natural Resources Commission
FROM: Shann Finwall, AICP, Environmental Planner
DATE: September 14, 2017, for the September 19 ENR Commission Meeting
SUBJECT: Comp Plan 2040 Resiliency Chapter Review
Introduction
The Citys 2030 Comprehensive Plan was adopted on January 25, 2010. As required by state
law, Maplewood must update its comprehensive plan to meet policies established by the
Metropolitan Councs Thrive MSP 2040 policy plans. A Steering Committee made up of City
stakeholders has been reviewing various components of the Cits 2040 Comprehensive Plan.
The Environmental and Natural Resources (ENR) Commission has been charged with
reviewing and proposing updates to the the existing Natural Resources Chapter and drafting the
Citys new Resiliency Chapter.
Background
On March 20, 2017, the Environmental and Natural Resources (ENR) Commission
recommended greenhouse gas emission reduction goals as follows:
1. The City should follow the state energy goal guidelines of reducing greenhouse gas
emissions to 20 percent of the Citys 2015 baseline levels by 2050 (an 80 percent
reduction).
2. The City will establish interim goals every 5 to 10 years to assure City emission
reductions track against the primary goal outlined above, and to adjust policies and
strategies as needed.
3. The Citys first interim goal is to reduce City-Wide greenhouse gas emissions to 80% of
2015 Baseline levels by 2025 (a 20 percent reduction).
4. Future interim goals will be established by the City at the completion of the first interim
timeframe.
On April 17, 2017, the ENR Commission recommended that the goals and strategies outlined in
Climate Change Vulnerabilities Report be included in the City comprehensive planning
process.
On July 17, 2017, the ENR Commission reviewed the 2030 Comp Plan Sustainability and
Natural Resources Chapters. The Commission appointed three members to serve on the ENR
Comp Plan Subcommittee. The Subcommittee is charged with coordinating the new Resiliency
Chapter that will include energy and local food goals.
On August 4, 2017, the ENR Comp Plan Subcommittee met to discuss energy goals. The
Subcommittee determined that a solar energy potential study would need to be completed in
order to make more detailed energy goal recommendations.
On August 21, 2017, the ENR Commission reviewed proposed changes to the Natural
Resources Chapter. An updated chapter will be presented to the Commission in October 2017.
Discussion
Sustainability Chapter 2030 Comprehensive Plan
Purpose
Maplewoods 2030 Comprehensive Plan as a whole encouraged sustainable practices through
the use of land, management of water, and protection of the Citys remaining natural resources.
In addition to the overriding theme of environmental stewardship found throughout the plan, the
2030 Comprehensive Plan focused on sustainable policies and guidelines directed toward the
Citys human activities and built environment. The Sustainability Chapter was a tool for action
and served as an important building block to the Citys current sustainable policies and
implementation strategies.
Accomplishments
Energy Policies
Adoption of the Mayors Climate Protection Agreement 2008
Energy Efficiency and Conservation Strategy 2009
Renewable Energy Ordinance 2011
Partners in Energy (Energize Maplewood! Energy Action Plan) - 2015
Organized Trash Hauling - 2012
Adoption of the Green Building Code - 2013
Living Streets Policy - 2013
GreenStep Cities Step 5 Award
City Operations
Creation of a Green Team
Decrease in energy use at City buildings.
Composting in City buildings.
Solar panels (City Hall and Nature Center) - 2011/2012
Created opportunities for community gardens Edgerton Park, Harvest Gardens, Rice
Street Gardens
Green House Gas Emissions
Greenhouse Gas Baseline Inventory 2015
City-wide decrease in greenhouse gas emissions from energy sources - 2016
Updated City Tree Ordinance 2015
Maintaining Tree City USA Standards
Increased Environmental Education Maplewood Seasons, Improved Environmental
Website Pages
Resiliency Chapter 2040 Comprehensive Plan
Purpose
Thrive MSP 2040 encourages resiliency planning as part of the Citys comprehensive plan. A
resiliency plan includes strategies for addressing more severe weather and prolonged
heatwaves, for improved health of residents, and for economic strength and diversity. There are
two strategies to resiliency:
1. Climate mitigation such as promoting land use and development patterns that will
contribute toward achieving the states adopted greenhouse gas emissions goals.
2. Climate adaptation such as recognizing changing rainfall patterns that require additional
stormwater management capacity.
Chapter Elements
The only resiliency element required by state law in the Citys comprehensive plan is the
protection and development of access to direct sunlight for solar energy systems. In addition,
the Citys Resiliency Chapter will include energy and local foods goals. These areas of focus
were chosen because of their importance to Maplewoods quality of life and resiliency efforts
and are not addressed in other comprehensive plan chapters. Additional resiliency goals
designed to help Maplewood prepare for and respond to climate impacts will be addressed
throughout the comprehensive plan including: stormwater management that will help the City
plan for more severe weather and prolonged heatwaves; economic development to ensure
Maplewood businesses remain strong and diverse; Living Streets that will create walkable and
green infrastructure; and land use goals to promote smart growth.
Energy Planning
During the September meeting the ENR Commission will review energy planning goals for the
Resiliency Chapter. In order to establish a baseline in order to establish goals and measure
progress, Maplewood should assess current energy consumption. Maplewoods energy data
below was collected from the Xcel Energy Partners in Energy project and the Regional
Indicators Initiative:
Overall Electricity Use
Overall Natural Gas Use
Overall energy use from electricity, natural gas, fuel oil, diesel, coal and biomass
Sector MMBtu GHG (Tons)
Residential 1,550,423 119,634
Commercial/Industrial 1,667,991 151,024
Solar Potential Study
The ENR Comp Plan Subcommittee determined that a solar energy potential study should be
complete in order to make more detailed energy goal recommendations. Commissioner
Redmond completed a City-Wide and City Facilities Solar Energy Potentials study for the
Commissions review (attached). Following are goals outlined in those studies:
1. Obtain a minimum of 50 percent of all electric energy from renewable sources by 2040.
a. This goal projects a minimum of 20 percent in on-site solar PV generation within
the City.
b. The balance of renewable energy requirements would be met through Xcel
Energys 31.5 percent renewable portfolio requirement.
c. A sub-goal of achieving 34 percent (5.5 on-site solar PV by 2022), and 44
percent (15 percent on-site solar PV) by 2030.
Summary
Once energy goals are established, the ENR Commission will review and recommend strategies
for achieving the goals. Strategies are the tools to achieve desired outcomes such as
programs, regulations, operational procedures, and public investments.
Recommendation
Review the staff report and supporting documents and make a recommendation on the following
goals for the Citys Resiliency Chapter:
1. The City follow the state energy goal guidelines of reducing greenhouse gas emissions
to 20 percent of the Citys 2015 baseline levels by 2050 (an 80 percent reduction).
a. The City establish interim goals every 5 to 10 years to assure City emission
reductions track against the primary goal outlined above, and to adjust policies
and strategies as needed.
b. The Citys first interim goal is to reduce City-Wide greenhouse gas emissions to
80% of 2015 Baseline levels by 2025 (a 20 percent reduction).
c. Future interim goals will be established by the City at the completion of the first
interim timeframe.
2. Obtain a minimum of 50 percent of all electric energy from renewable sources by 2040.
a. This goal projects a minimum of 20 percent in on-site solar PV generation within
the City.
b. The balance of renewable energy requirements would be met through Xcel
Energys 31.5 percent renewable portfolio requirement.
c. A sub-goal of achieving 34 percent (5.5 on-site solar PV by 2022), and 44
percent (15 percent on-site solar PV) by 2030.
3. Adopt a Climate Adaptation Plan that includes adaptation goals and implementation
strategies for dealing with the effects of climate change.
Attachments and Links
1. City-Wide Solar Energy Potential Study
2. City Facilities Solar Energy Potentials
3. Energize Maplewood! Partners in Energy Project: www.maplewoodmn.gov/pie
4. Regional Indicators Initiative: http://www.regionalindicatorsmn.com
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Table of Contents
Introduction Page 1
Solar in Minnesota Page 1
Solar in Maplewood Page 1
Technical Capacity in Maplewood Page 3
Generation Capacity in Maplewood Page 4
Optimized Generation Capacity Page 5
Market Capacity Page 7
Economic Potential for Maplewood Page 9
Recommendations Page 11
Appendix - Economic Potential Calculations Page 12
Introduction
The intent of this study is to support the City of Maplewood in establishing appropriate Renewable
Energy or Solar Energy goals for inclusion in the 2040 Comprehensive Plan. As a visionary planning
document, the goals established for the Comprehensive Plan should be while also
being achievable.
To arrive at recommended goals, this study looks at the existing market of solar energy in the State and
quantity of existing solar pv installations in the City of Maplewood. Next, the study will identify the
technical capacity, total electric generation capacity, and the generation capacity of optimized or
idealized sites within the City. The study then explores defining a growth and market potential from
which a final recommended solar pv adoption goal can be established.
Solar In Minnesota
As of March, 2017, Minnesota has a total of 431.6 megawatts (431,600,000 watts) of solar capacity
installed statewide. Over 32% of that capacity went - in the first three months of 2017 alone. As
of June 2016, there are a total of 1,500 rooftop solar installations in the State. As of the end of 2016 the
th
State of Minnesota ranked 16nationally for total solar energy production capacity.
The solar installation total is enough to power 57,000 homes. The share of the total
electricity use that comes from solar power, however, is less than 0.2%. This indicates great potential for
growth throughout the State. Current solar growth projections for the State equal an additional 1,214
st
MW over the next 5 years - a growth rate that ranks 21nationally.
Costs for Solar PV installation in the State have declined 64% since 2012. Price declines have been
accompanied with increasing rate of investment in solar energy. A total of $461,430,000 has been
invested in Solar PV installations with $336,490,000 in 2016 alone. The industry currently employs 2,872
th
people in 159 companies Statewide. Minnesota employment figures for Solar PV rank 25nationally,
again indicating a potential for employment growth. (source: Solar Energy Industries Association)
Solar In Maplewood
As of June 2014, a total of 20 Solar PV installations existed within
the City of Maplewood. As shown on the graphic to the Right,
the distribution of Soalr PV installations is relatively even with all
but two census tracts having 1-4 Solar PV installations. Only two
census tracts are yet to have any installations.
The City of Maplewood has approximately 7.07% of the total
Solar PV installations located in Ramsey County, slightly behind
the Ramsey County population share of 7.5%.
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2
Technical Capacity in Maplewood
Technical capacity represents the total rooftop solar pv potential assuming economics and grid
integration are not constraints. The technical capacity is calculated assuming a solar PV panel size of
250 watts and an average efficiency of 15.3%. Potential solar panel installations are then based on the
total rooftop potential which meet the following criteria:
Sunlight Installation size Space & obstacles
Every included panel Every included roof has a Only areas of the roof with
receives at least 75% of the total potential installation size enough space to install 4
maximum annual sun in the of at least 2kW adjacent solar panels are
county. For Ramsey County, included. Obstacles like
the threshold is 984 kWh/kW. chimneys are taken into
account.
Potential by Roof Type
Maplewood Technical Capacity
Based on the criteria outlined above,
there are a total of 7,700 rooftops in
the City of Maplewood which are
viable for solar pv installations.
The potential installed technical
energy capacity for all rooftops
meeting selection criteria totals 157
Megawatts DC. As illustrated on the
charts to the right, over 56% of that
potential is located on flat roofs, with
Number of Rooftop Potentials by Installation Size (small)
another 18% on South facing sloped
roofs.
The distribution of size potential is
represented in the two carts to the
right. The vast majority of rooftop
potentials are viable for solar pv
systems of 20 kw DC capacity and
below.
Number of Rooftop Potentials by Installation Size (large)
3
21.7 MWh
Annually
12.0 MWh
Annually
Census Census
46.1 MWh
Tract Tract
Annually
15.2 MWh
2301 2401
Annually
8.2 MWh
Annually
Census Census Census
Tract Tract Tract
24.2 MWh
2201 2202 2302
Census Tract 2402
Annually
30.5 MWh
Annually
Generation Potential By Tract
Census
Tract
Census Tract 2201:
2501
8.2 Mwh (4.6% of Total)
Census Tract 2202:
15.2 Mwh (8.5% of Total)
Census Tract 2302:
12.0 Mwh (6.7% of Total)
Census Tract 2301:
21.7 Mwh (12.2% of Total)
Census Tract 2401:
46.1 Mwh (25.8% of Total)
Census Tract 2402:
24.2 Mwh (13.6% of Total)
Census
Tract
Census Tract 2501:
30.5 Mwh (17.1% of Total)
2504
Census Tract 2504:
11.3 Mwh (6.3% of Total)
11.3 MWh
Census Tract 2503
Annually
9.2 Mwh (5.2% of Total)
Total Potential: 178.4 MWh
9.2 MWh
Annually
Annually
Census
Tract
2503
4
Generation Capacity in Maplewood
Generation capacity represents the total amount of energy generation potential represented by the
total Technical Capacity of the City. The generation capacity is calculated using City-specific annual
insolation (exposure to energy) levels for all rooftops throughout the City, applied to the qualifying
rooftop installation potentials identified in the Technical Capacity of Maplewood.
Maplewood Generation Capacity
The result is a potential annual rooftop solar
pv energy generation of 178,400,000 KWH.
This is equal to approximately 59% of the
total annual electric use.
The total rooftop solar PV capacity
can be broken down by Census Tract and
by roof type throughout the City. The
breakdown based on Census Tract is
illustrated on the graphic to the left while the
capacity based on roof type is illustrated on
the chart to the right.
Optimized Generation Capacity
Though the total energy generation outlined above is reasonably feasible, for purposes of establishing
City-Wide potentials expectations it is appropriate to modify the total generation to reflect the most
cost efficient installation potentials. Solar PV installations which have less than ideal orientations capture
less light per panel and therefore generate less energy per dollar spent. Establishing an Optimized
Capacity establishes the cost effective solar pv installation potential based on current technology.
In the Maplewood region, the most efficient solar PV installations have a southern orientation capturing
mid-day sunlight. Western orientations, while less efficient, are still typically considered efficient
installation orientations capturing afternoon and evening sunlight. Therefore, the recommended total
optimized rooftop solar pv generation capacity for the City of Maplewood is 137.6 Mwh annually
(102.4MWh flat roof capacity and 35.2 Mwh South facing sloped roof capacity).
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6
Market Capacity
Adequately anticipating the potential for new solar PV installations must consider not only the potential
technical and generation capacities, but also the likely market capacity. As an emerging energy
sector, there is little data upon which to base projections for likely installation of rooftop solar PV in the
private sector. Additionally, the solar PV market is rapidly changing in both sophistication as well as in
pricing and cost effectiveness. As noted in the Solar in Minnesota section of this report, the installed
cost of solar PV in Minnesota has dropped 64% since 2012 and is expected to continue to decline in the
coming years. Projections of solar PV installations should anticipate a continued increase in the number
of solar pv installations year over year.
Market History
According to the Department of Energy, since 2005 the residential solar PV market has grown at an
annual rate of 51%. A growth rate that has resulted in a residential solar PV capacity 95 times larger in
just 12 years. In the State of Minnesota, the new installed capacity that went on line in 2016 was 258.9
MW; equal to 150% of the cumulative total of all solar PV installations in the state for all previous years.
Based on installation count, solar PV Installations in the City of Maplewood equal 1.33% of the total solar
PV installations State-wide. This represents a share of Minnesota PV installations equal to 182% of the
share of State-wide population.
State Market Projections
The Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) projects solar PV installation capacity in the State to
increase 1,214 MW by 2022. This is equal to a sustained increase of installed capacity of 32% annually.
The timeframe of this projection overlaps with the currently established Federal Income Tax incentive
program. For years 2022 and beyond, the tax incentive is expected to be phased out for residential solar
pv installations, but a smaller incentive (10%) will remain for commercial property owners while cost
projections anticipate a continued decrease in installation costs.
Maplewood Market Projections
Simply anticipating the solar adoption rate within the City of Maplewood to maintain share of
State-wide rates would mean an annual increase of 32% through 2022. Following the projected
elimination of the residential portion and a scaling back of the commercial portion of the Federal
residential tax incentive, a reasonable assumption may be a partial reduction in the annual growth rate
for year 2033 and a few years following. As the market continues to mature through the
again, be reasonable to assume another reduction in the growth rate of new installed capacity
beginning in year 2031.
rd
For purposes of this study, we recommend a 2/3reduction of the annual rate of growth for 2023 and
then again at 2030. This would result in a growth rate of 32% through 2022, an 11% growth rate for years
2023 through 2030, and a mature market growth rate of 3.5% beginning in 2031.
Maplewood Solar PV Projection
Year Cumulative Installed Annual Generation % of City Electric Total Renewable Share*
2022 17.4 MW 16.9 Mwh 5.5% 37.0%
2025 25.7 MW 25.3 Mwh 8.2% 39.7%
2030 47.3 MW 46.5 Mwh 15.1% 46.6%
2040 69.0 MW 67.9 Mwh 22.1% 53.6%
* This number includes Xcel required portfolio mix of 31.5% renewable energy sources.
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Economic Potential for Maplewood
As with all energy sources, solar PV installations require investment up-front for construction and
installation as well as annual maintenance costs. When measured on a per unit of energy consumed,
these costs are similar, or more competitive than, the costs associated with other energy sources. Unlike
almost all other forms of electricity, however, a significant portion of the initial and on-going costs
associated with solar PV are capable of remaining in the local economy. This means that for
communities who plan carefully for the increase in renewable energy, a local economic development
potential exists.
Economic Potential
According to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), the 69 MW of additional solar pv
capacity which could be installed in Maplewood by 2040 has a total construction value of $217.4 million
and an total annual maintenance value of $18.8 million (2017 dollars). The potential share of those
investments for the local economy totals 790 jobs and $68.9 million in local spending during construction
and 46 jobs and $2.9 million in local spending for maintenance annually through the lifetime of the
installations. Below is a breakout of the Maplewood Economic Development potential of 69 MW of new
installed solar pv capacity:
Local Economic Impacts - Summary Results
Jobs Earnings Output Value Added
During construction period Million 2017$ Million 2017$ Million 2017$
Project Development and Onsite Labor Impacts 280 $37.34 $50.76 $41.55
Construction and Interconnection Labor 184 $32.10
Construction Related Services 96 $5.24
Equipment and Supply Chain Impacts 270 $17.60 $71.69 $35.29
Induced Impacts 241 $13.94 $38.62 $21.03
Total Impacts 790 $68.88 $161.07 $97.86
Annual Annual Annual Annual
Jobs Earnings Output Output
During operating years (annual) Million 2017$ Million 2017$ Million 2017$
Onsite Labor Impacts 37 $2.33 $2.33 $2.33
Local Revenue and Supply Chain Impacts 3 $0.18 $0.47 $0.47
Induced Impacts 6 $0.37 $1.03 $0.56
Total Impacts 46 $2.87 $3.83 $3.36
Additional Economic Benefit
In addition to the local re-investment share of the construction and maintenance costs, Maplewood
residents and business owners who invest in solar PV will have direct economic benefit in the form of
savings. These savings represent increased economic potential within the City of Maplewood and
include:
1) All residents and businesses who install solar PV prior to the phase out of the Federal Tax
Incentive will be able to save 30% of the cost of installation. At the projected additional
installation through 2022 outlined in the previous section, this could mean up to $17 million in
savings and re-investment potential for the City of Maplewood.
2) Many owners who install solar pv see a decrease in their annual energy costs (including solar pv
project finance costs). Though savings vary, a conservative estimate of the out-of-pocket
savings for residents and businesses in Maplewood is $250,000 to $750,000 annually.
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Recommendations
Comprehensive Plan Goal - Solar Energy
We recommend the City of Maplewood establish a goal of obtaining a minimum of 50% of all electric
energy from renewable sources by 2040. This goal projects a minimum of 20% in on-site solar PV
generation within the City. The balance of renewable energy requirements would be met through Xcel
31.5% renewable portfolio requirement. We recommend a sub-goal of achieving 34% (5.5 on-
site solar PV) by 2022, and 44% (15% on-site solar PV) by 2030.
Planning for Economic Potential
As the Federal Tax Incentive represents a major economic potential for the City of Maplewood, we
recommend the City of Maplewood establish policies to aggressively advocate for solar PV
development beginning in 2018. Further, we recommend the City establish policies to advocate or
incentiveize the green economy opportunities in local job creation and investment represented by the
increased solar installations outlined. Potential policies include:
1) Coordinate with Ramsey County and Minnesota PACE to develop a communication plan to
review the financing opportunities and financial advantages available to utilizing PACE
financing for Solar PV, especially while the Federal Tax Incentive remains in effect through 2021.
2) Develop and distribute an informational brochure outlining the current incentives available to
Maplewood residents and businesses as well as the potential short and long-term benefits of
installing solar PV. Work with City businesses and community groups to assure broad distribution.
3) Coordinate with Ramsey County to explore the development of new incentive programs,
particularly those aimed at low and moderate income residents. Program opportunities may
include development of LIHEAP based funding sources.
4) Conduct a Green Economy Business and Economic Development Potentials study to identify
strategies in leveraging economic opportunities in the Green Economy and emerging
renewable energy field. Study should focus not only on national, state, and metro area trends,
but should identify strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats unique to Maplewood. The
goal of establishing a robust business atmosphere capable not only of serving Maplewood
renewable energy and green economy needs but fulfilling a unique economic niche within the
Metropolitan area.
5) Conduct a site-specific solar energy capacity study to identify the 20 most beneficial sites for
solar PV development. Use the site-specific study as the basis of outreach to the owners of the
top 20 sites, educating them on the opportunities and benefits of installing solar PV within the
existing timeframe of the Federal Tax Incentive. Study should occur by mid-2018 to support
leverage of tax incentive potential.
11
Appendix - Economic Potential Calculations
CSP Trough Plant - Project Data Summary
Project Location Minnesota
Year of Construction 2017
Solar Direct Normal Resource (kWh/m2/day) 4.25
Project Size - Nameplate Capacity (MW) 69
Solar Field Aperture Area (square meters) 535,691
Plant Capacity Factor 23.3%
Construction Cost ($/KW) $3,150
Annual Direct O&M Cost ($/KW) $7.00
Money Value (Dollar Year) 2017
Project Construction Cost $217,364,902
Local Spending $87,091,483
Local Sales Tax $10,364,902
Total Annual Operational Expenses $18,798,623
Direct Operating and Maintenance Costs $483,000
Local Spending $192,413
Other Annual Costs $18,315,623
Local Spending -$41,901
Debt and Equity Payments $0
Property Taxes $0
Sales Tax -$93,930
Insurance $0
Land Purchase $52,029
Land Lease $0
12
Appendix - Economic Potential Calculations
Local Economic Impacts - Summary Results
Jobs Earnings Output Value Added
During construction period Million 2017$ Million 2017$ Million 2017$
Project Development and Onsite Labor Impacts 280 $37.34 $50.76 $41.55
Construction and Interconnection Labor 184 $32.10
Construction Related Services 96 $5.24
Equipment and Supply Chain Impacts 270 $17.60 $71.69 $35.29
Induced Impacts 241 $13.94 $38.62 $21.03
Total Impacts 790 $68.88 $161.07 $97.86
Annual Annual Annual Annual
Jobs Earnings Output Output
During operating years (annual) Million 2017$ Million 2017$ Million 2017$
Onsite Labor Impacts 37 $2.33 $2.33 $2.33
Local Revenue and Supply Chain Impacts 3 $0.18 $0.47 $0.47
Induced Impacts 6 $0.37 $1.03 $0.56
Total Impacts 46 $2.87 $3.83 $3.36
Notes: Earnings and Output values are millions of dollars in year 2017 dollars. Jobs are full-time equivalent for one year.
Plant workers includes field technicians, administration and management.
Economic impacts "During operating years" represent impacts that occur from plant operations/expenditures.
The analysis does not include impacts associated with spending of plant "profits."
Totals may not add up due to independent rounding.
Detailed CSP Trough Plant Project Data Costs
Construction Costs Cost Local Share
Materials
Construction (concrete rebar, equip, roads and site prep) $5,523,679 95%
Materials Subtotal$5,523,679
Labor
Sitework and Infrastructure $1,558,386 100%
Field Erection$18,627,381
100%
Support Structures$1,100,516
100%
Piping$6,077,101
100%
Electrical$2,424,691
100%
Labor Subtotal$29,788,076
13
A
making cl ge peJSonol
paleBLUEdot uc
paleBLUEdot lie
2515 White Bear Ave, AS
Suite 177
Maplewood,MN 55109
l,.l
making ctge personal .\\
Prepared by:
paleBLUEdot LLc
Table of Contents
Section 1: Introduction
Section 2: City Hall and Police Solar Potential
Section 3: Public Works Solar Potential
Section 4: Community Center Solar Potential
Section 5: McKnight Fire Station Solar Potential
Section 6: Fire Station 2 Solar Potential
Section 7: Fire Station 3 Solar Potential
Section 8: Nature Center Solar Potential
Section 9: Environmental Benefits
Section 10: Conclusion and Next Steps
S e c t i o n
01
Introduction
eDocument
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1
Introduction
The intent of this study is to determine the solar pv capacity and energy potential of all City of
Maplewood facilities. Local Government agencies are in a unique position to illustrate leadership in
transitioning their communities to renewable energy. Through understanding the potential for each of
the building sites, this study looks to support the City of Maplewood in identifying potential solar pv
installations at City facilities in support of the Renewable Energy or Solar Energy goals for inclusion
in the 2040 Comprehensive Plan.
The solar pv capacities and annual energy generation numbers included in this report should be
considered preliminary. Though generation numbers are based on site-specific solar exposure and
efficiency ratio, a more detailed study which carefully reviewed existing rooftop conditions and
adjacent site solar obstructions.
2
S e c t i o n
02
City Hall and Police
Facility Solar Potential
eDocument
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3
City Hall and Police
Site Insolation Assessment
The graphic below illustrates the annual insolation (amount of solar exposure) for the Maplewood City
Hall and Police building. Portions of the roof with lighter colors receive more sun light annually while
portions with darker colors have more shading occurring throughout the year. In general, the SouthEast
facing sloped roof sections are optimal exposures while the Southwest facing and flat roof portions are
fair exposures. All North facing sloped roof portions are poor exposures for solar pv installations.
4
City Hall and Police
Site Design Test
Below is a preliminary solar PV concept design for purposes of assessing the potential of the building site.
This preliminary concept tests the possible solar PV installation size and annual energy generation
copocity. Design concept uses a flush rock mounted system with slope equoI to roofslope.
r Report lill! System Metrics 9 ProjenLocation
Prc>ji!Ct Name Maplewood City Hall and Police Design Design I
Module DC
Project Description Mapl wood C1ty Ho1lland Police
14&.5kW
Nameplato
Prc>je<t Address 1830 CO\\lnty Rd 8 E, Maplewoc>d. MN 55109
lnverterAC 121.9kW
Namepl;ne load Ratio: 1.20
Ted Redmond
Prepared By
tredmond@paleblu..doLorg
Aonual Production 182.9 MWh
Performance Ratio
78.8'11
kWh/kWp 1.248.8
TMY. 10kmgnd(45.05·, 93.05), NREL
Weather Dataset
(prc>spenor)
51e91ll3<6ao(a43eb0e5b t60d1dff2d
Simulator Vers.lon
899790e3td
() Sources of System Loss
lill! Monthly Production
30k
20k
Reflection: 3.2%
Mlsmatc:h:
lOk
111111 IIIII
Temperature:S.7 J
feb f4ar Apr May fun
Jul Auo Sep ocr Nov De<:
Jan
t Annual Production
a Condition Set
De$criprion Output 'II Delta
OescripUon n Sel 1
AnnualGlobal 1,393.0
Weather Dataset TMY.10km gnd (45.05,·93.05).NREL (prospector)
POA lrradlance 1,5849 13.8i6
Solar An,gJe Location Meteo Latllng
Shaded lrrad .ance 1,541.5 ·2.7'11
lrtadlanct!'
( Whim'! Transposition Modet Perez Model
after 1,492.9
·H'II
h'rad&ance after SOihng 1,463.0 ·2.091>
Temperature Model Sandi.> Model
To\[al Colleaor lrradlance
1,463. 1 0.0%
perilture Delta
Rad<Type Tem
Nameplate 216,556.7
AxedTllt ·3.56 .0.075 3'(
Output at lrradiance levels 212,012.0
·2.1"
odcl Parameurs
Temperarure M
Flush Mount ·2.81 .0.0455 o·c
Output at Cell Temperature Derate 199,968.7
·5.796
3'(
·3.56 .0.075
Ee&St·WeSt
Output Arter MJsmalth 193,628.2
·3.2'11
Energy
Carport ·3.56 .0.075 3' C
lkWh}
Optimal DCOutput 192,838.4
·0 496
.().2,.
ConStriUned DC Outpvt 192,527.3 M A A D
N
M
0
Sc>lllng('IIJ
Inverter Output 183,851.0 o4.S%
182,931.0
Energy to Grid .O.S'K
Irradiation Variance 596
Temperature Metrits:
Cell Temperature Spread
·c
Avg. Operaung AmbtentTemp 10.2'C
Module BinningRanae
·2.596tc>2.596
Avg. Operating Cell Temp 23.o·c
AC System Derate 0.5091>
Slmutatlon Memes
Char.acu.r1zadon
Operating Hoors 46?7
Module
Module Characteri-zations
SolVed Hours 46?7
SIE·V·285(2016.S) Energy) Default Characterlzatlc>n. PAN
Oevlce Chal'ilcterlution
Characterizations
St£5300 (240'1) (Sthcc>n Energy) Default Characterization
5
poleBLUEdot u.c
City Hall and Police
'
"
S Components m Wiring Zones
Componenr Name Count Oesc;rlptfon String Size Strin;ging Strat egy
Combiner Pole:s
Inverters SoE5300 (140V) (Silicon Energy) 23(121.9kW) W1rlngZone 12 7-13 Along Racking
soo MCM (Copper) 31 (1,927.711)
1-fome Runs
:::Field Segments
Home Runs 1/0 AWG (,Aiumrnum) 31 (894.6 It)
Combiners 1 Input Combiner 47
Orlentat.lon Frame Slze
Oe!:crlptlon Ra<klng nit Allmuth lnuarow Spatlng Frames Modules Power
Combiners 2 input Combin I S
Fleld Segment t Rush Mount lJindS<.Jpe (Homomat)
26' 1 53.25' O.Oit 1x1 194 194 55.HW
46 (3,133.4 h)
Strings 10 AWG (Copp.,
Field Segmentl Rush Mount Lind.s<ape (Honzontal) 1 53.25' 1x1 10 2.85 W
26" O.Oit 10
Sohcon Energy,So E-V-285 (2016.5) 514 (146.5
Field Segment 3 AushMounl LandS<'ape (Homontal) 26" 243.25' 0.0 11 20 20 S.70kW
1Xl
Modules
kW)
(185W)
243.25·
Field Segment 5 Rush Moum t.and.scape (Hont.Ontal) 26" O.Oft 1x1 1 2 12 3.4HW
Landscape (HortzonG>1) 48
Foeld Segment 6 RushMoum 26" 243.25" O.Oft 1xl 48 13.7kW
Field Segment 6 FtxedTilt LandS<ape (tfomontal) 30" 1 5325" 2.11l 1xl
56 56 16.0kW
Re-Id Segment 7 Fixed Till e (Horizontal) 30' 1 53.25" 2.1 1l lxl 16.lkW
57 57
30
Held Segment8 FU( Tilt Lands.:ape (Horuonta1) 1 53.25" 2.111 1xl 40 40 114kW
18.
Rush Mount Landscape! (Honzontaf) 1 77
Aeld Segment 9 O.O it 1X1 n 21.9kW
Q Detailed Layout
Site Energy Production to Use Ratio
Conclusion City Hall and Police Facility
The likely cost effective solar pv installation potential is
a 145.5 KW solar installation with a total annual energy
Annual Energy Use:
795 MWh
generation of 182.9 MWH. Probable construction
Annual Energy Production:
182.9 MWh
installation cost for this installation is $364,0C:O- $470,000
Ratio of Production to Use: 23%
6 poleBLUEdot u.c
S e c t i o n
03
Public Works
Facility Solar Potential
eDocument
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7
Public Works
Site Insolation Assessment
The graphic below illustrates the annual insolation (amount of solar exposure) for the Maplewood Public
Works building. Portions of the roof with lighter colors receive more sun light annually while portions with
darker colors have more shading occurring throughout the year. In general, the orientation
and surrounding obstructions make for an optimal solar PV installation. The portions of the roof with roof
mounted equipment are fair exposures, while the southern half of the building is ideal.
8
Public Works
Site Design Test
Below is a preliminary solar PV concept design for purposes of assessing the potential of the building site.
This preliminary concept tests the possible solar PV installation size and annual energy generation
capacity. This design uses a 10 degree fixed rack mounting maximizing annual energy production for
roof configuration and obstructions. This summer output is maximized while winter
output is minimized. Note: a 30 degree racking system would result in a 38% reduction in number of
panels and a 34% reduction in energy production, but would yield a higher Mwh per installation dollar.
9
Public Works
Site Energy Production to Use Ratio
Conclusion - Public Works Facility
The likely cost effective solar pv installation potential is
a 316.1 KW solar installation with a total annual energy
Annual Energy Use:
355 MWh
generation of 406.8 MWH. Probable construction
Annual Energy Production:
406.8 MWh
installation cost for this installation is $780,000 - $925,000
Ratio of Production to Use:
115%
10
S e c t i o n
04
Community Center
Facility Solar Potential
eDocument
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11
Community Center
Site Insolation Assessment
The graphic below illustrates the annual insolation (amount of solar exposure) for the Maplewood
Community Center building. Portions of the roof with lighter colors receive more sun light annually while
portions with darker colors have more shading occurring throughout the year. In general, the
orientation and surrounding obstructions make for an good solar PV installation. The portions of the roof
with roof mounted equipment are poor exposures, while the Southwestern quarter of the building is
ideal.
12
Community Center
Site Design Test
Below is a preliminary solar PV concept design for purposes of assessing the potential of the building site.
This preliminary concept tests the possible solar PV installation size and annual energy generation
capacity. This design uses a 10 degree fixed rack mounting maximizing annual energy production for
roof configuration and obstructions. This summer output is maximized while winter
output is minimized. Note: a 30 degree racking system would result in a 38% reduction in number of
panels and a 34% reduction in energy production, but would yield a higher Mwh per installation dollar.
13
Community Center
Site Energy Production to Use Ratio
Conclusion - Public Works Facility
The likely cost effective solar pv installation potential is
a 84.5 KW solar installation with a total annual energy
Annual Energy Use:
1,930 MWh
generation of 109 MWH. Probable construction
Annual Energy Production:
109 MWh
installation cost for this installation is $211,000 - $274,000
Ratio of Production to Use:
6%
14
S e c t i o n
05
McKnight Fire Station
Facility Solar Potential
eDocument
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15
McKnight Fire Station
Site Insolation Assessment
The graphic below illustrates the annual insolation (amount of solar exposure) for the Maplewood
McKnight Fire Station building. Portions of the roof with lighter colors receive more sun light annually
while portions with darker colors have more shading occurring throughout the year. In general, the
orientation and surrounding obstructions make for an optimal solar PV installation. The
rooftop mounted mechanical equipment, especially the rooftop mounted ductwork
significantly impact the efficiency of the solar array. Relocation of ductwork should be explored.
16
McKnight Fire Station
Site Design Test
Below is a preliminary solar PV concept design for purposes of assessing the potential of the building site.
This preliminary concept tests the possible solar PV installation size and annual energy generation
capacity. This design uses a 10 degree fixed rack mounting maximizing annual energy production for
roof configuration and obstructions. This summer output is maximized while winter
output is minimized. Note: a 30 degree racking system would result in a 38% reduction in number of
panels and a 34% reduction in energy production, but would yield a higher Mwh per installation dollar.
17
Community Center Facility
Site Energy Production to Use Ratio
Conclusion - Public Works Facility
The likely cost effective solar pv installation potential is
a 79.8 KW solar installation with a total annual energy
Annual Energy Use:
93.5 MWh
generation of 94.1 MWH. Probable construction
Annual Energy Production:
94.1 MWh
installation cost for this installation is $199,000 - $260,000
Ratio of Production to Use:
100%
18
S e c t i o n
06
Fire Station 2
Facility Solar Potential
eDocument
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19
Fire Station 2
Site Insolation Assessment
The graphic below illustrates the annual insolation (amount of solar exposure) for the Maplewood Fire
Station 2 building. Portions of the roof with lighter colors receive more sun light annually while portions
with darker colors have more shading occurring throughout the year. In general, the
orientation and surrounding obstructions make for a good solar PV installation. The sloped
roof and rooftop mounted mechanical equipment, impact the efficiency of the solar array.
20
Fire Station 2
Site Design Test
Below is a preliminary solar PV concept design for purposes of assessing the potential of the building site.
This preliminary concept tests the possible solar PV installation size and annual energy generation
copocity. Design concept uses a flush rock mounted system with slope equoI to roofslope.
lol!l. System Metrics
r Report
Project Maplewood RreStation 2
Design O<?sign 1 (copy)
Project Module DC
87.8WI
Fif't! Stc1Uon 2 FacJhty
Oesc:rJpdon
Name-plat-e
1955 Oarence Avenue Maplewood,MN
lnvenerAC 63.6 kW
Project Addtess
55109
Load Ratio:1.38
Nameplate
91.63MWh
AnnualProduction
Ted Redmond
Prepared By
IJ'"edmond@lpaleblue-dol.org
Performance R.atfo 76.8%
1,043.8
kWhii<Wp
TMV,IOkm grid (45.05.93.05L NREL
Weather Dataset
(pcospcctort
S1d1dlf2d·
Simulator V@f'Sion
899790e3cd
Q Sources of System Loss
Wll.Monthly Productlon
15>
10>
c
Sk
11.,.m,.,rature:6.7J
Feb trtar Apr )unJvl Avg S!E"p O<t Nov Dec
Jon
t AnnualProduction
a Condition Set
Description Output
Description Condition Set 1
"'Delco
AnnualGlobalHomontallrradianc:e
1.393.0
TMV,10km grid (45.05.·9305), NREL (prospector)
POA lrradiance 1,359.5
·2.4"'
Solar Angle Location Meteo Lat/Lng
1.6,
Shaded lr dl4nce 1.338.2
lrradtance
Transposition Modet Perez Model
(I<W Im'l
lrradiance after Reflec:tfon 1.2848 -4.0'K
lrradllJnce aher Soiling 1,259.1
·2.0'K
SandiJ Model
Temper-atureModel
Total Collector lrradlance 1,259.1 0.
RackTYP"
Nameplate 111.674.7
Temperature Model Parameters Feted Tilt
3"C
.().075
·3.56
Outpu1 at1"ad1.1nce tevels 108,100.0
·2.7"'
Flush ounL ·2.81 ·0.04S5
Output at Cell Temper.;nure Of:rate 101,423.3 -6.7,
OlltputAiter Mismatch 96,703.4 -4.7,
A 0 N 0
M A M
Energy
somng l
(kWh)
96,487.2
OptirnaJ DC Output .0.2'Mo
Constrained DC OUtpUt 96,453.2
0.
S911
ln"adl.adonVariance
tnvetter OUtpUt 92.086.4 -4.5...
Cell Tem pe..-,tureSpread · C
Energy LO Grid 91,626.0
.Q.S"'
Modute 8inmng Ra11ge
10.2' C
Avg.. Operaong Ambient Temp AC System Derate
0.50!6
23.1 c
Avg.Opera11ng Cell Temp
Module Characterization
ModulCharM.ttrf2.atJons
Slmulauon Meuics
StE·V.28S (2016.5) (Sditon Ene-rgy) Default Charactem·atJOn, PAN
Opera1ingHours
Devlct> Ch01ractcrlution
Componen\\
SOlved HOUf'S
SIES300 (240\\1) (Sohcoo Energy) Oefautt Charaaeriza-uon
21
poleBLUEdot u.c
Fire Station 2
Site Energy Production to Use Ratio
Conclusion - Public Works Facility
The likely cost effective solar pv installation potential is
a 87.8 KW solar installation with a total annual energy
Annual Energy Use:
116.3 MWh
generation of 91.6 MWH. Probable construction
Annual Energy Production:
91.6 MWh
installation cost for this installation is $220,000 - $285,000
Ratio of Production to Use:
79%
22
S e c t i o n
07
Fire Station 3
Facility Solar Potential
eDocument
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23
Fire Station 3
Site Insolation Assessment
The graphic below illustrates the annual insolation (amount of solar exposure) for the Maplewood Fire
Station 3 building. Portions of the roof with lighter colors receive more sun light annually while portions
with darker colors have more shading occurring throughout the year. In general, the
orientation and surrounding obstructions make for a fair solar PV installation. The significant older
growth trees immediately to the South of the building impact the efficiency of the solar array and
suggest an array designed for maximum summer energy production when sunlight angles are high.
24
Fire Station 3
Site Design Test
Below is a preliminary solar PV concept design for purposes of assessing the potential of the building site.
This preliminary concept tests the possible solar PV installation size and annual energy generation
capacity. This design uses a 10 degree fixed rack mounting maximizing annual energy production for
roof configuration and obstructions. This summer output is maximized while winter
output is minimized.
25
Fire Station 2 Facility
Site Energy Production to Use Ratio
Conclusion - Public Works Facility
The likely cost effective solar pv installation potential is
a 42.5 KW solar installation with a total annual energy
Annual Energy Use:
50.5 MWh
generation of 52.7 MWH. Probable construction
Annual Energy Production:
52.7 MWh
installation cost for this installation is $107,000 - $145,000
Ratio of Production to Use:
100%
26
S e c t i o n
08
Nature Center
Facility Solar Potential
eDocument
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27
Nature Center
Site Insolation Assessment
The graphic below illustrates the annual insolation (amount of solar exposure) for the Maplewood Nature
Center building. Portions of the roof with lighter colors receive more sun light annually while portions with
darker colors have more shading occurring throughout the year. In general, the b
and surrounding obstructions make for a fair solar PV installation. The significant older
growth trees surrounding the building as well as the multiple roof levels over a small area
impact the efficiency of the solar array.
28
Nature Center
Site Design Test
Below is a preliminary solar PV concept design for purposes of assessing the potential of the building site.
This preliminary concept tests the possible solar PV installation size and annual energy generation
capacity. This design uses a 10 degree fixed rack mounting maximizing annual energy production for
roof configuration and obstructions. This summer output is maximized while winter
output is minimized.
27
Nature Center
Site Energy Production to Use Ratio
Conclusion - Public Works Facility
The likely cost effective solar pv installation potential is
a 4.6 KW solar installation with a total annual energy
Annual Energy Use:
20.5 MWh
generation of 5.6 MWH. Probable construction
Annual Energy Production:
5.7 MWh
installation cost for this installation is $13,000 - $17,000
Ratio of Production to Use:
27%
30
S e c t i o n
09
Environmental Benefits
For City of Maplewood
eDocument
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31
Environmental Benefits for Maplewood
Increasing use of Solar PV for electricity generation for City of Maplewood facilities will offer additional
indirect benefits, namely the reduction of Greenhouse Gas emissions (GHG) and the reduction of fresh
water use.
Greenhouse Gas and Electricity The Water/Energy Nexus
Greenhouse gas emissions form, primarily, from the Water and energy are inextricably linked in our
burning of fossil fuels. The carbon footprint of current modern infrastructure. Water is used in all
electricity is the total greenhouse gas emissions phases of energy production. Energy is required
throughout the life-cycle from source fuel to extract, pump and deliver water for use, and to
extraction through to end user electricity. treat waste-water so it can be safely returned to
According to the Intergovernmental Panel on the environment. The cumulative impact of
Climate Change (IPCC), the median greenhouse electricity generation on our water sources can
be significant, and varies by fuel source.
gas emission, measured in metric tonnes, for 1
Gwh of electricity by fuel type is as follows:
According to The River Network, the average fresh
water use for 1 Gwh of electricity by fuel type is as
Electricity Source Metric Tonnes follows:
GHG/MWh
Hydroelectric .004 Electricity Source Gallons/MWh
Wind .012 Hydroelectric 29,920
Nuclear .016 Wind 1
Biomass .018 Nuclear 2,995
Geothermal .045 Biomass 2
Solar PV .046 Geothermal 2
Natural gas .469 Solar PV 2
Natural gas 1,512
Coal 1.001
Coal 7,143
Current Maplewood Electric Grid Profile
According to Xcel Energy, based on the Electricity Supply by Energy
Source for their Upper Midwest region, the average greenhouse gas
emissions per 1 Mwh of electricity is .365 Metric Tonnes. Using the River
Network average fresh water use by fuel type, the average water use
per 1 Mwh or electricity in Maplewood is 5,306.5 gallons.
Based on these numbers, for every Mwh of additional solar pv installed in
the community, the City of Maplewood can reduce its annual
Greenhouse Gas emissions accounting by .365 metric tonnes (full life-
cycle Greenhouse Gas emissions reduction is .319 metric tonnes) and its
water footprint by 5,304.5 gallons.
Carbon And Water Footprint Reduction Potential
Total Annual Generation Potential* GHG Emission Reduction** Water Footprint Reduciton**
942.8 Mwh 344 mTons 5 Mgal
* See breakdown in Section 10 of this report
** based on 2016 Xcel Energy profile. GHG reduciton is equal to 28% of City of 2016 Buildings and
Grounds Electric Use emissions
32
S e c t i o n
10
Conclusions
eDocument
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33
Conclusions
Based on a preliminary assessment of the primary City of Maplewood facilities, the sites are capable of
generating approximately 942.8 MWh annually. This is equal to roughly 28% of the total annual
electrical consumption of the Buildings and Grounds (or 64% of all City facilities except for the
Community Center). Some of these facilities appear to be optimally suited for solar PV installations while
others are moderate or even poor. Below is a summary by facility.
Summary by Facility
Facility Potential Portion of Consumption Site Quality
City Hall and Police
Moderate
182.9 MWh 23%
Public Works
406.8 MWh 115%
Good
Community Center
Good
109 MWh 6%
McKnight Fire Station
94.1 MWh 100% Good
Fire Station 2
91.6 MWh 79% Good
Fire Station 3
Moderate
52.7 MWh 100%
Nature Center
5.7 MWh 27% Poor
942.8 MWh
Total Facility Potential:
The City of Maplewood City-Wide Solar Energy Potentials Study recommended a total on-site solar
energy production target of 16.9 Gwh by 2022 and 67.9 Gwh by 2040 to meet the renewable
energy portfolio goal of 50% renewable energy by 2040. The total city facility on-site solar energy
generation of 942.8 Mwh annually is equal to approximately 5.6% of the 2022 and 1.4% of the 2040 City-
Wide annual goals. In 2016, the City of buildings and grounds consumed approximately
1.1% of the City-Wide electricity use for the year.
Each site assessed above assumes a net metered connection with power purchase by Xcel. For
commercial and institutional properties with Solar PV, Xcel limits the total annual solar energy purchase
to 120% of the total annual electrical use of the property. All sites meet requirements for Net Metering
and are within Xcel limits for full excess power buy-back. For project planning purposes, the City can
assume full purchase of all energy generated through each solar array through net metering rates with
Xcel. The City has multiple ownership and project financing options available. These options are
outlined in the Project Financing Scenarios section.
Federal Solar PV Investment Tax Credit (ITC)
For solar technologies, the ITC provides a
significant investment tax credit for
qualified commercial, utility, and residential
solar projects. Projects that qualify for the
ITC receive their total qualifying tax credit
in 1 to 5 years depending on the ent
tax liability. The total ITC value, expressed
as a percent of the total solar project cost,
is scheduled through 2021 as illustrated to
the right:
34
Conclusions
Project Financing Scenarios
Each site assessed above assumes a net metered connection with power purchase by Xcel. For
commercial and institutional properties with Solar PV, Xcel limits the total annual solar energy purchase
to120% of the total annual electrical use of the property. All sites meet requirements for Net Metering
and are within Xcel limits for full excess power buy-back. For project planning purposes, the City can
assume full purchase of all energy generated through each solar array through net metering rates with
Xcel.
The City has multiple ownership and project financing options available:
City Owned Solar PV Options
Should the City desire to own the PV system on each site, there are several options for structuring the
financing:
Issue bonds.
Securing up-front capital through general obligation bonds is how public renewable energy projects
have traditionally been financed, though they do
require voter approval.
Apply to the IRS for a Clean Renewable Energy Bonds allocation
CREBs may be issued by electric cooperatives, government entities (states, cities, counties, territories,
Indian tribal governments or any political subdivision thereof), and by certain lenders. The bondholder
receives federal tax credits in lieu of a portion of the traditional bond interest, resulting in a lower
effective interest rate for the borrower.* The issuer remains responsible for repaying the principal on the
bond. For approved applicants, the federal incentive CREBs can be a valuable source of low-cost
financing, if steps are taken to reduce the high transaction costs associated with their issuance.
Xcel Renewable Development Fund
Renewable-energy technologies eligible for funding typically include wind, biomass, solar, hydroelectric
generators and fuel cells. Funding is generally split between new development projects that result in the
production of renewable energy, and research and development.
http://energy.gov/savings/xcel-energy-renewable-development-fund-grants
Energy Savings Partnership
The St. Paul Port Authority, with a grant from the Minnesota Department of Commerce, established the
Energy Saving Partnership, a municipal leasing program with U.S. Bank, that can offer reduced interest
rates for energy efficiency and renewable projects.
Use REPI.
While the REPI is designed to provide a production incentive to public projects like the production tax
credit (PTC), the incentive is consistently underfunded by annual congressional appropriations;
therefore, it is difficult to depend on it for supporting significant public deployment of solar PV.
Third-Party Initial Ownership.
The Federal Tax Incentive program for solar PV is a significant opportunity to reduce the up-front costs of
solar pv installations through 2021. Third-party ownership options allow mechanisms for local
government entities to capture federal incentives. As many state and local governments pursue
aggressive PV expansion programs, the third-party ownership model will be a key financing structure to
take advantage offederal tax incentives like the ITC and MACRS.
35
Conclusions
Power Purchase Agreement
A solar power purchase agreement (PPA) is a financial agreement where a developer arranges for the
design, permitting, financing and installation of a solar energy system on property at little to
no cost. The developer sells the power generated to the host customer at a fixed rate that is typically
lower than the local retail rate. This lower electricity price serves to offset the purchase
of electricity from the grid while the developer receives the income from these sales of electricity as well
as any tax credits and other incentives generated from the system. PPAs typically
range from 10 to 25 years and the developer remains responsible for the operation and maintenance of
the system for the duration of the agreement. At the end of the PPA contract term, a customer may be
able to extend the PPA, have the developer remove the system or choose to buy the solar energy
system from the developer.
Sale-Leaseback or Partnership-Flip
The solar developer and tax-equity investor(s) can form a partnership for the express purpose of installing
and operating that system, usually in the form of a limited liability corporation or special purpose entity
(SPE). The SPE then purchases the PV system and enters into a PPA with the public-sector host of the
system. The SPE, or its affiliates, will install, operate, and maintain the PV system. The tax- equity investor
will own a majority stake (nearly 100%) in the SPE in the early years of the project (through year six) to
monetize the federal tax incentives. When these tax benefits are exhausted, majority ownership
from the tax investor to the developer. At that time, and at predetermined times throughout the
remainder of the PPA, the municipality may have the option to purchase the system
and take full ownership, if the option was contractually arranged in the PPA.
Consider an option for ownership.
Two relatively new structures, the sale-leaseback and partnership flip, create the financing mechanism
for third-party ownership model. Both of these structures allow an option for the public entity to
ultimately own the project in six years, before the power purchase agreement
(PPA) or lease expires. However, each structure has complicated tax issues that must be addressed.
Defray up-front costs.
In certain states, the transition to performance-based incentive programs and away from up-front
incentives may change the nature of how PV projects are financed. This may encourage a greater
reliance on third-party structures, especially for the public sector and residential markets.
36
Conclusions
Next Steps
We recommend that the City of Maplewood establish both city-wide and city owned facility solar
energy production goals. These goals should target the 2040 plan year and should have sub-goals for
interim years with the first interim goal year on or about 2022. We recommend the City engage the
following specific steps:
1) Establish clear city-wide and city facility solar pv goals.
2) Hire a consultant to conduct a more detailed on-site review of city facilities including a site specific
solar obstruction and solar pv optimization study. Study should result in a final recommended solar pv
generation target for each subject building/site.
3) Prioritize city facility sites for solar pv installations. Prioritization should identify target procurement
dates for each site. Note: procurement dates should carefully consider the economic advantages of
procurement prior to the significant step-down of the Federal Tax Incentive scheduled in 2021.
4) Review solar pv ownership and financing options and determine preferred method.
5) Hire a consultant for the development of a solar pv design-build procurement package, and/or site
solar lease agreement / Power Purchase Agreement procurement package.
37
Prepared by:
making ctge peJSonol 41.1a
paleBLUEdot uc
2515 White Bear Ave, AS
Suite 177
Maplewood,MN 55109
Contact:
Ted Redmond
Tredmond@poleblue-dot.org