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10/12/2010 - Energy and Environment Advisory Commission
AGENDA ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENT ADVISORY COMMISSION MEETING TUESDAY, OCTOBER 12, 2010 7:00 P.M. CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS / EAGAN CITY HALL I. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE AND ROLL CALL II. AGENDA ADOPTION III. APPROVAL OF MINUTES IV. VISITORS TO BE HEARD V. OLD BUSINESS A. Communications Update B Green Step Cities Program VI. NEW BUSINESS A. Presentation by University of Minnesota Sustainability Capstone Course Students / Preliminary Findings—Green Step Cities Report for the City of Eagan B. Presentation by Parks and Recreation Director Juli Seydell Johnson and Building Maintenance Engineer Mike Sipper VII. STAFF / COMMISSIONER REPORT A. Clean Energy Resource Teams (CERTS) Rebate Program for Programmable Thermostats B. Argosy Sustainability Conference C. Sierra Club's Greening Dakota County Report VIII. ROUNDTABLE IX. ADJOURNMENT Auxiliary aids for persons with disabilities will be provided upon advance notice of at least 96 hours. If a notice of less than 96 hours is received, the City of Eagan will attempt to provide such aid. TO: THE ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENT ADVISORY COMMISSION (EEAC) FROM: DIANNE MILLER, ASSISTANT TO CITY ADMINISTRATOR DATE: OCTOBER 5, 2010 SUBJECT: ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENT ADVISORY COMMISSION MEETING / OCTOBER 12, 2010 A meeting of the Energy and Environment Advisory Commission (EEAC) will take place on Tuesday, October 12, 2010 at 7 p.m. in the City Council Chambers. To ensure that a quorum is present, please contact Mary at 651-675-5005 if you are unable to attend. I. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE AND ROLL CALL II ADOPTION OF THE AGENDA The agenda, as presented or modified, is in order for adoption by the Commission. III. APPROVAL OF MINUTES pages 6 8 The minutes of the August 9, 2010 EEAC orientation meeting are enclosed on . These minutes and meeting notes, as presented or modified, are in order for adoption by the Commission. IV. VISITORS TO BE HEARD The Eagan City Council and its Commissions set aside up to ten minutes at the beginning of public meetings to permit visitors to address items of interest that are not addressed on the regular agenda. Items that will take more than ten minutes or that require specific action can be scheduled for a future meeting agenda. V. OLD BUSINESS A. Communications Update Per the request of the Commission at the August EEAC meeting, a standing agenda item has been added to announce and discuss communication initiatives within the City addressing issues pertinent to the EEAC. An article appeared in the September/October 2010 edition of the Experience Eagan Newsletter focusing on the efforts of page 44 the EEAC. A copy of the article is enclosed as the final page of this packet on (staff apologizes that this item is out of order in the packet). B. Green Step Cities Program In official action taken by the City Council on August 17, pages 9 10 2010, the resolution enclosed on was approved, which communicates the City of s City participant. Eagan now joins eight other communities that have signed a resolution to participate in the GreenStep Cities program. Phillip with the University of Minnesota Sustainability Capstone student group, and expressed his excitement for the report they are producing. Mr. Muessig noted that in mid October, the MPCA hopes to roll out a new feature on their GreenStep Cities website where cities can have a secure log-in link to document the GreenStep best practices that have been or are in the process of being achieved. VI. NEW BUSINESS ßò Ю»»²¬¿¬·±² ¾§ ˲·ª»®·¬§ ±º Ó·²²»±¬¿ Í«¬¿·²¿¾·´·¬§ Ý¿°¬±²» ݱ«®» ͬ«¼»²¬ ñ Ю»´·³·²¿®§ Ú·²¼·²¹Ù®»»² ͬ»° Ý·¬·» λ°±®¬ º±® ¬¸» Ý·¬§ ±º Û¿¹¿² There are four students from State Senator Ellen Anderso that the City of Eagan currently meets, while also making recommendations on best practices that the City may want to pursue in the future. The students working on the project are: Jessica Vanella, Caitlin Cardinal, Peter Kalschar, and Mary Scott. The students have been invited to the October 12 EEAC meeting to present their preliminary findings to the EEAC re Eagan currently meets. Assistant to the City Administrator Miller spoke to a representative of the student group on Tuesday, October 5 (at which time this packet was being prepared) and the students did not have the preliminary report completed, and as a result, requested the opportunity th to bring their preliminary findings to the EEAC meeting on the 12. Þò Ю»»²¬¿¬·±² ¾§ п®µ ¿²¼ λ½®»¿¬·±² Ü·®»½¬±® Ö«´· Í»§¼»´´ Ö±¸²±² ¿²¼ Þ«·´¼·²¹ Ó¿·²¬»²¿²½» Û²¹·²»»® Ó·µ» Í·°°»® Per the request of the Commission, and in accordance with your annual work plan, a department director and appropriate staff will be invited to each of the EEAC monthly meetings to give an overview on their respectiv and the sustainability efforts currently underway. On October 12, Juli Seydell Johnson, Director of Parks and Recreation, will speak to the Commission about the Parks and Recreation department, which includes parks maintenance, recreation and events, parks operations, enterprise facilities (Cascade Bay, Civic Arena, and the Eagan Community Center) and central services (vehicle fleet). Mainallocation of federal stimulus monies for energy conservation, building lighting improvements, water the cost and pages 11 14 energy savings the City is realizing across facilities. Enclosed on is a summary of those savings. Both of the presentations will demonstrate many of the best practice requirements that the City meets under the GreenStep Cities program. VII. STAFF / COMMISSIONER REPORT A.Clean Energy Resource Teams (CERTS) Rebate Program for Programmable Thermostats Commissioner Nadav requested that information be shared with the Commission about the CERTS partnership with Honeywell to provide rebates for programmable thermostats. pages 15 21 Information about the CERTS program is enclosed on . Commissioner Nadav is prepared to give a brief overview of the program and how residents can take advantage of the program before this winter. B.Argosy Sustainability Conference Argosy University, located in Eagan, will be hosting their second annual sustainability conference at the Eagan Community Center on May 6- 7, 2011. The City, as a partner, typically provides a welcome to the conference. Additionally, last year, the City presented an overview of the many sustainability efforts underway in the City. More information about the conference will be shared with the EEAC as it becomes available. C. Enclosed pages 22 43 information on is a report from the Sierra Club entitled, Greening Dakota County Cities: Local Efforts to Save Energy and Cut Costs in 2009-2010. VIII. ROUNDTABLE The Roundtable is scheduled as an opportunity for Commissioners to ask questions, make requests for future agenda items, or provide informative updates to the Commission pertaining to energy and environment initiatives. IX. ADJOURNMENT /s/Dianne E. Miller__________ Assistant to City Administrator MINUTES OF THE EAGAN ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENT ADVISORY COMMISSION MEETING AUGUST 9, 2010 A regular meeting of the Eagan Energy and Environment Advisory Commission was held on Monday, August 9, 2010 at 7:00 p.m. Those present were James Casper, Bruce Goff, Jeff LeClair, Salman Mitha, Amir Nadav, Wade Olsen and Kari Palmer. Also present was Assistant to the City Administrator Miller. AGENDA LeClair made a motion to approve the agenda as presented. Mitha seconded the motion. All members voted in favor. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Palmer made a motion to approve the minutes of the June 8, 2010 regular meeting of the Energy and Environment Commission with the correction of two typographical errors under Organizational Business. Olsen seconded the motion to approve the amended minutes. All members voted in favor. VISITORS TO BE HEARD There were no visitors to be heard. GREEN STEP CITIES PROGRAM Miller introduced Philipp Muessig, stating he works in the area of Sustainable Community DevelopmentPrevention and Assistance for the MPCA. Mr. Muessig described in detail the GreenStep Cities Program and the best practice components, along with the program requirements and action options. He further stated to the Commission that he would act for any questions, information and direction towards implementation of the program. LeClair made a motion to recommend to the City Council that they approve a resolution come a participant in the Minnesota GreenStep Cities Program. Palmer seconded the motion. All members voted in favor. EEAC VALUE STATEMENTS Goff introduced the item asking for Commission feedback on the draft value statements. The Commission discussed the value statements. Energy and Environment Commission August 9, 2010 Page 2 of 3 Casper made a motion to recommend that the City Council approval the 2010-2011 Energy and Environment Advisory Commission goal and value statements. LeClair seconded the motion. All members voted in favor. PRESENTATION BY FIRE CHIEF MIKE SCOTT / GREEN BUILDING FEATURES OF THE FIRE SAFETY CENTER AND SUSTAINABILITY EFFORTS Miller introduced Fire Chief Mike Scott stating he was present to provide an overview of the s of the new Fire Safety Center, which is located at the intersection of Yankee Doodle Road and Wescott Woodlands Road, and is scheduled to open in spring of 2011. Fire Chief Scott presented features of the Fire Safety Center relative to building and lighting which will meet some of the best practice components outlined in the GreenStep Cities Program. Fire Chief Scott also discussed criteria necessary to have the Fire Safety Center Green Globe certified and sustainable design features. Chief Scottcomments on the operational changes the department has implemented to reduce energy and greenhouse gas emissions. FOLLOW-UP ON UNIVERSITY OF MN SUSTAINABILITY CLASS Miller introduced the item stating Commissioner Nadav initiated contact with the University derson, inquiring if she would be interested in having a group of Capstone students complete an inventory of best environmental and energy conservation practices with the City of Eagan. LeClair discussion on the proposed University of Minnesota Sustainable Communities Capstone Project. He discussed objectives, tasks, deliverables, a timeline and communications, recommended references and requested actions of the capstone group. LeClair made a motion recommending the City Council approve a partnership between the City of Eagan and the University of Minnesota, Department of Sustainable Education, using a Capstone Course at the University of Minnesota to assist the City in a project to begin the GreenStep Cities Program. The motion also included a recommendation that the formal proposal drafted by the Commission subcommittee also be approved by the City Council. Olsen seconded the motion. All members voted in favor. The Commission discussed the objectives and the timeline proposed. ROUNDTABLE Nadav discussed a previous presentation by Eagan Superintendent Paul Olson on an Energy Conservation Block Grant the City received, noting a very simple concept the City performed for the reduction of energy bills and conserving water which could also be recommended to businesses and residents by replacing the screw tip end of their facets to control the flow of water. Energy and Environment Commission August 9, 2010 Page 3 of 3 Palmer suggested continuing communication throughout the City through newsletters and s web site on simple ways residents and businesses could improve upon energy efficiency. There was Commission consensus to have Assistant to the City Administrator Miller add Communication Initiatives under Old Business as a standing item on future agendas. The next EEAC meeting will be Tuesday, October 12, 2010. ADJOURNMENT Upon motion by LeClair, seconded by Mitha, the meeting adjourned at 8:40 p.m. All members voted in favor. DATE SECRETARY CITY OF EAGAN RESOLUTION NO. 10- 29 RESOLUTION OF SUPPORT FOR THE CITY OF EAGAN'S PARTICIPATION IN THE MINNESOTA GREENSTEP CITIES PROGRAM WHEREAS, the Eagan City Council has adopted a 2009-2010 goal to exemplify a broad- based and comprehensive commitment to environmental sustainability and energy efficiency by adopting conservation and alternative energy strategies pursuing the use of local, non-polluting, renewable, and recycled resources, while encouraging residents and businesses to do likewise; and, WHEREAS, the Eagan City Council created an Energy and Environment Advisory Commission (EEAC) in February 2010 to review and carry out the environmental and sustainability goals and initiatives of the City; and, WHEREAS, the City of Eagan has signed the U.S. Mayor's Climate Protection Agreement; and, WHEREAS, a broad coalition of public and private stakeholders including the League of Minnesota Cities, the MPCA, Office of Energy Security and Clean Energy Response Team (CERTs) responded to 2008 State legislation by establishing the Minnesota GreenStep Cities program to provide a series of sustainable development best practices focusing on local government opportunities to reduce energy use and greenhouse gases; and, WHEREAS, the Minnesota GreenStep Cities program provides cost-effective sustainable development best practices in the following five categories: (1) Buildings and Lighting; (2) Transportation; (3) Land Use; (4) Environmental Management; and (5) Economic and Community Development; NOW, THEREFORE, be it resolved that the City Council of the City of Eagan does hereby authorize the City of Eagan (the "City") to participate in the Minnesota GreenStep Cities program. Be it further resolved that the City: 1. Appoints Dianne Miller, Assistant to the City Administrator and staff liaison to the Energy and Environment Advisory Commission, to serve as the City's GreenStep coordinator to facilitate best practices review and implementation; and 2. Will facilitate the involvement of the Eagan Energy and Environment Commission, Eagan City Council, City staff, and constituents in the planning, promoting and consideration of implementing GreenStep Cities best practices; and 3. Will work in partnership with the University of Minnesota's Sustainable Education department by working with a team of students from a Sustainability Capstone Course, who will inventory Eagan's current sustainable best practices that meet the GreenStep requirements, and provide recommendations and research on additional GreenStep best practices that the City may wish to consider; and, 4. Will claim credit for having implemented and/or will implement at least 16 required and optional GreenStep best practices that will result in energy use reduction, economic savings and reduction in the community's greenhouse gas footprint. 5. Will work with the MPCA to post a summary of the City's implementation of best practices on the Minnesota GreenStep Cities website. ADOPTED by the Council this 17th Day of August, 2010. Mike Maguire,'Mayor ATTEST: Maria Petersen, City Clerk Eagan police Current kwh Current Demand Current Costs Projected kwh Projected Demand Projected Costs 50,164 22.3 $ 5,016.38 37,348 16.6 $ 3,734.78 kwh Savings 12,816 kw Demand Savings 5.7 Cost Savings $ 1,281.60 Annual Savings Energy Reduction Monthly Savings $ 1,281.60 25.5% Greenhouse Gas Reduction Midwest Average CO2 SO2 NO, 1/3/2010 Blended kwh Rate 0.1 Average Hours/Year 2250 $ 106.80 2.216 0.0122 0.0057 28,400 156 73 Energy Performance Specialists, LLC 4915 Farwell Street McFarland, WI 53558 Pounds Pounds Pounds Eagan Maintenance Current kwh Current Demand Current Costs Projected kwh Projected Demand Projected Costs 95,157 39.7 $ 9,515.66 36,801 15.8 $ 3,680.07 1/4/2010 Blended kwh Rate 0.1 Average Hours/Year 2340 kwh Savings 58,356 0.04 2,334 kw Demand Savings 23.9 150 3,584 Cost Savings $ 5,835.59 5,919 Annual Savings Energy Reduction $ 5,835.59 61.3% Monthly Savings $ 486.30 Greenhouse Gas Reduction Midwest Average CO2 2.216 129,317 Pounds Energy Performance Specialists, LLC 4915 Farwell Street McFarland, WI 53558 Eagan Community Center Current kwh 302,388 Current Demand 92.2 Current Costs $ 30,238.78 Projected kwh Projected Demand Projected Costs 171,448 50.1 $ 17,144.84 kwh Savings 130,939 kw Demand Savings 42.1 Cost Savings $ 13,093.95 Annual Savings Energy Reduction Monthly Savings $ 13,093.95 43.3% Greenhouse Gas Reduction Midwest average Blended kwh Rate Average Hours/Year $ 1,091.16 CO2 2.216 AP -43o 1/5/2010 0.1 3568 290,162 Pounds z;��� Energy Performance Specialists, LLC 4915 Farwell Street McFarland, WI 53558 Eagan City hall 1\5\2010 Current kwh 104,436 Blended kwh Rate 0.1 46.4 Average Hours/Year 2250 Current Costs $ 10,443.60 Projected kwh Projected Demand Projected Costs 68,693 30.5 $ 6,869.25 kwh Savings 35,744 kw Demand Savings 15.9 Cost Savings $ 3,574.35 Annual Savings Energy Reduction Monthly Savings $ 3,574.35 34.2% Greenhouse Gas Reduction Midwest Average $ 297.86 CO2 2.216 79,208 Pounds Energy Performance Specialists, LLC 4915 Farwell Street McFarland, WI 53558 . :emu. 411,, sP oURCE P Clean Energy Resource Teams Program Announcement CERTs and Honeywell Exclusive Rebate Opportunity! Save $200 a year on heating and cooling costs with a programmable thermostat A programmable thermostat allows you to pre-set your home's heating and cooling system to work around your schedule, providing ultimate comfort for your household. Programmable thermostats help you ensure efficient operation of your heating and cooling system, resulting in real energy saving and lower energy bills. CERTs and Honeywell are teaming up to offer an exclusive rebate for programmable thermostats. "Come Home to Comfort and Energy Savings" by participating in the Programmable Thermostat Exclusive Rebate Program. There are two ways for you to get a rebate for $10 off a Honeywell Do -It -Yourself programmable thermostat valued at $50 or more (or $5 off models valued less than $50): • Visit the campaign webpage to print off your rebate: http://thermostat.mncerts.org • Send an email with your full address to CERTs Campaign Coordinator, Michelle Vigen, at rebates@cleanenergyresourceteams.org. "We're really excited that Upper Midwest residents have this opportunity to increase their home comfort, save energy, and lower their energy bills with a new Honeywell programmable thermostat," said Michelle Vigen, CERTs Campaign & Metrics Coordinator. "It's an easy and convenient way to save tttvitey. The average household in Upper Midwest that sets back their thermostat in the summer and winter using default settings could save around 15% on heating and 25% on cooling costs, saving around $200 annually. To learn more about the CERTs and Honeywell Exclusive Rebate Program and how you can save energy, visit http://thermostat.mncerts.org or email rebate@cleanenergyresourceteams.org. The Clean Energy Resource Teams connect communities with resources to identify and implement energy efficiency and renewable energy projects. CERTified Campaigns provide individuals with clear and actionable ways to implement energy efficiency and renewable energy projects in their community. To learn about other campaigns, visit http://act.mncerts.orq. wwwCleanErnergyResou'rceTeams.org' Follow CERTs: gi Find us on Facebook flickr You Tub www.facebook.com/cleanenergyresourceteams www.twitter.com/mncerts www.flickr.com/photos/concerts www.youtube.com/concerts COME HOME TO COMFORT AND ENERGY SAVINGS CERTs and Honeywell Programmable Thermostat Exclusive Rebate Program Our Partner: OFFICIAL CAMPAIGN KIT Honeywell A leader in energy efficiency technology and controls Comfort, Convenience, & Conservation thermostat? CERTs and Honeywell are teaming up to offer an exclusive rebate for programmable thermostats. Add comfort and convenience to your home while saving up to 33%* on your heating and cooling energy bills by participating in the Programmable Thermostat Exclusive Rebate Program. "Come Home to Comfort" with a new programmable thermostat and start saving! What is a programmable :ERTs is partnering with Honeywell, a ;ompany that smploys thousands of Vlidwesterners, to )ffer an exclusive •ebate on )rogrammable :hermostats. 'rogrammable ;hermostats provide :omfort with real energy savings. 'Come Home to 2omfort" with a iew programmable :hermostat, and ,tart saving! A programmable thermostat allows you to pre-set your home's heating and cooling system to work around your schedule, providing ultimate comfort for your household. Programmable thermostats help you ensure efficient operation of your heating and cooling system, resulting in real energy saving and lower energy bills. How do I get the Rebate? How does it work? Follow these steps to access and secure your rebate for $10 off a Honeywell programmable thermostat valued at $50 or more (save $5 on models valued less than $50): 1. Get your rebate: • Visit the MN State Fair Eco Experience Building Aug. 26 — Sept. 6, and get "Savings on a Stick"; or • Visit the Campaign webpage to print off your rebate: http://thermostat.mncerts.org; or • Send an email with your full address to CERTs Campaign Coordinator, Michelle Vigen, at rebatesPcleanenergvresourceteams.org. 2. Read the Buyer's Guide to determine which programmable thermostat features are best for you. 3. Purchase a Honeywell programmable thermostat at any of Honeywell's retail partners (http://yourhome.honeywell.com) in MN, WI, ND, SD, and IA (online purchases not eligible). 4. Fill out your rebate form and mail in with copy of receipt and original UPC from packaging. 5. Install and program your programmable thermostat. (See below for more details). • How much energy and money can I save? The average household in the Upper Midwest that programs their thermostat in the summer and winter using default settings will save around 15% on heating and 25% on cooling costs, saving over $200 annually. (See the ENERGY STAR Programmable Thermostat Savings Calculator for state -specific savings at http://bit.ly/energystarcalc.) Buyer's Guide: Which programmable thermostat should I buy? Honeywell offers a variety of programmable thermostats to match your schedule, your comfort, and your budget. Visit http://yourhome.honeywell.com to find a Honeywell Retailer near you and to browse a wide selection of programmable thermostats. Your rebate is eligible on any Honeywell Do -It -Yourself programmable thermostat.* Here are three popular and eligible models that highlight a variety of convenient features: !rogrammabl FThermostat Mods : qFDay ch )terRetail h Exclusive tur , r i e ,..: Rebate RTH2310B 5-2 Separate programming for weekdays & weekend Digital Easy to use display with large Early start reading function $39.99 Compatibility: Works with heating and cooling systems. Does not work with heat pump systems and electric baseboard heat (120-240V). Early Start Function: Adjusts the pre-heating/cooling of your home so you are comfortable at your programmed times. RTH6450D 5-1-1 Backlit Smart digital response $69.99 Separate programming for display with technology weekdays & each weekend day touchscreen Compatibility: Works with heating and cooling systems plus some heat pumps. Does not work with heat pumps with back-up heat, multi -stage heating/cooling systems, and electric baseboard heat (120-240V). Smart Response Technology: Continually adjusts the pre-heating/cooling of your home so you are comfortable at your programmed times. 7 Large Easy backlit interaction RTH7600D Separate programming for digital each day of the week display with Smart touchscreen response technology $99.99 Compatibility: With heating and cooling systems plus heat pumps. Does not work with electric baseboard heat (120-240V). Easy Interaction: Straightforward display and buttons keep operation and programming simple. Smart Response Technology: Continually adjusts the pre-heating/cooling of your home so you are comfortable at your programmed times. i1 s How do I install my thermostat? Honeywell's Do-lt-Yourself programmable thermostats are specially designed to install in less than 15 minutes and in four simple steps. Start by watching the video: http://thermostat.mncerts.org. For further questions regarding installation and support of your Honeywell programmable thermostat, contact Honeywell's customer service experts at 1-800-468-1502. ✓ O Turn off power source. Use included labels to label Install new backplate and Mount new thermostat Remove old thermostat wires. Disconnect wires and reconnect wires to match cover. Turn on, and cover. Leave wires in place. remove old backplate. the labels. program! How should I program my programmable thermostat? How you program your programmable thermostat determines how much energy you save. The longer your home is stabilized at its seasonally efficient temperature, the greater the savings. Below is the recommended schedule by ENERGY STAR to maximize comfort and energy savings. Note: All of Honeywell's programmable thermostats are pre-programmed with recommended settings for your convenience, so you can start saving right away. For more information, visit ENERGY STAR's website at http://bit.ly/energystarstats. Recommended settings: Mode. Time Interval Efficient Winter Setting Efficient Summer Setting Wake: Home in the morning Day: Gone for work/school Evening: Home in the evening Sleep: Home asleep Contact us! 6am 8am 6pm 10pm 70 °F 62 °F 70 °F 62 °F 78 °F 85 °F 78 °F 82 °F For questions regarding the rebate program and accessing the rebate, visit the "Come Home to Comfort" Campaign webpage at http://thermostat.mncerts.org or contact Michelle Vigen at CERTs: rebate@cleanenergyresourceteams.org or 612-626-0455. For questions regarding installation and support of your Honeywell programmable thermostat, contact Honeywell's customer service experts at 1-800-468-1502. Honeywell CERTs & Honeywell Program mable Thermostat Exclusive Rebate 4p. EE1V `.. usiv •► ceive a $10 mail -in rebate for a Honeywell Programmable Thermostat valued at $50 or more; or a $5 )il-in rebate on a Honeywell Programmable Thermostat valued under $50. Valid with purchase from y retail outlet in MN, WI, IA, ND or SD. used as directed. Savings may vary depending on geographic region and usage. ioneywell RCE mncerts.org $1 0 or $5 Honeywell Mail -In I1eha1 erre a ` '1 t� [ ii. -fry ebat for a' I oney ry fi Py r tnt>1 bie h erncstat bated t 5f or. more; or a $5 maifi in rebate ort a Honeywell Protgr irnmi bl hefmostat Glued under $50, Valid with purchase from an / retail outlet in MN, WI, IA, ND dr I Mart D t End Date Postrnar Dat 08/26/10 Purchase a qualifying product during the valid promotion dates listed above. Purchase must be made at a retail outlet in MN, WI, IA, ND or SD. Fill out the entire customer portion of this rebate order form. Copy your sales receipt and the rebate order form to keep for your records. Enclose this completed rebate order form along with a copy of your receipt, the original UPC cut from the product packaging and mail before the postmark date listed above. IOTE: LIMIT ONE PER HOUSEHOLD 11/30/10 12/31/10 'first Name Last Name /failing Address City State Zip mail Address Your email address will allow us to send you updates regarding the status of your reward. ® Yes, I would like to receiv emails from Honeywell on product promotions or other services. It is your responsibility to photocopy all our submission materials and keep those copies for your records. To resolve any potential questions or issues regarding the status of your submission, you will be required to mail or fax these photocopies. To check the status of your submission, visit www.honeywell.rebateresearch.com If you have any questions, contact customer service at 866.833.2731 Please allow 8-10 weeks for processing :rms and Conditions pis offer is good on qualifying merchandise purchased on or within the start and end dates listed above from participating stores. Requests must be postmarked by the postmark date dicated above and late submissions will NOT be honored, Rebate offer expires if the rebate check is not cashed within 90 days of the check date, after which time Honeywell will have nc rther obligation to you. Limit one per household. To receive your Honeywell rebate, please send receipt, original UPC cut from the product package and this fully completed order form. mission of required information will delay processing. Please allow 8-10 weeks from the day we receive your request for processing. This offer is good within most areas of the I.S., except where prohibited, taxed, or restricted by law. Honeywell fulfillment agencies are not responsible for lost, late, incomplete, damaged, misdirected, or postage -due quests/mail. Fraudulent submission could result in federal prosecution under U.S. Mail Fraud Statute (18 U.S. Code, Section 1241 & 1242). onevwell and CERTs will not share your information, Minnesota Residential AI/NNESOT4 High Efficiency Equipment Rebate Application NERGyRESOURCES Return Application and Final Itemized Invoice to: Minnesota Energy Resources, P.O. Box 7207, Des Moines, IA 50309 CUSTOMER INFORMATION (To be completed by customer. All information must be completely filled out or application will not be processed.) Minnesota Energy Resources account number (Located in upper right hand corner of gas bill) ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ - ❑ Name on account Name and address where rebate check should be sent, if different: (Please print) Installation address City State ZIP Telephone: Day ( ) Evening ( ) Housing type: ❑ Single-family dwelling ❑ Duplex ❑ Triplex ❑ Four-plex ❑ Mobile home ❑ Multi -family dwelling — 5 units or more ❑ Townhome (single family home with a shared common wall) Own or rent: U Owner Occupied ❑ Landlord ❑ Tenant Home information: Year home was built: Approx. Sq. Footage: For new homes: Name of builder*: Approx. Sq. Footage: *By signing this application, I attest that to the best of my knowledge, the builder is not participating in the ENERGY STAR Plus Homes program. If the builder is participating in that program, 1 will not be eilgible to receive any rebates under this program. Equipment purchased is for: U New Home Construction ❑ Addition to home ❑ Replacing old unit Please carefully read and answer this question. The Minnesota Office of Energy Security requests that Minnesota Energy Resources track the following information for statistical purposes only. 1. Find your household size on the table below. 2. Determine your annual household income, before taxes,; including pension, social security, etc. 3. Is your household income above or below the amount corresponding to your household size in this table? ❑ Above Number of People in Household ❑ Below Household Income Annual 3 month APPLICANT AGREEMENT 2. ........:......... $28,371 ......x....$7,092 I certify that I have read and agree to the Terms and Conditions of the Minnesota Energy Resources rebate program on the back. ............. Signature Date ❑ 1 understand that I must attach invoices and supporting documents (receipts) with rebate application. EQUIPMENT INFORMATION (To be completed by dealer/contractor) Complete information for the applicable rebate you are applying for. 1. SPACE HEATING EQUIPMENT New System Type ❑ Forced -Air Unit ❑ Integrated Space and Water Heating ❑ Boiler Date Installed Manufacturer Model # Serial # Heating Capacity Output (MBtuh) Rated Efficiency (AFUE %/CAE) 2. GAS WATER HEATERS (must be .62 EF or greater) U Tank System .62 EF ❑ Tank System .82 EF Date Installed Manufacturer Model # Serial # Energy (EF) Rating ❑ Tank System .64 EF ❑ Tankless .82 EF 3. ELECTRONIC PROGRAMMABLE SET -BACK THERMOSTAT The Heating System this Thermostat Controls is: U Electric ❑ Other ❑ Gas Date Installed Manufacturer Model # See Terms & Conditions on back. 4. DRAIN WATER HEAT RECOVERY (DHR) DEVICE Date Installed Manufacturer Model # Serial # 5. ENERGY STAR' CLOTHES WASHER My Energy Star clothes washer is: ❑ Top Loading ❑ Front Loading Date Installed Manufacturer Model # Serial # 6. GAS HEARTH/FIREPLACE ELECTRONIC IGNITION Date Installed Manufacturer Model # Serial # 7. BUILDING SHELL IMPROVEMENTS ❑ Air Sealing, New ACH level: (max 3.0) ❑ Air Sealing & Attic Insulation, Rated R Value: (min R44) ❑ Sidewall Installation, Rated R Value: (min R13) ❑ Foundation Installation, Rated R Value: (min R7) Date Installed For Air Sealing Improvement: Pre Air Sealing Blower Door Test Result: Post Air Sealing Blower Door Test Result: www.minnesotaenergyresources.com HVAC L /I T LL CERTIFICATION We certify that the indicated equipment was installed and inspected per the Terms and Conditions of the program(s) at the address shown. We certify that all information provided in the application is correct. Minnesota Energy Resources reserves the right to inspect and verify any equipment or work before and/or after issuing rebates, The Contractor Incentive Program is only available to licensed installers who sell and install qualifying space heating system equipment. Dealer/contractor name E -Mail Dealer/contractor company name Dealer address Telephone FAX City State ZIP Fed Tax ID # Dealer or Contractor or Builder signature Date Terms and Conditions GENERAL ELIGIBILITY This program offers financial incentives for the installation of high efficiency natural gas equipment and building envelope improvements. Applications will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis. The program will end when the budget is depleted, Funds are limited. To qualify for rebates, an applicant must meet the following eligibility requirements: ► Applicant must be a current Minnesota Energy Resources residential customer living in Minnesota. ► Customer information must be completely filled out on front of application. ► To avoid delay, a final, itemized invoice for all material and labor related to the equipment and installation must be attached to this rebate application. All applications must be received by Jan. 31 of the year following installation. ► Rebate checks will be made payable to customer shown on invoice. ► This program is subject to regulatory rules and orders. Minnesota Energy Resources reserves the right to change any portion of this program or to end this program without notice. ► Where applicable, energy efficiency ratings must comply with those listed in the Gas Appliance Manufacturers Association (GAMA) Directory. ► Heating equipment must meet minimum efficiency requirements as shown below in order to qualify for the rebate. ► For clothes washer and DHR device, the customer certifies that the water heater in the residence is fueled by natural gas. ► For new construction, homeowners may not receive equipment rebates if their builders have participated in the Energy Star Plus Homes Program. ► For electronic ignition hearth, the customer certifies that the fireplace is a natural gas unit and that the home is not a new construction. ► For building shell improvements, the customer certifies that the home is not a new construction. ► For Drain Water Heat Recovery, homemade systems are not eligible. ► For setback thermostat rebates, original UPC code from box must be attached to application form, unless it is installed by an HVAC contractor at the same time and on the same invoice that a heating system is installed. Rebates and Minimum 1. SPACE HEATING EQUIPMENT documents, with application Rebate Gas Furnace $250 $350 Efficiency Requirements — Please include invoices, supporting Integrated Heating System $250 Boilers $200 2. GAS WATER HEATERS (must be invoices, supporting documents, with Rebate Gas Water $45 Heater $75 $250 Minimum Efficiency 92% AFUE 95% AFUE 90% CAE 90% AFUE .62 EF or greater) — Please include application Minimum Efficiency .62 EF .64 EF .82 EF TANKLESS GAS WATER HEATERS (must be .82 EF or greater) — Please include invoices, supporting documents, with application Tankless Gas Rebate Minimum Efficiency Water Heater $250 .82 EF 3. ELECTRONIC PROGRAMMABLE SETBACK THERMOSTAT — Please include invoices, supporting documents, with application Setback *Maximum Rebate Minimum Efficiency Thermostat $40 electronic programmable (control gas heating system) setback *Rebate amount is 50% of total improvement cost, up to maximum rebate amount listed above. 4. DRAIN WATER HEAT RECOVERY (DHR) DEVICE Rebate DHR $150 5. ENERGY STAR -RATED CLOTHES WASHER Rebate Top Loading $35 Energy Star Rated Front Loading $50 Energy Star Rated 6. ELECTRONIC IGNITION HEARTH (Only for existing home) Electronic Ignition Rebate Minimum Efficiency Hearth $75 No standing pilot controlling natural gas fireplace 7. BUILDING SHELL IMPROVEMENTS (Only for existing home) Improvement Maximum Rebate* Minimum Efficiency Air Sealing $300 No tighter than 3.0 ACH50** Air Sealing & Attic $650 R44 in attic** Sidewall Insulation $425 R13 Foundation Insulation $425 177 *Rebate amount is 50% of total improvement cost, up to maximum rebate amount listed above. **Pre and post blower door test results must be attached to application. VERIFICATION The sales receipt indicating date of purchase, dealer/contractor name, manufacturer name and model number of equipment must accompany the rebate application. Incomplete applications will be delayed. Minnesota Energy Resources reserves the right to verify sales receipts and installations. After approval, please allow four to six weeks for delivery of the rebate check. TAX INFORMATION Rebates may be subject to federal and/or state income tax reporting. Applicant is responsible for contacting a qualified tax advisor to determine tax liability. Minnesota Energy Resources is not responsible for any tax consequences of the Minnesota Energy Resources rebate program. DISCLAIMER Minnesota Energy Resources does not guarantee that installation of equipment qualifying for rebates will result in reduced energy usage or demand, or in cost savings, The Customer will hold harmless Minnesota Energy Resources and its officers, directors, shareholders, agents, employees, and representatives from all claims, liabilities, fines, interest, costs, expenses, and damages incurred by the Customer, for any damage, injury, death, loss or destruction of any kind to persons or property, to the extent the damage, injury, death, loss or destruction arises out of or is related to the conduct, negligence, willful misconduct, misrepresentation, breach of warranty or other breach of this rebate form on the part of Minnesota Energy Resources. MINNESOTA HOUSING FINANCE AGENCY The Minnesota Housing Finance Agency (MHFA) is a state agency that was established to provide affordable financing for the purchase, construction and improvement of housing for Minnesota residents with modest incomes. For more information, contact MHFA toll free at 800-657-3769. Return Application and Final Itemized Invoice to: Minnesota Energy Resources P.O. 7207 Des Moines, IA 50309 Copyright © 2010 Minnesota Energy Resources WPS-19-I-MERRR For More Information call toll-free 800-889-9508 SIE' CLUB FOUNDED 1892 2327 East Franklin Avenue, Minneapolis, MN 55406 1EL: 612-659-9124 FAX: 612-659-9129 www.northstar.sierraclub.org June 28, 2010 Cheryl Mesko Parks and Recreation Superintendent City of Eagan 3830 Pilot Knob Road Eagan, MN 55122 Dear Ms. Mesko, On behalf of the Sierra Club North Star Chapter, thank you for taking time to provide valuable information and to assist our research effort, which resulted in the enclosed study, "Greening Dakota County Cities: Local Efforts to Save Energy and Cut Costs in 2009-2010." Your time and participation were important in our survey of the achievements of our Dakota County communities, and are much appreciated! We were pleased to share these stories of how these projects are saving taxpayer dollars, reducing global warming pollution, and creating family -supporting, clean energy jobs. Thanks again for your time and we look forward to future collaborations. Sincerely, Margaret Levin State Director Sierra Club North Star Chapter Explore, enjoy and protect the planet Greening Dakota County Cities Local Efforts to Save Energy and Cut Costs 2009-2010 50,000 square foot maintenance facility in West St. Paul features "green- energy-efficient green"energy-efficient building components. Sierra Club North Star Chapter Summer 2010 Sierra Club North Star Chapter 2327 East Franklin Avenue #1 Minneapolis, Minnesota 55406 612-659-9124 Visit us: www.northstar.sierraclub.org SIE LUB FOUNDED 1892 2 TABLE OF CONTENTS Introduction p. 4 Geothermal Heating and Cooling p. 4 Energy Efficiency p.6 Business and Industry p. 9 Cities, Counties and Campuses .... p. 10 Programs for Homeowners p. 15 Conclusion and Future Opportunities p. 16 Technical Footnotes p 17 3 INTRODUCTION Prodded by the need to reduce emissions of heat -trapping gasses and save energy costs long- term -- and propelled in large part by federal stimulus funds -- Dakota County cities are switching to sustainable energy sources and improving energy efficiency. That's what a survey by the Dakota County Sierra Club of Minnesota's North Star Chapter shows. The year-long survey reveals that a number of cities are not only "going green," but going for the green as they discover the potential savings in cutting their utility bills. These local examples illustrate the great savings that can be accomplished by enacting these Clean Energy Solutions in our communities. Buildings account for 40% of greenhouse gas emissions; by improving the efficiency of our buildings' heating and cooling, we could cut our dependence on dirty fossil fuels by up to 30%. High -performing public buildings save money for taxpayers, and high performance homes and businesses increase comfort and productivity, while decreasing utility bills and emissions. Renewable energy and energy efficiency also create jobs that will help rebuild our economy. GEOTHERMAL HEATING AND COOLING Six Dakota County communities -- Apple Valley, Burnsville, Eagan, Hastings, Inver Grove Heights and West St. Paul -- are tapping the earth's natural heat and energy to reduce reliance on fossil fuels for their heating and cooling systems. Altogether, all of the green projects, including the new geothermal heating -cooling systems, are projected to save Dakota County cities a combined $200,000 or more a year eventually, while reducing the carbon output that threatens clean air and the environment. By turning off the natural gas and tapping into the sun's stored heat, geothermal system users expect to cut their utility bills, using the savings to pay for their installation in a relatively few years. Variables such as seasonal temperatures and the price of fossil fuels help 4 determine the payback time. In the case of Inver Grove Heights, a geothermal heat pump system costing $688,000 by pre- bid estimates, could pay for itself in 10 years. After that, the suggested savings of $68,800 annually would accrue to the city. 1 In Eagan, a payback time of 10 to 12 years is projected for installation of a ground source heat pump for the ice rink in the city's civic arena. The city has agreed to match a $1.34 million federal stimulus grant for the geothermal project; if it bonds for its share of the project, payback could take longer, according to Cheryl Mesko, who is operations superintendent for the Eagan Parks and Recreation Department. The Eagan arena's new heat pump will hold the temperature of water, which is normally heated to make ice, steady at 55 degrees. That ends the need to draw in cold water and then heat it. The project also calls for a building "envelope" that includes installation of a heat - reflecting ceiling and seals for doors and windows. Besides cutting energy costs, the geothermal system will conserve an estimated 1 million gallons of water a year and will reduce carbon emissions by the same amount as taking 124 autos off the road, according to consultants working on the project. Geothermal heating and cooling should cut utility bills by 75 percent, to $2,200 annually, at the new No. 3 Apple Valley Liquor Store, according to consultants on the recently completed structure. That's the projected savings even though the system needs to service the store's beer cooler and "beer cave." And it means the utility savings should pay for the system in six to 10 years, according to Tim Doherty of Dakota Electric. That utility serves Apple Valley and 'The payback could take longer if funds from a bond issue were used to pay for it, because of interest. The city last year agreed to both use its own reserves and proceeds from a bond sale to finance an $11 million City Hall expansion and construction of an adjoining Public Safety building. offers reduced electric rates to geothermal users. Burnsville, likewise, expects a major drop in its electrical use and bills with a geothermal system to serve its civic ice arena. The arena now consumes 46 percent of all electricity used in the city's municipal buildings. The city is using previously committed revenues for that multi -million -dollar project, which includes other changes to the arena. Estimated annual energy savings are $55,000 for a new maintenance building being planned jointly in West St. Paul by that city and Dakota County. The savings will result in part from the use of a geothermal system to heat and cool offices and bay areas in the 50,000 -square - foot, $7 million dollar project. Footings went in last fall and construction is underway on the energy-efficient facility. ENERGY EFFICIENCY But it's not just six- and seven -figure dollar geothermal systems that Dakota County cities are paying for in their quest for energy savings. Some projects are as simple as switching out incandescent light bulbs with the newer -generation replacements. The pitch for compact fluorescent lights, for example, is that they cut energy use by 75 percent and last 10 times longer than standard lights, "You could save up to $60 each year," boasts one ad for the CFLs. That's for homeowners. For municipal operations, the potential for savings is considerably more. For example, a study prepared for Apple Valley shows that each compact fluorescent lamp costing $85 would save $123 annually, meaning it would pay for itself in about eight months. Payback time for such retrofitting is even less when rebates offered by states, utilities, and foundations promoting energy efficiency are factored in. One of the best examples anywhere of leveraging stimulus money and rebates has to be the 6 one going forward in Eagan. The city council there recently accepted outside grants and rebates for a package of small-scale projects with potential to cut the utility bills for about a half-dozen municipal buildings by $37,000 annually. Here's the math for that package, which includes energy-efficient lighting upgrades and improved insulation: • $714,207 --total package cost • $657,100 -- from federal Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grants program • $48,700 -- rebates from utilities and foundations • $8,407 -- city's share of the package, or just over 1 percent of the total cost. That's the kind of math that Eagan Mayor Mike Maguire must have had in mind during his 2009 State of the City speech, when he stressed the need for "smart energy conservation decisions." But it wasn't just the chance to save $37,000 annually at a one-time cost of $8,000 that prompted the city's decision. "Our community is committed to energy conservation," says City Manager Tom Hedges. And Eagan is, in fact, one of the Dakota County communities that have joined the Sierra Club -backed national Cool Cities Campaign, which promotes municipal -level sustainability and energy efficiency initiatives. (The others include Rosemount, Burnsville, Sunfish Lake, and Apple Valley). Besides the Eagan project's cost savings, the city expects to cut water usage by 1.4 million gallons annually and to eliminate 550,000 pounds of carbon dioxide emission each year. That's the same as taking 48 cars off Eagan roads. Other Dakota County cities also are going green for environmental reasons. In Inver Grove Heights, for example, a series of sustainability and energy- and money -saving features were added to the new City Hall -Public Safety Building project at the suggestion of a citizens advisory council that looked at ways to minimize the city's carbon footprint. So built into the $11 -million project (pictured left), besides geothermal heating -cooling, which the city was told will be "a big step toward carbon neutrality," are two additional features: "High-performance" windows. They're designed to hold in heat in winter, reflect the sun in summer, and eliminate "hot" and "cold" spots throughout the structure. Estimated cost was $87,000, with payback estimated at three to eight years, depending on seasonal weather conditions. White thermoplastic polyolefin roof. This will reflect the sun, keeping the building cooler in summer and reducing air conditioning use. The energy -conscious Inver Grove Heights City Council also accepted a site plan that includes these sustainability features: • Use of native plants, which are more tolerant of dry weather, to cut watering. • Use of low-VOC (volatile organic compounds) and low -formaldehyde building materials to improve indoor air quality. • Porous paving and other erosion controls to reduce runoff and improve water quality. ® Minimal site disturbance (though some mature trees had to be removed). Burnsville also decided on geotheimal heating -cooling for its civic ice arena. The $4.7 million project was moved along because the arena was soaking up 46 percent of all the electricity used by municipal buildings. Their decision followed a year-long sustainability review that resulted in a plan to act on the city council's "commitment to sustainability, which states, "The City of Burnsville will promote development that maintains or enhances economic opportunity and 8 community well-being while protecting and restoring the natural environment upon which people and economies depend. Sustainability meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs." BUSINESS AND INDUSTRY It isn't just cities that are turning to sustainability and energy efficiency, the Sierra Club survey shows. Businesses are taking part in that shift. The Minnesota Chamber of Commerce has launched an Energy Smart clearinghouse to help commercial and industrial enterprises, especially small and medium-sized businesses that may not be able to afford consultants, on how to curb energy use and how to save money in the process. Its strategies include: -- "Installing new LED exit signs. The sign costs about $57 to install, but saves $43 a year in electricity versus a standard incandescent exit sign." - - "Turn a thermostat down 10 degrees overnight and reduce heating and cooling costs by 10 percent." - - "Negotiate with a vending -machine contractor to install an Energy Star qualified beverage machine. The machines keep the beverages cool around the clock, and the lights are activated only when individuals are making a selection. As a result, a vending machine's annual electricity costs of about $225 can be halved." An Eagan business that took advantage of Energy Smart's advice and planning help, including links to utility rebates, did a lighting update and expects to reduce electricity usage by more than half, while cutting its utility bill by at least $6,400 a year. "It's almost too good to be true -- and it cost nothing," says Lynn Hansch, vice president of St. Paul Linoleum and Carpet.2 2 There's an asterisk on his comment because of a loan that helped finance the retrofitting in the 9 Aside from conserving energy and saving money, Hansch was pleasantly surprised to discover that the firm's employees have been caught up in the spirit of conservation. On their own, they repositioned new ceiling sensors in the warehouse so they don't illuminate more than one of the wide aisles at a time, they stop the overhead garage door from opening more than needed to clear the company van when it enters and leaves, and suggested other energy- and money -saving ideas, Hansch said. The upgrade not only provided better light for warehouse workers, but created a new mindset in the process, as he put it. CITIES, COUNTIES AND CAMPUSES Here are the specifics on what communities, campuses, and the county itself are doing to save money by using more energy-efficient buildings and appliances and by switching to sustainable energy sources: APPLE VALLEY Geothermal heating -cooling is a feature of new Liquor Store No. 3 (details above); and the new Hayes Community and Senior Center, with its living green roof for better insulation, received Green Globes certification for their energy efficiency and sustainable architectural designs. The city also is using $441,500 in federal stimulus funding, more than $30,000 in rebates, and some of its own funds for a package of retrofitting and new controls in municipal buildings. Those steps are projected to trim electrical needs by 410,000 kilowatt hours, at a savings of $10,000 or more annually, and to cut carbon emissions by 29.2 millions pounds annually. BURNSVILLE In addition to geothermal heating -cooling for its civic ice arena (details above), the city received $559,300 in federal stimulus money •and outside grants for a number of projects in municipal film's office and warehouse. But the savings will have paid for the loan by next year, and then the company will pocket the savings. 10 buildings that will curb energy consumption. One project was conversion of its annual Yule lighting to the improved LED bulbs (annual utility bill savings were estimated at $8,500), and another was creation of a $37,000, matching -grant fund to enable city businesses to receive interest-free money for energy efficiency projects. EAGAN Geothermal system for its ice arena and $700,000 in stimulus funds and rebates for energy -and money -saving retrofitting and decommissioning projects -- details above. The city also is moving forward with a new Fire Station No. 2 that will be part of an "energy efficient public safety campus." HASTINGS The county seat has incrementally upgraded its environmental activity, including purchase of a hybrid vehicle for the Public Works Department. The new Ford Escape averages more than 30 miles per gallon in the city after replacing two older pickups that each got half that mileage. A public works office addition includes switch controls and other lighting upgrades. And the city plans to test several LED street lights as a possible precursor to a switch as funds allow. INVER GROVE HEIGHTS In addition to the sustainability and conservation features of its City Hall expansion and adjoining Public Safety Building, the city was considering more than $350,000 in retrofitting and recommissioning in its municipal buildings. More than $16,000 in rebates are available, and hopefully stimulus funds will help pay for the changes, which Xcel Energy estimates will trim the city's electric bill by $21,000 and its natural gas bill by nearly $50,000, both annually. The city eventually received about $100,000 in stimulus funds; it matched that, then added about $50,000 in utility rebates for upgrades in lighting, energy management, and air handling in its civic community center -- all conservation and money -saving improvements. LAKEVILLE Electric bills for Lakeville's 15 municipal buildings should drop by about $35,000 each year. 11 That's the projected savings for just over $500,000 in mostly retrofitting, financed in large part by $474,000 in stimulus funds, with about $28,000 in rebates and some city funds. Several projects include exterior LED lighting -- including new holiday decorations that should reduce their annual utility bill from about $300 to about $20. New interior lighting and lighting controls in several structures, a new mechanical system for the community's arts center, and energy- saving changes in water treatment also are planned. ROSEMOUNT Using rebates to pay about half the cost, Rosemount recently completed some $30,000 in lighting upgrades at City Hall; the project included computer upgrades, resulting in LED screen lighting and more energy efficient, and thus fewer, servers. Recent utility bills show savings of $100 to $300 monthly on bills that normally range from about $1,500 to $4,000, depending on seasons and temperatures, according to Alan Strand, chief Rosemount City Building Official. The city also received $118,000 in small -city Energy Efficiency Conservation Block Grant funds for recreation center upgrades, and for an energy-efficient heating unit for an old church it bought to house some city functions, such as the arts. The city also has cut back on mowing city parkland, including 15 acres turned over to native prairie flowers and grasses. SOUTH ST. PAUL More efficient lighting and a new rooftop heating -cooling system for the Wakota ice arena are planned with the proceeds of a hoped-for $100,000 Energy Efficiency Conservation Block Grant. The energy-saving lights should pay for themselves in roughly two years. Indirectly, the city is sponsoring construction of a new "green" residence. The home is being built by a private contractor, Terry Linderholm, at the direction of the South St. Paul Housing and Redevelopment Authority. The agency buys dilapidated structures, razes them, then sells the lots to private developers; in this case stipulating that the builder incorporate energy-efficient features. The model home at 315 12"' Ave. N., will be built with energy-efficient foam panels, high- performance windows, and energy efficient appliances and mechanical system. The house is expected to be 15 percent more airtight than usual construction, to reduce energy costs. 12 WEST ST. PAUL Besides geothermal heating -cooling, with an estimated payback time of eight years, the city's new 50,000 -square -foot maintenance building will feature thicker roof and walls, for improved insulation; electric bifold doors that open and close more quickly than overheads; and more efficient indoor and outdoor lighting, among other money- and energy-saving features. Pervious pavement and a rain garden are planned to control runoff. The city also is looking at lighting upgrades for City Hall with a payback time of two to three years. DAKOTA COUNTY TECHNICAL COLLEGE & INVER HILLS COMMUNITY COLLEGE Both of Dakota County's public higher education campuses are committed to comprehensive environmental changes: Measuring and curbing greenhouse gas emissions; creating a timetable to reach "climate neutrality" and integrating sustainability into classroom study are among the requirements that go with signing onto the American College and University Presidents Climate Commitment. Sign -on is exactly what Ron Thomas, president of Dakota County Technical College (DCTC), and Cheryl Frank, president of Inver hills Community College, did. Although largely dependent on availability of state funding and oversight, the two campuses have moved ahead. A wind turbine may be part of the Inver Grove Heights school's future. Consideration of both wind and solar power is among recommendations in the IHCC energy assessment. Photovoltaic cells could help power its childcare center. The school hopes to offer a certificate in alternative, renewable energy. That program is among the "green" classes and programs planned on the campus. They would augment an array of recycling and conservation projects already in place or planned. Older buildings are being "enveloped" for greater heating -cooling efficiency. Any new structures must meet the U.S. 13 Green Building Council's LEED Silver Standard; the most recent structure was built to support a green roof. DCTC, near Rosemount, is on its way toward carbon neutrality. The technical school already has identified sources of its annual 19.1 million pound carbon output: 44 percent is from mechanical systems, 34 percent from vehicles, and the rest from lighting and other electrical hookups. Efforts include: - - Emphasis on solar energy. Solar panels in the greenhouse will heat water in the summer to allow the school's boiler to be turned off Solar panels heat an athletic concession stand. More efficiency is expected from retrofitting and decommissioning. - - Measures to reduce vehicular traffic and fossil fuel emissions. Specifically considered: increased public transit to the campus -- including the talked of Robert Street and/or U.S. 52 transit corridors; a parking permit surcharge; increased use of online classes; and conversion of grassland to native prairie plants, to restrict mowing by maintenance vehicles. Dakota County Technical College's ultimate goal: "A carbon -neutral, net zero energy/zero emissions/zero waste campus." Beyond that, DCTC could even consider becoming "energy - positive and carbon negative." Secondary schools in Dakota County also have money -saving stories to tell about their own lighting retrofitting, recommissioning and energy conservation programs. Many of the county's public schools are part of SEE (Schools for Energy Efficiency). Business managers in those districts report "some dramatic changes" in their utility bills as a result. DAKOTA COUNTY The county has an environmental track record and an ambitious agenda. Its achievements include a new Northern Service Center with many energy-saving features, built on a former 14 brownfield waste site in West St. Paul, and a visitor center with vegetated roof and walls and cabinets made of recycled plant products in Lebanon Hills Regional Park in Eagan. The county has a committee that said a reasonable goal would be to work toward Dakota "being designated the only Green County in Minnesota and to make that a distinguishing characteristic in the future economic development and residential growth of our communities. As the issues of sustainability, energy independence, and consumption gain prominence, being recognized as a leader in the area of Green Living will make Dakota County a highly desired (place) to live, work, recreate, and do business." PROGRAMS FOR HOMEOWNERS The county also promotes individual property owners' initiatives in energy efficiency and sustainability. It advises that with "careful planning, green remodeling can lower utility bills, reduce maintenance needs, and create a healthy home while incorporating comfort and style." The county offers this Web site with resources for "residential green remodeling": http ://www.co. dakota.mn.us/EnvironmentRoads/EnvirProtect/Sustainability/ResidentialRemodel ing.htm Some Dakota County communities offer or are thinking about programs for homeowners. Apple Valley, for example, has a Be (Better Energy) program. A revolving energy -efficiency loan program provides up to $8,000 per household. The Center for Energy Environment studied potential energy savings and offers free energy use workshops and will do a $400 home inspection for a $20 co -pay. It channels financing incentives and rebates for larger projects such as furnace replacement. Eagan City Council member Paul Bakken has stated his support for municipal loans to homeowners to install energy-saving heating -cooling systems such as geothermal. The loans would be repaid by savings from turning off natural gas, or oil, to draw heat from the ground. 15 That prospect appears to be on hold, at least until the economy improves -- but Eagan is moving ahead with a plan to tap the thinking of community members on how the city can use energy efficiency to improve its bottom line. The Eagan City Council recently authorized the mayor to appoint a citizen advisory unit on energy and the environment. Its wide-ranging agenda includes evaluating the city's recycling program, exploring partnerships with businesses and utilities to promote energy reduction, and looking at a public loan plan to help residents curb energy consumption. The state of Minnesota is taking a step in the same direction. In March it began offering rebates of up to $200 rebate on appliances that meet the reduced -energy use standard of the Energy Star program. The rebate plan coincides with Excel Energy's free pickup of operational refrigerators and a $35 rebate mailed to those who get rid of their old refrigerators. CONCLUSION AND FUTURE OPPORTUNITIES A new mechanism is now available for Minnesota cities and counties thanks to legislation passed in April 2010. The bill enables local governments to create revenue bonds, typically called "Property Assessed Clean Energy Bonds," which are used to provide loans for energy improvements to residential or commercial properties. These can include renewable energy or energy efficiency projects. The loans are then paid back by the home or business -owner via a property tax assessment. The successes in Dakota County communities are great examples of saving energy and taxpayer dollars while creating new, clean energy jobs and growing the "green" economy. By retrofitting existing buildings and investing in new technologies for heating, cooling, lighting and insulation, high -performing buildings are a smart investment for Minnesota's energy future. Learn more and get involved by contacting the Sierra Club North Star Chapter at 612-659-9124 or north.star.chapter(i sierraclub.org. 16 TECHNICAL FOOTNOTES Geothermal heating -cooling systems These systems take advantage of the fact that the ground traps 47 percent of the sun's energy, creating a clean, sustainable energy source. Fluid circulating in an underground pipe loop is heated in the ground naturally, from that stored heat. Then it is transported to a building's heating vents. Electricity is used to transport the heated fluid. In summer, heat is drawn from the structure and piped to the earth, a principle similar to that of a refrigerator. "Interest has been continually growing in geotheimal," according to Tim Doherty, a certified energy manager and business account representative at Dakota Electric. The rising price of natural gas has been "a big motivator. I think a reduced carbon footprint is an added interest," Doherty says. Those systems "have improved in quality over the last 30 years ," and there is now a more accurate soil test to determine heating -cooling properties, he adds. Retrofitting This can be as simple as replacing incandescent lights with any of their more modern counterparts such as compact fluorescent bulbs or LED lighting. It can be as extensive as installing heat -reflecting ceilings or adding door and window "seals." "We can definitely save money, and energy too," says Dan Schultz of Rosemount Parks and Recreation. He speaks from experience, having overseen a new lighting system for the city's ice arena; the cost was about $6,000, but the payback is "real quick." Recommissioning This is a more recent and more extensive approach to conservation. It uses technology such as infrared camera and electronic flow meters to monitor the operation of mechanical systems. With the data collected, engineers add or reprogram mechanical system controls, for example, to boost efficiency by turning off lights in unoccupied rooms, or turn down the thermostat at designated times. 17 Recommissioning helped a Moorhead middle school cut its annual utility bill by $141,000 a year -- enough to pay for several more teachers. The work was done by the Center for Efficiency and the Environment (CEE), a Minneapolis-based non profit that was called in after the school was found to be using "excessive amounts of energy throughout the school year." So, even though the school was built in 2004, recommissioning was found to be needed. New controls for the building's existing heating -cooling -ventilation systems cost $422,000 -- but the energy savings paid for those in just three years. CEE's files are full of similar stories. In a 600,000 -square -foot hospital, for example, energy costs were cut by $180,000 a year, with a one-year payback. CEE staff recommended changes to allow a high-rise office building to reduce its energy costs by $91,000 annually, with a two-year payback. One of the nation's largest retrofitting and recommissioning is planned to start this summer in the 102 -story tall Empire State Building in New York City. Projected cost: $20 million; projected energy savings: $.4 million annually. The building should use 38 percent less energy by 2013 when the project is finished. Research is another venue for the Center for Efficiency and the Environment. Its engineers are, for example, studying alternatives to home water heaters. The tank heaters are "one of the least efficiency energy uses in homes," with a minimum efficiency of only about 55 percent, according to the center's staff. The center also is working for legislative changes that would, for example, encourage new building design standards that cut fossil -fuel based energy consumption, and would channel financing and technical aid to communities and school districts to cut energy use, and costs to taxpayers. Energy-efficient lighting New technology is creating many alternatives to the incandescent bulb, which releases 90 percent of its energy as heat. 18 Compact fluorescent lights (CFLs): can last 10 times longer and use 75 percent less energy than incadescents. Electric current driven through a tube with argon and a small amount of mercury produces an ultraviolet light that's transformed into visible light by the fluorescent coating inside the tube. Because of the mercury, the bulbs must be disposed of as hazardous waste. Several chain stores, including Best Buy, accept used CFLs at no charge; so does Dakota County's recycling center, 3365 Dodd Road, Eagan; from 3-8 p.m. on Wednesdays, and 9 a.m.-2 p.m. on Thursdays and Saturdays. LED -- light -emitting diodes. Small light sources are illuminated by movement of electrons through semiconductor material. There are many types, based on use and quality of construction. They can use at least 75 percent less energy and last 25 times longer than incandescents, according to Energy Star, the rating service of two federal agencies, the Energy Department and the Environmental Protection Service. 19 Prepared by: Jerry Kahlert Northern Dakota County Sierra Club Sierra Club North Star Chapter 2327 East Franklin Avenue #1 Minneapolis, Minnesota 55406 612-659-9124 FOUNDED 1892 www.northstar.sierraclub.org 20 New Commission Focuses on Eagan's Gruen Smog entre. ]«ang gmener sod deterrnm- in$ how OUT cho3cesirnp3.Ct OUT bat= line is a toNcc rn racist houseluoLds at pmeot. The City of Eagan is no different. fn its brenrual goal -setting proons for 2004- 1'.: the cit} Council identified a gnat of rzomplifynig Eagares commitment to ern•I- ronr ental sustaioability and mew ef5cuzn- cy. Steps to ]mplemeot this goal have includ- ed energy• assiessmeats and multiple efficiency upgrades at Cay buddiogs; worbong to achieve 'Green Globes" eownonuuerit3L cer- tification at the new Fire Safety centrr mat related and throe y the appointment irr ApnL of a new Ener r and Eovrrcci ent Advisar}• Cooiuusaor.i. the Col:3=5E1or, will belp study. ddrne and further r oipLcmert the Co nrt]. ern•rnOomianal object Lion. the seven -member comouttee.. made up of o i dents Interested ]o enVaroQnoeotal Issues, '35 a Wry errtluuSlastuc acrd deck ed team." sales Diaririe ,.4t tacit to the Cit: A niorstrator and stall [liaison to the GmEar ssicin_ 'The group is really dinng into the Issues od wstansbditj sod as recDrn- mending 'Atm arid goals to the City; Coun.al bar the remainder of the r and beyond. - The group Welcomes ]opsit from the public on how the City, its residents. 'businesses and organnat101:15 can take further steps to be even more env]rorjrertallyr sod energy COGL9Ious. Meetings are the second tuesclay of alternat- ing months (otmaming2010 meetings ate October 12 and December 14) at 7:00 p.m. at Fagan City [4a]1 and the public is welcome to attend. chleS130173S or comments too tlx Commusuon can be directed to macecit- yerfeaganoom. Article from the September/October 2010 Experience Eagan Newsletter