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TCAAP Energy Integration Resiliency Framework <br />Brief <br /> <br /> <br /> 9 <br /> Installation of an infrastructure network in the neighborhoods will allow for easier integration <br />of future energy sources or technology advancements as they become available. <br /> Implementation of this system would establish the TCAAP approach to sustainable <br />neighborhoods as a national model for energy efficiency and innovative site development. <br />Additional Energy Technology Opportunities <br />While not recommended for any of the initial options in this Framework, there are two additional <br />technologies that should be considered for future TCAAP energy system integration: <br />Thermal Energy Storage – On the AHATS site, there is an existing one million gallon water storage <br />tank and related water distribution piping. This tank could be used as a thermal energy storage tank to <br />store water for the heating and cooling needs of the area. This would work like a battery, which would <br />fill up during non-peak energy hours and be discharged during peak energy usage times to balance out <br />the energy usage profile for the area. <br />Solar Thermal – The MNARNG utilizes solar-thermal technology on its buildings and is investigating <br />further integration of it as their site is built out. This technology should be considered for individual <br />sites or as part of a larger energy plan for TCAAP development. <br />Energy Efficiency Strategies through Demand-Side Management (Outlined in Section 4) <br />To promote energy efficiency at TCAAP, the Project Team recommends a combined approach through <br />flexible building design assistance, readily available technical resources, planning best practices, and <br />development RFP criteria that will attract and streamline energy efficient development. High- <br />performance buildings with a lower energy profile will provide an economically attractive environment <br />where building owners save money through increased efficiency and lower energy bills. The <br />implementation of improved building energy efficiency will be as important as the energy sources to <br />achieving the community’s low-carbon, resiliency goals. Considering demand-side management <br />alongside development increases the opportunities for demonstration projects and resident, tenant, <br />and commercial participation. For these efforts, Xcel Energy and the Center for Sustainable Building <br />Research at the University of Minnesota will be valuable partners. <br />Throughout the development of TCAAP, the recommended demand-side initiatives will depend <br />strongly on engaging developers, who can help implement the TCAAP energy vision. These energy <br />efficiency recommendations make use of the truly unique opportunities at TCAAP, which include: <br /> A greenfield development to minimize the cost of initial installation of energy efficient <br />systems.