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TCAAP Energy Integration Resiliency Framework <br />Energy Source Implementation <br /> <br /> <br /> 55 <br />Additional savings could be realized if the piping were installed in a joint trench with the water <br />main, meaning that the distribution piping and water main would be constructed at the same <br />depth and in the same trench. This would eliminate the need for a second trench excavation <br />for the distribution piping, and would only require a marginal increase in the size of the <br />excavation of the water main trench. <br /> Xcel Energy could partner with the County, JDA, and the City to further evaluate and promote <br />a neighborhood development that does not utilize natural gas. This promotion would include <br />providing technical assistance, contributing electric vehicle charging stations, or promoting the <br />efficiency and low-carbon possibilities of the neighborhood. <br /> Energy efficiency savings related to micro-hydro, community solar garden subscription, or <br />other renewable electric generation were not included in the model for the energy transfer <br />station or customer properties. Utilization of these technologies could improve the payback <br />time for the system. <br />Equipment rebates and tax credits were not included into the model, though Xcel Energy <br />offers rebates on high efficiency equipment and variable frequency drives, for which the <br />energy transfer station will be eligible. Xcel Energy also has a number of other energy <br />conservation programs that could be leveraged to offset initial capital costs of the system. <br />None of these rebates were assumed in the current model. <br /> The Federal Government offers a 30% tax credit to home owners who install a groundwater <br />heat pump that is applicable from the date of occupancy by the homeowner for new homes. <br />However, this tax credit is only applicable if the home is used as a residence by the taxpayer, <br />and is scheduled to end on December 31, 2016.6 The inherent ambiguity regarding <br />construction date and owner usage, the Project Team has not included this tax credit in the <br />model. <br />3.3.6. Implementation Planning and Suggested Next Steps <br />Implementing a low-temperature district energy system in the residential neighborhoods of TCAAP can <br />deliver several benefits to the site and stakeholders, including the following. <br /> An energy system that is more energy efficient than traditional heating and cooling systems. <br /> Reduced fossil fuel usage and greenhouse gas emissions. <br /> Competitive, stable costs of energy for homeowners. <br /> <br />6 http://energy.gov/savings/residential-renewable-energy-tax-credit