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TCAAP Energy Integration Resiliency Framework Policy White Paper – Unique Opportunities for the TCAAP Site 14 area to increase system efficiency. District heating and cooling also allows the aggregation of thermal loads that can be used with CHP plants or distributed renewable generation for far greater system efficiencies than stand-alone heating systems in each building. District heating and cooling networks are versatile infrastructure systems that can be integrated with various technologies such as th ermal energy storage and on-site power generation for CHP, as well as future energy sources as they become available. The use of this infrastructure is growing globally and is currently in place in large and small communities across the United States, including more than 24 systems in the Twin Cities metro area. 3.1.4. Low-Temperature Water Loop Distinct from district heating and cooling loops, certain less -dense areas of TCAAP may benefit from the utilization of low-grade energy to meet their heating and cooling needs. For example, in the residential areas of the Hill and Creek, the homes could leverage energy from the existing treated ground water or geothermal wells and utilize ground or water-source heat pumps to heat and cool their homes. To do this, a core water loop would need to be installed in the residential areas prior to development. To keep the costs of this infrastructure as low as possible, installation could be coordinated with street construction for the area. 3.1.5. Direct Fiber Broadband Over the next 50 years, a reliable, state-of-the-art communications infrastructure that supports an intelligent grid will be a backbone of the energy supply system. This infrastructure would also allow for “smart” advanced metering, communications, and controls, which will provide end users with greater information and control over their energy usage. Use of such advanced communication infrastructure will allow individual technologies and buildings to improve performance as a result of real-time conditions, and also allow future energy consumers to be more engaged and responsive. Many energy efficiency innovations rely on the opportunities to connect customers, equipment, utilities, and supply technologies across an advanced communication infrastructure. As an added benefit, a municipally- owned system could provide an additional revenue source for the owner. An advanced communications infrastructure would also offer piloting and demonstration opportunities for the growing field of intelligent energy technologies. A reliable and advanced communications infrastructure has co-benefits for attracting businesses that rely on access to high-speed internet and communications technologies. This infrastructure should be deployed as part of the street utilities, once again to lower the initial cost of installation. 3.2. AHATS Partnership on Energy Supply Alternatives The AHATS site has developed a master plan for the buildings on its site that includes the goal of net - zero energy, water, and waste, and are currently working on implementation plans to achieve this goal.