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TCAAP Energy Integration Resiliency Framew ork Policy White Paper – Energy Supply Alternatives 21 to subscribe to a larger solar facility and receive credit for their subscribed portion of the project directly on their electricity bill as if the facility was located onsite. Rooftop solar PV arrays are viable options for TCAAP residents and commercial buildings, as long as building or roof orientation and structural provisions for the panels are incorporated into the building design standards. Additionally, ground-mounted solar systems, which currently tend to be more cost- competitive, are also optional. TCAAP is located within Xcel Energy’s service territory, which allows solar owners to access economically favorable utility-tariff options, such as retail net-energy metering. Commercial Xcel Energy customers can also apply for production-based incentives for projects that interconnect by 2024. 5.1.2. Wind Generation The generation potential of wind turbines is highly dependent on the equipme nt installed and the wind velocities available on the site. Based on the Minnesota Department of Commerce Wind Map, TCAAP receives an average wind speed of 0.0-4.9 mph at 30 meters elevation. While large-scale wind energy is generally not well suited for high density residential and commercial areas, wind generation is technologically efficient as it is wholly fueled by a renewable resource. Although wind generation in the TCAAP region does not appear to be as cost efficient as it is in other areas of the state, wind technology advancements may support the future development of localized wind turbines in certain areas of the site. A small-scale community wind approach might be viable in future years, especially as technologies continue to develop that may capture lower-quality wind resources. Prior to considering implementation of any wind generation technologies, a short-term independent resource study would be necessary to discern appropriate scale and technology approach. Regarding utility-scale wind generation, grid infrastructure needs may include technologies that help smooth out generation output to meet needed loads, such as integration with a thermal storage tank or additional transmission infrastructure. 5.1.3. Fuel Cell CHP Fuel cell electric power generation is a non-combustion based process. Fuel cells produce a direct current through an electrochemical process. The electrochemical process combines fuel with oxygen from the ambient air to produce electricity, heat, and water. Heat generated through the electrochemical process can be captured and used to generate hot water for onsite heating or district heating. Fuel cells can also be used as back-up and portable electrical supply; however, the CHP process increases the efficiency of onsite fuel cell power generation. CHP integration is currently most commonly used with hot water district energy systems and larger commercial facilities, which have