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<br /> <br />4 <br />for a district energy system. The third scenario proposed a decentralized solution, where each building has <br />its own geothermal system. <br />The modeling indicates that an all-electric, carbon-free development is feasible at Rice Creek Commons by <br />developing high-performance buildings and using geothermal ground source systems for heating and <br />cooling with either district energy or a decentralized system. The remaining renewable energy needs could <br />be met by a combination of on-site solar and purchasing renewable energy from Xcel Energy. By taking <br />these steps and going all-electric, Rice Creek Commons could reduce GHG emissions from heating and <br />cooling by up to 98% over 30-years compared to the baseline. <br />Next Steps <br />Implementation of the strategies described in this document will involve deep collaboration between the <br />JDA, developers, and other project partners. As a first step, the JDA could adopt a policy that the Rice Creek <br />Commons development be all-electric and carbon-free. This policy would provide guidance for the project <br />team and developers while still allowing flexibility to determine specific technologies and strategies to meet <br />this requirement. <br />The project team will continue to work with developers to understand the costs and financial incentives <br />associated with green energy and sustainability measures. In particular, the project team will engage with <br />developers to compare district energy and decentralized geothermal systems to determine the best path <br />forward for the project. The project team will finalize Sustainability Design Guidelines for JDA approval and <br />implementation and also begin the LEED for Communities certification process. <br />Rice Creek Commons Clean Energy Analysis <br />1. Introduction <br />The purpose of this report is to assess the feasibility of achieving the Rice Creek Commons (RCC) Energy <br />Vision: <br />Rice Creek Commons will be a vibrant and unique, climate-forward development that aligns with the goals <br />outlined in the State of Minnesota’s Climate Action Framework: carbon neutrality, clean energy, climate <br />resiliency, equity and innovation. Rice Creek Commons will attract investment and partnership that will <br />create sustainable benefits for the community. <br />Guiding Principles <br />• Develop a resilient community for energy and other utilities using clean energy technologies, reducing <br />consumption, and reusing local resources onsite. <br />• Implement infrastructure solutions that are flexible and scalable over 50 years, including developing <br />the site to be adaptable to future technological needs.