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<br /> <br />20 <br />high-density areas, might not have enough land to meet their heating and cooling energy demands. This <br />could be mitigated using technologies like in-ground heat exchangers. <br />5.1.5. OTHER SCENARIOS CONSIDERED <br />The following scenarios were also modeled but are not included in this analysis. <br />• Decentralized air source heat pumps or VRF systems. This scenario may require additional <br />equipment, increased capacities due to potential derating in colder temperatures, and cold climate- <br />specific components. Electric strip heating might also be necessary for peak loads. This scenario may <br />not be technically feasible for all building operations. Condenser units could occupy roof space that <br />could otherwise be used for solar PV. This scenario is not included in the analysis due to feedback <br />from the developer that if a decentralized system were selected, a decentralized geothermal <br />(Scenario 3) would be preferred. <br />• Decentralized electric resistance heat. This scenario is unlikely due to the high electrical demand and <br />associated energy costs, therefore it is not included in this analysis <br />5.2. Heating and Cooling GHG Emissions <br />By state statute, Minnesota’s electric grid is planned to be carbon-free by 2040.2 Until then, the GHG <br />calculations are based on Xcel Energy’s Integrated Resource Plan. By implementing all-electric heating and <br />constructing high-performance buildings at RCC, emissions from heating and cooling systems would be <br />reduced by over 90%. With a district energy system or decentralized geothermal water source systems, the <br />reduction could be up to 98%. The 30-year cumulative GHG emissions are summarized in Figure 10. Heating <br />and cooling energy could become carbon-free prior to 2040 by utilizing on-site solar PV or purchasing <br />renewable energy through Xcel Energy or other providers. <br /> <br />Figure 10. 30-Year cumulative heating and cooling GHG emissions <br /> <br />2 Minn.Stat. 216b.1691 (2023) <br />364,400 <br />7,100 6,800 6,600 <br />0 <br />50,000 <br />100,000 <br />150,000 <br />200,000 <br />250,000 <br />300,000 <br />350,000 <br />400,000 <br />Business as Usual Scenario 1: District <br />Energy - Entire <br />Development <br />Scenario 2: District <br />Energy - Town Center <br />Scenario 3: <br />Decentralized <br />Geothermal <br />30-Year Cumulative GHG Emissions (Metric Tons)