07-07-2025 JDA Work Session Packet

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electric heat pumps for heating and cooling systems, solar energy, highly energy-efficient design, and low- embodied-carbon materials. In doing so, the two developments could provide a blueprint for creating net-zero/carbon- neutral neighborhoods in a cold climate. LHB’s Climate Solutions team advises both projects on developing pathways to achieve their carbon neutrality goals. The Heights and Rice Creek Commons will showcase how all- electric communities can work and make economic sense compared to developments using fossil-fuel energy sources. The two developments “are really out front,” says LHB architect and researcher Rick Carter, FAIA. “They’re not just dipping their toes in the water.” The Heights started earlier on energy planning than Rice Creek Commons. After the St. Paul Port Authority purchased Hillcrest several years ago, the agency decided to plan it as a carbon- neutral community and renamed it The Heights. Arden Hills noticed. Arden Hills Council Member Tena Monson says the Rice Creek sustainability guidelines are “based on what’s happening and what has happened at The Heights. We thought that was a good playbook to follow and adapt to fit what we’re trying to do.” Other factors will likely normalize energy planning in community building and propel the acceptance of electric heating and cooking. Utilities such as Xcel Energy must reach the state’s goal of carbon-free electricity by 2040. St. Paul, Ramsey County, and Arden Hills all have aggressive sustainability goals—targets that the new communities will help them achieve. Both projects are seeking LEED for Communities Platinum certification from the U.S. Green Building Council, the program’s highest designation for 1 392025 | ENTER MAGAZINE382025 | ENTER MAGAZINE