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accepting garden operator applications. Cautioning that, due to many unknowns at this point, and based on the value of solar vs. retail rates and competitive advantages among developers, Ms. McKeown opined that it may be August of September before the final rule and acceptance of applications were accepted, which would be on a first come, first served basis. As noted by Mr. Schwartz, Ms. McKeown noted that the reason for the limited number was that only a certain number of subscriptions would be accepted per year for solar gardens, otherwise it may become overwhelming for the current structure and industry. If the City was to consider solar arrays for the community, Ms. McKeown noted some of the considerations needed to be: what was needed to make the project possible (e.g. 30%tax equity partner); choice of a developer that had staying power, listened to the needs, and provided maintenance and insurance coverage; the need to have a minimum of five subscribers; and the minimum purchase amount of 200 watts, but no more than 120% of electric use. Ms. McKeown reviewed some of the challenges for the community, including: clarifying the community values upfront (e.g. will only a local contractor be considered, and must the product be manufactured in MN); identifying a host site that has good solar access and a structurally sound roof with relatively easy access; and finding the 30%tax equity owner if you are an entity that doesn't pay taxes. Ms. McKeown reviewed some of the responsibilities for a solar garden operator, including a copy of the solar panel warranty; a copy of the garden operator's production projections and a description of the methodology used by the operator to develop those projections; and disclosure of future costs and benefits of a solar garden subscription to name a few. At the request of Member Seigler, Ms. McKeown reviewed other energy options offered by Xcel Energy, including wind source, and potential to purchase wind and/or solar energy, with solar probably proving more expensive; and ability to transfer solar energy credits to others with some stipulations. As another resource for the City or community members, Ms. McKeown advised that the Minnesota Renewable Energy Society met on the second Thursday of each month at 6:00 p.m. at the Mayflower Church in So. Minneapolis; additional solar classes were available by visiting the MMES website or the CERTS website and keying in "metro" and "solar"; and offered to research any other resources of interest, with many already available at: http://SolarGardens/MnCERTs.org. At the request of Member Cihacek, Ms. McKeown clarified that any one entity can own up to 40% of the solar garden, but if it was a city or non-tax entity, it would not qualify for credits. At the further request of Member Cihacek, Ms. Page 7 of 20