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At the request of Member Cihacek, Mr. Schwartz suggesting, from staff's <br /> perspective, to pursue an initial project that was not too large, but given the <br /> amount of available roof space, get several applications in for the Made in <br /> Minnesota program; and consider one larger system for the SPPA program, if that <br /> was what the PWETC would also support. <br /> Member Cihacek spoke in support of pursuing a solar power purchase agreement, <br /> based on the information provided, but also providing an opportunity for public <br /> comment and firm analysis on cost versus savings, and clarification for whether <br /> or not the City should purchase the solar system. Member Cihacek suggested a <br /> recommendation to the City Council from the PWETC to initiate a solicitation <br /> process for a power purchase agreement for selected sites. <br /> Mr. Culver, in questioning the recommended size of the initial system from the <br /> PWETC, noted that a system of 100 K could take up to 10,000 to 12,000 square <br /> feet of rooftop; and expressed concern about finding a roof or combination thereof <br /> that would provide that space. Mr. Culver also suggested the need to define <br /> whether it was best to pursue financing or seek a direct purchase by the City. <br /> Mr. Kampmeyer addressed capacity credits; noting that a 100 K system allowed <br /> the City to collect almost up to 50% of the solar capacity credit through <br /> distributive generation. <br /> Mr. Culver noted that, based on previous discussions specific to maintenance, if <br /> the solar system was installed on a rooftop twice the size needed (e.g. 12,000 <br /> square feet size for a 100 plus K system), that could be accomplished on the City <br /> Hall roof or the side most recently refurbished; and then could be installed as <br /> necessary on another portion or on a portion of the public works garage. Mr. <br /> Culver opined that this should address concerns brought up about the power <br /> purchase agreement and entering into a preset escalator or rate increase not <br /> knowing what the market was going to do, and given the size of the proposed <br /> large system on city facility rooftops. <br /> After numerous presentations and discussions, Member Cihacek opined that the <br /> best long-term savings option seemed to be through a power purchase agreement <br /> with escalating amounts, which would include some risks, but also provide some <br /> guarantees for at least twenty years. While he had no preference in any options <br /> presented, Member Cihacek opined that the PWETC recommend that the City <br /> Council use its discretion to pursue an alternative measure to provide that best <br /> long-term savings availability; and from a valuation standpoint opined that that <br /> may prove the best option presented to-date, and allow initiation of the steps to <br /> begin the process. <br /> Member Seigler suggested specifying the Made in Minnesota option, and proceed <br /> with that on six different sites. <br /> Page 6 of 11 <br />