City Council Meeting Date: July 11, 2017
To: Honorable Mayor and City Council
From: Brenda Angelstad, Finance Director
Justin Wagner, Utilities Manager
Ben Martig, City Administrator
Title
Update on Community Solar Subscription Agreement options.
Body
Action Requested:
Discussion only at this time.
Summary Report:
Staff has continued to explore options for potential investment of city power usage in a community solar subscription. Initial proposals were received from 4 developers that currently have permitted pending projects in the area; MN Community Solar, Innovative Power, Renesola and Cooperative Energy Futures. The proposals received included initial discounts ranging from 4% to 12% and escalation factors ranging from 0% to 2%. Based on this broad range of submissions, we would like more time to conduct a formal RFP and review proposals based on consistent assumptions.
There are legislative changed occurring at the end of the year that will remove some opportunities, including greater potential cost savings to the City, which has created the urgency on this project. There is a financial benefit as well as positive environmental benefits of this renewable energy investment.
Staff has made substantial progress on evaluating options and alternatives. However, staff is requesting additional time to provide a formal recommendation to the City Council.
We will continue to be evaluating alternatives and recommendations prior to the Council meeting. Please see attached Powerpoint Presentation that provides some additional information that will be presented to the City Council.
Alternative Options:
Not applicable.
Financial Impacts:
Financial impacts will be analyzed in the RFP process.
Tentative Timelines:
July 11 Council Meeting - Staff anticipates additional information prior to and/or at the City Council meeting but do not anticipate any recommended action and absolutely no binding commitment recommendations.
July 18 Council Meeting...
Click here for full text