HomeMy WebLinkAboutEC Packet 10.14.2024City of Falcon Heights
Environment Commission
City Hall
2077 Larpenteur Avenue West
AGENDA
Monday, October 14, 2024
6:30 p.m.
A.CALL TO ORDER:6:30 p.m.
B.ROLL CALL:Beth Mercer-Taylor (Chair) ____ Jared Mehlhaff ____
John Pellegrini (Vice-Chair) ____ Amy Christiansen ____
Adam Keester ____ VACANT ____
Pedro De Filippo Vannucci ____
Staff Liaison Lynch ____
Council Liaison Mielke ____
C.APPROVAL OF AGENDA
D.APPROVAL OF MINUTES
1.June 10, 2024
2.September 9, 2024
E.NEW BUSINESS
1.Tree Trust – Karen Zumach
2.Partners in Energy Update
3.Climate Action Plan Introduction
F.INFORMATION AND ANNOUNCEMENTS
1.Staff Liaison Report
2.Council Liaison Report
G.ADJOURN
Next regular meeting date: December 9, 2024
City of Falcon Heights
Environment Commission
City Hall
2077 Larpenteur Avenue West
Minutes
Monday, June 10, 2024
6:30 p.m.
A. CALL TO ORDER: 6:30 p.m.
B. ROLL CALL: Beth Mercer-Taylor (Chair) _X_ Jared Mehlhaff _A_
John Pellegrini (Vice-Chair) _X_ Amy Christiansen _X_
Emma Kostecki _A_ Adam Keester _X_
Pedro De Filippo Vannucci _A_
Staff Liaison Lynch _X_
Council Liaison Mielke _X_
C. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Vice-Chair Pellegrini made a motion to approve the agenda by consent. All were in favor.
D. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
1. May 13, 2024
Vice-Chair Pellegrini made a motion to approve the minutes from May 13, 2024 by consent. All
were in favor.
E. NEW BUSINESS
1. Christine Chitambar – Community Park Pond Tadpole Presentation
Christine Chitambar introduced her son, Theo Baker. Theo is a rising 6th grader who has spent a
lot of time around the main pond at Community Park over the years. He has noticed a marked
decrease in the number of tadpoles, frogs, and native fish at the pond, and an increase in the
number of goldfish in the pond. Some of the goldfish are very large. He stated the water is getting
dirtier, and he finds a lot of soda cans, cups, metal debris, and other trash in the water. The
Commission discussed this and the Mr. Baker explained he believes the goldfish are eating the
tadpoles and causing this disruption to the ecosystem. He believes the goldfish need to be
removed. The Commission directed City Staff to look into funding for remove of the goldfish
and/or cleaning the pond. Mr. Baker and his mother will continue to research this issue. The
Environment Commission is looking to hold a meeting at the Community Park shelter in the
future to allow time to explore the pond and see these issues he is concerned about.
2. Boulevard Tree Replacement Discussion
Staff Liaison Lynch continued the discussion from the last meeting about boulevard trees. She
explained some cities have a tree replacement policy codified, while others have it just as a City
policy. She explained the Falcon Heights City Code does address boulevard trees and it would be
easiest to update this. She also advised that other cities allow residents to plant their own trees in
the boulevards through a permitting process. This allows the residents to get the trees they would
like, from a designated list, and provides the city with oversight to make sure this is done
correctly. The forester would have to approve the type of tree, placement, size, and other concerns
prior to the permit being issued. This would also require the resident to acknowledge that despite
them paying for the tree, it will belong to the City as it will be in the City’s boulevard.
Commissioners also discussed the tree board which would be required by the Tree City USA
program. There is a program with UMN Department of Forest Resources, the Tree Steward
Program, that could provide training to the City’s tree board. The Commission discussed this
group of volunteers not being an official commission or a subcommittee of the Environment
Commission, but rather just a group that assists with the tree replacements throughout the City.
Staff Liaison Lynch stated she would look into this and bring information back to the July
meeting.
The Commission also discussed priorities for the tree replacement program. They want to make
sure there is a large variety of trees being planted, they include larger trees for shade with a good
growth rate, and tree litter is kept out of drains. They also discussed “messy” trees, such as
fruiting trees, and that the property owners adjacent to boulevards where these are located must
be responsible for cleaning up after these trees. Staff Liaison Lynch stated this was a good starting
point for drafting some policies and code language, and she would do this and begin working on a
budget.
F. Information and Announcements
1. Staff Liaison Report
Staff Liaison Lynch reminded Commissioners that as it is now June, No Mow May is over, and
yards with turf grass need to be mowed. She requested Commissioners keep up the lawns and
speak to their neighbors to remind them of the City policy.
2. Council Liaison Report
Council Liaison Mielke informed the Commission about the current status of the Community
Park building and that it is currently on hold due to pricing. The City is now looking into
potentially rehabilitating the existing building.
G. Adjourn
Meeting was adjourned at 8:09 p.m.
Next regular meeting date: July 8, 2024
City of Falcon Heights
Environment Commission
City Hall
2077 Larpenteur Avenue West
Minutes
Monday, September 9, 2024
6:30 p.m.
A. CALL TO ORDER: 6:30 p.m.
B. ROLL CALL: Beth Mercer-Taylor (Chair) _A_ Jared Mehlhaff _X
John Pellegrini (Vice-Chair) _X_ Amy Christiansen _A_
Emma Kostecki _A_ Adam Keester _X_
Pedro De Filippo Vannucci _A_
Staff Liaison Lynch _X_
Council Liaison Mielke _X_
C. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
No quorum – approval of agenda not voted on.
D. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
1. June 10, 2024
No quorum – approval of minutes not voted on.
E. NEW BUSINESS
No quorum – All items below were discussed but not voted on.
1. Roseville Area High School – Student Projects
The Environment Commission discussed possible projects for students from the Ros
Progressives group at Roseville Area High School. These ideas included working on the
pond at Community Park to address goldfish and other invasive species, and also
working to keep it clean. Commissioners also suggested partnering with a group
currently doing storm drain stenciling in the City (Como Park Lutheran Church,
District 10, and the City), or possibly working to join the Adopt-A-Drain program.
Finally, it was discussed that the Falcon Heights GreenCorps member could possibly
partner with the students to work on a tree survey for the City.
2. Partners in Energy – Executive Summary
Staff Liaison Lynch gave a brief overview of the Partners in Energy Executive Summary
and the strategies for the Energy Action Plan. It was noted the graph and the statement
about 65% savings is confusing. Lynch stated she would talk to the team about it. She
announced the drafted Energy Action Plan would be presented to City Council on
September 11 at 7 PM, to hopefully be adopted at the City Council meeting on September
25. She encouraged Commissioners to read through the plan and attend the meeting on
September 11 if possible.
3. MN GreenCorps Work Plan
Staff Liaison Lynch gave an overview of the work plan for the GreenCorps member that
will be beginning on September 23. She asked for additional ideas or comments on the
plan. Commissioners suggested having the GreenCorps member also look into the Adopt-
A-Drain program, looking into establishing informational signage about pollinator
gardens throughout the City, or organizing a native garden and/or rainwater garden
tour.
4. Charging Smart Program
Staff Liaison Lynch explained Falcon Heights was one of the nine first cities in the US to
receive a certification through the Charging Smart Program. She stated Falcon Heights
received Bronze certification, and explained the City is very close to being Silver. She
stated she is looking for feedback from Commissioners to meet that, specifically needing
input on how the City prevents EVSE adoption and how to expand these options to more
diverse communities. Commissioners suggested looking into a ride-share program such
as EVIE, establishing EVSEs at Curtiss Field, and establishing EVSEs at Community
Park.
5. Climate Action Plan
Staff Liaison Lynch gave a brief overview of a proposal from paleBLUEdot LLC for a
Climate Action Plan. She explained the City was the recipient of a grant from MPCA to
fund a climate action plan. She encouraged Commissioners to look through the proposal
and to be prepared for the planning process to begin as soon as possible.
F. Information and Announcements
1. Staff Liaison Report
Staff Liaison Lynch reminded Commissioners to keep their lawns mowed and to talk to their
neighbors who may be interested in joining the Climate Action Plan workgroup.
2. Council Liaison Report
Council Liaison Mielke gave an overview of Code changes being proposed by the Planning
Commission to City Council (parking minimums, trash cans, accessory dwelling units),
updated the Commissioners on the status of the Community Park building and policing
concerns, and talked about the butterfly tagging event that was recently held at Community
Park by the Monarch Joint Venture.
G. Adjourn
Meeting was adjourned at 7:46 p.m.
Next regular meeting date: October 14, 2024
ITEM FOR DISCUSSION
City of Falcon Heights, Minnesota
__________________________
Item Tree Trust Information
Description
Karen Zumach is here to present information on the Tree Trust and how
Falcon Heights could potentially get involved with a tree sale, boulevard trees,
volunteers, etc.
Budget Impact None.
Attachment(s) None.
Action(s)
Requested
Staff requests Environment Commission discuss potential partnerships with
Tree Trust for tree sale and/or boulevard trees.
Meeting Date October 11, 2024
Agenda Item E-1
Attachment None.
Submitted By Hannah Lynch, Community
Development Coordinator / Planner
ITEM FOR DISCUSSION
City of Falcon Heights, Minnesota
__________________________
Item Partners in Energy – Executive Summary & Strategies
Description
The Partners in Energy program is close to being ready to have the Energy
Action Plan adopted by City Council. The drafted Energy Action Plan is now
ready for review.
Budget Impact None.
Attachment(s) • Energy Action Plan – Drafted Plan
Action(s)
Requested
Staff requests Environment Commission review and discuss drafted plan and
any changes/additions that may need to be made.
Meeting Date October 10, 2024
Agenda Item E-2
Attachment Draft Energy Action Plan
Submitted By Hannah Lynch, Community
Development Coordinator / Planner
DRAFT
An Energy Action Plan for
Falcon Heights
September 2024
Falcon Heights Energy Action Plan i
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Thank you to the following individuals who contributed to developing this Energy Action Plan.
The content of this plan is derived from a series of planning workshops hosted by Xcel Energy’s
Partners in Energy. Partners in Energy is a two-year collaboration to develop and implement a
community’s energy goals. For information about the planning workshops, see Appendix D.
Energy Action Team
Name Organization
Lois Braun Resident
Amy Christiansen Environment Commission
Pedro De Filippo
Vannucci
Environment Commission and University of Minnesota
Student
Les Everett Resident
Adam Keester Environment Commission
Emma Kostecki Environment Commission and University of Minnesota
Student
John Larkin Resident
Peter Lindstrom Resident
Hannah Lynch Community Development Coordinator/Planner, City of
Falcon Heights
Jared Mehlhaff Environment Commission
Beth Mercer-Taylor Environment Commission Chair
Paula Mielke City Council Liaison, City of Falcon Heights
Bruce Mielke Resident
John Pellegrini Environment Commission Vice Chair
Shubhechchha Sharma Resident
Michael Tracy Resident
Dean Walczak Resident
Partners in Energy Utility and Facilitation Team
Marcus Baker Partners in Energy Community Facilitator
Deirdre Coleman Partners in Energy Community Facilitator
Kelsey Poljacik Partners in Energy Data Lead
Paolo Spiern Partners in Energy Community Facilitator
Sofia Troutman Program Manager, Xcel Energy's Partners in Energy
Falcon Heights Energy Action Plan ii
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Acknowledgements ...................................................................................................................... i
Glossary of Terms ...................................................................................................................... 3
Introduction ................................................................................................................................ 1
Our Engagement & Outreach Process ................................................................................... 1
Why We Want An Energy Action Plan .................................................................................... 2
Where We Are Now ................................................................................................................... 3
Community Demographics ..................................................................................................... 3
Energy Use and Savings ........................................................................................................ 4
Where We Are Going ................................................................................................................15
Energy Vision Statement .......................................................................................................15
Focus Areas ..........................................................................................................................15
Community Goal ...................................................................................................................16
How We Are Going to Get There...............................................................................................17
Focus Area 1: ........................................................................................................................17
Alleviating Energy Burden on Homeowners and Renters ......................................................17
Focus Area 2: ........................................................................................................................21
Enhancing Energy Efficiencies in Buildings ...........................................................................21
Focus Area 3: ........................................................................................................................25
Embracing Clean, Renewable Energy ...................................................................................25
Energy Action Plan Impact ....................................................................................................27
How We Stay On Course ..........................................................................................................29
Appendix A: Implementation Work Plan ....................................................................................30
Appendix B: Baseline Energy Analysis ......................................................................................32
Appendix C: Methodology for Measuring Success ....................................................................44
Appendix D: Xcel Energy’s Partners in Energy Planning Process .............................................50
About Xcel Energy’s Partners in Energy ................................................................................50
Plan Development Process ...................................................................................................50
GLOSSARY OF TERMS
4 x 50: Xcel Energy’s privacy rule, which requires all data summary statistics to contain at least
four premises, with no single premise responsible for more than 50% of the total. Following
these rules, if a premise(s) is responsible for more than 50% of the total for that data set, it
is/they are removed from the summary.
Beneficial Electrification: Xcel Energy defines beneficial electrification (BE) as the
replacement of fossil fuel use with electricity that results in either lower costs, reduced
emissions, or more effective use of the power grid.
British Thermal Unit (BTU): the amount of heat needed to raise one pound of water at
maximum density through one degree Fahrenheit
Carbon-free: Carbon-free refers to sources of energy that will not emit additional carbon
dioxide into the air. Wind, solar and nuclear energy are all carbon free sources but only wind
and solar are renewable.
Carbon-neutral: Carbon-neutral, also described as “net zero”, could include carbon-free
sources but is broader and refers to energy that removes or avoids as much carbon dioxide as
is released over a set period of time. Carbon-neutral is sometimes used to describe a site that
produces an excess amount of electricity from a renewable energy source, such as solar,
compared to what it consumes. That excess energy is put back into the grid in an amount that
offsets the carbon dioxide produced from the electricity it draws from the grid when it is not
producing renewable energy.
Community Data Mapping: A baseline analysis of energy data in a geospatial (map) format
across the community.
Energy Conservation and Optimization Programs (ECO): Portfolio of approved utility energy
efficiency and demand management programs. Minnesota electric utilities have a goal of saving
1.5% of their total energy sales each year via customer conservation efforts. Minnesota natural
gas utilities have a goal of saving 0.5% of their total energy sales each year via customer
conservation efforts. ECO programs help Minnesota households and businesses use electricity
and natural gas more efficiently, lessening the need for new utility infrastructure. The Minnesota
Department of Commerce, Division of Energy Resources (DER) oversees ECO to ensure that
ratepayer dollars are used effectively in achieving those goals and that energy savings are
reported as accurately as possible.
Decatherm (Dth): Quantity of energy that is equivalent to ten therms.
Demand Side Management (DSM): Modification of consumer demand for energy through
various methods, including education and financial incentives. DSM aims to encourage
consumers to decrease energy consumption, especially during peak hours, or to shift time-of-
energy use to off-peak periods such as nighttime and weekend.
Direct Installation: Free energy-saving equipment installed by Xcel Energy or other
organization, for program participants, that produces immediate energy savings.
Energy Burden: Percentage of gross household income spent on energy costs.
Energy Reduction: The result of behavior changes that cause less energy to be used. For
example, setting the thermostat to a lower temperature reduces the energy used in your home
during the winter. Since energy reductions can be easily reversed, they are not accounted for
when calculating changes in energy usage.
Energy Savings: Comes from a permanent change that results in using less energy to achieve
the same results. A new furnace uses X% less energy to keep your home at the same
temperature (all things being equal), resulting in energy savings of X%. For accounting
purposes, energy savings are only counted in the year the new equipment is installed.
Greenhouse Gases (GHG): Gases in the atmosphere that absorb and emit radiation and
significantly contribute to climate change. The primary greenhouse gases in the earth's
atmosphere are water vapor, carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, and ozone.
Grid Decarbonization: The current planned reduction in the carbon intensity of electricity
provided by electric utilities through the addition of low- or no-carbon energy sources to the
electricity grid.
Kilowatt-hour (kWh): A unit of electricity consumption.
Million British Thermal Units (MMBtu): A unit of energy consumption that allows electricity
and natural gas consumption to be combined.
Metric Tons of Carbon Dioxide Equivalent (MTCO2e): A unit of measure for greenhouse gas
emissions. The unit "CO2e" represents an amount of a greenhouse gas whose atmospheric
impact has been standardized to that of one unit mass of carbon dioxide (CO2), based on the
global warming potential (GWP) of the gas.
Megawatt (MW): A unit of electric power equal to 1 million watts.
Premise: A unique combination of service address and meter. For residential customers, this is
the equivalent of an individual house or dwelling unit in a multi-tenant building. For business
customers, it is an individual business, or for a larger business, a separately-metered portion of
the business’s load at that address.
Renewable Energy Certificate (REC): For every megawatt-hour of clean, renewable electricity
generation, a renewable energy certificate (REC) is created. A REC embodies all of the
environmental attributes of the generation and can be tracked and traded separately from the
underlying electricity. Also known as a Renewable Energy Credit.
Resilience: The ability to prepare for and adapt to changing conditions and withstand and
recover rapidly from disruptions. Resilience includes the ability to withstand and recover from
deliberate attacks, accidents, or naturally occurring threats or incidents.
Recommissioning: An energy efficiency service focused on identifying ways that existing
building systems can be tuned up to run as efficiently as possible.
Solar Garden: Shared solar array with grid-connected subscribers who receive bill credits for
their subscriptions.
Solar Photovoltaic (PV): Solar cells/panels that convert sunlight into electricity (convert light, or
photons, into electricity, or voltage).
Subscription: An agreement to purchase a certain amount of something in regular intervals.
Therm (thm or therm): A unit of natural gas consumption.
Trade Partner: Trade Partners, also known as Trade Allies or Business Trade Partners, are
vendors and contractors who work with business and residential customers servicing, installing,
and providing consulting services regarding the equipment associated with utility rebate
programs. Their support for utility programs can range from providing equipment and assisting
with rebate paperwork, to receiving rebates for equipment sold.
Falcon Heights Energy Action Plan 1
INTRODUCTION
Falcon Heights has made great progress toward their energy goals in our 2020 Comprehensive
Plan through the creation of an Environmental Commission, GreenStep city participation, EV
Smart Cities Program, SolSmart city participation, and renewable energy commitments. With an
eye toward climate planning, an energy plan will advance and accelerate these efforts.
Our Engagement & Outreach Process
The creation of this Energy Action Plan was a six-month process to help support our community
by characterizing its energy use, identifying our energy-related goals, and developing engaging
strategies to guide change toward our energy future. Starting in January 2024, the Energy
Action Plan was driven by a series of open houses and planning workshops held in the
community with a planning team committed to representing local energy priorities in
collaboration with City of Falcon Heights and Xcel Energy Partners in Energy. By the numbers,
we engaged the community through 3 surveys, 3 workshops, 2 open houses, 17 Energy Action
Team participants, 63 community energy survey respondents and over 100 people at open
houses. See Appendix D for more information about the planning process and Xcel Energy
Partners in Energy.
Figure 1. Photographs from Falcon Height’s Spring Together event in Curtis Park, May 2024
Falcon Heights Energy Action Plan 2
Why We Want An Energy Action Plan
The City of Falcon Heights recognizes the urgency of addressing climate change and has
committed to taking action by signing a resolution in January 2023 that declares a climate crisis.
This commitment involves developing a City Climate Action Plan with input from residents,
businesses and nonprofit organizations, in collaboration with other entities working on climate
action in the community.
As a GreenStep City, Falcon Heights aims to contribute to Minnesota's goal of achieving net-
zero emissions by 2040. A key aspect of this effort is addressing the energy inefficiency of the
city’s older homes and multi-family buildings. Partners in Energy can provide valuable expertise
to assess the current energy situation and guide the City in implementing effective measures.
The Energy Action Plan is crucial for addressing several pressing issues, including inefficient
housing, emissions from the State Fair, idling vehicles, potential redevelopment of the University
of Minnesota golf course, and gaining a comprehensive understanding of the city’s current
energy landscape. By identifying and focusing on the most significant concerns, Falcon Heights
can ensure that its efforts are strategic and impactful.
Falcon Heights Energy Action Plan 3
WHERE WE ARE NOW
An integral part of the Partners in Energy planning process is reviewing historical energy data to
inform our community’s energy baseline. Xcel Energy provided data on energy use, participation
counts and utility energy conservation program savings for Falcon Heights, as detailed in the
following sections. See Appendix A: Baseline Energy Analysis for a comprehensive picture of
Falcon Heights baseline energy data.
Community Demographics
As of 2022, Falcon Heights had a population of just over 5,200 people living in approximately
2,200 housing units.1 Falcon Heights residents identify as White (75%), Asian (13%) and Black
(6%), and 22% of residents speak a language other than English. Falcon Heights has a poverty
rate of 7%, with a median household income of $87,750. With 90% of its housing built before
2000, most Falcon Heights residents live in housing stock with significant opportunity for energy
efficiency improvements because of aging buildings and equipment. Additionally, 39% of the
housing units in Falcon Heights are renter-occupied, presenting unique opportunities for energy
efficiency measures targeted at renters and property owners. Figure 1 shows a community
demographic profile for Falcon Heights.
1 Data source: U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey, 2022 5-year estimates
Falcon Heights Energy Action Plan 4
Figure 1. Overview of Falcon Heights community demographics
Energy Use and Savings
Premises
Xcel Energy provides electricity and natural gas to Falcon Heights residents and businesses. In
2023, Falcon Heights consisted of 2,413 distinct utility premises, which are a unique
combination of service address and meter. For residential customers, this is the equivalent of an
individual house or dwelling unit in a multi-tenant building. For business customers, it is an
individual business, or for a larger business, a separately metered portion of the business’ load
at that address. Most Falcon Heights premises are residential, followed by a portion of
commercial and industrial premises, and finally a small number of City-owned municipal
premises (Figure 2).
Figure 2. Total premises by sector, 2022
Falcon Heights Energy Action Plan 5
Grid Energy Use
On average over the baseline period (2021–2023), the Falcon Heights community consumes
nearly 30 million kWh and about 2.4 million therms of natural gas each year across all sectors
(Figure 3). To compare electricity and natural gas consumption on a common measure of
energy, total energy consumption can be calculated by converting both electricity and natural
gas into British thermal units, displayed here as million British thermal units (MMBtu).
Although the commercial and industrial sector only makes up 12% of total premises in Falcon
Heights, it accounts for over half the total energy consumption. Commercial and industrial
premises use significantly more energy on average per premise than residential premises, a
typical pattern for cities like Falcon Heights.
Figure 3. Average annual energy consumption by sector, 2021–2023
During the three-year baseline period, Falcon Heights saw an overall increase in electricity
consumption, with a 5% increase in electricity consumption in 2023 compared to 2021.
Electricity use in the residential sector increased slightly by 1% between 2021 and 2023, while
the commercial and industrial sector increased by 8% over the same period; the municipal
sector in Falcon Heights increased by 15% (Figure 4).
Falcon Heights Energy Action Plan 6
Figure 4. Electricity consumption by sector and cooling degree days, 2021–2023
Similarly, natural gas consumption in Falcon Heights was greater in 2023 compared to 2021,
with an overall increase of 10% in community-wide usage. Natural gas consumption in the
residential sector increased by 9% between 2023 and 2021, and 11% in the commercial and
industrial sector over this period; the municipal sector saw an increase of nearly 50%, though
the municipal sector makes up only a small portion of community-wide consumption (Figure 5).
The fluctuations in natural gas consumption between 2021 and 2023 correlate with cooler
temperatures, measured by heating degree days (HDD), as shown in the figure below.
13 13 13
16 16 17
29 29 30
0
200
400
600
800
1000
1200
1400
0
5
10
15
20
25
30
35
2021 2022 2023 Cooling Degree Days (CDD)kWhMillionsElectricity Consumption
Residential Commercial and Industrial Municipal CDD
Falcon Heights Energy Action Plan 7
Figure 5. Natural gas consumption by sector and heating degree days, 2021–2023
Energy Costs and Energy Burden
During an average year, Falcon Heights spends a total of about $6.2 million on energy fuel
costs for electricity and natural gas (Figure 6). More than half (54%) of these costs are spent by
the commercial and industrial sector, with total annual average fuel costs at just over $3.3
million. The remaining 46% is spent primarily by the residential sector, with an annual total of
$2.8 million, and the municipal sector, spending about $30,000 annually on average.
Figure 6. Total average annual electricity and natural gas fuel costs by sector, 2021 –2023
1.1 1.3 1.2
1.1
1.2 1.2
2.1
2.5 2.4
0
1,000
2,000
3,000
4,000
5,000
6,000
7,000
8,000
0.0
0.5
1.0
1.5
2.0
2.5
3.0
2021 2022 2023 Heating Degree Days (HDD)thermsMillionsNatural Gas Consumption
Residential Commercial and Industrial Municipal HDD
Falcon Heights Energy Action Plan 8
Table 1. Annual fuel costs by sector and fuel type, 2021–2023
Sector Annual
Electricity Costs
Annual Natural
Gas Costs
Annual Cost per
Premise
Residential $1,820,262 $1,044,552 $1,384
Commercial & Industrial $2,403,249 $929,222 $11,873
Municipal $22,055 $7,421 $1,734
Total $4,245,566 $1,981,195 -
Energy burden is the percentage of income that a resident spends on energy bills. A high
energy burden is defined as spending 6% or more of household income on energy costs, while
a severe energy burden is 10% or greater of household income.2 In Falcon Heights, the
residents with the highest energy burden are those living in owner-occupied housing with
incomes between 0–30% of area median income (AMI), with an estimated energy burden of
24% (Figure 7).3 Approximately 52 owner-occupied housing units fall within this category.
Energy burden remains high for owner-occupied residents even as household income
increases, until AMI is met. In renter-occupied housing, energy burden is highest for those with
the lowest incomes but alleviated at higher rates of household income. Figure 8 shows the
distribution of households across these ranges of AMI, by owner status.
2 ACEEE: How High Are Household Energy Burdens? An Assessment of National and Metropolitan
Energy Burdens across the U.S. https://www.aceee.org/research-report/u2006
3 Energy burden data sourced from Department of Energy Low-Income Energy Affordability Data (LEAD)
tool. https://www.energy.gov/scep/slsc/lead-tool
Falcon Heights Energy Action Plan 9
Figure 7. Average energy burden by owner status and median income
Figure 8. Household count and percent of total households by income and owner status in Falcon Heights
24%
10%
6%6%
2%
10%
4%
2%2%2%
0%
5%
10%
15%
20%
25%
30%
0% - 30%30% - 60%60% - 80%80% - 100%100%+Energy BurdenPercent of Area Median Income
Average Energy Burden as Percent of Income
Falcon Heights
Owner-occupied Renter-occupied
2%
8%
4%6%
39%
12%14%
5%4%5%
0
100
200
300
400
500
600
700
800
900
0-30%30-60%60-80%80-100%100%+Number of HouseholdsPercent of Area Median Income
Number and Percent of Falcon Heights
Households by Income and Owner Status
Owner Occupied Renter Occupied
Falcon Heights Energy Action Plan 10
Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Greenhouse gas emissions are calculated for both electricity and natural gas consumption for
all sectors in Falcon Heights (Figure 9). Energy-related greenhouse gas emissions in Falcon
Heights in 2023 totaled to over 20,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (MTCO2e). In
2023, the commercial and industrial sector accounted for 52% of the total emissions, the
residential sector made up about 47% of total emissions, and the municipal sector was
responsible for the remaining nearly 1%.
Figure 9. Energy-related greenhouse gas emissions, 2021–2023
Figure 10 shows the breakdown of greenhouse gas emissions by both sector and fuel type in
2023. The largest proportion of greenhouse gas emissions (62%) came from natural gas
consumption, with an even split between the commercial and industrial and residential sectors.
The remaining energy-related emissions were from electricity emissions, where the commercial
and industrial sector accounted for about 21% of community-wide electricity emissions and the
residential sector accounted for 16%. As Xcel Energy decarbonizes its grid, the overall
proportion of electricity emissions is expected to decrease over time, which will make natural
gas emissions higher as a proportion of total energy-related emissions.
9 10 10
10
11 10
20
21 20
0
5
10
15
20
25
2021 2022 2023MT CO2eThousandsGreenhouse Gas Emissions
Residential Commercial and Industrial Municipal
Falcon Heights Energy Action Plan 11
Figure 10. Energy-related greenhouse gas emissions by sector and fuel type, 2021–2023
Renewable Energy
Falcon Heights residents and businesses support renewable energy through Xcel Energy
subscription programs, community solar gardens and on-site offerings (Table 2). In Falcon
Heights, most renewable energy support comes from the residential sector, where 180 residents
subscribe to Renewable*Connect and Renewable*Connect Flex amounting to a total of 818,449
kWh subscribed in 2022. Additionally, as of 2023, 36 residents have on-site solar and 25
residents participate in Solar*Rewards Community, which allows residents and businesses to
subscribe to community solar gardens without needing equipment installed.
Falcon Heights Energy Action Plan 12
Table 2. Participation and kWh subscriptions in Xcel Energy renewable energy offerings, 2022 and 2023 4
Residential Commercial
& Industrial Municipal
Renewable*Connect &
Renewable*Connect Flex® (2022)
Subscriber Count 180 0
0
Total Annual Electricity Subscribed
(kWh) 818,449 0
0
Community Solar Gardens –
Solar*Rewards® Community (2023)
Subscriber Count 25 5
6
Total Annual Electricity Subscribed
(kWh) 169,924 180,904
55,508
On-Site Solar – Solar*Rewards® and
Net-Metering (2023)5
Subscriber Count 44 8
-
Total Electricity Capacity (kW) 316 742
-
In addition to renewable energy support from residents, as of 2023, five commercial and
industrial customers in Falcon Heights have on-site solar, one of those installations is on the
City Hall building. Five commercial and industrial customers subscribe to Solar*Rewards
Community along with six municipal subscribers.
Energy Efficiency Program Participation & Savings
Both residential and commercial and industrial premises in Falcon Heights are already
participating in Xcel Energy’s efficiency offerings for which they can receive rebates for
upgrading equipment, receiving a building audit or managing their demand through rate savings
programs, among other opportunities. Participation in these programs results in energy savings
for participants. In Falcon Heights, residents and businesses saved an annual average of
222,000 kWh of electricity per year over the three-year baseline period, and 39,000 therms of
natural gas (Table 3).
4 2023 metrics for Renewable*Connect and Renewable*Connect Flex program participation in Falcon
Heights were not available at the time of energy action planning.
5 Source: Xcel Energy 2023 Community Energy Report for Falcon Heights
Falcon Heights Energy Action Plan 13
Table 3. Falcon Heights average program participation and savings by sector in Xcel Energy DSM
offerings, 2021–2023
Program Sector Average Annual
Participation
Average
Electricity
Savings (kWh)
Average Natural
Gas Savings
(therms)
Residential 200 35,374 15,660
Income-Qualified 2 517 63
Commercial & Industrial 32 186,183 23,326
Total 233 222,074 39,049
Program participation in Falcon Heights occurs most in select Xcel Energy efficiency offerings
for each sector. Residents participated in and saw the most energy savings from Residential
Heating and Cooling, where residents receive rebates for upgrading to more efficient equipment
(Table 4). In the income-qualified sector, residents are participating in Home Energy Savings
Program and the low-income version of Home Energy Squad (Table 5). In the commercial and
industrial sector, businesses are already participating in numerous programs, with the highest
participation in HVAC+R Efficiency, the highest electricity savings from the Lighting Efficiency
program and the greatest natural gas savings from Efficiency Controls (Table 6).
Table 4. Average program participation and savings in Xcel Energy residential DSM programs, 2021–
2023
Residential Program Average Annual
Participants
Average Annual
Electricity
Savings (kWh)
Average Annual
Natural Gas
Savings
(therms)
Home Energy Audit 18 - -
Home Energy Squad 11 5,894 388
Insulation Rebate 7 1,515 2,524
Refrigerator Recycling 7 6,237 -
Residential Heating and
Cooling 87 20,551 12,201
Residential Saver's
Switch 22 24 -
Smart Thermostat 39 1,074 380
Falcon Heights Energy Action Plan 14
Table 5. Average program participation and savings in Xcel Energy income-qualified residential DSM
programs, 2021–2023
Income-Qualified
Program
Average Annual
Participants
Average Annual
Electricity
Savings (kWh)
Average Annual
Natural Gas
Savings
(therms)
Home Energy Savings
Program 1 381 52
Low-Income Home Energy
Squad 1 136 11
Table 6. Average program participation and savings in Xcel Energy commercial and industrial DSM
programs, 2021–2023
Commercial &
Industrial Program
Average Annual
Participants
Average Annual
Electricity
Savings (kWh)
Average Annual
Natural Gas
Savings
(therms)
Efficiency Controls 2 0 9,207
HVAC+R Efficiency 19 13,419 3,817
Lighting Efficiency 1 27,060 -
Multi-Family Building
Efficiency 2 21,091 1,044
Small Business Lighting 1 4,428 0
Smart Thermostats for
Business 5 1,294 257
Falcon Heights Energy Action Plan 15
WHERE WE ARE GOING
Energy Vision Statement
During the planning process, the Energy Action Team created a vision statement for this Energy
Action Plan. This statement helped guide the planning process and reflects the intention of the
community.
Focus Areas
To achieve a community-wide commitment to energy stewardship, the Energy Action Team
identified the following focus areas to prioritize strategies and resources. They used the data to
guide the selection of the following focus areas and stress the importance that these focus
areas have in engaging and connecting the community.
Vision Statement
Falcon Heights prioritizes energy strategies that
lead to a sustainable and equitable future.
Energy Burden
•Renters
•Homeowners
Building Energy
•Multi-family buildings
•Large and small
business
•Municipal Energy
Clean Energy
•Electrification
•Renewables
•EVs
Falcon Heights Energy Action Plan 16
These focus areas were chosen to provide a holistic approach to energy stewardship and aid in
meeting the community’s energy needs and goals.
Community Goal
The Energy Action Team set goals that complement the existing energy and climate goals using
the utility data, a feel for the community’s ambition level and a feasible timeline.
Goal: Falcon Heights will increase energy savings by 50% and avoid an additional
34% of community-wide greenhouse gas emissions by 2030.
Figure 11. Cumulative Avoided Greenhouse Gas Emissions (Xcel Energy Data)
Xcel Energy Fuel Mix, Certified Renewable Percentage and Goals
Falcon Heights is served by Xcel Energy for the community’s electric and natural gas needs.
Community members can understand their own fuel mix by understanding the utilities current
mix and goals for the future. An energy portfolio can be found on the Xcel Energy website, as
well as the Certified Renewable Percentage and future energy goals.
Figure 12. Xcel Energy 2023 Power Generation in the Upper Midwest
Falcon Heights Energy Action Plan 17
HOW WE ARE GOING TO GET THERE
The following strategies, organized by focus area, have timelines that help prioritize the work
into short, medium and long-term actions. The timeframes associated with these categories are
meant to fit within the Partners in Energy implementation period for the program to best support
these actions as Falcon Heights continues to implement this plan in subsequent years. The
Energy Action Team also identified specific communication tools, financing options and
community partners as a part of this plan. These potential partners and communication
organizations have not yet agreed to be a part of this work but are mentioned in each strategy to
be considered.
A Connected and Educated Community
Through these comprehensive high-level strategies, Falcon Heights will foster a more
connected and more educated community. By addressing energy burdens, enhancing building
efficiencies and embracing renewable energy, the city will create a sustainable and resilient
environment for all its residents. United by a common goal, the people of Falcon Heights will not
only improve their own lives but also set an inspiring example for communities everywhere.
Focus Area 1:
Alleviating Energy Burden on Homeowners and Renters
The City of Falcon Heights understands that energy costs can be a significant
burden, especially for those with limited incomes and inefficient homes. The City
will launch a series of strategic actions aimed at easing high energy burden and
ensuring that all residents can afford to keep their homes warm and lights on.
Falcon Heights Energy Action Plan 18
Strategy 1: Conduct Energy Outreach in Schools
Falcon Heights Elementary School will be encouraged to integrate energy education into their
curriculum, teaching students about conservation and efficiency. These young ambassadors
can take their knowledge home, sharing energy-saving tips and resources with their families.
Actions: Partnerships / Resources:
A) Identify school and teacher
partnerships and work with those
partners to understand classroom
needs.
Teachers, School Board, City of Falcon Heights,
Empowered Schools (see action 1D)
B) Develop materials and activities that
support appropriate energy
engagement according to school
partners.
Partners in Energy, City of Falcon Heights, Xcel
Energy student toolkit
C) Ask school library or other entities to
host educational events regarding
energy efficiency / conservation and
renewable energy.
Elementary school library and University of
Minnesota libraries
D) Encourage partnering with
“EmPowered Schools” program to
Neighboring School Districts
Empoweredschools.org, Falcon Heights
Elementary School, Roseville School District
E) Utilize the Minnesota GreenStep
School Program to show students that
their school is leading the way in
energy conservation and reducing
environmental impacts.
MN GreenStep School Program:
https://sites.google.com/umn.edu/mngreenstepscho
ols/home,
Falcon Heights Elementary School, City of Falcon
Heights
Communication: Direct communication with elementary school and
City of Falcon Heights
Timeline: 1–6 months
Strategy 2: Develop Neighborhood Energy Liaisons
Local liaisons, equipped with energy knowledge, will play a crucial role in bridging the gap
between resources and residents. These trusted neighborhood figures will provide personalized
guidance on energy-saving practices and available support programs, focusing on equity and
inclusion.
Actions: Partnerships / Resources:
A) Call for community volunteers by the City.
Community Engagement Commission (CEC),
Environment Commission, City of Falcon
Heights
B) Provide Xcel Energy and supporting
energy resources to the volunteers to share
with their neighbors / associations.
Neighborhood Liaisons at CEC, Homeowner
Associations, City of Falcon Heights,
Partners in Energy
C) Develop resources for volunteers to share
with neighbors (e.g., template emails,
National Night Out activities, NextDoor posts,
website content, etc.).
Neighborhood Liaisons at CEC, City of
Falcon Heights, Partners in Energy, Falcon
Heights GreenCorps Member
Communication: City of Falcon Heights website / newsletter,
handouts, emails, social media
Timeline: 1–6 months
Falcon Heights Energy Action Plan 19
Strategy 3: Increase Access to Renter Resources
To support renters, the City will promote access to various Xcel Energy programs and
resources, including assistance programs for energy bills and weatherization services. The City
will ensure that renters are well-informed and can easily access the help they need.
Actions: Partnerships / Resources:
A) Provide renters with information about
applicable energy rebates
Xcel Energy, City of Falcon Heights, resident
groups, Multi-family building
owners/managers, Falcon Heights
GreenCorps Member
B) Raise awareness of assistance programs
for those renters who are affected by a higher
energy burden or lower-income household.
Xcel Energy, City of Falcon Heights, census
data, resident advocacy groups, food shelves
Communication: City of Falcon Heights direct to renter
community
Timeline: 1–6 months
Strategy 4: Promote Home Energy Assessments
An emphasis on free home energy audits will empower residents to identify inefficiencies in their
homes. Armed with this information, they will be able to take steps to reduce their energy
consumption and costs. They may also become more aware of available rebates and other
incentives.
Actions: Partnerships / Resources:
A) Promote home energy assessments Partners in Energy, City of Falcon Heights,
Xcel Energy
B) Showcase residents who have had home
energy assessments and made
improvements in their home as a result.
City communications, Partners in Energy
Communication: Events, CEC, Environment Commission,
NextDoor website or other websites
Timeline: 6-12 months
Strategy 5: Provide Accessible Energy Communication
Developing clear and accessible communication channels will be vital. The City of Falcon
Heights will establish partnerships with local media and/or community organizations to
disseminate information about energy resources, ensuring that all residents are aware of the
support available to them.
Actions: Partnerships / Resources:
A) Create an Energy Action Hub on the City
of Falcon Heights’ website to disseminate
information about energy resources.
Partners in Energy, City of Falcon Heights,
Falcon Heights GreenCorps Member
B) Establish partnerships with community
organizations and/or Falcon Heights specific
publications to bring awareness to residents.
Park Bugle (nonprofit community
newspaper), City of Falcon Heights, Falcon
Heights Church
C) Include energy educational resources on
the City of Falcon Heights email newsletter. City of Falcon Heights
Communication: City communications
Timeline: 1-6 months
Falcon Heights Energy Action Plan 20
Strategy 6: Highlight Energy Saving and Clean Energy Testimonials
Promoting positive experiences that residents have had with the home assessments and other
energy projects could increase their demand. The City of Falcon Heights will encourage
residents to share their testimonials and experiences publicly to inspire more residents and
business owner to participate.
Actions: Partnerships / Resources:
A) Showcase positive testimonials in the
City’s newsletter, blog and articles in local
media.
Park Bugle, Partners in Energy, City of
Falcon Heights
B) Postcard mail out campaign of
testimonials from residents to other residents, Partners in Energy, City of Falcon Heights
C) Postcard mail out campaign of
testimonials from business owners to other
businesses.
Partners in Energy, City of Falcon Heights
D) Share testimonials at St Paul Chamber of
Commerce meetings.
Energy Action Team members, St Paul
Chamber of Commerce, Environment
Commission
Communication: Post card mail outs, newsletters, emails,
blogs, and presentation
Timeline: 6–12 months
Strategy 7: Develop and Sustain Partnerships that Support Community Energy Equity
Goals
Developing relationships with key partners will help reach Falcon Heights energy and equity
goals while helping community members thrive.
Actions: Partnerships / Resources:
A) Connect with Commonwealth Terrace
Cooperative (CTC) to Improve Living
Conditions through energy projects for
Student Housing
CTC, Xcel Energy, U of MN,
B) Form partnership with neighboring city
councils to coordinate energy equity projects
that are mutually beneficial
City of Falcon Heights, St. Paul, Roseville,
Lauderdale
Communication: Energy Action Team, City Communications
Timeline: 12-24 months
Falcon Heights Energy Action Plan 21
Focus Area 2:
Enhancing Energy Efficiencies in Buildings
Improving energy efficiency in buildings will be another cornerstone of Falcon
Heights' strategy. The City's approach will combine regulatory measures,
incentives, and outreach to create a culture of energy efficiency across all
types of buildings.
Strategy 1: Support Energy Improvements
To encourage landlords to invest in energy efficient upgrades, the City will tie energy
improvements in rental properties to deductions in rental license fees. This will make it
financially beneficial for landlords to improve living conditions for tenants.
Actions: Partnerships / Resources:
A) Create and promote City incentives
and/or recognition for energy efficient
multi-family buildings.
City of Falcon Heights, Partners in Energy
B) Review and revise City code to
remove barriers to more energy
efficient multi-family buildings.
City of Falcon Heights, Planning Commission,
Environment Commission, City Council
C) Encourage multi-family buildings to
periodically re-invest in energy
efficient improvements that have a
reasonable payback period.
City of Falcon Heights, City Council
D) Support incentives for retrofits and
redevelopment of existing multi-family
buildings to improve energy while
respecting the historic integrity of
buildings and communities.
City of Falcon Heights, City Council
Communication: City communications
Timeline: 12–24 months
Strategy 2: Incentivize and Recognize Energy Efficiency Projects
The City of Falcon Heights will introduce creative motivations to motivate residents and
businesses to reduce their energy consumption. E.g. Monthly drawings for gift cards, yard signs
recognizing energy efficient homes and public acknowledgments
Actions: Partnerships / Resources:
A) Be present at community events with
resources and tips to encourage businesses
and residents to reduce energy consumption.
City of Falcon Heights, Falcon Heights
Elementary School, Senior Center, State
Fair, Falcon Heights Farmers’ Market
B) Request that homeowners who have
made significant energy efficiency
improvements temporarily display an energy
conservation yard sign.
Partners in Energy, City of Falcon Heights
C) Publicly acknowledge homeowners and
business owners in the City’s email
newsletter for energy conservation efforts.
Falcon Heights’ Email Newsletter, Partners in
Energy
Communication: City website and e-newsletter, in-person
community events
Timeline: 6-12 months
Falcon Heights Energy Action Plan 22
Strategy 3: Partner with the State Fair to Encourage Energy Projects
The annual State Fair can become a platform for promoting energy projects. Interactive exhibits
and demonstrations could showcase innovative energy solutions, inspiring residents and visitors
alike to adopt more sustainable practices.
Actions: Partnerships / Resources:
A) Draft proposal to partner with State Fair to
encourage joint energy projects.
Minnesota State Fair, City of Falcon Heights,
Environment Commission
Communication: City communications
Timeline: 6-12 months
Strategy 4: Encourage Efficient Electric Heating Technologies
To further enhance energy efficiency, Falcon Heights will encourage the adoption of electric
heating options in buildings. Incentive programs and educational campaigns will highlight the
long-term savings and environmental benefits of switching to cold climate heat pumps and heat
pump rooftop units.
Actions: Partnerships / Resources:
A) Create targeted outreach programs to
educate business owners and owners of
multi-family buildings about the benefits of
electric heating options.
City of Falcon Heights, Partners in Energy,
Falcon Heights GreenCorps Member
B) Host workshops and informational
sessions to highlight benefits of adopting
efficient electric heating technologies.
Owners/managers of multi-family buildings,
City of Falcon Heights, Partners in Energy
C) Encourage building owners who have
already installed air source heat pumps to
share their success stories with other building
owners through presentations, open houses
and business networking events.
Owners/managers of multi-family buildings,
City of Falcon Heights, Chamber of
Commerce
D) Assist businesses and workforce to keep
up to date on technological advances in
building energy. Provide outreach to local
businesses to assist in these educational
efforts.
Owners/managers of multi-family buildings,
City of Falcon Heights, Chamber of
Commerce, Partners in Energy
E) Recommend energy improvements for
rental properties during annual inspections.
Provide an opportunity to educate building
owners about energy improvements annually,
giving updates on electrification technology
and available incentives.
Owners/managers of multi-family buildings,
City of Falcon Heights
Communication: City communications, City e-newsletter
Timeline: 6–12 months
Falcon Heights Energy Action Plan 23
Strategy 5: Form Climate Action Partnership with the University of Minnesota
Partnering with the University of Minnesota could reduce carbon emissions. The City will seek
collaboration with the University to reduce carbon in the atmosphere and add electric vehicle
(EV) chargers.
Actions: Partnerships / Resources:
A) Draft a proposal for collaboration between
the City Council and the University of
Minnesota and find a way forward.
City Council, University of Minnesota, Energy
Action Team
B) Advocate for increasing EV charging
infrastructure on and off campus.
University of Minnesota, Partners in Energy,
EV toolkit, City of Falcon Heights
C) Encourage charging infrastructure on new
developments and retrofits, especially multi-
family buildings and businesses. Support the
continued development of charging
infrastructure for EVs.
University of Minnesota, Partners in Energy,
EV toolkit, MF building owners/managers,
City of Falcon Heights, Environment
Commission, Planning Commission
Communication: City communications to University of
Minnesota
Timeline: 6-12 months
Strategy 6: Collaborate with Metro Transit
Work with Metro Transit to have electric buses on the Rapid Transit A Line and Route 121 to
reduce GHG emissions. The City will make official requests and inquiries to Metro Transit to
help make this possible.
Actions: Partnerships / Resources:
A) Draft, send and follow up on a request to
Metro Transit to have electric buses on
routes.
City Council, Metro Transit, and Energy
Action Team
Communication: City communications to Metro Transit
Timeline: 12-24 months
Strategy 7: Reduce Costs of Home Energy Assessments for Residents
Create a program that would pay for residents to have complimentary or reduced cost home
energy assessment visits. The City could eliminate any financial objection for residents.
Actions: Partnerships / Resources:
A) Address economic barriers for residents
who may be hard to reach or under-
represented in the community and increase
home energy assessment visits by promoting
free visits.
Community Engagement Commission (CEC),
Environment Commission, City of Falcon
Heights
Communication: City communications through CEC, City
newsletter
Timeline: 6-12 months
Falcon Heights Energy Action Plan 24
Strategy 8: Showcase Existing Energy Projects in Homes and Businesses
Provide opportunities for tours of voluntary residents' homes or local businesses who have
exemplary energy efficient integrations. These could also be showcased at a local energy fair.
The City will encourage and support events like these to increase the adoption of energy
efficient technologies.
Actions: Partnerships / Resources:
A) Identify homes and businesses that have
already undergone energy projects. City of Falcon Heights, Partners in Energy
B) Recognize those who would wish to
participate in open house tours and set up
tour dates for groups to visit.
City of Falcon Heights, Resident volunteers
C) Host a local energy fair in Falcon Heights
and encourage citizen and local business
participation.
City of Falcon Heights, Partners in Energy,
Business Partners
Communication: City e-newsletter to residents
Timeline: 1–6 months
Falcon Heights Energy Action Plan 25
Focus Area 3:
Embracing Clean, Renewable Energy
In our quest for a sustainable future, Falcon Heights residents will also focus on
clean, renewable energy. Our strategies will aim to make renewable energy
accessible and practical for everyone in our community.
When a resident or business participates in an Xcel Energy renewable energy program,
renewable energy credits (RECs) may be kept by the customer or delegated back to Xcel
Energy depending on the program. To learn more about RECs and how they work, visit
https://mn.my.xcelenergy.com/s/renewable/renewable-energy-claims
Strategy 1: Support a Group-Buy Solar Option
The City of Falcon Heights will support or organize a group-buy solar option, making it easier
and more affordable for residents to install solar panels. By pooling their purchasing power,
residents may access significant discounts on solar installations.
Actions: Partnerships / Resources:
A) Contact and form a collaboration with
Solar United Neighbors (SUN) to help
residents and businesses bulk buy solar.
City of Falcon Heights, SUN
B) Pursue grants to assist with the installation
of solar panels on homes and businesses.
This financial support will make renewable
energy a viable option for more residents,
reducing the City's overall carbon footprint.
City of Falcon Heights
Communication: City communications to SUN
Timeline: 12-24 months
Strategy 2: Solar Arrays on Future Buildings
The City will continue to lead by example, installing solar panels on future public buildings like
what was done for City Hall as well as promote future buildings in the city to accommodate
arrays where feasible.
Actions: Partnerships / Resources:
A) Request proposals for solar installations
on any future municipal buildings. City of Falcon Heights
B) Partner with one or more solar installation
companies to recommend to buildings in the
City.
City of Falcon Heights and solar installation
companies
C) Explore grants for installation of solar for
businesses and buildings.
City of Falcon Heights, State and Federal
grant programs
Communication: City Staff to Solar Installation companies
Timeline: 12-24 months
Falcon Heights Energy Action Plan 26
Strategy 3: Promote Renewable Subscription and On-site Options for Residents
Existing Xcel Energy programs allow residents to install on-site as well as subscribe to
renewable energy programs to support renewable energy. These programs can be especially
helpful to renters and homeowners with shaded roofs families who cannot, or don’t want to
invest in on-site options.
Actions: Partnerships / Resources:
A) Encourage subscription and on-site
opportunities to residents during events and
on the City website.
City of Falcon Heights, Partners in Energy,
Xcel Energy
B) Share incentives for renewable energy
options with renters though email and mailing
campaigns.
Partners in Energy, Multi-family building
owners/managers, resident groups
Communication: City e-newsletter to residents, workshops,
events, etc.
Timeline: 6-12 months
Strategy 4: Partner with the University of Minnesota to Encourage Renewable Energy
A partnership with the University will bring cutting-edge research and innovation to the
community. Collaborative energy projects will benefit the City, providing new solutions and
technologies to enhance sustainability.
Actions: Partnerships / Resources:
A) Reach out to the University of Minnesota
to form a collaboration centered on
renewable energy technologies.
City of Falcon Heights, University of
Minnesota, Partners in Energy
B) Partner with the University of Minnesota to
help share incentives for renewable energy
programs to multi-family building owners,
residents and students.
University of Minnesota, Multi-family building
owners/managers, Partners in Energy
Communication: City communications to University of
Minnesota
Timeline: 6-12 months
Strategy 5: Establish a Reliable Workforce in Renewable Energy Applications
Falcon Heights will establish support systems to help residents enter and access skilled
workforce versed in current energy technologies that support the City’s growing energy
initiatives.
Actions: Partnerships / Resources:
A) Host workshops to educate the community
on renewable energy topics and resources
while connecting professionals with residents
and residents with training options.
Partners in Energy, Xcel Energy, public
spaces/hosts, resident and business partners
B) Support and promote workforce
opportunities in renewable energy industry
Xcel Energy, City of Falcon Heights, Partners
in Energy, workforce partners
Communication: City e-newsletter to residents, workshops,
events
Timeline: 12-24 months
Falcon Heights Energy Action Plan 27
Energy Action Plan Impact
Achieving the energy efficiency and renewable energy targets laid out in this plan will result in
increased energy efficiency program participation, greater electricity and natural gas savings,
and an increase in avoided greenhouse gas emissions compared to a business as usual (BAU)
scenario. Compared to the BAU scenario of 1,352 program participants between 2025 and
2030, the goal scenario projects an additional 384 participants in Xcel Energy DSM offerings
over this time for a total of 1,736 participants (Table 7).
Table 7. Business as usual and goal scenario target participation in Xcel Energy DSM offerings, by
sector, 2025–2030
Sector
Participation
Count – Business
as Usual
Participation
Count – Goal
Scenario
Plan Impact
(Count)
Residential 1,164 1,524 360
Commercial &
Industrial 188 211 24
Total 1,352 1,726 384
As a result of additional participation in Xcel Energy efficiency program offerings, residents and
businesses will save energy. Electricity and natural gas savings can be compared by converting
each fuel to the common denominator of million British thermal units (MMBtu). As a result of the
energy action plan implementation, energy savings in Falcon Heights are modeled to increase
by 52% in the goal scenario as compared to the BAU scenario (
Table 8).
Table 8. Business as usual and goal scenario target first-year energy savings in Xcel Energy DSM
offerings, by sector, 2025–2030
Sector MMBtu Savings –
Business as Usual
MMBtu Savings –
Goal Scenario
Plan Impact
(MMBtu Savings)
Residential 10,168 13,878 3,719
Commercial &
Industrial 17,807 28,591 10,783
Total 27,975 42,469 14,493
These energy savings may translate into dollar savings for residents and businesses, which are
estimated using sector-specific rates per kWh of electricity and per therm of natural gas. The
projected increase in energy efficiency programs would result in an estimated 65% increase in
dollar savings community-wide from first-year energy savings.
Falcon Heights Energy Action Plan 28
Table 9. Business as usual and goal scenario target dollar savings from first-year energy efficiency
savings, by sector, 2025–2030
Sector Dollar Savings –
Business as Usual
Dollar Savings –
Goal Scenario
Plan Impact
(Dollar Savings)
Residential $92,256 $126,290 $34,034
Commercial &
Industrial $179,622 $321,424 $141,803
Total $271,878 $447,715 $175,837
Taken together, this increase in program participation for energy efficiency offerings, as well as
ongoing participation in renewable energy offerings, will result in a 34% increase in avoided
greenhouse gas emissions community-wide compared to BAU (Table 10).
Table 10. Business as usual and goal scenario greenhouse gas emissions avoidance from energy
efficiency and renewable energy program participation, by sector, 2025–2030
Sector
Greenhouse Gas
Avoided –
Business as Usual
(MTCO2e)
Greenhouse Gas
Avoided – Goal
Scenario
(MTCO2e)
Plan Impact
(MTCO2e)
Residential 1,229 1,414 194
Commercial &
Industrial 907 1,439 532
Total 2,126 2,853 726
Greenhouse Gas Community Goal Equivalencies
The greenhouse gas goal number equivalencies are equal to the following according to
estimates from the EPA6:
6 US EPA, OAR. Greenhouse Gas Equivalencies Calculator. 28 Aug. 2015,
https://www.epa.gov/energy/greenhouse-gas-equivalencies-calculator.
1.1 Million Gallons of
Gasoline Burned 1 Million Lbs. of Coal Burned 165 Thousand tree seedlings
grown for 10 years
Falcon Heights Energy Action Plan 29
HOW WE STAY ON COURSE
This Energy Action Plan is a living
document. Goals and strategies will be
assessed and refined as needed based on
data and community staff capacity.
Data and Reporting
Partners in Energy will provide biannual
progress reports with metrics of success and
overall progress toward goals for Xcel
Energy rebates and programs. These
reports will be available publicly and shared
with both the community and Energy Action
Team.
If available, ad hoc participation reports for
specific Xcel Energy programs (e.g., Home
Energy Squad) can be provided to measure success of campaigns and to determine if we need
to change course.
Project Management and Tracking
Partners in Energy will host regular project management check-in calls with staff to ensure we
stay on course to achieve our strategies.
If necessary, an implementation check-in meeting with the Energy Action Team can be
convened to assess progress toward goals and discuss strategy refinement.
Energy Action Team Commitment
The Energy Action Team formed to create this plan will support implementation by participating
in the strategies that they are passionate about and by connecting the City to networks and
resources that they uniquely have access to.
Figure 13. Actions and Tracking
Energy Action
Plan
Implementation
Measurement &
Reporting
Strategy
Development &
Refinement
Falcon Heights Energy Action Plan 30
APPENDIX A: IMPLEMENTATION WORK PLAN
This appendix gives additional detail for each strategy, including the implementation team and
tasks, timeline, and goals. This appendix will serve as a work plan for the Energy Action Team
and Partners in Energy.
Falcon Heights Energy Action Plan 31
Falcon Heights Energy Action Plan 32
APPENDIX B: BASELINE ENERGY ANALYSIS
Data were provided by Xcel Energy for all Falcon Heights premises for 2021–2023. Xcel Energy
provides electric and natural gas service to the community. The data helped the Energy Action
Team understand energy use and opportunities for energy conservation and renewable energy
in Falcon Heights. Data included in this section establishes a baseline against which progress
toward goals will be compared in the future.
Electricity and Natural Gas Premises
As of 2023, there were 2,413 distinct premises in Falcon Heights (Table 11). Most premises are
residential (2,113), followed by commercial and industrial (283) and finally municipal buildings
(17).
Table 11. Premise counts by sector, 2021–2023
Sector 2021 2022 2023 Average
Residential 1,985 2,113 2,113 2,070
Commercial & Industrial 280 279 283 281
Municipal 17 17 17 17
Total 2,282 2,409 2,413 2,368
Electricity and Natural Gas Consumption and Trends by Sector
In an average year, Falcon Heights consumes about 29 million kWh of electricity and 2.3 million
therms of natural gas community-wide
Falcon Heights Energy Action Plan 33
Table 12). Total energy consumption increased by 8.4% over the baseline period, stemming
from a 4.6% increase in electricity consumption and 10.2% increase in natural gas consumption
over the baseline period.
Falcon Heights Energy Action Plan 34
Table 12. Annual energy consumption by sector and fuel type, 2021–2023
Fuel Type Sector 2021 2022 2023 Average
Electricity
(kWh)
Residential 12,936,232 13,060,714 12,989,092 12,995,346
Commercial &
Industrial
15,591,597 16,149,072 16,827,067 16,189,245
Municipal 156,347 172,349 179,618 169,438
Total 28,684,176 29,382,135 29,995,777 29,354,029
Natural
Gas
(therm)
Residential 1,076,235 1,287,519 1,177,128 1,180,294
Commercial &
Industrial
1,052,794 1,170,143 1,165,722 1,129,553
Municipal 6,088 10,494 9,110 8,564
Total 2,135,117 2,468,156 2,351,960 2,318,411
Total
(MMBtu)
Residential 151,762 173,315 162,032 162,370
Commercial &
Industrial
158,478 172,115 173,986 168,193
Municipal 1,142 1,637 1,524 1,434
Total 311,382 347,067 337,542 331,997
Electricity and natural gas consumption often vary in accordance with weather patterns. Hotter
summers indicate a greater need for cooling, which may correlate with increased electricity use
for space cooling. The need for cooling is measured in cooling degree days (CDD). Colder
winters indicate a higher need for heating, which may correlate with increased natural gas
usage for space heating. The need for heating is measured in heating degree days (HDD). The
coldest winter over the baseline period occurred in 2022, which correlated with the highest
annual natural gas consumption in the community (Table 13).
Table 13. Degree days in Falcon Heights, 2021–2023
2021 2022 2023
Cooling Degree Days 1,184 1,049 1,232
Heating Degree Days 6,678 7,812 6,565
Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Trends
In Falcon Heights, overall energy-related greenhouse gas emissions, as measured in metric
tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (MTCO2e), increased in 2023 compared to 2021 by about 3%
Falcon Heights Energy Action Plan 35
Table 14). To calculate energy-related emissions in Falcon Heights, preliminary and third-party
verified emissions factors from Xcel Energy’s Upper Midwest Fuel Mix were used, as well as a
standard emissions factor for natural gas consumption (Table 15). As Xcel Energy completes
third-party verification for its latest grid emissions factors, the emissions factors used to estimate
greenhouse gas emissions may change slightly.
Falcon Heights Energy Action Plan 36
Table 14. Energy-related greenhouse gas emissions in MTCO2e by sector and fuel type, 2021–2023
Fuel Type Sector 2021 2022 2023 Average
Electricity
emissions
(MTCO2e)
Residential 3,703 3,626 3,299 3,543
Commercial &
Industrial
4,463 4,483 4,274 4,407
Municipal 45 48 46 46
Total 8,210 8,157 7,619 7,995
Natural Gas
emissions
(MTCO2e)
Residential 5,712 6,833 6,247 6,264
Commercial &
Industrial
5,587 6,210 6,187 5,995
Municipal 32 56 48 45
Total 11,331 13,099 12,482 12,304
Total Energy-
Related
Emissions
(MTCO2e)
Residential 9,414 10,459 9,547 9,806
Commercial &
Industrial
10,050 10,693 10,461 10,401
Municipal 77 104 94 92
Total 19,541 21,255 20,101 20,299
Table 15. Emissions factors used to calculate energy-related greenhouse gas emissions, 2021–20237
Fuel Type 2021 2022 2023
Electricity Emissions Factor (lbs/MWh) 631 612 560
Natural Gas Emissions Factor (MTCO2e/Dth) 0.05307 0.05307 0.05307
7 Xcel Energy 2022. Carbon Dioxide Emission Intensities, https://www.xcelenergy.com/staticfiles/xe-
responsive/Environment/Carbon/Carbon-Emission-Intensities-Info-Sheet.pdf
Falcon Heights Energy Action Plan 37
Energy Costs
In an average year, all premises in Falcon Heights spent a collective total of $6.2 million on fuel
costs for both electricity and natural gas (Table 16). Falcon Heights residents accounted for
46% of the total spend in an average year ($2.9 million), business customers made up more
than half of the total at 53.5% ($3.3 million), while the municipal sector made up the remaining
0.5% ($30,000). Residential premises spent an annual average of $1,384 per premise on fuel
costs; commercial and industrial premises spent $11,973 per premise; and municipal premises
spent $1,734 on average.
Table 16. Annual energy costs by sector and fuel type, 2021–2023
Fuel
Type Sector 2021 2022 2023 Average
Average
Annual
Cost Per
Premise Electricity Residential $1,666,640 $1,850,931 $1,943,769 $1,820,447 $879
Commercial
& Industrial
$1,942,398 $2,569,858 $2,697,491 $2,403,249 $8,634
Municipal $18,354 $23,584 $24,226 $22,055 $1,297
Total $3,627,392 $4,444,373 $4,665,486 $4,245,750 - Natural Gas Residential $711,950 $1,300,086 $1,121,104 $1,044,380 $504
Commercial
& Industrial
$607,201 $1,131,086 $1,049,379 $929,222 $3,339
Municipal $3,451 $9,968 $8,843 $7,421 $437
Total $1,322,602 $2,441,140 $2,179,326 $1,981,023 - Total Residential $2,378,590 $3,151,017 $3,064,873 $2,864,827 $1,384
Commercial
& Industrial
$2,549,599 $3,700,944 $3,746,870 $3,332,471 $11,973
Municipal $21,805 $33,552 $33,069 $29,475 $1,734
Total $4,949,994 $6,885,513 $6,844,812 $6,226,773
Falcon Heights Energy Action Plan 38
Energy Burden
Energy burden is the percentage of income that residents spend on energy. In Falcon Heights,
residents who own their homes and make 30% or less of the area median income (AMI) spend
up to 24% of their household income on energy costs (Table 17). In the same AMI group,
residents who rent their homes are estimated to spend up to 10% of their household income on
energy costs. Energy burden is higher for residents in owner-occupied housing compared to
renters in Falcon Heights.
Table 17. Energy burden by unity occupancy and area median income 8
Energy Burden Household Count
Percent of Area Median Income Own Rent Own Rent
0–30% 24% 10% 52 263
30–60% 10% 4% 166 301
60–80% 6% 2% 86 104
80–100% 6% 2% 123 86
100%+ 2% 2% 831 110
Total 2% 1% 1,258 864
8 Source: Department of Energy Low-Income Energy Affordability Data Tool
Falcon Heights Energy Action Plan 39
Program Participation and Savings
Residents and businesses in Falcon Heights are already participating in energy efficiency
offerings from Xcel Energy, which result in energy savings for residents and commercial
customers. While fewer commercial and industrial premises participated in these programs
during the baseline period, their participation resulted in larger overall savings per premise.
Over the baseline period, the residential sector saved an average of 35,374 kWh annually and
15,660 therms from 200 participants on average annually (Table 18). The income-qualified
residential sector saved an average of 517 kWh and 63 therms from two participants on
average.
Falcon Heights Energy Action Plan 40
Table 19). Finally, the commercial and industrial sector saved an average of 186,183 kWh and
23,326 therms from 32 participants on average (Table 20).
Table 18. Annual residential sector participation in and savings from Xcel Energy efficiency offerings,
2021–2023
Residential
Program 2021 2022 2023
Count Savings
(kWh)
Savings
(therms) Count Savings
(kWh)
Savings
(therms) Count Savings
(kWh)
Savings
(therms)
Home
Energy
Audit
5 0 0 19 0 0 29 0 0
Home
Energy
Squad
5 3258 318 10 6368 275 19 8056 571
HomeSmart 6 0 0 8 0 0 8 0 0
Insulation
Rebate 10 1801 3384 4 474 1104 8 2269 3085
Refrigerator
Recycling 15 12260 0 4 4305 0 3 2147 0
Residential
HVAC 89 26492 11058 93 16619 13888 80 18543 11657
Residential
Saver's
Switch
21 24 0 43 45 0 3 3 0
Smart
Thermostat 34 1674 920 36 598 165 47 950 55
Whole
Home
Efficiency
0 0 0 1 235 499 0 0 0
Total 185 45,509 15,680 218 28,644 15,931 197 31,968 15,368
Falcon Heights Energy Action Plan 41
Table 19. Annual income-qualified participation in and savings from Xcel Energy residential efficiency
offerings, 2021–2023
Income-Qualified
Residential
Program
2021 2022 2023
Count Savings
(kWh)
Savings
(therms) Count Savings
(kWh)
Savings
(therms) Count Savings
(kWh)
Savings
(therms)
Home Energy
Savings Program 1 1,065 0 0 0 0 2 79 156
Low-Income Home
Energy Squad 0 0 0 1 408 18 1 0 15
Multi-Family
Energy Savings
Program
0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Total 1 1,065 0 1 408 18 3 79 171
Falcon Heights Energy Action Plan 42
Table 20. Annual commercial and industrial program participation in and savings from Xcel Energy
efficiency offerings, 2021–2023
Commercial &
Industrial
Program
2021
2022
2023
Count Savings
(kWh)
Savings
(therms) Count Savings
(kWh)
Savings
(therms) Count Savings
(kWh)
Savings
(therms)
Custom
Efficiency 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 8,430
Data Center
Efficiency 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Energy Design
Assistance 0 0 0 1 356,667 17,820 0 0 0
HVAC+R
Efficiency 2 1,761 142 6 0 6,741 49 38,496 4,568
Lighting
Efficiency 2 76,608 0 1 682 0 1 3,891 0
Multi-Family
Building
Efficiency
5 63,274 3,133 0 0 0 1 0 0
Saver's Switch
for Business 1 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Small Business
Lighting 2 8,181 0 0 0 0 1 5,104 0
Smart
Thermostats for
Business
6 1,933 385 10 1,950 385 0 0 0
Total 18 151,759 3,660 18 359,299 24946 53 47,491 12,998
Falcon Heights Energy Action Plan 43
Renewable Energy Support
There is existing support for renewable energy in Falcon Heights, with 241 residents, 10
commercial and industrial customers and 6 municipal buildings supporting renewable energy
through either subscriptions or on-site solar (Table 21, Table 22). At the time of the planning
process, 2023 Renewable*Connect and Renewable*Connect Flex data were not available.
Table 21. Xcel Energy renewable energy subscription program participation and electricity subscribed in
Falcon Heights, 2022 and 2023
Residential Commercial &
Industrial
Municipal
Renewable*Connect & Renewable*Connect
Flex® (2022)
Subscriber Count 180 0 0
Total Annual Electricity Subscribed (kWh) 818,449 0 0
Community Solar Gardens –
Solar*Rewards® Community (2023)
Subscriber Count 25 5 6
Total Annual Electricity Subscribed (kWh) 169,924 180,904 55,508
Total Xcel Energy Subscription Renewable
Energy Support
Subscriber Count 205 5 6
Total Annual Electricity Subscribed (kWh) 988,373 180,904 55,508
Table 22. Xcel Energy on-site solar program support in Falcon Heights, 2023
On-Site Solar – Solar*Rewards® and Net-Metering
(2023)9 Residential Commercial &
Industrial
Subscriber Count 44 8
Total Electricity Capacity (kW) 316 742
9 Source: Xcel Energy 2023 Community Energy Report for Falcon Heights
Falcon Heights Energy Action Plan 44
APPENDIX C: METHODOLOGY FOR
MEASURING SUCCESS
As part of implementation support, Partners in Energy will provide biannual progress reports for
Xcel Energy participation and savings data for Falcon Heights. All goals will be measured
against the Falcon Heights three-year baseline of 2021–2023 data unless otherwise noted.
The following section defines the three-year baseline against which progress is measured,
including Xcel Energy programs included in the baseline.
Community-Wide Goal
Falcon Heights will increase energy savings by 52% and avoid an additional 34% of community-
wide greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 through additional participation in energy efficiency
programs and on-going renewable energy participation. This amounts to an additional 14,000
MMBtu of energy savings and 700 additional MTCO2e of greenhouse gas emissions avoided.
Focus Area Goals
Alleviating Energy Burden on Homeowners and Renters: Residential Energy Efficiency
• Engage 248 residents annually in Xcel Energy’s energy efficiency programs.
• Save 2,292 MMBtu of energy annually, for a total of 13,751 MMBtu saved through
residential energy efficiency program participation between 2025 and 2030.
This goal will be measured by comparing actual program participation against the business as
usual (BAU) scenario. Total goal progress will be measured from January 2025 through
December 2030. Table 23 identifies annual program participation targets and total energy
efficiency savings to meet this goal. These targets are based on current Xcel Energy programs
and estimated savings. If Xcel Energy offers new programs for residents, these will be included
in this calculation at the discretion of the City of Falcon Heights and Partners in Energy.
Falcon Heights Energy Action Plan 45
Table 23. Annual residential energy efficiency participation and total savings from select Xcel Energy
offerings, 2025–2030
Program Annual BAU
Participation
Annual
Participation
Target
Total
Participants,
2025–2030
Total Energy
Savings,
2025–2030
(MMBtu)
Efficient New
Home
Construction
0 1 6
86
Home Energy
Audit 18 23 136
-
Home Energy
Squad 11 21 128
665
Insulation
Rebate 7 12 74
2,599
Residential
Heating and
Cooling10
87 112 674
9,957
Refrigerator
Recycling 7 7 44
128
Residential
Saver's Switch 22 22 134
0
Smart
Thermostat 39 49 294
314
Alleviating Energy Burden on Homeowners and Renters: Income-Qualified Residential
Energy Efficiency
• Engage 6 income-qualified residents annually in Xcel Energy energy efficiency
programs.
• Save a total of 116 MMBtu through income-qualified residential energy efficiency
program participation between 2025 and 2030.
This goal will be measured by comparing actual program participation against the BAU
scenario. Total goal progress will be measured from January 2025 through December 2030.
Table 24 identifies annual program participation targets and total energy efficiency savings to
meet this goal. These targets are based on current Xcel Energy income-qualified programs and
estimated savings. If Xcel Energy offers new income-qualified programs for residents, these will
10 Xcel Energy filed a new Triennial DSM plan in 2021, which resulted in some programs being
reorganized and renamed. The Residential HVAC group now includes Residential Cooling, Residential
Heating, Residential Heating and Cooling, and Water Heater Rebate.
Falcon Heights Energy Action Plan 46
be included in this calculation at the discretion of the City of Falcon Heights and Partners in
Energy.
Table 24. Annual income-qualified residential energy efficiency participation and total savings from select
Xcel Energy offerings, 2025–2030
Program Annual BAU
Participation
Annual
Participation
Target
Total
Participants,
2025–2030
Total Energy
Savings,
2025–2030
(MMBtu)
Home Energy
Savings Program 1 2 12
78
Low Income
Home Energy
Squad
1 3 16
38
Low Income
Multi-family
Building
Efficiency
0 1 6
-
Enhancing Energy Efficiencies in Buildings: Business Energy Efficiency
• Engage 42 commercial & industrial customers annually in Xcel Energy energy-efficiency
programs.
• Save 4,765 MMBtu annually for a total of 28,591 MMBtu saved through commercial &
industrial energy efficiency program participation between 2025 and 2030.
This goal will be measured by comparing actual program participation against the BAU
scenario. Total goal progress will be measured from January 2025 through December 2030.
Falcon Heights Energy Action Plan 47
Table 25 identifies annual program participation targets and total energy efficiency savings to
meet this goal. These targets are based on current Xcel Energy commercial and industrial
programs and estimated savings. If Xcel Energy offers new commercial and industrial programs
for businesses, these will be included in this calculation at the discretion of the City of Falcon
Heights and Partners in Energy.
Falcon Heights Energy Action Plan 48
Table 25. Annual commercial and industrial energy efficiency participation and total savings from select
Xcel Energy offerings, 2025–203011
Program Annual BAU
Participation
Annual
Participation
Target
Total
Participants,
2025–2030
Total Energy
Savings,
2025–2030
(MMBtu)
Business
Energy
Assessments
0 1 6 4,816
Custom
Efficiency 0 1 2 1,686
Energy Design
Assistance 0 1 4 10,496
Efficiency
Controls 2 2 10 5,524
HVAC+R
Efficiency 19 23 138 3,105
Lighting
Efficiency 1 3 20 1,385
Multi-Family
Building
Efficiency
2 2 12 1,058
Saver's Switch
for Business 0 0 2 0
Small Business
Lighting 1 3 18 272
Smart
Thermostats
for Business
5 7 44 248
Embracing Clean, Renewable Energy
• Retain residential participants in Xcel Energy’s renewable energy subscription programs,
Renewable*Connect and Renewable*Connect Flex.
• Save 687 MTCO2e of greenhouse gas emissions.
This focus area will be measured by comparing actual program participation in
Renewable*Connect and Renewable*Connect Flex against the BAU scenario. No increase
in participation was projected for this goal between January 2025 and December 2030.
Table 26 identifies the 2030 participation and kWh target to meet this goal. These targets
are based on current participation and subscriptions to Renewable*Connect and
Renewable*Connect Flex. If Xcel Energy offers renewable subscription programs for
11 The sum of total Custom Efficiency and Energy Design Assistance participants does not add to the
annual participation target over the goal period due to rounding.
Falcon Heights Energy Action Plan 49
residents, these will be included in this calculation at the discretion of the City of Falcon
Heights and Partners in Energy.
Table 26. Annual renewable energy subscription participation and total GHG savings 2025–2030
Program
Baseline
Residential
Participants
Baseline kWh
Subscribed
Target
Residential
Participants in
2030
Total
Greenhouse
Gas Emissions
Saved, 2025–
2030 (MTCO2e)
Renewable*Connect
Flex 189 733,692 189 646
Renewable*Connect12 14 46,650 14 41
Total 203 780,342 203 687
12 As of 2024, Renewable*Connect is at capacity and not accepting new subscribers
Falcon Heights Energy Action Plan 50
APPENDIX D: XCEL ENERGY’S PARTNERS IN
ENERGY PLANNING PROCESS
About Xcel Energy’s Partners in Energy
Xcel Energy is an electric and natural gas utility that provides the energy that powers millions of
homes and businesses across eight Western and Midwestern states. Each community Xcel
Energy serves has its own unique priorities and vision for its energy future. The energy
landscape is dynamically changing with communities leading the way in setting energy and
sustainability goals. To continue to innovatively support their communities, Xcel Energy
launched Partners in Energy in the summer of 2014 as a collaborative resource with tailored
services to complement each community’s vision. The program offerings include support to
develop an energy action plan or electric vehicle plan, tools to help implement the plan and
deliver results, and resources designed to help each community stay informed and achieve their
outlined goals.
Plan Development Process
The content of this plan is derived from a series of planning workshops held in the community
with a planning team committed to representing local energy priorities and implementing plan
strategies.
The planning process began with an open house at City Hall where the people came to give
input into the plan’s vision and strategy. The open house also served as a place for residents to
ask questions about the Partners in Energy Program, Xcel Energy’s goals, and what resources
and support will be provided for the plan. There was also a community energy survey in English,
Spanish, and Somali that launched at that time to seek similar input into the plan.
The Energy Action Team, made up of Environment Commission members, residents, and city
staff, then met for a workshop to digest the community’s input, survey responses, and look at
the community’s energy baseline data. They also shaped the vision and focus areas of the plan.
The team then met for a virtual meeting to hear about utility programs and more community
energy survey results and review workshop outcomes.
Falcon Heights Energy Action Plan 51
A second open house set at the Falcon Heights Spring Together Event, showcased the
community energy data, invited community input while engaging families, youth, and the
business community.
Finally, the Energy Action Team came together for a workshop that rounded out the planning
effort by bringing together a full picture of the community’s input, developed strategies, and
discussed the implementation of the plan.
Partners in Energy Process for Success Resources from Xcel Energy for Implementation
Project
Management
Communication
Assistance and
Resources
Tracking and
Measurement
Celebration and
Recognition of
Successes
ITEM FOR DISCUSSION
City of Falcon Heights, Minnesota
__________________________
Item Climate Action Plan
Description
Falcon Heights applied for and received a $46,075 grant from the MPCA to
create a Climate Action Plan. The City has decided to go with paleBLUEdot as
the consultant for the project. After an initial kickoff meeting with Staff and EC
Chair Beth Mercer-Taylor, a team application and survey have been issued to
the community.
Budget Impact None.
Attachment(s) • Climate Action Plan – Public Facing Webpage:
https://palebluedot.llc/falcon-heights-climate-action-plan
Action(s)
Requested
Staff requests Environment Commission discuss potential team applications
and how to market the survey to the community.
Meeting Date October 10, 2024
Agenda Item E-3
Attachment See below.
Submitted By Hannah Lynch, Community
Development Coordinator / Planner