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Recommendation 20240716-003: Postpone Austin Energy’s Evaluation of Sale of District Chilling System — original pdf
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Resource Management Commission Recommendation No. 20240716-003 Resolution to Postpone Austin Energy’s Evaluation of Sale of District Chilling System WHEREAS, Austin Energy is proposing to hire a firm to organize the possible sale of its district chilling system; and WHEREAS, this proposal was not discussed with community stakeholders in advance of its consideration by the Austin City Council; and WHEREAS, it is possible that sale of the system could adversely affect peak demand and energy efficiency in over 60 large Austin buildings or building complexes; and WHEREAS, it is possible that this proposal could adversely affect the costs of district chilling customers; and WHEREAS, district chilling did not exist in Austin outside of the University of Texas before the commissioning of Austin Energy’s system; and WHEREAS, the legal ability to sell the system may require a public vote; THEN BE IT RESOLVED that the Resource Management Commission advise the Austin City Council to delay the proposal until it is more thoroughly reviewed by stakeholders in the community. Commissioner Louis Stone, Chair; Commissioner Paul Robbins, Vice Chair; Commissioner Charlotte Davis; Commissioner Trey Farmer; Commissioner Shane Johnson; Commissioner Chelsey Scaffidi; Commissioner Alison Silverstein Vote: 7-0 For: Against: None Abstentions: None Off Dais: Commissioner GeNell Gary Absences: Commissioner Dino Sasaridis Vacancies: District 2 and Mayor’s Office Attest: Natasha Goodwin, Staff Liaison
Recommendation 20240716-005: Utility Assistance and Incentives Landing Page — original pdf
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Resource Management Commission Recommendation No. 20240716-005 Resolution on Centralized Utility Assistance and Incentives Landing Page for the City of Austin Website WHEREAS, Travis County Health and Human Services estimated that 25% of county residents were living below 200% of the poverty level in 2020; and WHEREAS, Austin Water, Austin Energy, Pedernales Electric Cooperative, Texas Gas Service, Atmos Energy, CenterPoint Energy, and other utility providers offer low-income assistance programs to customers in the Austin area; and WHEREAS, demand-side reductions are needed to meet the goals of the 2035 Austin Energy Resource Generation and Climate Protection Plan, and the greenhouse gas emissions reduction goals in the Austin Climate Equity Plan; and WHEREAS, Austin Water, Austin Energy, Pedernales Electric Cooperative, Texas Gas Service, Atmos Energy, CenterPoint Energy, and other utility providers offer conservation incentive programs to customers in the Austin area to conserve water and energy usage; and WHEREAS, assistance and incentive programs for electricity, water, natural gas, and other utility services are sometimes difficult for ratepayers to locate unless they are already familiar with them; and WHEREAS, a landing page on the City of Austin website containing direct links to utility provider low- income assistance and conservation incentive programs would be a valuable service to the community at very little cost. NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Resource Management Commission recommend to the Austin City Council that the City's web sites for various utility assistance and conservation programs be merged to create a one-stop, centralized, user-friendly portal to help customers access all forms of utility assistance; and LET IT FURTHER BE RESOLVED that the Resource Management Commission recommend to the Austin City Council that the centralized portal include links to utility assistance and conservation programs managed by Pedernales Electric Cooperative, Texas Gas Service, Atmos Energy, CenterPoint Energy, and other utility providers serving Austin customers. Vote: 7-0 For: Commissioner Louis Stone, Chair; Commissioner Paul Robbins, Vice Chair; Commissioner Charlotte Davis; Commissioner Trey Farmer; Commissioner Shane Johnson; Commissioner Chelsey Scaffidi; Commissioner Alison Silverstein Against: None Abstentions: None Off Dais: Commissioner GeNell Gary Absences: Commissioner Dino Sasaridis Vacancies: District 2 and Mayor’s Office Attest: Natasha Goodwin, Staff Liaison
Approved Minutes — original pdf
RESOURCE MANAGEMENT COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES Tuesday, July 16, 2024 RESOURCE MANAGEMENT COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES Tuesday, July 16, 2024 The Resource Management Commission convened in a Regular Called meeting on Tuesday, July 16, 2024, at Austin Energy Headquarters 4815 Mueller Blvd, Austin, TX 78723. Chair Louis Stone called the Resource Management Commission meeting to order at 6:06 p.m. in Attendance: Commissioner Louis Stone, Chair; Board Members/Commissioners Commissioner Paul Robbins, Vice Chair; Commissioner Charlotte Davis; Commissioner Trey Farmer. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Commissioner GeNell Gary; Commissioner Shane Johnson; Commissioner Chelsey Scaffidi; Commissioner Alison Silverstein. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL • Craig Nazor- District Energy Cooling. • Doug Greco- District Energy Cooling. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Resource Management Commission Regular Meeting on June 18, 2024. The motion approving the minutes of the Resource Management Commission meeting of June 18, 2024 was approved on Commissioner Davis’s motion, Commissioner Farmer’s second on an 8-0 vote with Commissioner Sasaridis absent and two vacancies. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. Recommend approval of capacity-based incentives to Eanes Independent School District, for installation of solar electric systems on their facilities located at 2 Walsh Tarlton Lane, 304 Camp Craft Road, 1300 Walsh Tarlton Lane, 1201 S Capital of Texas HWY NB, in an amount not to exceed $848,830. The motion to approve a recommendation approving capacity-based incentives to Eanes Independent School District was approved on Vice Chair Robbins motion, Commissioner Silverstein’s second on a 6-1 vote with Chair Stone voting against, Commissioner Gary off the dais, Commissioner Sasaridis absent and two vacancies. 3. Recommend approval of a recommendation postponing the evaluation of a possible sale of Austin Energy’s district heating and cooling plant. RESOURCE MANAGEMENT COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES Tuesday, July 16, 2024 The motion to approve a recommendation postponing the evaluation of a possible sale of Austin Energy’s district heating and cooling plant was approved on Vice Chair Robbins motion, Commissioner Silverstein’s second on a 7-0 vote with Commissioner Gary off the dais, Commissioner Sasaridis absent, and two vacancies. 4. Recommend approval of the Annual Internal Review of the Resource Management Commission for July 2023 through June 2024. The motion to approve the Annual Internal Review of the Resource Management Commission was approved on Vice Chair Robbins motion, Commissioner Farmer’s second on a 7-0 vote with Commissioner Gary off the dais, Commissioner Sasaridis absent, and two vacancies. 5. Recommend approval of a recommendation for …
Multifamily & Commercial Project Pipeline Monthly Report — original pdf
Multifamily & Commercial Project Pipeline – Monthly Report 06/07/2024 Figure 1: Commercial and Multifamily Project Pipeline Commercial and Small Business Multifamily 200 180 160 140 120 100 80 60 40 20 0 t n u o C t c e o r P j 74 105 7 7 Pre-Approval in Progress Approved: Installation and Verification 18 Pre-Approval in Progress Approved: Installation and Verification Multifamily Multifamily Income Qualified 1. Figures includes all leads and applications, regardless of estimated rebate amount. In coordination with the customer and contractor, Austin Energy periodically removes leads and new applications that do not proceed to Installation. a. “Pre-Approval in Progress” includes: 1) customer/contractor submitted leads; 2) applications in development but not yet submitted to Austin Energy; and 3) applications submitted to Austin Energy that are under review for eligibility and approval of project scope. b. “Approved: Installation and Verification” includes projects: 1) approved with installation underway; and 2) where installation is complete and final inspection and quality review are ongoing. c. Paid projects are listed on the preceding RMC summary table in this report. 160 140 120 100 80 60 40 20 0 t n u o C t c e o r P j 145 Project Pipeline Notes: 2. Pipeline Definitions Multifamily & Commercial Project Pipeline – Monthly Report 06/07/2024 Table 1: Multifamily and Multifamily Income Qualified – Estimated RCA Project Pipeline (for estimated rebates >$72k) Program Latest Workflow Enrollment (s) # Location Name Installation Address Council District Estimated kW savings Estimated kWh savings Estimated $ Incentive Installation Lincoln Oaks 263.3 766,330 $257,806 11700 Metric Blvd 1266038, 1279735, 1292608, 1292617 Measures Planned Phase 1 (Complete): Water Saving Devices, Phase 2 (In Progress): LED Lighting, Plenum Remediation & Seal, HVAC Tune-Up, Smart Thermostats Total # of Units 296 Installation 1277574 Buckingham Place Duplexes 743 YARSA BLVD Installation 1301882 West Koenig Flats 5608 Avenue F 34.2 159,495 $74,700 HVAC Tune-Ups, Smart Thermostats 166 39.0 185,377 $109,200 HVAC Tune-up, Smart Thermostats 210 Installation 1299361 79.6 286,993 $151,432 HVAC Tune-Ups, Smart Thermostats, LED Lighting 292 Installation 1303113 53.5 256,991 $124,640 HVAC Tune-Ups, Smart Thermostats 304 Multifamily Income Qualified Multifamily Income Qualified Multifamily Income Qualified Multifamily Income Qualified Multifamily Income Qualified Multifamily Installation 1301185 Elan East 59.0 327,616 $121,687 HVAC Tune-Ups, Smart Thermostats, Water Saving Devices, ECAD Multifamily Installation 1300529 34.1 143,396 $100,399 HVAC Tune-Ups, Smart Thermostats, Attic Insulation Multifamily Installation 1301881 71.8 336,393 $205,412 HVAC Tune-Ups, Smart Thermostats 356 …
Agenda — original pdf
REGULAR MEETING OF THE RESOURCE MANAGEMENT COMMISSION June 18, 2024 6:00 p.m. Austin Energy Headquarters; 1st Floor; Shudde Fath Conference Room 4815 Mueller Blvd, Austin, Texas 78723 Some members of the Resource Management Commission maybe participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely by telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation. To register contact Natasha Goodwin, at Natasha.Goodwin@austinenergy.com or 512-322-6505. AGENDA GeNell Gary Shane Johnson Dino Sasaridis Chelsey Scaffidi Members: Louis Stone, Chair Paul Robbins, Vice Chair Charlotte Davis Trey Farmer CALL MEETING TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 5 speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Alison Silverstein Vacant Vacant 1. Approve the minutes of the Resource Management Commission Regular Meeting on May 21, 2024. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. Recommend approval of the Austin Water Capital Improvement Projects located in the Drinking Water Protection Zone for approval to include in the 5-year Capital spending plan as required by Financial Policy #8. 3. Recommend approving amendments to the Resource Management Commission bylaws to include advising on all matters related to natural gas companies that serve customers within the City of Austin, including franchise agreements, rates, and conservation programs. STAFF BRIEFINGS The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please call Natasha Goodwin at Austin Energy, at (512) 322-6505 or email Natasha.Goodwin@austinenergy.com for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Resource Management Commission, please contact Natasha Goodwin at Austin Energy, at 512-322- 6505 or email Natasha.Goodwin@austinenergy.com . 4. Staff briefing regarding the Single Family Residential Landscape Transformation Activities by Kevin Critendon, Assistant Director, Environmental, Planning and Development Services and Christopher Charles, Water Conservation Coordinator. 5. Discussion regarding a review of Austin Energy solar & battery deployment policies, with improvements identified. Part 2: …
Customer Energy Solutions FY 24 Savings Report — original pdf
Energy Efficiency Services EES- Appliance Efficiency Program EES- Home Energy Savings - Rebate EES- AE Weatherization & CAP Weatherization - D.I. * EES- School Based Education * EES- Strategic Partnership Between Utilities & Retailers * EES- Multifamily Rebates EES- Multifamily WX-D.I.+ EES- Commercial Rebate EES- Small Business Energy Efficiency TOTAL Demand Response (DR) - Annual Incremental DR- Power Partner DR- Commercial Demand Response (frmly Load Coop) Demand Response (DR) TOTAL Green Building GB- Residential Ratings GB- Residential Energy Code GB- Multifamily Ratings GB- Multifamily Energy Code GB- Commercial Ratings GB- Commercial Energy Code Green Building TOTAL CES MW Savings Grand TOTAL Residential Totals Commercial Totals Non-Public - AE # Customer Energy Solutions FY24 YTD MW Savings Report As of April 2024 Participant Type Participants To Date MWh To Date MW Goal 2.60 0.90 0.44 0.30 1.75 0.65 1.00 6.00 2.00 15.64 MW Goal 6.40 2.00 8.40 MW Goal 0.26 1.63 3.00 6.00 4.20 3.90 19.00 MW To Date 1.16 0.18 0.25 0.07 0.82 1.64 0.72 1.84 0.46 7.14 MW To Date 3.33 3.33 MW To Date 0.22 0.92 1.20 3.22 2.89 1.86 10.31 Percentage 45% 20% 57% 23% 47% 252% 72% 31% 23% Percentage 52% 0% Percentage 84% 56% 40% 54% 69% 48% Customers Customers Customers Products Products Apartments Apartments Customers Customers Devices Customers Customers Customers Dwellings Dwellings 1,000 sf 1,000 sf Participant Type Participants To Date MWh To Date Participant Type Participants To Date MWh To Date Rebate Budget Spent to Date 2,186.36 251.52 474.27 358.00 2,096.00 4,055.61 1,756.49 4,556.20 1,014.64 16,749.09 0 0.00 259 1,269 3,043 4,832 5,011 6,154 20,568 Rebate Budget $ 1,500,000 $ 1,600,000 $ 2,577,000 $ 350,000 $ 1,250,000 $ 900,000 $ 1,800,000 $ 2,250,000 $ 1,100,000 $ 13,327,000 Spent to Date $ 707,183 $ 345,346 $ 2,437,783 $ 78,745 $ 431,293 $ 2,337,725 $ 1,056,077 $ 1,231,780 $ 402,755 $ 9,028,687 Rebate Budget $ 1,600,000 $ 2,000,000 $ 3,600,000 $ 254,230 $ 254,230 $ 9,300 $ - $ 47,000 $ - $ 56,300.00 $ - 1,624 176 356 1,595 94,865 5,245 3,355 70 61 12,482 2,344 2,344 271 1,155 3,108 6,426 2,290 6,191 10,960 0 MW Goal 43.04 MW To Date 20.78 Percentage Participant Type Participants To Date MWh To Date 25,786 37,317.31 Rebate Budget $ 16,983,300 Spent to Date $ 9,282,917 15.93 19.11 9.31 17.17 58% 90% 110,986 18,016 12706.09 19171.39 $ $ 11,577,000 2,061,871 $ $ 7,648,382 3,350,000 Thermal Energy Storage TOTAL …
Item 2- DWPZ CIP Memo — original pdf
Memorandum To: Boards and Commissions From: Shay Ralls Roalson, Director, Austin Water Date: March 30, 2024 Subject: Board and Commission and Citizen Review of new Growth-related Capital Improvement Projects in Drinking Water Protection Zone The Austin City Council approved an amendment to Austin Water’s (AW) Financial Policy No. 8 to provide for enhanced Board and Commission and citizen reviews of AW’s new growth-related capital improvement projects (CIP) located in the Drinking Water Protection Zone (DWPZ). The previous ordinance (No. 20130117-017) took effect on January 28, 2013 and on August 11, 2021 ordinance (No. 20210811-001) amended the DWPZ financial policy. AW is presenting the new growth-related projects to Boards and Commissions as set forth in the ordinance. The revised Financial Policy No. 8 reads as follows: Capital improvement projects for new water and wastewater treatment plants, capital expansions, and growth-related projects that are located in the Drinking Water Protection Zone (DWPZ) will be identified and submitted, as part of the annual budget process, to the following Boards and Commissions: Water and Wastewater Commission, Resource Management Commission, and the Environmental Board. These Boards and Commissions will review growth-related DWPZ capital projects spending plans, obtain Board and Commission and citizen input, review consistency with Imagine Austin Comprehensive Plan, review effect on growth within the DWPZ, and make recommendations on project approval for inclusion in Austin Water's five-year capital spending plan. This summer, AW representatives will be distributing a brief report to the Commissions on the CIP projects located in the DWPZ related to the financial policy. Attachments: CIP Subprojects Summary CIP Subprojects Supplemental Information and Map The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Austin Water Infrastructure Management Financial Policy No. 8 Drinking Water Protection Zone Projects Summary FY25-29 CIP Plan Development Each year, as part of the City of Austin Budget approval process, Austin Water submits a plan for the capital improvements program (CIP) spending for the upcoming five-year period. Austin Water’s FY25-29 CIP Plan includes projects located across the Austin metropolitan area, including the Drinking Water Protection Zone (DWPZ). In compliance with Austin Water’s Financial Policy No. 8, the capital improvement projects for new water and wastewater treatment plants, capital expansions, and growth related projects that are located in the DWPZ are presented below for consideration by City of Austin Boards and Commissions. …
Item 3- Proposed Resource Management Commission Bylaw Changes — original pdf
Proposed Resource Management Commission Bylaw Changes BYLAWS OF THE RESOURCE MANAGEMENT COMMISSION ARTICLE 2. PURPOSE AND DUTIES. The purpose of the commission is to: (A) Maintain an overview of all programs, studies and proposals concerning the efficient use of energy, alternate energy technologies, renewable energy resources, including solar and wind, and the conservation of energy, excluding the use of conventional coal, nuclear, natural gas, or petroleum technologies. (B) Serve as a liaison with other city commissions and commissions, including the Electric Utility Commission. (C) Receive public input on alternate energy technologies, renewable energy sources, and on energy conservation. (D) Review and analyze: (1) energy conservation technologies and renewable energy sources as to their short-term and long-term feasibility in the city; (2) energy conservation policies, alternate energy technologies, and renewable energy projects in other cities and states; (3) water conservation policies, alternate technologies, and water conservation projects in other cities and states; and (4) the City Code to identify potential amendments that encourage the use of alternate energy technologies and renewable energy sources, and the conservation of energy. (5) issues concerning natural gas utilities in Austin, including fair and equitable rates and bills, energy efficiency and renewable energy programs, environmental issues related to utility system operation, assistance to low-income customers, progress on the City of Austin’s Climate Equity Plan, and franchise negotiations. (E) Advise the city council: (1) in the developing and reviewing city plans and programs in the area of alternate energy technologies, renewable energy sources, and energy conservation. (2) as to available funding from private and public sources which are available to the city for alternate energy technologies and renewable energy, and for the conservation of energy; (3) on energy conservation, on alternate energy technologies, and on renewable energy sources and report to city council on the status of its activities at least annually; (4) in developing and reviewing city plans and programs that encourage water conservation as it relates to water consumption from the tap to customer and within structures or building; and (5) regarding appropriate City Code amendments that encourage the use of alternate energy technologies and renewable energy sources, and the conservation of energy; (6) natural gas utility matters, including: fair and equitable rates and bills that minimize consumer costs, cost-effective energy efficiency programs; cost-effective renewable energy programs; research and development of new technologies for energy efficiency and renewable energy; programs that reduce the burden on …
Item 4- Briefing Single Family Residential Landscape Transformation — original pdf
Landscape Transformation Activities Resource Management Commission | June 18, 2024 Kevin Critendon P.E., Assistant Director, Environmental, Planning & Development Ser vices Christopher Charles, Water Conser vation Coordinator Why New Water Conservation Measures? Lakes are 50% full Highland Lakes inflow • 2022 - record low • 2023 – 4th lowest El Niño will shift to La Niña Drought Stage 2 restrictions Per-person use has declined but plateaued 2 Landscape Transformation Strategy From traditional landscaping to plants with reduced water needs New single-family residential Potential limits on turf and irrigation Savings goal of 2,490 AF (811 MG) by 2040 3 Public Engagement & Input Public and stakeholder meetings • February, May, June, & November 2022 • August 2023 Smaller stakeholder group meetings Speak Up Austin! page • 2 surveys (256 and 303 responses) • Majority of local responses favored regulating landscape transformation 4 Internal City Stakeholders Watershed Protection Department (WPD) Development Services Department (DSD) Austin Energy (AE) – Green Building Office of Sustainability Equity Office Planning and Housing Department Wildlife Austin (PARD) Austin Fire Department – (Wildland-Urban Interface) 5 Stakeholder Meetings Home Builders Association of Greater Austin (HBA) • Concern about project delays Central Texas Professional Irrigation Association - • Supported increased enforcement • Supported high-efficiency irrigation system components Association of Professional Landscape Architects (CTPIA) (ASLA) Texas Nursery and Landscape Assoc. 6 (TNLA – Region 8) Additional Meetings Other utilities in Texas • New Braunfels • City of Frisco • Model homes with 50% turf reduction • Post-installation inspections (within 1-2 days) • Irrigation check-up • Georgetown • Residential landscape ordinance 7 Steps to Transform Landscapes Build with savings Set customers up for success Encourage alternative water 8 Build with Savings Enhanced Soil Inspections • A minimum of 6 inches of topsoil • Topsoil mix composed of 20% compost • Estimated Water Savings: 10% reduction 9 Required residential plant list • Apply commercial plant requirements to residential • Grow Green Plant Guide as a model Build with Savings Limit irrigation area • Up to 50% of landscape area; front yard or back • Estimated Water Savings: 35% annually per home 10 Set Customers Up for Success Est. Water Savings Potential Cost 22% savings $543 plus labor 10% savings Austin Water inspection 5% savings Austin …
Item 5- AE Solar and Storage Policy - Part 2 — original pdf
A review of Austin Energy solar & battery deployment policies, with improvements identified Part 2: The AE solar rebate and Inspection D. SASARIDIS 18 JUNE 2024 AE Solar Rebate Australia enjoys fully installed solar, on homes, at 1/3 the cost of the USA. Why? Deployment “friction”, reverse incentives, & regional rule variation High Costs Complicated installations Low volume, high profit business model, targeting rich customers Inadequate competition among installers AE Solar Rebate - $2500 Fixed (single family), $ 0.60 / W (multi family) Source: https://austinenergy.com/-/media/project/websites/austinenergy/green-power/res-solar-pv-guidelines.pdf RequirementsProblem with RequirementCustomers must pass and take a quiz about solarUseless friction. Customers don't need to memorize / deeply understand solar, they need a few key pieces of information available for reference.Systems must be 3 kW or larger for single family home residentialNo issue with this, for a fixed rebate.Total solar resource fraction (TSRF) must be 75% for entire system. TSRF = how much sun the panels get, all things considered (shade, angle).Key problem - a 10 kW system with 74% TSRF would receive no rebate, and this has more value than a 3 kW system at 75% TSRF.Customer forfeits renewable energy credits generated by systemThis takes advantage of customers ignorance - no reason that a small rebate should entitle AE to all future value generated by REC's.Systems over 110% of historical usage need an exceptionCounterproductive . Having a larger than historical system might mean simply planning for an EV or heat pump, and building your solar to support that.Roof penetrations must be flashed, or a pre-approved typeUseless friction. AE is not a test lab and is not qualified to require this- there are UL standards all solar panel mounting systems.Must be approved by AEIdentify subcontractors to AEBe able to provide a shade reportMarginally useful, but still friction.Provide 10-year warrantyHaving 10-year warranty provides customers with false sense of security and requires contractors to hold those costs on their books. Massive barrier to competition! Contractors can compete on warranty as well as price, for customers. ContractorSystemContractor friction decreases competition among contractors. AE Solar Rebate – an alternative strategy Solution Rewrite solar rebate rules, eliminating all non-value add rules, particularly: • Remove the requirement to take a quiz. Instead, provide customers with up-to-date quick reference guide for useful facts ($/W, system types, tradeoffs), and detailed example quotes. • Change the requirements for whole system at 75% TSRF to minimum 3 kW at 75% TSRF. • Give REC …
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Minutes — original pdf
RESOURCE MANAGEMENT COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES Tuesday, June 18, 2024 RESOURCE MANAGEMENT COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES Tuesday, June 18, 2024 The Resource Management Commission convened in a Regular Called meeting on Tuesday, June 18, 2024, at Austin Energy Headquarters 4815 Mueller Blvd, Austin, TX 78723. Chair Louis Stone called the Resource Management Commission meeting to order at 6:07 p.m. in Attendance: Commissioner Louis Stone, Chair; Board Members/Commissioners Commissioner Paul Robbins, Vice Chair; Commissioner Charlotte Davis; Commissioner Trey Farmer; Commissioner GeNell Gary; Commissioner Dino Sasaridis; Commissioner Alison Silverstein. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: None PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL • Al Braden- Spoke in favor of Item #3. • Dan O’Brien- Streetlighting. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Resource Management Commission Regular Meeting on May 21, 2024. The motion approving the minutes of the Resource Management Commission meeting of May 21, 2024 was approved on Commissioner Silverstein’s motion, Vice Chair Robbins second on a 6-0-1 vote with Commissioner Gary abstaining, Commissioners Johnson and Scaffidi absent, and two vacancies. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. Recommend approval of the Austin Water Capital Improvement Projects located in the Drinking Water Protection Zone for approval to include in the 5-year Capital spending plan as required by Financial Policy #8. The motion to approve a recommendation approving the Austin Water Capital Improvement Projects located in the Drinking Water Protection Zone was approved on Commissioner Silverstein’s motion, Commissioner Farmer’s second on a 6-0-1 vote with Commissioner Gary abstaining, Commissioners Johnson and Scaffidi absent, and two vacancies. RESOURCE MANAGEMENT COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES Tuesday, June 18, 2024 3. Recommend approving amendments to the Resource Management Commission bylaws to include advising on all matters related to natural gas companies that serve customers within the City of Austin, including franchise agreements, rates, and conservation programs. The motion to approve a recommendation approving amendments to the Resource Management Commission bylaws to include advising on all matters related to natural gas companies was approved on Vice Chair Robbins motion, Commissioner Silverstein’s second on a 6-1 vote with Commissioner Gary voting against, Commissioners Johnson and Scaffidi absent, and two vacancies. STAFF BRIEFINGS DISCUSSION ITEMS 4. Staff briefing regarding the Single Family Residential Landscape Transformation Activities by Kevin Critendon, Assistant Director, Environmental, Planning and Development Services and Christopher Charles, Water Conservation Coordinator. The briefing was presented by Kevin Critendon, Assistant Director, Environmental, Planning and Development Services and Christopher Charles, Water Conservation Coordinator. 5. Discussion regarding …
Agenda — original pdf
REGULAR MEETING OF THE RESOURCE MANAGEMENT COMMISSION May 21, 2024 6:00 p.m. Austin Energy Headquarters; 1st Floor; Shudde Fath Conference Room 4815 Mueller Blvd, Austin, Texas 78723 Some members of the Resource Management Commission maybe participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely by telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation. To register contact Natasha Goodwin, at Natasha.Goodwin@austinenergy.com or 512-322-6505. AGENDA GeNell Gary Shane Johnson Dino Sasaridis Chelsey Scaffidi Members: Louis Stone, Chair Paul Robbins, Vice Chair Charlotte Davis Trey Farmer CALL MEETING TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 5 speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Alison Silverstein Vacant Vacant 1. Approve the minutes of the Resource Management Commission Regular Meeting on April 16, 2024. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. Recommend approving issuance of capacity-based incentives to Individuals Directed to Excellence and Achievement (IDEA) Public Schools for installation of solar electric systems on their facilities located at 700 Showplace Lane, 9504 N IH 35 SVRD SB, 1901 E Wells Branch Parkway, 1438 E Yager Lane, 1701 Vargas Road, 5816 Wilcab Road, and 1700 E Slaughter Lane, in an amount not to exceed $924,858. 3. Approve a recommendation to amend the Resource Management Commission bylaws to include review of and advising on all matters related to natural gas companies that serve customers within the City of Austin, including franchise agreements, rates, and conservation programs. 4. Approve a recommendation in support of certain Environmental Investment Plan recommendations approved by the Joint Sustainability Committee. The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please call Natasha Goodwin at Austin Energy, at (512) 322-6505 or email Natasha.Goodwin@austinenergy.com for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Resource Management Commission, please contact Natasha Goodwin at Austin Energy, at …
Revised Agenda — original pdf
REGULAR MEETING OF THE RESOURCE MANAGEMENT COMMISSION May 21, 2024 6:00 p.m. Austin Energy Headquarters; 1st Floor; Shudde Fath Conference Room 4815 Mueller Blvd, Austin, Texas 78723 Some members of the Resource Management Commission maybe participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely by telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation. To register contact Natasha Goodwin, at Natasha.Goodwin@austinenergy.com or 512-322-6505. REVISED AGENDA GeNell Gary Shane Johnson Dino Sasaridis Chelsey Scaffidi Members: Louis Stone, Chair Paul Robbins, Vice Chair Charlotte Davis Trey Farmer CALL MEETING TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 5 speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Alison Silverstein Vacant Vacant 1. Approve the minutes of the Resource Management Commission Regular Meeting on April 16, 2024. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. Recommend approving issuance of capacity-based incentives to Individuals Directed to Excellence and Achievement (IDEA) Public Schools for installation of solar electric systems on their facilities located at 700 Showplace Lane, 9504 N IH 35 SVRD SB, 1901 E Wells Branch Parkway, 1438 E Yager Lane, 1701 Vargas Road, 5816 Wilcab Road, and 1700 E Slaughter Lane, in an amount not to exceed $924,858. 3. Approve a recommendation to amend the Resource Management Commission bylaws to include review of and advising on all matters related to natural gas companies that serve customers within the City of Austin, including franchise agreements, rates, and conservation programs. 4. Approve a recommendation in support of certain Environmental Investment Plan recommendations approved by the Joint Sustainability Committee. The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please call Natasha Goodwin at Austin Energy, at (512) 322-6505 or email Natasha.Goodwin@austinenergy.com for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Resource Management Commission, please contact Natasha Goodwin at Austin Energy, …
Item 2- RCA: CBI IDEA Public Schools — original pdf
..De Posting Language ..Title Approve issuance of capacity-based incentives to Individuals Directed to Excellence and Achievement (IDEA) Public Schools for installation of solar electric systems on their facilities located at 700 Showplace Lane, 9504 N IH 35 SVRD SB, 1901 E Wells Branch Parkway, 1438 E Yager Lane, 1701 Vargas Road, 5816 Wilcab Road, and 1700 E Slaughter Lane, in an amount not to exceed $924,858. Lead Department Austin Energy Fiscal Note Funding in the amount of $924,858 is available in the Fiscal Year 2023-2024 Austin Energy Operating Budget. For More Information: Amy Everhart, Director Local Government Issues (512) 322-6087; Tim Harvey, Customer Renewable Solutions Manager (512) 482-5386. Council Committee, Boards and Commission Action: May 13, 2024 –Recommended by the Electric Utility Commission on a vote of 10-0 with one vacancy. May 21, 2024 – To be reviewed by the Resource Management Commission. Additional Backup Information: Austin Energy requests approval to issue these capacity-based incentives (CBI) to the Customer for the installation of solar electric systems at their facilities to produce renewable energy for on-site consumption. The table below provides a summary of the combined system sizes, costs, proposed incentives, and environmental benefits: Solar System Details* Total System Size (kW-DC) Total System Size (kW-AC) Annual Estimated Production (kWh) Total System Cost ($) Total Incentive ($) Percent of Cost Covered Reduction of Carbon Dioxide (CO2) in tons Reduction of Sulfur Dioxide (SO2) in pounds Reduction of Nitrogen Oxide (NOX) in pounds 1,028 853 1,521,102 $1,952,478 $924,858 47% 680 761 1065 Environmental Benefits** and Emission Reduction Equivalencies*** Equivalency of Vehicle Miles Driven Equivalency of Cars on Austin Roadways Equivalency of Trees Planted Equivalency of Forest Acreage Added *All solar equipment meets Austin Energy program requirements ** Environmental Benefits based on the US Energy Information Association’s state-wide electricity profile *** According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)’s Greenhouse Gas Equivalency Calculator 1,577,727 147 10,200 720 IDEA Public Schools is a not‐for‐profit charter school serving grades kindergarten through 12th grade. The table below shows the estimated percentage of the building’s historic energy consumption offset by the proposed solar systems. Proposed Solar Projects Site Address Incentive Rate System Cost Austin Energy Incentive Generation kWh/yr System Size kW DC System Size kW AC Energy Offset 700 Showplace Ln Austin, TX, 78753 9504 N IH 35 SVRD SB Austin, TX, 78753 1901 E Wells Branch Pkwy Pflugerville, TX, 78660 1438 E Yager Ln Austin, TX, 78753 1701 …
Item 3: RMC Bylaw Amendment 1 of 2 — original pdf
Proposed Resource Management Commission Bylaw Changes BYLAWS OF THE RESOURCE MANAGEMENT COMMISSION ARTICLE 2. PURPOSE AND DUTIES. The purpose of the commission is to: (A) Maintain an overview of all programs, studies and proposals concerning the efficient use of energy, alternate energy technologies, renewable energy resources, including solar and wind, and the conservation of energy, excluding the use of conventional coal, nuclear, natural gas, or petroleum technologies. (B) Serve as a liaison with other city commissions and commissions, including the Electric Utility Commission. (C) Receive public input on alternate energy technologies, renewable energy sources, and on energy conservation. (D) Review and analyze: (1) energy conservation technologies and renewable energy sources as to their short-term and long-term feasibility in the city; (2) energy conservation policies, alternate energy technologies, and renewable energy projects in other cities and states; (3) water conservation policies, alternate technologies, and water conservation projects in other cities and states; and (4) the City Code to identify potential amendments that encourage the use of alternate energy technologies and renewable energy sources, and the conservation of energy. (5) issues concerning natural gas utilities in Austin, including fair and equitable rates and bills, energy efficiency and renewable energy programs, environmental issues related to utility system operation, assistance to low-income customers, progress on the City of Austin’s Climate Equity Plan, and franchise negotiations. (E) Advise the city council: (1) in the developing and reviewing city plans and programs in the area of alternate energy technologies, renewable energy sources, and energy conservation. (2) as to available funding from private and public sources which are available to the city for alternate energy technologies and renewable energy, and for the conservation of energy; (3) on energy conservation, on alternate energy technologies, and on renewable energy sources and report to city council on the status of its activities at least annually; (4) in developing and reviewing city plans and programs that encourage water conservation as it relates to water consumption from the tap to customer and within structures or building; and (5) regarding appropriate City Code amendments that encourage the use of alternate energy technologies and renewable energy sources, and the conservation of energy; (6) natural gas utility matters, including: fair and equitable rates and bills that minimize consumer costs, cost-effective energy efficiency programs; cost-effective renewable energy programs; research and development of new technologies for energy efficiency and renewable energy; programs that reduce the burden on …
Item 3: RMC Bylaw Amendment Draft Resolution 2 of 2 — original pdf
Resolution WHEREAS, in July of 2023, the Resource Management Commission passed a resolution asking for the Austin City Council to expand its purview to advise Council on issues concerning gas utilities operating in the city, including gas company rate cases, gas company franchises; and gas-related environmental or consumer issues; and WHEREAS, no proposed amendments for the Commission’s bylaws were forwarded for the Austin City Council Audit and Finance Committee to consider; NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Resource Management Commission forward the attached bylaw amendments to the Council Audit and Finance Committee for review.
Item 4: JSC Environmental Investment Plan Recommendations 2 of 2 — original pdf
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Joint Sustainability Committee Recommendation 20240430-002: Environmental Investment Plan Funding Needs 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. List of Funding Needs Cross-Sector Funding Needs ......................................................................................................................... 2 Outreach and Engagement for Sustainability Incentives ............................................................ 2 Austin Civilian Conservation Corps .............................................................................................. 3 Energy and Water Conservation Funding Needs .......................................................................................... 4 Expand Austin Energy’s energy efficiency programs ................................................................... 4 Expand Austin Energy’s demand response programs ................................................................. 5 Invest in battery energy storage.................................................................................................. 5 Utility-owned or contracted rooftop solar .................................................................................. 6 Shut down/retire AE’s portion of Fayette coal plant .................................................................. 7 Air sealing task force and training program ................................................................................ 8 Passive House incentive program ................................................................................................ 8 10. Decarbonizing municipal buildings .............................................................................................. 9 11. Water leak detection programs................................................................................................... 9 12. Improve rebates for residential and commercial landscape conversions ................................. 10 Consumption & Waste Reduction Funding Needs...................................................................................... 11 13. Circular economy & waste reduction programs ........................................................................ 11 14. Low-carbon concrete fund ........................................................................................................ 12 15. Pro-climate, pro-health foods ................................................................................................... 12 16. Sustainable purchasing and carbon accounting ........................................................................ 13 17. City-owned composting facility ................................................................................................. 13 1 Natural Systems Funding Needs ................................................................................................................. 14 18. Preservation of existing agricultural land .................................................................................. 14 19. Revolving loan fund for Working Farms Fund pilot ................................................................... 15 20. Energy and water dashboard for city facilities .......................................................................... 15 21. Comprehensive public tree inventory for the city of Austin ..................................................... 16 Transportation and Land Use Funding Needs ............................................................................................. 17 22. Austin Resource Recovery Fleet Electrification ......................................................................... 17 23. Austin Resource Recovery Transfer Station .............................................................................. 17 24. Expand All Ages and Abilities Bicycle Network, Urban Trails, Sidewalks, and Shared Mobility 18 25. Extend Pickup Service Zones ..................................................................................................... 20 26. Downtown High-Frequency Circulator ...................................................................................... 21 27. Neighborhood E-Circulators ...................................................................................................... 22 28. Heat Resilience Infrastructure ................................................................................................... 23 29. CityLeap ATX Plan: convert travel lanes on arterial roads to protected bike or bus lanes ....... 24 30. Establish a city-owned all-electric carshare service .................................................................. 25 31. Low-cost, accessible charging stations at City of Austin owned facilities ................................. 26 32. Install charging stations at multi-family homes with priority in low and moderate income communities ....................................................................................................................................... 27 33. E-mobility solutions pilot program ............................................................................................ 28 Cross-Sector Funding Needs 1. Outreach and Engagement for Sustainability Incentives Details: The City of Austin has numerous sustainability incentive programs aligned with the goals of the Climate Equity Plan. However, many of these programs are underutilized, especially among low-income households. A part of the challenge is awareness. The city should host a user-friendly website …
Item 4: RMC Draft Recommendation Environmental Investment Plan 1 of 2 — original pdf
RESOURCE MANAGEMENT COMMISSION Recommendation No. 2024XXX-XXX DRAFT Resolution on Joint Sustainability Committee Environmental Investment Plan Recommendations WHEREAS, the Joint Sustainability Committee Recommendation No. 20240430-002 outlines various investments needed to achieve the many aggressive goals of the City’s Climate Equity Plan and other City environmental plans; and WHEREAS, several of these investment recommendations concern alternative energy technologies, renewable energy, and energy and water conservation; and WHEREAS, additional investments in energy efficiency, demand response, local solar, batteries and coal retirement are needed to meet the carbon-free by 2035 goal in the Austin Energy Resource Generation and Climate Protection Plan and the greenhouse gas emissions reduction goals in the Austin Climate Equity Plan; and WHEREAS, decarbonizing city buildings and improving water conservation will also yield greenhouse gas reductions and other co-benefits and aligns with the Water Forward plan, NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT The Resource Management Commission recommends that the City Council pursue funding opportunities for the following programs as recommended by the Joint Sustainability Committee for the City’s Environmental Investment Plan: 1. Expand Austin Energy’s energy efficiency programs More investment is needed to improve building envelopes and air sealing and install efficient heat pumps for heating and cooling and hot water production, as well as LED lighting and other energy efficiency appliances. Increase funding for existing energy efficiency programs and conduct additional community outreach to inform the community about available local, state and federal incentives. 2. Expand Austin Energy’s demand response programs Expand price-based demand response programs, including to the residential, commercial, industrial, and transportation sectors, and extend to additional devices and appliances such as electric hot water heaters, home energy management systems, commercial and residential battery storage, electric vehicle smart chargers, and smart meters. 3. Invest in battery energy storage Battery storage is an important part of a decarbonized grid. Austin Energy must invest in utility scale and distributed battery storage to enable retirement of its fossil fuel power plants, flatten the demand curve and avoid local electric grid price spikes that increase bills. 4. Utility-owned or contracted rooftop solar Austin Energy needs a considerable expansion of local solar to meet energy needs and keep bills affordable. Land is expensive, so rooftop solar is the best locally available clean renewable energy source. Consider designing a program whereby Austin Energy invests directly in customers’ rooftop solar and owns the installation for a set period of time. 5. Shut down/retire AE’s portion …