HomeMy WebLinkAbout2021-05-06 Meeting PacketAgenda
Energy and Environment Commission
City Of Edina, Minnesota
VIRTUAL MEETING
Members of the public can observe the meeting by watching the live stream on YouTube at
youtube.com/edinatv or by listening in by calling toll free 1-415-655-0001 with Access
code:133 717 7482.
Thursday, May 6, 2021
7:00 PM
I.Call To Order
II.Roll Call
III.Approval Of Meeting Agenda
IV.Approval Of Meeting Minutes
A.Minutes: Energy & Environment Commission April 8, 2021
V.Special Recognitions And Presentations
A.Climate Action Plan Baseline Assessment: paleBLUEdot
B.Board and Commission Member Review
VI.Reports/Recommendations
A.Initiatives 2 and 5, info only: To-Go Packaging & Green Business
B.Initiative 3: EEC Event Tabling
C.Initiative 7: ETC & organized trash collection
VII.Chair And Member Comments
A.EEC Brief History and Context
VIII.Sta7 Comments
IX.Adjournment
The City of Edina wants all residents to be comfortable being part of the public
process. If you need assistance in the way of hearing ampli:cation, an
interpreter, large-print documents or something else, please call 952-927-8861
72 hours in advance of the meeting.
Date: May 6, 2021 Agenda Item #: IV.A.
To:Energy and Environment Commission Item Type:
Minutes
From:Grace Hancock, Sustainability Coordinator
Item Activity:
Subject:Minutes: Energy & Environment Commission April 8,
2021
Action
CITY OF EDINA
4801 West 50th Street
Edina, MN 55424
www.edinamn.gov
ACTION REQUESTED:
Approve April 8, 2021 meeting minutes
INTRODUCTION:
ATTACHMENTS:
Description
2021-04-08 EEC Minutes
Agenda
Energy and Environment Commission
City Of Edina, Minnesota
VIRTUAL MEETING
Members of the public can observe the meeting by watching the live stream on YouTube at
youtube.com/edinatv or by listening in by calling toll free 1-415-655-0001 with Access code: 133 362 8802.
Thursday, April 8, 2021
7:00 PM
I.Call To Order
Chair Martinez called the meeting to order.
II.Roll Call
Answering roll call were Chair Martinez, Commissioners Horan, Dakane, Haugen,
Hovanec, Lanzas, Lukens, Ratan, Tessman, Student Commissioners Mans and
Ana Martinez.
Absent: Student Commissioners Mans and Ana Martinez.
III.Approval Of Meeting Agenda
Motion by Michelle Horan to Approve Meeting Agenda. Seconded by
Rajeev Ratan. Motion Carried.
IV.Approval Of Meeting Minutes
A.Minutes: Energy & Environment Commission March 11, 2021
Motion by Michelle Horan to Approve March 11, 2021 Meeting Minutes.
Seconded by Hilda Martinez Salgado. Motion Carried.
V.Special Recognitions And Presentations
A.Special Presentation: Hennepin County Climate Action Plan
Hennepin County Commissioner Chris LaTondresse and Sean Gosieweski
presented the Hennepin County Climate Action Plan and answered
questions from the EEC
VI.Community Comment
No comments.
During "Community Comment," the Board/Commission will invite residents to share relevant issues or
concerns. Individuals must limit their comments to three minutes. The Chair may limit the number of
speakers on the same issue in the interest of time and topic. Generally speaking, items that are elsewhere on
tonight's agenda may not be addressed during Community Comment. Individuals should not expect the Chair
or Board/Commission Members to respond to their comments tonight. Instead, the Board/Commission might
refer the matter to staff for consideration at a future meeting.
VII.Reports/Recommendations
A.2021 Work Plan Updates
Initiative #1 Climate Action Plan - Sustainability Coordinator, Grace
Hancock presented an update on the Climate Action Plan.
Initiative #5 Business Recognition Program- Commissioner Horan
recommended that a new working group be established. Commissioner
Dakane asked to be added to the leads.
B.Sustainable Buildings Policy
Sustainability Coordinator, Grace Hancock presented an update and
answered questions from the commission. Commissioners can email
additional comments/question to Grace.
VIII.Chair And Member Comments
Chair Martinez asked if anyone had interest in writing up something in
regards to Earth Day and some ideas related to it that could be posted on
Better Together/Twitter/Webpage, etc. Example: Focus on Pollinator
Resolution
Commissioner Haugen asked if there can be a way to see past history of the
commission and what they have accomplished and some items that may not
have been completed.
Commissioner Lukens asked if there were additional ways to promote the
Climate Action Plan survey. He also asked if there would be a way to send
out bios/backgrounds on other commissioners to the EEC members.
IX.Staff Comments
X.Adjournment
Motion by Hilda Martinez Salgado to Adjourn. Seconded by Bayardo
Lanzas. Motion Carried.
T he City of Edina wants all residents to be comfortable being part of the public process. If
you need assistance in the way of hearing amplification, an interpreter, large-print
documents or something else, please call 952-927-8861 72 hours in advance of the meeting.
Date: May 6, 2021 Agenda Item #: V.A.
To:Energy and Environment Commission Item Type:
Other
From:Grace Hancock, Sustainability Coordinator
Item Activity:
Subject:Climate Action Plan Baseline Assessment:
paleBLUEdot
Information
CITY OF EDINA
4801 West 50th Street
Edina, MN 55424
www.edinamn.gov
ACTION REQUESTED:
INTRODUCTION:
Present baseline documents, findings and next steps
ATTACHMENTS:
Description
Summary Edina Climate Baseline Assessment
Edina 2019 GHG Inventory
Edina Climate Vulnerability Assessment
Edina Renewables Potential Study
Edina Ground Cover-Tree-Sequestration Study
April 2021
Prepared by:
City of Edina
Climate Action Baseline Assessment and
Strategic Goal Recommendations
Table of Contents
Section 01 Introduction
Section 02 Transportation and Land Use
Section 03 Buildings and Energy
Section 04 Waste Management
Section 05 Water and Wastewater
Section 06 Local Food and Agriculture
Section 07 Greenspace and Trees
Section 08 Climate Health and Safety
Section 09 Climate Economy
Edina Climate Action Baseline and Strategic Goals 1-1
Photo: Nick Ortloff via Flickr
Introduction
Background
The City of Edina is developing its first Climate Action Plan for
the community. The plan, which identifies climate resilience
strategies and actions for the next 10 years, will help those who
live and work in Edina imagine and achieve a future where the
earth and all who live on it thrive.
The City’s current goals for the project are to reduce citywide
greenhouse gas emissions 30% by 2025, and 80% by 2050, and
to establish actions to enhance community resilience and adap-
tation to climate change.
This Edina Climate Action Baseline and Strategic Goals document
is intended as a tool to support the Edina Climate Action Plan-
ning team in collaboratively exploring, creating, refining, and
finalizing the goals and strategies of the Edina Climate Action
Plan. The strategic goal recommendations included in this docu-
ment should be understood as preliminary only and created
solely for the purpose of supporting a fully collaborative plan-
ning team process.
Climate Action Plan Framework
Achieving community-wide greenhouse gas (GHG) reductions
and addressing the impacts of climate change requires address-
ing considerations across a wide range of sectors. This Climate
Action Baseline and Strategic Goal Recommendations report is
organized around a unifying framework of environmental equity
and justice, and includes eight community-wide sectors. Each
sector has over-arching Strategic Goals (or “Strategies”) estab-
lished to meet 2030 goals and organize or provide direction for
detailed implementation Actions to be created in collaboration
with the Climate Action Planning Team. Sector Strategies have
primary focus on Climate Mitigation, Climate Adaptation, or
both. Strategies for Climate Mitigation are organized along
cross-cutting pathways.
Edina Climate Action Baseline and Strategic Goals 1-2
The Edina Climate Action Plan will include the following commu-
nity-wide sectors:
: are specific statements of direction that expand
on the climate action vision GHG reduction goals and guide de-
cisions about future public policy, community investment, and
actions.
are detailed items that should be completed in order
to carry out the vision and strategies identified in the plan.
: addresses the root causes of climate
change through the reduction or prevention of greenhouse gas
(GHG) emissions.
: seeks to lower the risks posed by the
impacts of climate change which are now inevitable or likely.
1-3 Edina Climate Action Baseline and Strategic Goals
Introduction
Cross-Cutting Pathways
GHG reduction pathways are themes which organize the strategic
goals, or “strategies” needed to achieve community wide greenhouse
gas reductions. A cross-cutting pathway represents pathways orga-
nized across multiple, or all, climate action sectors. The cross-cutting
pathways for the Edina Climate Action Baseline and Strategic Goal Rec-
ommendations report are:
Reduction
(Energy Efficiency, VMT, etc)
Fuel Switching
(Renewable Electricity, Thermal Energy, Transporta-
tion)
Sequestration
(Greenspace, Mechanical Carbon Sequestration and
Storage)
GHG Reduction Goals in Global Context
Considering a climate action plan’s emission reduction goals within a
global context can help validate the appropriateness of the goal. An
effective approach for evaluating goals within that global context is to
consider the most current GHG emission reduction recommendations
formulated by the International Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). The
scientific consensus of the international IPCC working groups is to re-
duce global GHG emissions as needed in order to limit global warming
to 1.5°C. In addition, the Paris Agreement aims to limit global warming
to 1.5 to 2 degrees C above pre-industrial levels, considered to be the
threshold for dangerous climate change.
The UNEP Emissions Gap Report published in November 2019 calculates
that by 2030, global emissions will need to be 25% lower than 2018 and
80% lower by 2050 to put the world on the least-cost pathway to lim-
iting global warming to below 2°C. To limit global warming to 1.5°C, the
same report finds emissions would need to be 55% lower than in 2018
and carbon neutral by 2050. Within that context, for Edina:
A minimum community-wide reduction goal would be:
“To reduce community-wide GHG emissions by 25%
below 2018/2019 levels by 2030.”
To limit global warming to 1.5°C, the community-wide reduction goal
would be :
“To reduce community-wide GHG emissions by 45%
below 2018/2019 levels by 2030.”
Hennepin County Climate Action Goals:
“To reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 45% from 2010
levels by 2030 and achieve net zero emissions by 2050.”
State of Minnesota Next Generation Energy Act Goals:
“Statewide GHG Reductions of 30% from 2005 lev-
els by 2025, 80% from 2005 levels by 2050.”
1-4 Edina Climate Action Baseline and Strategic Goals
Introduction
Projected Emission Reductions Achieved by Draft Strategies
The following sections of this Baseline Assessment document include
preliminary strategic goal recommendations for consideration by the
planning team. These recommendations are based on the summary
research presented in each section and are intended as preliminary
statements for the purpose of supporting a collaborative team process
which will result in the final strategic goal statements. These prelimi-
nary strategical goals generally align with current City emission reduc-
tion goals of 30% by 2025, and 80% by 2050.
Share of Total Projected Potential Emission Reductions by Sector
by 2030 from 2013 Baseline:
The following summarizes the community wide GHG reductions from the
2013 baseline year by 2030 likely supported by the preliminary strategic rec-
ommendations included in the report:
Based on the illustrated potential reductions included in this document, we
recommend the following as a preliminary Climate Action Plan goal statement
for consideration by the planning team:
“To reduce community-wide GHG emissions by
25% below 2013 levels by 2025, 30% by 2030, and
80% below by 2050.”
Moving ourselves and our goods and services from
place to place is very energy intensive while the vehi-
cles we use for that mobility are very material re-
source intensive. In addition to transportation vehi-
cles, off-road equipment like construction, recreation-
al and lawn equipment also consume significant
amounts of fossil fuels for their operation. Off-road
equipment have even higher GHG emission and over-
all air pollution rates per gallon of fuel consumed than
on-road vehicles due to less efficient combustion and
lower emission standards than on-road vehicles.
Equipment and transport systems have significant im-
pacts on the environment, accounting globally for 20%
to 25% of world energy consumption and carbon diox-
ide emissions. In Edina, the transportation and land
use sector accounts for 40.9% of citywide GHG emis-
sions and are projected to increase as the electricity
sector moves to more renewable energy sources.
Many options exist for improving the sustainability of
our transportation systems while improving quality of
life and equity. Increasing shared transportation
while decreasing use of single-occupancy vehicles sig-
nificantly reduces the environmental impacts of trans-
portation. This change also can improve equity in mo-
bility. Alternative transportation modes like bicycles,
eBikes, and scooters can also increase opportunities
for exercise while reducing air pollution. Lastly, stud-
ies indicate that recent advances in electric vehicles,
car-sharing technologies and the potential for self-
driving vehicles underline a much more sustainable
usage of car assets that could remove up to 90% of
the vehicles from the streets while enhancing mobility
options.
2-1 Edina Climate Action Baseline and Strategic Goals
02 S e c t i o n
Transportation and
Land Use
Click here to
return to TOC
2-2
Edina Residential Density
The city’s residential land use totals 5,896
acres—57.7% of the total area of the city. This
land supports a population of 51,746 for an av-
erage of 8.8 residents per residential land use
acre. The city’s community wide density, includ-
ing all zoning districts is 5.06 residents per acre.
Transportation and Land Use
Edina Land Use Density Emissions Reduction
Potential
According to the City’s comprehensive plan pop-
ulation projections, the City of Edina may see a
population increase of up to 16% by 2030. The
study “The Influence of Urban Form on GHG
Emissions in the U.S. Household Sector” (Lee, S.,
and Lee, B. 2014 ) found that for every 1% in-
crease in population-weighted urban density,
household travel CO2 emissions reduce by 0.48%
and emissions associated with residential energy
use decrease 0.35%. Based on this study, estab-
lishing zoning ordinances and codes guiding fu-
ture growth into options which increase the
density of existing developed land rather than
increasing the quantity of developed land is like-
ly to have positive impact on decreasing total
community wide emissions per household.
If policies are established which guide just 40%
of future population growth towards increased
residential land use density, the potential 16%
population increase could result in an increase
of average population per developed acre from
8.8 to 9.4 residents per residential land use acre,
or an increase of residential land use density of
6.4%. Applying the figures established in the
Lee study, this could equate to an emissions re-
duction of up to 3% for transportation related
emissions.
GHG emissions reduction associated with a 6.4%
increased residential land use density by 2030:
(1,630) Metric Tons.
Edina Climate Action Baseline and Strategic Goals
2-3 Edina Climate Action Baseline and Strategic Goals
Edina Vehicle Miles Traveled History
As outlined in the chart above, the total vehicle
miles traveled (VMT) in Edina in 2019 was 581
million miles. This is an increase of 80.2 million
miles, a 12.7% increase over the 7 year span.
Edina Jobs Heat Mapping
According to US Census data, the Edina has seen
a decrease in total jobs within the community
from 59,014 jobs in 2008 to 42,386 in 2018. Job
density has also experienced a slight shift with
jobs decreasing significantly in the Highway
169/62 area and increasing somewhat in the
Highway 100/Vernon Ave area. VMT (millions) Employment Heat Map 2008 Employment Heat Map 2018
Transportation and Land Use
2-4 Edina Climate Action Baseline and Strategic Goals
Transportation and Land Use
City of Edina Commute
Since 2013, overall average commute time in Edina has remained at 19.1 minutes with 93% of
those employed in Edina commutting from outside the City. Edina has also seen a steady trend in
commuter modes with 78% commuters driving alone. These trends indicate that strategies to fo-
cus job development nearest sections of residential density and to encourage alternative com-
mute modes like public transit may decrease transportation emissions. Decreasing commuters
driving alone by 6% to match the county wide average would decrease vehicle miles traveled by
up to 10 million miles, saving an estimated $7,500,000 and eliminating up to (3,800) metric tons of
GHG emissions annually.
City of Edina Commuter Transport by Mode Since 2013
Commuter Transport Share by Mode 2018
City of Edina Hennepin County
2-5 Edina Climate Action Baseline and Strategic Goals
Transportation and Land Use
Housing and Transportation Affordability
Land Use density, job locations, and transportation significantly impact living costs, particularly
housing and transportation affordability. The recommended share of income spent on housing is
up to 30% and up to 15% for transportation, for a total transportation and housing burden of 45%
of income. The map to the right, from Center for Neighborhood Technology, indicates the average
Housing and Transportation affordability index for each of the census blocks within the City of Edi-
na. The Citywide average housing and transportation burden (H+T) is 54% (36% on housing and
19% on transportation). As shown on the household count by H+T income share, over 4,500 house-
holds in Edina have a combined H+T burden that is more than 2/3rds of household income. This
trend indicates strategies that continue to focus job development nearest sections of residential
density, increased housing affordability, and increased affordable mobility options may support
decreasing cost of living, particularly associated with transportation.
Walkability and Bikeability
The measure of a community’s walkability and bikeability are an important metric of the communi-
ty’s ability to advance sustainable transportation. Bike and walk scores will very across the city
based on location specific parameters. Below are transit, walk and bike scores for the France Ave
area City of Edina (Source: WalkScore.com). For this location, though the scores can be improved,
the existing levels indicate a supportive environment for increasing alternative mobility options
such as walking, biking, and public transit. Every 0.5% increase in commuter utilization of biking or
walking in Edina may decrease vehicle miles traveled by 800,000, saving an estimated $600,000
and eliminating (315) metric tons of GHG emissions.
Housing and Transportation Affordability
Combined housing and transportation expenses as
share of household income (Source: H+T Index)
2-6 Edina Climate Action Baseline and Strategic Goals
Public Transit Performance Map
Overall transit score rating at connectivity, access to
jobs, and frequency of service (Source: AllTransit)
Transportation and Land Use
Public Transit Indicators
The map to the left illustrates the community area served by transit options (Advance Transit) and
the corresponding “Performance Score”. Areas of lighter color have higher performance scores
which represent a mixture of overall trips per week, number of jobs accessible, number of weekly
commuters using the transit options, and equity of transit system. (Source: Alltransit)
The average commute in Edina is 19.1 minutes, or approximately 16 miles. Meanwhile, AAA esti-
mates that the cost per mile for operating a vehicle is $0.74. Consequently, every 1% increase in
commuter utilization of public transit in Edina may decrease vehicle miles traveled by 1.6 million
miles, saving an estimated $1.25 million and eliminating (630) metric tons of GHG emissions annually.
2-7 Edina Climate Action Baseline and Strategic Goals
Transportation and Land Use
Vehicle Ownership in Edina
According to the US Census, nearly 47% of all households own
two vehicles, over 38% own 1 vehicle, 12% own three vehi-
cles, nearly 3% own four vehicles, and about 1/2% own five or
more vehicles. Communitywide, 6.7% are households with no
vehicles. According to census data there are 36,600 vehicles
total in the city.
Transitioning this rolling vehicle stock from fossil fuel combus-
tion to low and no emission alternative is critical in meeting
significant long-range emissions reductions in this sector. For
every 1% of vehicles converted to EV or low/no emission fuel
alternatives up to 2,750 metric tons of GHG emissions can be
eliminated annually (including emissions associated with in-
creased electricity consumption).
Existing Edina Electric Vehicles and Infrastructure
The chart to the right illustrates the total number of electric
vehicles and charging infrastructure in Edina compared with
the State of Minnesota. As of April 2020, Edina had 357
battery electric vehicles (BEV), and 112 plug-in electric vehi-
cles (PHEV). Comparing the city of Edina’s EV rolling stock
against Statewide vehicle counts (7,322 BEVs and 5,556
PHEVs), it is clear that the city’s adoption rate is higher than
State averages. The city currently has no DC Fast charging
ports, but does have public Level II chargers.
EV Adoption Rates in Minnesota
The graph to the right illustrates the new EV purchase adop-
tion rates in Minnesota since 2013. The trends illustrate a
clearly increasing EV share of new vehicles purchased from
3.4% in 2013 to 5.7% in 2020.
Vehicle Ownership by Household
Type of Electric
Vehicle
Vehicles
in State
Vehicles
in City
City Share
of State
City Share Compared
to Population Share
EV % of All
Vehicles in
City
BEV 7322 357 4.9% 5.3x population 1%
PHEV 5556 112 2% 2.2x population 0.3%
Electric Vehicle
Charging
Chargers
in State
Chargers
in City
City Share City Share Compared
to Population Share
DC Fast Ports 192 0 - N/A
Level II Ports 551 14 2.6% 2.6x population
Existing Edina Electric Vehicles and Infrastructure
(Source: Alliance for Automotive Innovation)
EV Adoption Rates in Minnesota
2-8 Edina Climate Action Baseline and Strategic Goals
Transportation and Land Use
EV Charging Infrastructure Required in the US by 2030
(serving 18.7 million EV’s in use)
According to the Edison Foundation, Electric Vehicle stock in the United States is projected to reach
18.7 million in 2030, up from slightly more than 1 million at the end of 2018. This means EV’s will
make up at least 7% of the vehicles on the road by that time.
(Sources: US Department of Energy, Alternative Fuels Data Center, US Census, Edison Foundation “Electric Vehicle Sales
Forecast and the Charging Infrastructure Required Through 2030” report).
Minimum EV Infrastructure Needed in Edina 2030
For Edina, the Edison Foundation’s EV charging infrastructure need projections mean anticipating
at least 2,900 EV’s owned and operated by Edina residents by 2030 in addition to the increased EV
utilization by visitors to the city and commuters who work in the city but live elsewhere. These
EV’s will require a minimum of 121 public level II charging ports, 197 workplace level II charging
ports, and 15 public CD Fast Charging ports. This will require a minimum increase of 304 level 2
charging ports and 15 DC Fast Charging ports by 2030. For every 1% increase in EV utilization be-
yond that, an additional 3.12 level 2 charging ports and 0.5 DC Fast charging ports should be
planned.
2-9 Edina Climate Action Baseline and Strategic Goals
Transportation and Land Use
City of Edina Vehicle Fleet
As of March 2021, the City of Edina has a municipal vehicle fleet of 307
cars and trucks. Over 88% of the fleet are gasoline or diesel internal
combustion engine (ICE) vehicles while 9.8% are electric vehicles in-
cluding hybrid electric (HEV), plug-in hybrid electric (PHEV) and battery
electric (BEV).
The City’s fleet spans a range of vehicle use classes reflecting the range
of services the City’s departments provide. The fleet is comprised of
light duty vehicles (36.7%), medium and heavy duty (25.7%), construc-
tion duty (37%), and support equipment like ATV’s and boats (0.7%).
City of Edina Vehicle Fleet by Fuel Type
Total Gasoline Used:
90,700 Gallons Annually
Total Diesel Used:
47,900 Gallons Annually
Source: Fleetcarma March 2019 report
2-10 Edina Climate Action Baseline and Strategic Goals
Transportation and Land Use
Fleet Efficiency Potential
The City’s fleet uses 138,600 gallons of gasoline and diesel fuel annually. According to a 2019 Elec-
tric Vehicle Suitability Assessment conducted by Fleetcarma, of the vehicles assessed by Fleet-
Carma study, the average fuel economy is 16 miles per gallon. The average vehicle in the fleet is in
operation (engine on) for 2 hours each day and 42% of that time is spent idling.
Strategies for improved fuel efficiency which may be effective for the City’s fleet include reduction
or elimination of engine idling, driver behavior changes, and prioritization of higher fuel efficiency
in vehicle replacements. Increasing fuel efficiency of the City’s fleet will reduce the municipal oper-
ations GHG emissions while reducing annual operation expenses through the reduction of fuel pur-
chase. For every 1% of improved fuel efficiency, the fleet’s GHG emissions will be reduced by more
than (12) metric tons annually.
Fleet EV Conversion Potential
Conversion of fleet vehicles to electric wherever feasible will have the most significant and immedi-
ate impact on reduction of fleet operations GHG emissions as well as annual operating expenses.
As with all vehicle fleets, regular retirement and replacement of vehicles represent an on-going op-
portunity to increase electric vehicle adoption. The City currently has 72 vehicle replacements
planned by 2025. All of the vehicles slated for replacement are gas or diesel combustion vehicles,
providing an opportunity to increase the share of electric vehicles in the fleet by as much as 26%.
On average, for every combustion engine vehicle replaced by an electric vehicle (BEV), the City’s
fleet emissions could be reduced by (4) metric tons annually or more (variations will occur based on
use case and daily mileage driven for each vehicle).
Total GHG Emissions:
12,214 Metric Tons (2019)
Source: Fleetcarma
City of Edina Vehicle Fleet Planned Replacements
by Fuel Type
2-11 Edina Climate AcƟon Baseline and Strategic Goals
TransportaƟon and Land Use
Strategic Goal RecommendaƟons
Community Wide
Based on the reviews outlined in this secƟon, we recom-
mend the City of Edina explore establishing the following
TransportaƟon and Land Use Strategic Goals:
Pathway 1—ReducƟon
TL 1: Decrease community wide VMT by 2% by 2030.
TL 2: Increase public transit commuter ridership from
3.3% to 5% by 2030.
TL 3: Increase average population per developed acre
by 2% by 2030.
Fuel Switching
TL 4: Increase baƩery electric vehicle (BEV) uƟlizaƟon
to 12% of community wide rolling stock (from ap-
proximately 357 vehicles to 4,392 vehicles communi-
ty-wide).
TL 5: Establish viable biodiesel sources to serve com-
munity by 2025. Achieve 5% diesel consumpƟon re-
placement with biodiesel by 2030.
Strategic Goal RecommendaƟons
Municipal OperaƟons
Based on the reviews outlined in this secƟon, we recom-
mend the City of Edina explore establishing the following
TransportaƟon and Land Use Strategic Goals:
Fuel Switching
TL 6: Achieve 40% conversion of municipal opera-
Ɵons gasoline and e10 gasoline vehicles and equip-
ment within municipal fleet to EV's by 2030.
Achieve 100% conversion by 2040.
TL 7: Convert all municipal operaƟons diesel fuel
uƟlizaƟon to biodiesel fuel by 2027.
TL 8: Increase fuel efficiency of remaining combus-
Ɵon engine fleet by 15% by 2030.
Projected Sector Emission ReducƟons Achieved by DraŌ Strategies
2-12 Edina Climate Action Baseline and Strategic Goals
3-1 Edina Climate Action Baseline and Strategic Goals
03 S e c t i o n
Buildings and
Energy
Click here to
return to TOC
Building energy use is a major contributor to
greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The Building
Energy sector includes all residential, commercial,
and industrial buildings. Greenhouse gas emis-
sions from this sector come from direct emissions
– from fossil fuels burned on-site for heating or
cooking needs – as well as indirect emissions –
from fossil fuels burned off-site in order to supply
that building with electricity. Building design
plays a large role in determining the future effi-
ciency and comfort of facilities. Increasing ener-
gy efficiency can help reduce GHG emissions and
result in significant cost savings for both homes
and businesses. The Edina community can also
achieve environmental, social, and economic ben-
efits through enhancements to the built environ-
ment.
Buildings and Energy Electricity and Natural Gas
Emissions Share of 2019 GHG Emissions by Sub-Sector
3-2 Edina Climate Action Baseline and Strategic Goals
Buildings and Energy
Edina Energy Use Profile—Community Wide
Residential:
According to 2019 community wide data, the resi-
dential sector in Edina consumes nearly 194.5 million
kWh annually. This is equal to 8,719 kWh per house-
hold. The sector also consumes over 20.4 million
therms of natural gas annually. As illustrated in the
chart to the left, residential electricity consumption
per household has been steadily declining since 2013
while residential natural gas consumption per house-
hold has been increasing since 2016.
Commercial and Industrial:
The Edina commercial and industrial sector in 2019
consumed nearly 334.2 million kWh, equal to 7,885
kWh per job. These sectors also consume over 19.5
million therms of natural gas annually. As illustrated
in the chart to the left, commercial and industrial
electricity consumption per job decreased signifi-
cantly between 2013 and 2016 but increased nearly
just as much again between 2016 and 2019. Com-
mercial and industrial natural gas consumption per
job has followed the same curve as residential natu-
ral gas consumption increasing since 2016.
Potential for Change in Edina
Based on the City’s recent new building permit histo-
ry (shown to the left), as much as 16% of the city’s
housing stock and 7-10% of the city’s commercial
building stock may be renovated or replaced over a
10 year timeframe. This means that a significant
portion of the city’s building infrastructure could be
positively impacted and influenced through climate
action strategies that guide increased energy effi-
ciency and increased renewable energy adoption.
Residential Energy Use Trends
New Building Construction Permits in Edina
New Housing Permits in Last 3 Years: 231
New Housing Units in Last 3 Years: 1,032 (4.8% of citywide housing stock)
New Commercial Building Permits in Last 3 Years: 10 (2.2% of citywide commercial building stock)
Commercial Renovation Permits in Last 3 Years: 611
Commercial and Industrial Energy Use Trends
Buildings and Energy
Edina’s Building Stock Efficiency
The measure of a community’s existing building stock, certified high
performance buildings, and housing characteristics provides a basis for
determining the current and potential energy efficiency gains for the
community. Energy and water efficiency upgrades are one of the sim-
plest and most effective ways to conserve resources, save money, and
reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Residential Energy Efficiency Potential:
New building technology has increased energy efficiency significantly in
recent decades. Although newer U.S. homes are 30 percent larger,
they consume a similar amount of total energy as older homes - mean-
ing they are more energy efficient per square foot of space. According
to the US Energy Information Administration, homes built between
2000 and 2009 used 15% less energy per square foot than homes built
in the 1980s, and 40% less energy than homes built before 1950.
Consequently, this means that retrofitting older homes with some of
these technologies provides ample opportunity to improve energy effi-
ciency throughout the community. The maps to the right illustrate the
distribution of owner occupied and renter occupied homes built before
1980 throughout Edina.
Edina Owner Occupied Homes Built Before 1980
Edina Renter Occupied Homes Built Before 1980
% Renter Occupied Housing
Units Built before 1980
% Owner Occupied Housing
Units Built before 1980
3-3 Edina Climate Action Baseline and Strategic Goals
Buildings and Energy
The chart below outlines the estimated annual energy savings potential for households within the City. Anticipating an energy efficiency participa-
tion of 4,265 of the city wide total of 21,325 households by 2030 (20% participation rate) with an average energy efficiency improvement of 15%
each should yield an annual community-wide energy reduction of 5.85 million kWh of electricity and 610,000 therms. This reduction would achieve
an annual GHG reduction of (5,373) metric tons by 2030. Note, this reduction model anticipates a participation focus for residential units built prior
to 1980.
3-4 Edina Climate Action Baseline and Strategic Goals
Edina Residential Building Stock Energy Efficiency Potential (based on 2018 US Census Data)
3-5 Edina Climate Action Baseline and Strategic Goals
Buildings and Energy
Commercial and Industrial Building Energy Efficiency Potential:
Similarly to residential construction, older commercial buildings or
newer commercial buildings with under-performing energy efficiency
represent a significant potential energy efficiency increase. This means
that retrofitting older commercial buildings with some of these tech-
nologies provides ample opportunity to improve energy efficiency
throughout the community. The chart below outlines the estimated
annual energy savings potential for commercial buildings within the
City of Edina.
Anticipating an energy efficiency participation of 20% of commercial
buildings by 2030 based (approximately 93 of a total estimated 463
commercial properties) with an average energy efficiency improvement
of 15% should yield an annual community-wide energy reduction of
4.28 million kWh of electricity and 22,120 therms of thermal energy.
This reduction would achieve an annual GHG reduction of (6,677) met-
ric tons by 2030.
Edina Commercial Building Stock Energy Efficiency Potential (based on 2018 US Census Data)
Existing High Performance Buildings in Edina
ENERGY STAR Certified Buildings: 33
LEED Certified Buildings: 6
Certified Net Zero Buildings: 0
Existing Green Roofs, Known: 1
Sources: US EP New Buildings Institute, A ENERGY STAR, US
Green Building Council, Greenroofs.com, Rooftop Sedums LLC
3-6 Edina Climate Action Baseline and Strategic Goals
Edina Homes with No Fuel Used Edina Homes with Electric Heat Edina Homes with Utility Gas Heat
(for year 2018)
Buildings and Energy
Residential and Commercial Building Heating Fuel Switching Potential
According to the US Census, approximately 78% of residential heating
is provided by natural gas, 17.7% by electricity, 1.5% by propane gas,
1.5% by “other”, and 0.5% by fuel oil. Approximately 0.5%, or 162
households, have no heat of any type in their home.
As Edina’s electric grid nears carbon neutrality, building heating fuel
will become an increasingly important target for emission reductions.
Reduction, and ultimately the elimination of all fossil fuel heating (oil,
propane, natural gas) will be required in order to achieve community
wide carbon reductions.
Buildings and Energy
Heating fuel switch options include:
• Conversion to electric heat (e.g. heat pump).
• Conversion to solar thermal systems.
• Switching fuel oil or diesel fuels to biofuels.
The charts below outline the potential annual GHG reductions with achieving a
heating fuel switch for 10% of Edina households and commercial establish-
ments by 2030. These reductions would achieve a reduction in GHG emissions
equal to (10,460) metric tons for residential and (6,939) metric tons for com-
mercial and industrial.
3-7 Edina Climate Action Baseline and Strategic Goals
(based on 2018 US Census Data)
Buildings and Energy
Residential and Commercial Building Electricity Fuel Switching Poten-
tial (on-site renewable) Community Wide
Due to Xcel Energy’s “Carbon Free by 2050” commitment (https://
www.xcelenergy.com/carbon_free_2050 ), the GHG emissions associ-
ated with electricity use will continue to reduce over the years. Gener-
ally, however, increasing utilization of on-site renewable energy has
multiple benefits for a community beyond GHG emissions reductions.
The range of community benefits of increased on-site renewable ener-
gy include energy cost savings and increased energy resilience poten-
tial. For these reasons, we still recommend inclusion of strategic goals
to increase on-site renewable energy.
paleBLUEdot has assessed the rooftop solar PV potential throughout
the City of Edina. This assessment has been conducted based on com-
munity-wide satellite data (sources: NREL, NOAA, and NASA). Gener-
ating capacity was calculated by roof orientation and tilt category. The
projected potential for roof characteristics likely to result in economi-
cally viable solar arrays were then summarized—see “Total County-
wide Optimized Rooftop Solar PV Potential” chart on following page.
City of Edina’s Solar Share Based on
2021 Data:
State Edina Edina's
Share
Population 5,640,000 51,746 0.92%
Number of Solar Installations 7,544 91 1.21%
Average Solar Installations / 1,000
households 1.35 4.17 308.98%
Estimated Solar Generating Capac-
ity (MW) 1,507.93 1.74 0.12%
Average Array Size (KW) 199.88 19.09 10%
Solar Industry Businesses 146 3 2.05%
3-8 Edina Climate Action Baseline and Strategic Goals
Buildings and Energy
Total City Wide Optimized Rooftop Solar PV Potential
3-9 Edina Climate Action Baseline and Strategic Goals
Solar PV Market Absorption Scenario
paleBLUEdot then explored potential new solar
PV market absorption scenarios building on the
existing 1.74 MW of installed capacity within
the county through 2030. The market projec-
tion we recommend using for guidance on po-
tential new solar installations within Edina uses
Edina’s current leading adoption rate per 1,000
households (3x State average) and applies that
to the statewide new solar PV projections. sim-
ple. The resulting scenario outlined to the right
anticipates a 36% initial growth rate, steadily
reducing to a 7.5% growth rate by 2040. This
scenario would result in approximately 5% of
current citywide electrical consumption being
met through rooftop solar PV.
Buildings and Energy
GHG emissions reduction associated with increased solar projection by 2030: (1,630) Metric Tons based
on projected electric grid emission factors (-4,531 metric tons based on current grid emission factors).
3-10 Edina Climate Action Baseline and Strategic Goals
3-11 Edina Climate Action Baseline and Strategic Goals
Buildings and Energy
The Need to Focus on Low and Moderate Income Solar Potential
Solar PV systems provide a wide range of potential benefits, including long-term energy cost sav-
ings, energy resilience, and reductions in air pollution including particulate matter and greenhouse
gas (GHG) emissions – with positive implications for environmental and human health. Currently,
most of the solar customers in the United States are in the same demographic -middle to upper
class, middle-aged, and usually male. “Rooftop Solar Technical Potential for Low-to-Moderate In-
come Households in the United States”, a recent study by NREL, found that the median income of
households that install solar panels in some states was roughly $32,000 higher than the median
household income in those states.
The growth of solar in the United States provides a tremendous opportunity to address some of the
greatest challenges faced by lower-income communities: the high cost of housing, unemployment,
and pollution. Solar can provide long-term financial relief to families struggling with high and unpre-
dictable energy costs, living-wage jobs in an industry where the workforce has increased 168% over
the past seven years, and a source of clean, local energy sited in communities that have been dis-
proportionately impacted by traditional power generation. Yet, access to distributed solar power
remains elusive for a significant slice of the U.S. population, particularly low- and moderate-income
(LMI) communities— households whose income is 80% or less of the area’s median.
Although solar PV costs have dropped significantly in recent years, upfront installation costs are still
persistently out of reach for most LMI populations, which, by definition, have less disposable in-
come. Beyond having limited cash-on-hand for solar power purchases, LMI populations face other
obstacles in pursuing distributed solar systems, including:
• frequently lower credit scores, making it difficult to attain a loan for solar investments;
• insufficient tax burden to benefit from state and federal solar tax incentives; and
• lower rates of homeownership and higher likelihood of living in multifamily housing
units—making for limited control over decisions about utilities, especially rooftop solar.
The solar potential for LMI communities is a critical market that must be developed within any com-
munity seeking to significantly advance renewable energy, energy resilience, or Climate Action goals.
Increasing access for LMI communities is important not only in order to help address some of the
challenges outlined above, it is likely necessary in order to meet long-term community-wide renewa-
ble energy goals. Half of all residential solar potential is on LMI households. Solar capacity on LMI
households could total 320 GW—over thirty times the total new solar in 2017.
Low Income Households In Edina (based on 2019 US Cen-
sus Data)
Income Distribution of Households In Edina (based on
2019 US Census Data)
3-12 Edina Climate Action Baseline and Strategic Goals
Buildings and Energy
Energy Burden In Edina
A household’s energy burden—the percentage of household
income spent on energy bills—provides an indication of energy
affordability. Researchers define households with a 6% energy
burden or higher to experience a high burden. Factors that may
increase energy burdens include the physical condition of a
home, a household’s ability to invest in energy-efficient up-
grades, and the availability of energy efficiency programs and
incentives.
The charts on the right illustrate the distribution of households
with high energy burden based on:
• Renter vs Owner by Income Level
• Building Age by Income Level
These charts indicate that both renter and home owner low
income community members are far more likely to live under
high energy burdens regardless of building age. This data can
be used to design energy efficiency and renewable energy pro-
grams to reduce energy burden while reducing GHG emissions
within the community.
Energy Burden by Building Age and Income Level
Potential total households living with high energy burden
(See Edina Renewable Energy Potentials Study for more):
6,589 (29%)
in Communi-ty:
High Energy Burden
High Energy Burden
Energy Burden by Occupant Ownership and Income Level
3-13 Edina Climate Action Baseline and Strategic Goals
Buildings and Energy
Strategic Goal Recommendations— Community Wide
Based on the reviews outlined in this section, we recommend the City
of Edina explore establishing the following Buildings and Energy Strate-
gic Goals:
Pathway 1—Reduction
BE 1: Improve total Community wide residential, commercial,
educational, and industrial building energy efficiency by 10% for
electricity and 10% for Natural Gas by 2030.
BE2: Increase adoption of high performance building construc-
tion technology, achieving 1/2% Net Zero households and com-
mercial properties community wide by 2030.
BE3: Reduce share of population living in high energy poverty
from 29% to 24% by 2030.
Fuel Switching
BE 4: Achieve 10% residential and commercial and industrial
building "fuel switching" from on-site fossil fuel combustion to
electrification by 2030.
BE 5: Increase renewable energy from 0.4% to 5% of citywide
residential and commercial electric use by 2030.
Projected Sector Emission Reductions Achieved by Draft Strategies
3-14 Edina Climate Action Baseline and Strategic Goals
Buildings and Energy
Strategic Goal Recommendations—Municipal Operations
Based on the reviews outlined in this section, we recommend the City
of Edina explore establishing the following municipal operations
Buildings and Energy Strategic Goals:
Pathway 1—Reduction
BE 6: Improve total municipal building energy efficiency by 12% for
electricity and 12% for natural gas by 2030.
Fuel Switching
BE 7: Achieve 10% municipal building thermal “fuel switching"
from on-site fossil fuel combustion to electrification by 2030.
BE 5: Increase on-site renewable energy from 0.2% to 7.5% of
city operations electricity consumption by 2030.
Note approximately 60% of City operations electric use is met through com-
munity solar garden subscriptions (CSG). Though CSG subscriptions have a
wide range of benefits, they do not provide GHG reduction benefits unless
renewable energy credits (RECs) are retained. Installation of on-site renewa-
ble energy or purchase of RECs is required to support GHG reductions of City
operations.
4-1 Edina Climate Action Baseline and Strategic Goals
04 S e c t i o n
Waste
Management
Click here to
return to TOC
Waste Management
Citywide municipal solid waste (MSW) handled has been estimated based on the city’s pro-rata share
of Hennepin County-wide solid waste collected. In 2019, citywide MSW totaled 54,041 tons. Of the
MSW handled an estimated 17,263 tons (31.9% of total) were recycled, 5,775 tons (10.7%) were or-
ganics collection, 18,927 tons (35%) were managed as refuse derived fuel (RDF), and the remaining
12,076 tons (22.3%) were landfilled.
Edina Solid Waste Per Capita Trends
Based on Hennepin County and State of Minnesota data, total community-wide MSW handled in
2013 was equivalent to 4.83 pounds per person per day with landfilled waste comprising 1.2 pounds
(24.8%). By 2019 the community-wide MSW handled increased to 5.6 pounds per person per day
due in large part to increased organics and recycling collection, however, landfilled waste share of
the total increased to 1.25 pounds per person per day. Though this 2019 landfilled waste share is a
lower percentage of the total (22.3% down from 34.8%), the estimated increase in landfilled volume
per person indicates a potential trend resulting in increased GHG emissions.
Minnesota Waste Stream Changing
The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) commissioned a statewide study to determine the
characteristics of statewide waste streams. The project studied garbage from six facilities throughout
the state and separated it into nine primary categories. The study found that Minnesota waste has
changed since the last study was conducted in 2000. Paper, plastics, and organics are still the top
three components of our garbage, but the proportions have changed—plastic is up, food is up, but
paper is down. This indicates great potential for increased organics recycling opportunities.
4-2 Edina Climate Action Baseline and Strategic Goals
Waste Management
Minnesota’s Waste Hierarchy
Following the Minnesota Climate Change Advisory Group’s initial rec-
ommendations on statewide GHG emissions reductions, the MPCA con-
ducted a study to identify the most promising potentials for reduction
of solid waste emissions. The report produced the hierarchy of waste
management (below) to achieve the best environmental results. This
hierarchy illustrates the potential strategy prioritization Edina may con-
sider for the waste management sector.
Hennepin County Waste Characterization Study
In 2015, Hennepin County initiated a comprehensive, quantitative eval-
uation to understand the make up of the current waste stream
(materials not diverted through recycling or organics collection) and
how it may be possible to achieve the 75% state-mandated diversion
goal. In the graph to the left, the findings of the composition of the
waste characterization study are shown. This graph groups the classifi-
cations of waste defined in the 2015 study into broad categories based
on their diversion potential including: Compostables, Potential Recycla-
bles, Potential Recoverables, and Other.
Waste Diversion Potential
Based on the Hennepin County Waste Characterization Study, there
may be waste diversion potential of up to 78.7% in the current land-
filled materials (idealized maximum). Below is the breakdown of the
estimated total maximum potential waste diversion (excluding waste
reduction):
Compostables 29.1%
Potentially Recyclable Materials 35.0%
Potentially Recoverable Materials 14.7%
Other Materials (remaining landfill waste) 21.3%
Potential
Recoverables: 14.7%
Other: 21.3%
Potential
Recyclables: 35%
Compostables:
29.1% 35% Recyclable 29.1% Compostable 21.3%
Remaining
(78.7% Diversion
Potential) 14.7% Recoverable
4-3 Edina Climate Action Baseline and Strategic Goals
Waste Management
Strategic Goal Recommendations
Community Wide
Based on the reviews outlined in this section, we recommend the City
of Edina explore establishing the following Waste Management Goals:
Pathway 1—Reduction
WM 1: Decrease total per capita municipal solid waste handled
by 5% by 2030.
WM 2: Achieve 30% organics landfill waste diversion by 2030
(10% of total MSW).
WM 3: Increase recycling from 32% to 35% of total MSW han-
dled by 2030.
WM 4: Increase diversion of potential recoverables by 15% by
2030 (decreasing from 14.7% of city mixed waste to 12.5%)
Projected Sector Emission Reductions Achieved by Draft Strategies
4-4 Edina Climate Action Baseline and Strategic Goals
5-1 Edina Climate Action Baseline and Strategic Goals
05 S e c t i o n
Water and
Wastewater
Click here to
return to TOC
Water and Wastewater
Water and Energy Nexus
Water and energy are fundamental components
of our 21st century life. Production, distribution,
consumption, and treatment of water consumes
energy. Production of energy - particularly those
generated through fossil fuel use - consumes wa-
ter. The water-energy nexus is the relationship
between how much water is used to generate
and transmit energy, and how much energy it
takes to collect, clean, move, store, and dispose
of water. Both fresh water production and waste
water treatment are typically the highest energy
and carbon emission sources within a communi-
ty’s operations. Reduction of water demand
saves energy not only in the production and dis-
tribution of fresh water but also in the collection
and treatment of wastewater.
Regional Water Stress
By 2025, an estimated 1.8 billion people will live
in areas plagued by water scarcity, with two-
thirds of the world's population living in water-
stressed regions. Since 1985 the Edina region has
had a reduction in water yield of approximately
10%. Through 2050, the City can anticipate an
increase in water demand of 20%.
(Sources: “Adaptation to Future Water Shortages in the Unit-
ed States Caused by Population Growth and Climate
Change”, World Resources Institute, USGS).
Change in Water Yield Since 1985
Projected Change in Water Demand by 2050
5-2 Edina Climate Action Baseline and Strategic Goals
Water and Wastewater
Mitigating Flood Impacts
According to the US National Climate Assessment, the ten rainiest days can contribute up to 40%
of the annual precipitation in the Minnesota region. By 2070, the Edina area can anticipate an
increase of up to 15% in the total annual precipitation. In addition, the timeframe between rains
is expected to continue to increase, (source US National Climate Assessment). Under this scenar-
io, it is likely that certain periods of the year, like spring, may be significantly wetter with storms
producing heavier rains. In anticipation of that, it is appropriate to review the areas of the City
with flood risk and to review current storm water management capacity against future extreme
rainfall event projections.
The map shows the flood risk areas throughout the City as defined by FEMA . Flood risks illustrat-
ed relate to water surface elevations for 1% chance annual floods (“100 year flood event”). Areas
shown relate to existing bodies of water as well as potential “flash flood” zones in low-lying areas.
The charts to the left show the number of properties in the city currently at risk of flood damage,
the projected change in properties at risk due to climate change, and the historical flood damage
value reported in Edina.
(Source: FEMA, FM Global, National Flood Services )
Source: Floodfactor.com
5-3 Edina Climate Action Baseline and Strategic Goals
For a City the size of Edina,
reducing water leaks by 50%
alone could save:
236 Million
gallons of water
annually.
Water Conservation Potential
Water and Wastewater
Water Conservation Potential
Based on Edina Public Works data, water consumption citywide decreased 18.9% from 2013 to
2019. Wastewater generation, however remained essentially constant showing a modest 1.1%
reduction over the same period. Though the reported water reduction is significant, there is likely
additional water conservation potential. According to the Water Research Foundation, on average,
12% of municipal water distribution is lost through leaks in water mains and water pipes on private
property. For Edina, this could represent up to 236 million gallons of water annually.
For every 1% of water and wastewater consumption reduction made, citywide GHG emissions can
be decreased up to 100 metric tons annually. Perhaps more importantly, increased water conser-
vation can help maintain healthy aquifers as the region’s water demand increases and improve re-
silience through precipitation variations exacerbated by climate change.
Water and Wastewater Trends in Edina
5-4 Edina Climate Action Baseline and Strategic Goals
Water and Wastewater
Strategic Goal Recommendations
Community Wide
Based on the reviews outlined in this section, we
recommend the City of Edina explore establish-
ing the following Water and Wastewater Strate-
gic Goals:
Pathway 1—Reduction
W 1: Promote increased water conserva-
tion citywide with a targeted reduction of
6% by 2030.
W 2: Reduce wastewater generation City
Wide with a targeted reduction of 12% by
2030.
W 3: Mitigate the projected increased
flood hazards and impacts due to climate
change.
W 4: Update design standards and plans to
meet projected climate change flood miti-
gation requirements.
Projected Sector Emission Reductions Achieved by Draft Strategies
06 S e c t i o n
Local Food and
Agriculture
Click here to
return to TOC
Transporting food across long distances burns
fossil fuels and emits greenhouse gases. The ex-
tended period of time of long-distance transport
increases the need for refrigeration. Refrigera-
tion is carbon-intensive. The less transportation
and refrigeration needed to supply us our food,
the more sustainable it becomes.
Buying food from local sources can reduce the
carbon intensity of our diet while also supporting
your small business local economy. Studies have
indicated that nearly 32 jobs are created for eve-
ry $1 million in revenue generated by produce
farms involved in a local food market, compared
to only 10.5 jobs for those involved in wholesale
channels exclusively. Meanwhile, the outdoor
and social activity supported by community gar-
dens and increased gardening in neighborhoods
have social and community benefits like increas-
ing social cohesion, providing multi-generational
activity, supporting outdoor low-impact exercise,
and support of plant/animal/pollinator habitat)
6-1 Edina Climate Action Baseline and Strategic Goals
Community Gardens In Edina
Yorktown Park
NOT EDITED
Community Gardens Per 100,000 Residents
United States:
18,000 Total (est)
Twin Cities Metro:
600 Total
City of Burnsville:
600 Total
City of Edina:
1 Total (City operated)
(Sources: American Community Gardening Association, Star
Tribune, City of Burnsville, City of Edina)
Farmer’s Market
Locations in Edina:
5.5
18.3
4.9
1.9
1
6-2 Edina Climate Action Baseline and Strategic Goals
Local Food and Agriculture
A robust local food system establishes additional supply chains and re-
silience to distribution disruptions. Healthy local food systems can also
play a critical role in addressing food access vulnerability and food inse-
curity within neighborhoods of higher vulnerability. Increased local
food systems also tend to increase diversity and long-term food system
resilience in food crops cultivated.
Strategic Goal Recommendations
Community Wide
Based on the reviews outlined in this section, we recommend the City
of Edina explore establishing the following Local Food and Agriculture
Strategic Goals:
LF 1: Increase production of local food, particularly serving low
income and food insecure individuals.
LF 2: Increase access to local food (potentially through the devel-
opment of local Farmer’s Markets, establishment of permaculture
“food forests” and increased access to community gardens).
LF 3: Reduce food waste and hunger, achieve a 50% reduction in
food insecurity community-wide by 2030.
LF4: Increase local agricultural resilience to climate shocks.
Trees and natural ground covering play a central
role in supporting community health, improving
air and water quality, helping to reduce building
energy use, and supporting climate mitigation.
Recent studies have shown that sometimes,
going to a park, or even looking a single tree can
significantly improve a person’s health and
stress levels. Our understanding of the value of
trees has been expanded to include mental and
physical health benefits. Trees are critical in
filtering air, removing harmful pollutants, such
as Carbon Monoxide, particulate matter, and
Ground-level Ozone - pollutants that can be
toxic at high levels and which can cause asthma
and other respiratory impacts.
Conversely, higher levels of impervious surfaces
(pavement and buildings) within a community
will increase the heat island of the community.
Heat island refers to the phenomenon of higher
atmospheric and surface temperatures occur-
ring in developed areas than those experienced
in the surrounding rural areas due to human
activities and infrastructure. Increased heat
indices during summer months due to heat is-
land effects raise human discomfort and health
risk levels in developed areas, especially during
heat waves. Based on a 2006 study done by
Minnesota State University and the University
of Minnesota, the relationship between imper-
vious surface percentage of a City and the cor-
responding degree of heat island temperature
increase can be understood as a ratio. (see
“Impervious Surface Reduction Potential” for
more)
7-1 Edina Climate Action Baseline and Strategic Goals
07 S e c t i o n
Greenspace and
Trees
Click here to
return to TOC
7-2 Edina Climate Action Baseline and Strategic Goals
Greenspace and Trees
Community-wide Land Cover Characteristics
Based on the Ground Cover Survey and Car-
bon Sequestration Study, the city’s land cover
characteristics are:
Tree Canopy Coverage
City Average: 35.9%
Census Tract High: 46.7% Tract: 236
Census Tract Low: 12.6% Tract: 240.05
Lawns and Grass Coverage
City Average: 21.2%
Census Tract High: 34.1% Tract: 239.01
Census Tract Low: 10.0% Tract: 240.05
Dark Impervious Surface
Coverage (buildings+pavement)
City Average: 25.5%
Census Tract High: 46.6% Tract: 240.04
Census Tract Low: 18.4% Tract: 240.05
7-3 Edina Climate Action Baseline and Strategic Goals
Ground Cover
Breakdown by Type More LMI Less LMI Trend Line Trend Line
Greenspace and Trees
Review Criteria - Green Infrastructure
Prioritization of locations for increased green
infrastructure included in this report is based
on an equity approach. This approach reviews
a range of land cover and demographic charac-
teristics of each neighborhood in an
“Environmental Equity Index”, based on proce-
dures developed by the USDA Forest Service.
To determine the best locations to plant trees,
tree canopy and impervious cover maps were
used in conjunction with U.S. Census data to
produce an index of priority planting areas by
neighborhood. Index values were produced for
each neighborhood with higher index values
relating to higher priority of the area for tree
planting. This index is a type of “environmental
equity” index with areas with higher human
population density, higher economic stress,
lower existing tree cover, and higher total tree
canopy potential receiving the higher index val-
ue. The criteria used to make the index were:
Ground Cover Characteris-
tics by Census Tract
Organized by Share of Low In-
come Population (LMI)
The bar chart provides a
side-by-side comparison of
the of land cover by Cen-
sus Tract. The trend lines
indicate census tracts with
more lower income resi-
dents have less tree and
grass coverage and more
dark impervious surfaces.
7-4 Edina Climate Action Baseline and Strategic Goals
• Priority Tree Canopy Increase Based on Tree
Stock Potential Levels.
• Priority Tree Canopy Increase Based on Eco-
nomic Stress Density.
• Priority Tree Canopy Increase Based on Tree
Population Density.
• Priority Tree Canopy Increase Based on Heat
Island Mitigation Potential.
Weighted Priority Tree Canopy Increase
The weighted prioritization for tree canopy in-
crease looks to balance the potential for increased
tree canopy with the opportunity to improve tree
canopy benefit equity, potential to positively im-
pact as many households as possible, and the
need for mitigation of heat island impacts. The
priorities above are weighted as follows:
• Potential for new trees: 20%
• Population density: 20%
• Low Income Population (equity adjustment):
30%
• Heat Island mitigation need: 30%
Greenspace and Trees
Weighted Priority Tree Canopy Increase
To improve environmen-
tal equity, the darker
green areas of this map
with higher numbers in
the legend below should
be prioritized for new
tree plantings.
Greenspace and Trees
Calculating Tree Canopy Coverage Goals
Total tree canopy coverage goals are central to long-range land cover goal recommendations for
the city. In support of an “Environmental Equity” approach to tree canopy goalsetting, as outlined,
identification of long-term tree canopy coverage goals includes consideration of each neighbor-
hood’s Tree Stock value (the amount of existing tree canopy compared to available land for tree
canopy coverage), population densities, economic stress densities, and heat island mitigation
need. As a long-term focus, we are using 2040 as a goal calculation date reflecting the time for
planted tree to reach maturity, however, final and refined goals can be established for 2030 or any
other interim year. Goals are established with a progressive percentage increase goal based on
neighborhood prioritization. As the total Tree Stock area (potential tree canopy) varies by neigh-
borhood, the resulting Tree Canopy percentage varies for each neighborhood.
The recommended Tree Stock increase goals are:
For neighborhoods in the top 1/3rd Neighborhood Priority Ranking: 10%
For neighborhoods in middle 1/3rd Neighborhood Priority Ranking: 6.3%
For neighborhoods in bottom 1/3rd Neighborhood Priority Ranking: 2.5%
7-5 Edina Climate Action Baseline and Strategic Goals
Tree Canopy In-
crease in Absolute
Land Cover %
Tree Canopy In-
crease Over Existing
Tree Canopy Area
7-6 Edina Climate Action Baseline and Strategic Goals
New Tree Planting Annual Target to Meet 2040 Tree Canopy Goal
Community-Wide Total (Note, Acreage represents the canopy cover-
age at year of planting, with an assumed new tree crown radius of 5’):
1,976 New Trees 16 Acres
Other Ground Cover Goal Potentials
In addition to opportunities to expand and improve the city’s tree can-
opy, the findings of the ground cover study as outlined in the the Edi-
na Ground Cover, Tree Canopy, and Carbon Sequestration Study may
be used to identify additional opportunities for increased heat island
mitigation and increased native grass installations.
*Comparison of impervious surface area and normalized difference vegetation index
as indicators of surface urban heat island effects in Landsat imagery. Fi Yuan and
Marvin Bauer, February 2007
New Tree Planting Annual Target by Census Tract
(in number of new trees planted annually)
Greenspace and Trees
Turf Reduction Potential
As illustrated in the chart to the right, 93% of grass lands in Edina are
manicured lawns—representing a great opportunity for turf reduction.
Turf reduction can increase stormwater uptake, reduce potable water
use, and increase soil carbon.
Impervious Surface Reduction
Potential
The city’s experiences of heat island
are directly impacted by the level of
impervious surface coverage—
particularly dark roofs and pavement.
Based on a 2006 study done by Min-
nesota State University and the Uni-
versity of Minnesota*, the relationship
between impervious surface percent-
age of a City and the corresponding
degree of heat island temperature
increase can be understood as a ratio.
This chart illustrates dark pavements
make up 50% of all impervious surfac-
es, followed by dark roof surfaces at
30%. These represent significant op-
portunities for decreasing heat island
impacts in the community. For every
1% decrease in impervious surfaces in
a neighborhood of Edina, that area’s
likely experience of summer time heat
island temperatures may decrease
0.17° F
See Edina Ground Cover Survey and
Carbon Sequestration study for more
information: https://cutt.ly/AvHFqVW
Existing Grass Coverage in
Edina by Type
Existing Impervious Surface
Coverage in Edina by Type
7-7 Edina Climate Action Baseline and Strategic Goals
Greenspace and Trees
Strategic Goal Recommendations
Community Wide
Based on the reviews outlined in this section, we
recommend the City of Edina explore establish-
ing the following Greenspace and Trees Strategic
Goals:
GC 1: Increase tree cover from 35.9% to
37.8% by 2030 and 39.7% by 2040.
GC 2: Increase pollinator supportiveness of
lawns and grasslands in City of Edina and
achieve a 5% turf replacement with native
grasses and wildflowers by 2030.
GC 3: Reduce heat island effect through
citywide “dark” impervious surface reduc-
tion of 2.5% by 2030 and 5% by 2040.
GS 4: Reduce, repurpose, and reimagine
lawn space.
7-8 Edina Climate Action Baseline and Strategic Goals
8-1 Edina Climate Action Baseline and Strategic Goals
Climate Health and Safety
There is a strong relationship between human health and environmental health. From the air we
breathe to the water we drink and use, life here on Earth depends on the natural resources and the
environment around us. This link between the environment and human health is a critical consid-
eration of the impacts of climate change. As outlined in the City’s 2020 Climate Vulnerability As-
sessment, changes in climate, such as higher average temperatures and increased storm frequency
and intensity, can intensify public health stressors. These climate change impacts endanger public
health and safety by affecting the air we breathe, the weather we experience, our food and water
sources, and our interactions with the built and natural environments. As the climate continues to
change, the risks to human health continue to grow.
In the same way local governments and the health care industry promotes healthy behaviors such
as eating right and exercising; agencies should recognize the relationship between climate action,
environmental stewardship and community health since the health of our environment affects
public health.
Edina Vulnerable Populations Risk Sensitivity Chart
The following identification of Edina population climate vulnerabilities is excerpted from the Edina
Climate Vulnerability Assessment. Please see that report for additional information:
(https://cutt.ly/dvHHyMU).
08 S e c t i o n
Climate Health
and Safety
Click here to
return to TOC
8-2 Edina Climate Action Baseline and Strategic Goals
Climate Health and Safety
Health Risks to Population
Review of Climate Risks for the City of Edina
A “Climate Risk” is the potential for negative conse-
quences and outcomes for human health, systems,
or communities. The most common way of evalu-
ating the level of risk associated is “likelihood of Oc-
currence” x “Impact Level” or vulnerability, and con-
sidered within the likely timeframe of occurrence.
Two charts are provided to the right. The first re-
views the expected impacts, likelihood of occur-
rence, impact level based on Population vulnerability
reviewed in the Climate Vulnerability Assessment.
The second reviews the infrastructural and institu-
tional Climate Risks to the Community. Each chart
includes a brief review of the expected impacts.
Priority Climate Risks for Edina
The priority climate risks to the population of Edina
include Flooding, Nutrition Security, Extreme Heat,
and Vector Borne Disease Impacts while the priority
climate risks to infrastructure/institutions include
Land Use Planning, Buildings, Roads, Energy, and
Agriculture and Forestry impacts.
See Edina Climate Vulnerability Assessment for
more information: https://cutt.ly/dvHHyMU .
Climate Risks to Infrastructure and Institutions
8-3 Edina Climate Action Baseline and Strategic Goals
Climate Health and Safety
Strategic Goal Recommendations— Community Wide
Based on the reviews outlined in this section, we recommend the City of Edina explore es-
tablishing the following Climate Health and Safety Strategic Goals:
HS 1: Educate, engage, and empower the public on health and safety risks of climate
change impacts.
HS 2 : Assist the City’s Extreme Heat, Air Quality, Flooding, Power/Infrastructure Fail-
ure, and Food Insecurity vulnerable population in preparing for and mitigating climate
change impacts.
HS 3: Establish and update plans to address climate risks and impacts.
HS 4: Strengthen community response capacity and support networks.
8-4 Edina Climate Action Baseline and Strategic Goals
9-1 Edina Climate Action Baseline and Strategic Goals
Climate Economy
Climate change and the economy are inexorably linked. Left unabated, the impacts of human-
made climate change through the end of this century will cost the United States billions of dollars.
According to a 2019 study by two EPA scientists, the difference in economic impact between the
mid-range climate model (RPC6) and the high range climate model (RPC8.5) may account for as
much as $224 billion in economic impact annually by 2090. According to a 2019 World Bank report
on trends in carbon pricing, a carbon price range of $40-$80 per ton is necessary as of 2020 to
reach the goals set by the 2015 Paris Agreement, while other studies have placed the full cost of
carbon at $200-$400 per ton. Using the calculation outlined in Section 10 of the Edina Climate Vul-
nerability Assessment (Projected localized annual economic impacts of climate change divided by
annual community-wide GHG emissions), an estimate minimum localized cost for carbon is $47 per
metric ton.
The economy is also directly linked to climate action as well. One common concern is that climate
action damages the economy. However, climate action today avoids the future costs associated
with unmitigated climate change. Further evidence is building a clear case that acting on climate
change, and reducing fossil fuel emissions can be done without weakening the economy. Since
2013, Edina has seen community-wide GHG emissions drop 1.5% while during that same period the
community’s GDP has increased 16.8%.
Climate Action and Economic Development
Rather than weakening the economy, climate action can support economic development. Transi-
tioning away from fossil fuel use, improvements to public transit systems, and growth of local food
industries are all, in part, a transition to local energy and labor sources. These transitions represent
opportunities for communities to reduce the community wealth that is being exported and in-
crease the percentage of community wealth that remains in the community in the form of local
jobs. Additionally, many of the jobs potentials in Climate Action redirect funds away from less la-
bor intensive (but more material resource intensive) sectors of the economy to support greater
overall employment combined with less resource utilization. In general, economic opportunities
include:
09 S e c t i o n
Climate
Economy
Click here to
return to TOC
9-2 Edina Climate Action Baseline and Strategic Goals
Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Jobs
Increases in City-wide energy efficiency, fuel switching, and renewable energy installations all
require energy retrofits and renovations within existing building stock. This construction effort
provides new opportunities for construction laborers, efficiency experts, and testing agents. The
specialty niche also provides opportunities for new businesses to be created to address the de-
mand. A study by the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy illustrated that a $15
million investment in energy efficient City facilities, when compared against “business-as-usual”,
would increase local employment by 45 jobs in year one and have on-going impacts creating up
to 20 additional jobs annually for 20 years.
For the City of Edina, a program increasing residential energy efficiency targeting households
constructed before 1980 (similar to potential outlined in the Buildings and Energy section of this
report) and achieving upgrades for 100 households annually could result in 5 jobs or more. Simi-
larly, a program increasing commercial building energy efficiency combined with a program fo-
cusing on commercial building retrocommissioning and achieving a coverage of 2-5% of the com-
mercial building stock annually could result in up to 12 jobs.
Public Transit Jobs
Transit is key to both creating jobs and increasing access to existing jobs. A study by Smart
Growth America found that investments in public transit created almost twice the number of
jobs than the same level of spending in auto-centric transportation systems. Cities with better
public transportation systems also have lower levels of unemployment, and greater reductions in
unemployment, among young people - likely because public transit links areas with entry-level
jobs to neighborhoods where people live. According to the American Public Transit Association,
for every $1 invested in public transportation, $4 in economic returns are generated. Investing in
more buses and drivers both creates jobs directly and makes local labor markets function better.
Economic Savings
Investments in energy efficiency, public transportation, renewable energy, and many other cli-
mate action strategies ultimately result in cost savings for community businesses and residents.
These savings contribute to an increase in the quality of life for residents and will largely be
spent within the community on goods and services, providing indirect and induced economic
development potential for the City.
Climate Economy
Graphic Source: American Council for an Energy-
Efficient Economy
9-3 Edina Climate Action Baseline and Strategic Goals
Climate Economy
Unemployment in Edina
According to the US Census, in 2019,
citywide unemployment averaged
3.2%. When viewed at the census
block level, portions of the City had
unemployment levels as high as 17%.
Since that time, the impacts of the
COVID-19 pandemic have almost cer-
tainly increased those numbers—
particularly among the most vulnera-
ble populations in the city. As noted
earlier, the potential of local job crea-
tion associated with climate action
strategies may provide a meaningful
avenue for increasing employment
opportunities and quality of life po-
tential among Edina’s most vulnerable.
Strategic Goal Recommendations— Community Wide
Based on the reviews outlined in this section, we recommend the City of Edina explore es-
tablishing the following Climate Economy Strategic Goals:
CE 1: Capture local economic potential of climate action.
CE 2: Increase workforce development for the climate economy.
CE 3: Build marketplace climate resilience.
CE 4: Establish sustainable financing for the City’s climate action implementation.
9-4 Edina Climate Action Baseline and Strategic Goals
Prepared by: 2515 White Bear Ave, A8
Suite 177
Maplewood, MN 55109
Contact:
Ted Redmond
tredmond@paleBLUEdot.llc
Community
Greenhouse Gas
Inventory
April 2021
Revised April 30, 2021
Prepared by:
Table of Contents
Section 01 Introduction
Section 02 Findings In Brief
Section 03 Community Comparison
Section 04 GHG Emissions Forecast
Appendix 1 GHG Inventory Calculation Summary
Spreadsheets
Appendix 2 GHG Forecast Assumptions
Cover photo by edkohler via Flickr
Edina Greenhouse Gas Inventory 1-1
Photo: Delius98 via Flickr
Background
The City of Edina is developing its first Climate Action Plan for
the community. The plan will help those who live and work in
Edina imagine and achieve a future where the earth and all who
live on it thrive.
The City’s current goals for the project are to reduce citywide
greenhouse gas emissions 30% by 2025, and 80% by 2050, and
to establish actions to enhance community resilience and adap-
tation to climate change.
This Community Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Inventory is a founda-
tional document to support the Climate Action Planning process
by reviewing the City’s energy consumption and GHG emissions
trends since 2013.
Without data, you’re just another person
with an opinion.
W. Edwards Deming, Engineer, Professor, and
Management Consultant
Edina Greenhouse Gas Inventory 1-2
Introduction
The Value of Edina Greenhouse Gas Inventories
The goal of the City of Edina community wide and municipal opera-
tions inventory is to estimate the GHG emissions associated with the
activities of the people who live, work, learn, travel, visit, and recreate
within the City’s geographical boundaries during three study years,
2013, 2016 and 2019. These inventories must be transparent and able
to be replicated, updated, and compared with future assessments for
Edina and assessments for peer cities.
Measuring the energy aspects of human activities and the associated
GHG emissions offers a unique way to compare the effectiveness of
various energy and sustainability best management practices. Green-
house gas emissions and energy1 serve as common denominators for
the comparison of kilowatts of electricity, natural gas therms, tons of
coal, and gallons of liquid fuels consumed; as well as vehicle miles trav-
eled, tons of waste processed, and gallons of potable water distribut-
ed.
Every community prepares annual operating and capital improvement
budgets. These assessments can be thought of as an assessment of the
environmental budget for municipal operations. Recording these per-
formance metrics is essential to promoting efficiency and sustainable
change.
1 Energy is expressed as kBtu (a thousand British thermal units) or MMBtu (a million Btus).
1-3 Edina Greenhouse Gas Inventory
Introduction
The Carbon Cycle and the Role of Greenhouse Gases
The Carbon Cycle is exchanged among the oceans, atmosphere, and
ecosystem. This cycle has been a closed, balanced system for hun-
dreds of thousands of years. This cycle is present in the atmosphere
primarily as carbon dioxide and methane. These two primary green-
house gases uniquely allow light to pass while capturing infrared ener-
gy. This “Greenhouse Effect” directly impacts Earth’s atmospheric en-
ergy and temperatures – without the historic levels of greenhouse gas-
es present in the atmosphere, the average surface temperature of the
Earth would be 0 degrees Fahrenheit.
Graphic Representations
Greenhouse Gas Inventories quantify gas emissions in terms of weight
- typically Metric Tons. It is important to understand that these refer-
ences refer to gaseous pollution emissions which enter and occupy
Earth’s atmosphere. To help facilitate an increased awareness of the
order of magnitude our collective GHG emissions represent, some of
the emissions data reported in this report are also graphically repre-
sented in terms of volume of atmosphere. These volumes illustrate
the amount of atmospheric space the referenced greenhouse gas
emissions will occupy where they will remain, actively impacting our
climate for as long as 200 years.
1-4 Edina Greenhouse Gas Inventory
Introduction
Greenhouse Gas Impact on Our Climate
Our atmosphere is made up of both Non-Greenhouse and Greenhouse
Gases gasses.
Non-Greenhouse Gases do not react to visible light, nor infrared light.
That means both sunlight and infrared energy pass through them un-
affected, allowing Earth’s heat energy to radiate into space.
Greenhouse Gases also do not react to visible light, however, they DO
react to infrared energy, trapping Earth’s heat energy and reflecting it
back, warming the Earth.
Sunlight
Earth’s Infrared Energy
When sunlight strikes the Earth, it warms the surface and becomes
heat energy – or infrared energy. This infrared energy then radiates
back towards space.
Introduction
Methodology, Sources, and Terminology
This GHG inventory is assembled based on the Greenhouse Gas Proto-
col for businesses and communities established by GHG Protocol
(www.ghgprotocol.org/) and is consistent with the protocol estab-
lished by ICLEI Local Governments for Sustainability. The terminology
used in this report is consistent with international Carbon Footprinting
protocols. Unless noted otherwise, the Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emis-
sions shown in this report are in metric tons of CO2e: Carbon Dioxide
Equivalent. CO2e is a standard for expressing the impact of all green-
house gas including those from other pollutants including methane
(CH4), nitrous oxide (N2O), and fluorinated gasses like Chlorofluorocar-
bons (CFC) in terms of the equivalent amount of CO2 that would have
the same impact.
GHG inventories, generally, arrive at an estimated emission in each
emissions sector by multiplying raw consumption data - total electrici-
ty consumed as an example - by an emissions factor which define the
greenhouse gasses emitted per unit of raw consumption. The chart to
the right illustrates the sources used for all raw consumption and emis-
sion factor data used in the GHG inventory calculations.
GHG Emission Sector Project Resource
Residential Energy Con-
sumption - Electricity
Data Source: Xcel Energy
Emissions Factors: Same as above
Residential Energy Con-
sumption - Natural Gas
Data Source: Centerpoint Energy
Emissions Factors: US EPA
Commercial/Institutional
Energy Consumption - Elec-
tricity
Data Source: Xcel Energy
Emissions Factors: Same as above
Commercial/Institutional
Energy Consumption -
Natural Gas
Data Source: Centerpoint Energy
Emissions Factors: US EPA
Transportation - On Road Data Source: State of Minnesota DOT
Emissions Factors: US EPA MOVES model
Waste - Solid Waste
Data Source: City of Edina, State of Minnesota
Emissions Factors: US EPA Warm Model, State of Min-
nesota Waste Characterization Study
Water and Wastewater
Data Source: City of Edina, Metropolitan Council
Emissions Factors: US Community Protocol population
based emissions models / Fuel Mix Disclosure Report /
US EPA eGRID
What is a Greenhouse Gas Inventory?
A community Greenhouse Gas
(GHG) Inventory follows a standard
protocol to quantify a city’s green-
house gas (GHG) emissions, includ-
ing CO2, CH4, N2O. GHG inventories
fluctuate year-to-year as we change
our energy consumption, get access
to better data, or gain new
knowledge about how GHGs impact
the atmosphere.
What Are GHG’s?
Greenhouse Gases (GHG) absorb
radiation and trap heat in the
Earth’s atmosphere. They are the
basis of the Greenhouse Effect. The
more GHGs there are, the more
heat that is trapped in our atmos-
phere, leading to Global Warming
and Climate Change. GHGs meas-
ured in this inventory include carbon
dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide.
Why Measure GHG?
As described by David Osborne and
Ted Gaebler “If you don’t measure
results, you can’t tell success from
failure. If you can’t see success, you
can’t reward it. If you can’t see fail-
ure, you can’t correct it.” GHG in-
ventories are useful. Planners need
them, elected officials want them,
and the future may see their devel-
opment as a basic requirement of
state and federal funding.
What is CO2e?
Carbon Dioxide (CO2) is a GHG
emitted naturally and from fossil
fuel combustion for energy and
heat. Global warming contributions
from other greenhouse gases are
referred to in terms of “carbon diox-
ide equivalent” or CO2e, which rep-
resents the amount of CO2 that
would have the same global warm-
ing potential as other GHGs. Com-
munity GHG inventories are tracked
in terms of metric tons of CO2e.
1-5 Edina Greenhouse Gas Inventory
1-4 Edina Greenhouse Gas Inventory
Greenhouse Gas Sectors
Where do GHGs come from?
Energy
Emissions are produced
from the combustion of
natural gas, coal, and
other fossil fuels primari-
ly for heating, cooling,
and electricity genera-
tion.
Transportation
Emissions come from the
combustion of fossil fuels
for ground transportation
and air travel.
Solid Waste
Emissions in the inventory
estimate the decomposition
of biodegradable waste
(e.g., food and yard waste)
in the landfill.
Water + Wastewater
Emissions from energy uses
are calculated for the collec-
tion and treatment of
wastewater.
2-1 Edina Greenhouse Gas Inventory
02 S e c t i o n
Findings in Brief
Click here to
return to TOC
Edina GHG Emissions Overview
Community wide total emissions for the City of Edina have
decreased slightly (1.5%) from 727,384 metric tons in 2013
to 716,715 metric tons in 2019.
2013 By The Numbers 2019 By The Numbers 6 Year Trend Dashboard
GHG Emissions GHG Emissions GHG Emissions
727,384 716,715 -10,669 -1.47%
14.97 MT Per-Capita 13.56 MT Per-Capita -1.42 MT Per-Capita
14.92 MT / Job 16.91 MT / Job +1.99 MT / Job
0.1617 MT / $1,000 GDP 0.1364 MT / $1,000 GDP -0.03 MT / $1,000 GDP
Population Population Population
48,574 52,857 +4,283 +8.82%
GDP GDP GDP
$4,499,007,932 $5,253,794,747 +$754,786,815 +16.78%
$92,622 GDP Per-Capita $99,396 GDP Per-Capita +$6,775 GDP Per-Capita
Employment Employment Employment
48,747 42,386 -6,361 -13.05%
2-2 Edina Greenhouse Gas Inventory
How Large Are Community wide GHG Emissions?
The community’s total emissions for 2019 are equal to 14.1 Billion cubic
feet of man-made greenhouse gas. This volume of atmosphere is equal to a
cube 2,400 feet on each face viewed here from over 2 1/2 miles away.
Think Economic Development is Tied
To Increased Emissions?
Think again! Between 2013 and 2019 the City
was able to decrease it’s GHG emissions by
1.5% while growing it’s economy by 16.8% (pro
rata share of County reporting).
Change in
Change in
Total
GHG Emissions
716,715
Metric Tons
2-3 Edina Greenhouse Gas Inventory
Since 2013, electricity con-
sumption has decreased
nearly 11% due largely to
reductions in commercial (-
17.9%) and industrial (-
11.1%) use. Emissions asso-
ciated with electricity, how-
ever, have fallen 26% due to
increased decarbonization of
the electricity provided to
Edina by Xcel Energy.
Unfortunately, natural gas
consumption and emissions
have increased 12.8%.
Since 2013, vehicle miles
traveled (VMT) increased by
13.4% per household—
almost twice the Statewide
increase. VMT per capita in
Edina is 102% of the State of
Minnesota per capita aver-
age.
Air transportation emissions
are not included in this in-
ventory.
Total solid waste handled
per household in Edina have
increased 26.3% since 2013.
Over the same period, total
emissions have increased
19.9%. Emissions increases
would have been much high-
er, however, increases in
recycling and organics collec-
tions have helped to de-
crease per-ton solid waste
emissions in the community.
Per-household wastewater
flows have decreased a little
over 1% since 2013, howev-
er, emissions associated with
wastewater treatment are
estimated to have increased
4.9% due to waste water
process energy consump-
tion. Water consumption
has decreased almost 19%
during the same time period.
Combined, this sector has
decreased emissions 1.8%.
Energy 56.1%
402,150 MT
Electricity 26.6%
Heating Fuel 29.5%
Change Since 2013:
2019 Edina Community Wide
GHG Emissions by Sector
Transportation 40.9%
46,859 MT
Ground 40.9%
Airport Not Included
Change Since 2013:
+12.8%
Ground Transportation:
+12.8% Change in GHG
+13.4% VMT Change Per Household
Solid Waste 1.7%
12,047 MT
Change Since 2013:
Water + Wastewater 0.5%
446 MT
Change Since 2013:
-9.7%
Residential:
-3.6% Change in GHG
+0.7% Electrical Consumption
-1.5% Per Household
+17.8% NG Consumption
+15.2% Per Household
Commercial:
-5.2% Change in GHG
-10.5% Electrical Consumption
+4.1% Per Job
+3.8% NG Consumption
+20.7% Per Job
Industrial:
-21.3% Change in GHG
+0.7% Electrical Consumption
-5.1% Per Job
+19.9%
Solid Waste:
+19.9% Change in GHG
+26.3% Solid Waste Handled
+23.5% Per Household
+14.0% Landfill Tons
+11.5% Per Household
+54.3% Recycled Tons
+50.9% Per Household
+216.4% Organics/Yard Waste
+209.4% Per Household
+1.8%
Wastewater:
+4.9% Change in GHG
-1.1% Wastewater Flows
-1.1% Gallons Per Household
Water
-14.8% Change in GHG
-18.9% Water Flows
-20.7% Gallons Per Household
-14.8% Process Electricity
2-4 Edina Greenhouse Gas Inventory
2019 Edina Municipal Opera-
tions GHG Emissions by Sector
Buildings +
Streetlights 66.4%
7,837 MT
Electricity 43.1%
Heating Fuel 23.3%
Change Since 2013:
-11.3%
Buildings
-11.3% Change in GHG
-5.6% Electricity (kWh)
+19.9% Heating Fuel (BTU)
Municipal
Operations
11,809
Metric Tons Fleet 10.3%
1,214 MT
Change Since 2013:
-8.6%
Ground Transportation:
-8.62% Change in GHG
-7.1% Fuel Consumption
Solid Waste 1.4%
10 MT
Change Since 2013:
+172%
Solid Waste:
+187% Solid Waste Handled
+159% Landfill Tons
+251% Recycled Tons
+620% Organics/Yard Waste
-4.1%
Water + Wastewater:
-3.3% Change in GHG
-18.9% Water Flows
-4.2% Process Electricity
-4.4% Process Fuels
Water + Wastewater 22.2%
2,618 MT
Change Since 2013:
Since 2013, the City’s operations GHG emissions have decreased over 11% for Buildings and Street-
lights, 8.6% for Ground Transportation / fleets, and over 4% for Water and Wastewater. Estimated
emissions for the City’s solid waste, however, have increased 172% in the same timeframe.
As illustrated in the diagram to the left, the total Municipal Operations emissions account for ap-
proximately 1.6% of Community Wide emissions for 2019.
Community Wide
Emissions
Municipal
Operations
Emissions
3-1 Edina Greenhouse Gas Inventory
03 S e c t i o n
Community
Comparison
Click here to
return to TOC
Community Comparison
The results of community GHG inventories vary somewhat due to the information collected and
variations in inventory methodology. Consequently, a direct community-to-community compari-
son should not be viewed as a comprehensive comparison of Greenhouse Gas emission efficien-
cies. We believe, however, that as an emerging practice, municipalities should look towards build-
ing and sharing data in order to develop a stronger understanding of where each municipality can
advance efficiencies and meet Greenhouse Gas reduction goals. In support of this goal, comparing
total community emissions between communities can only be effectively done by adjusting for
differences in overall community population. To make this adjustment, community GHG emissions
are regularly compared based on a per-capita basis.
Understanding Edina’s Per-Capita Community Wide Emissions
As outlined in Section 2, the City of Edina’s 2019 community wide emissions totaled 716,715 met-
ric tons, for a per capita average of 13.6 metric tons (MT). Of course, this number represents only
an average. The actual emissions each individual resident may be responsible for generating can
vary significantly based on a range of personal choices in energy and resource consumption and
waste.
How Large Are Community Wide Per-Capita GHG Emissions?
The City of Edina’s community wide emissions per-capita for 2019 are equal to 267,177 cubic
feet of man-made greenhouse gas. This volume of atmosphere is equal to a cube 6’ feet on each
face.
3-2 Edina Greenhouse Gas Inventory
Community Comparison
4-1 Edina Greenhouse Gas Inventory
04 S e c t i o n
GHG Emissions
Forecast
Click here to
return to TOC
GHG Emissions Forecast
Why Create a GHG Emission Forecast?
Increasing greenhouse gas emissions, and consequently, atmospheric
concentrations, will have many effects on our global, regional, and
local climate conditions. Future changes are expected to include a
warmer atmosphere, a warmer and more acidic ocean, more power-
ful storms, broader swings in weather variability, and changes in pre-
cipitation patterns. The extent of future climate change depends our
on-going GHG emissions. The more we emit, the broader our future
climate changes will be. Put another way, the extent of climate
change we experience in the future depends on the policies our com-
munities put into place and the actions we as individuals take to re-
duce greenhouse gas emissions.
A GHG emission forecast supports GHG reduction planning efforts by
anticipating what emissions may be like if actions are not taken. The
potential future trends illustrated in the forecast supports planners in
identifying emission sectors which may benefit from prioritization or
which may harbor the greatest potential benefits for reduction strat-
egies. Finally, the completed GHG emission forecast, combined with
the underlying assumptions used to create the forecast model, can
be used as a GHG reduction projection tool during future climate ac-
tion planning efforts.
4-2 Edina Greenhouse Gas Inventory
GHG Emissions Forecast
Business-As-Usual Forecast
Emissions are typically forecast under a business-as-usual (BAU) scenar-
io. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) defines a
“business-as-usual” baseline case as the level of emissions that would
result if future development trends follow those of the past and no
changes in policies take place. A BAU forecast assumes that no emission
-reduction actions will be undertaken beyond those already in place, or
committed to, in the base year. The BAU forecast bases future projec-
tions on anticipated demographic changes, such as population changes
and projected jobs within a community.
This approach allows for analysis of a community’s full emissions growth
potential before identifying emissions reduction strategies. As noted
above, BAU emission forecasts are critical in providing insight into the
scale of reductions necessary to achieve an emissions target before con-
sidering reductions likely to result from federal and statewide actions
(e.g., vehicle efficiency standards), inherent technological advance-
ments (e.g., energy-efficient appliances, lighting technology), or new
local voluntary or mandatory conservation efforts (e.g., green building
requirements).
Please see the appendix for a review of all assumptions which have
guided this BAU emission forecast for the City of Edina.
Uncertainty
GHG emissions forecasts are not predictions of what will happen, but
rather modeled projections of what may happen given certain assump-
tions and methodologies. GHG forecasts in this report should be inter-
preted with a clear understanding of the assumptions that inform them
and the limitations inherent in any modeling effort, as articulated in the
forecast assumptions provided. The results of the forecast should be
understood to contain uncertainty. Changes in industry structure over
time, the particular impacts of policies, changing weather and economic
conditions all add variability to how future emissions will develop.
4-3 Edina Greenhouse Gas Inventory
Goal for limiting warming to 2°
Current City of Edina GHG reduction goal
Goal for limiting warming to 1.5°
GHG Emissions Forecast
Business-As-Usual Forecast
4-4 Edina Greenhouse Gas Inventory
GHG Emissions Forecast
Business-As-Usual Forecast Summary
Change from 2010 Change from 2010 Change from 2010
2030 GHG Emissions -13.6% 2040 GHG Emissions -20.1% 2050 GHG Emissions -22.8%
Total Annual GHG 628,297 Total Annual GHG 581,204 Total Annual GHG 561,744
Goal Annual GHG 503,267 Goal Annual GHG 330,269 Goal Annual GHG 157,271
Difference 125,030 Difference 250,935 Difference 404,473
Electricity Use Emissions: -60.1% Electricity Use Emissions: -76.6% Electricity Use Emissions: -100.0%
Residential 37,976 Residential 23,655 Residential 0
Commercial 25,052 Commercial 16,423 Commercial 0
Industrial 39,422 Industrial 18,401 Industrial 0
Natural Gas Emissions: 45.9% Natural Gas Emissions: 54.1% Natural Gas Emissions: 76.1%
Residential 140,085 Residential 149,555 Residential 177,632
Commercial/Indust. 133,707 Commercial/Indust, 139,641 Commercial/Indust. 152,821
Transportation Emissions: -13.5% Transportation Emissions: -22.0% Transportation Emissions: -25.6%
VMT (Thousands) 649,228 VMT (Thousands) 717,775 VMT (Thousands) 778,801
Solid Waste Emissions: 46.4% Solid Waste Emissions: 59.0% Solid Waste Emissions: 71.4%
LFG Emissions 14,716 LFG Emissions 15,979 LFG Emissions 17,224
Wastewater+Water : 24.3% Wastewater+Water : 35.0% Wastewater+Water : 43.7%
Wastewater GHG 10,037 Wastewater GHG 10,899 Wastewater GHG 11,748
Water GHG 1,556 Water GHG 1,690 Water GHG 1,822
GHG Emissions Forecast
Understanding Impacts of BAU Forecast
Understanding what the BAU forecast means for Edina may be best
achieved by placing emissions forecasts within a global perspective of
climate change impacts. Global impacts can be viewed through under-
standing difference between 1.5˚ C, 2˚ C, and 4.6˚ C degree global warm-
ing.
The International Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) is the United Nation
Environment Porgramme (UNEP) body for assessing the science relat-
ed to climate change and providing support in climate action policy
making. The scientific consensus of the international IPCC working
groups is to reduce global GHG emissions as needed in order to limit
global warming to 1.5°C. In addition, the Paris Agreement aims to
limit global warming to 1.5 to 2 degrees C above pre-industrial levels,
considered to be the threshold for dangerous climate change.
The UNEP Emissions Gap Report published in November 2019 calcu-
lates that by 2030, global emissions will need to be 25% lower than
2018, and then reaching 80% reductions by 2050 to put the world on
the least-cost pathway to limiting global warming to below 2°C. To
limit global warming to 1.5°C, the same report finds emissions would
need to be 55% lower than in 2018 and then achieving 90% or greater
reductions by 2050.
The infographic to the left, created by the World Resources Institute
summarizes some of the global climate change impact differences be-
tween reducing global emissions to cap global warming at 1.5°C vs
capping global warming to 2°C. We’ve added an illustration of the
impacts related to a 3.8°C warming - which is where current Edina
Business-as-Usual projections point.
3.8˚C / (6.84°F)
46%+
Annually
1m+
16%
33%
28%
28%+
Unknown
10%+
Source and Graphic: World Resources Institute
4-5 Edina Greenhouse Gas Inventory
A1-1 Edina Greenhouse Gas Inventory
A1 S e c t i o n
GHG Inventory
Calculation
Summary Sheets
Click here to
return to TOC
Photo: Delius98 via Flickr
A2-1 Edina Greenhouse Gas Inventory
A2 S e c t i o n
GHG Forecast
Assumptions
Click here to
return to TOC
GHG Emissions Forecast
City of Edina GHG Forecast Assumptions:
Demographics:
Population: Total Population projections through 2050 are projected based on
City’s 2040 Comprehensive Plan.
Households: Total household counts through 2050 are projected based on
City’s 2040 Comprehensive Plan.
Jobs: Total commercial and industrial jobs through 2050 are projected based
on City’s 2040 Comprehensive Plan.
Climate Data
Cooling Degree Days (CDD): Projected climate changes for the region will in-
clude increased summer temperatures. The increase in temperatures will
result in an increase, or variability, in air conditioning demand. The fore-
cast calculates annual changes in air conditioning demand based on projec-
tions provided by the “Climate Explorer” tool developed by US NOAA in
support of the National Climate Assessment work. https://crt-climate-
explorer.nemac.org/
Heating Degree Days (HDD): Projected climate changes for the region will in-
clude increased winter temperatures. The increase in temperatures will
result in a decrease, or variability, in building heating demand. The fore-
cast calculates annual changes in heating demand based on projections
provided by the “Climate Explorer” tool developed by US NOAA in support
of the National Climate Assessment work. https://crt-climate-
explorer.nemac.org/
Electricity:
Residential: Demand is based on a per household basis and modified based on
the projected Cooling Degree Days for each year, assuming 15% of electric-
ity is used for cooling (RCP 8.5 model). 50% of projected increased electri-
cal vehicle usage is attributed to residential EV charging.
Commercial and Industrial: Demand is based on a per job basis and modified
based on projected cooling degree days for each year, assuming that 15%
of commercial and 7.5% of industrial electricity is used for cooling. (RCP 8.5
model). 50% of projected increased electrical vehicle usage is attributed to
commercial EV charging.
A2-2 Edina Greenhouse Gas Inventory
GHG Emissions Forecast
All electricity emission factors are calculated using estimated emissions factors
for 2030, 2040, and 2050 based on current, known, supplier commitments.
For electrical suppliers with unknown or unestablished emission commit-
ments, and for electricity purchased from the SERC grid, electricity emission
factors are calculated based on EPA forecasts (https://fas.org/sgp/crs/misc/
R45453.pdf). Estimated emissions factors are reduced 5% by 2030, 10% by
2040, and 15% by 2050.
Natural Gas:
Residential: Demand is based on a per household basis and modified based on
the projected Heating Degree Days for each year, assuming 75% of natural
gas is used for heating (RCP 8.5 model).
Commercial and Industrial: Demand is based on a per job basis and modified
based on projected heating degree days for each year, assuming that 40% of
commercial and 20% of industrial natural gas is used for heating (RCP 8.5
model).
Natural Gas emissions factors are projected to be unchanged.
Transportation:
Vehicle Miles Traveled is based on US Department of Transportation VMT per
capita projections through 2050 (1.1% annual growth rate through 2037 and
0.8% annual growth rate from 2038 through 2050.
https://www.ffwa.dot.gov/policyinformation/tables/vmt/
vmt_forecast_sum.cfm
Vehicle fuel use is calculated based on US Energy Information Agency projected
rolling stock average fuel efficiency projections, modified to 85% projected
MPG to account for heavy duty vehicle MPG share (based on US Department
of Transportation data on current light duty to average all vehicle MPG rati-
os)
https://www.eia.gov/todayinenergy/detail.php?id=31332
Total vehicle stock is based on per household projections maintaining existing
average number of vehicles per household.
GHG Emissions Forecast
Electric Vehicle Adoption: National projections expect an increased uptake of
electric vehicles in coming years. The Edison Electric Institute has estimated
that electric vehicle will be 7% of all vehicles on the road in the country by
2030. (http://www.ehcar.net/library/rapport/rapport233.pdf, https://
berla.co/average-us-vehicle-lifespan/).
Solid Waste:
Total Solid Waste handled is based on total number of households and
maintaining existing volume per household and emissions factors per
ton handled.
Wastewater:
Total Wastewater handled is based on total number of households and
maintaining existing volume per household and emissions factors per
household.
Note:
GHG emissions forecasts are not predictions of what will happen, but rather
modeled projections of what may happen given certain assumptions and meth-
odologies. GHG forecasts in this report should be interpreted with a clear under-
standing of the assumptions that inform them and the limitations inherent in any
modeling efhort
Prepared by:
2515 White Bear Ave, A8
Suite 177
Maplewood, MN 55109
Contact:
Ted Redmond
tredmond@paleBLUEdot.llc
City of Edina
Climate Vulnerability Assessment
March 2021
Revised 4/29/21
Prepared by:
Table of Contents
Section 1: Introduction
Section 2: Climate Change In The Midwest
Section 3: Climate Change In Minnesota
Section 4: Local Climate Change
Section 5: City On The Move
Section 6: Climate Risks To Population
Section 7: Climate Impact Multipliers
Heat Island
Tree Canopy
Flood Vulnerabilities
Water Stress
Section 8: Climate Resilience Indicators
Economic Stress
Health
EPA Environmental Justice Screen
EPA Social Vulnerability Index
MPCA Environmental Justice Screen
Housing Burden
Section 9: Vulnerable Populations
Children
Older Adults
Individuals With Disabilities
Individuals Under Economic Stress
People of Color and Limited English Speakers
At-Risk Workers
Individuals with Possible Food Insecurity
Composite Vulnerabilities
Comparison of Vulnerable Populations
Section 10: Findings
Appendix 1 Local Climate Risks To Environment
Appendix 2 Climate Adaptive Tree Species
Appendix 3 Glossary of Climate Adaptation and Vulnerability Terms
Edina Climate Vulnerability Assessment 1-1
01
Introduction
S e c t i o n
Introduction
Climate change is a global phenomenon that creates local impacts. Two changes to Minnesota’s climate are occurring
already: shorter winters with fewer cold extremes, and more heavy and extreme precipitation. In the future, there is rela-
tively high confidence that those two changes will continue to increase in frequency and intensity, and also that Minneso-
ta will begin to experience heat extremes beyond the historical variability of the climate. There is somewhat lower confi-
dence that drought, and also tornadoes, hail and straight-line wind will increase in frequency and/or intensity as a result
of climate change in the future.
While the science behind climate change is complex, many of the solutions to reducing impacts are already a part of Edina
municipal government expertise. In many instances, responding to climate change does not require large scale changes to
municipal operations, but simply requires adapting existing plans and polices to incorporate knowledge about changing
levels of risk across key areas such as public health, infrastructure planning and emergency management.
Incorporating this knowledge not only protects our communities from growing risk, but climate adaptation strategies can
also increase jobs, improve public health and the overall livability of our communities. Strategies which strengthen resili-
ence in time of emergency also help communities thrive even more during good times.
City of Edina MN
Edina Climate Vulnerability Assessment 1-4
Area 15.96 sq mi
Parks, Recreation, & Preserves 1,550 Acres
Population (2019) 51,746
Density 3,349.2 / sq mi
Households 21,816
Employment 42,386
Population History
Population by Race
Households by Type
Population Density by Census Tract
(Source: US Census Bureau)
(Source: World Population Review,
US Census Bureau)
(Source: World Population Review, US Census Bureau)
Edina Climate Vulnerability Assessment 1-3
Introduction
What is Climate Change Vulnerability?
According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), vulnerability is “the degree to which a system is sus-
ceptible to, or unable to cope with, adverse effects of climate change, including climate variability and extremes”. Vulner-
ability is a function of both impacts (the effects of climate change and variability on a given system or resource) as well as
adaptive capacity (the ability of the economy, infrastructure, resources, or population to effectively adapt to such events
and changes).
Why Study Climate Change Vulnerability?
Increases in the global surface temperature and changes in precipitation levels and patterns are expected to continue and
intensify for decades, regardless of mitigation strategies currently being implemented. In turn, these changes in climate
have impacts on the economy and health of local communities.
Weather and climate shape our economy. Temperature impacts everything from the amount of energy consumed to heat
and cool homes and offices to the ability for some workers to work outside. Temperature and precipitation levels not only
determine how much water we have to drink, but also the performance of entire economic sectors, from agriculture to
recreation and tourism. Extreme weather events, like tornadoes, hail storms, droughts, and inland flooding can be particu-
larly damaging. In the last ten years alone, extreme weather events have cost Minnesota and the Midwest $96 billion in
damage and resulted in 440 deaths. (NOAA National Centers for Environmental Information).
In addition, climate conditions effect the quality of life and life safety of communities – particularly those populations es-
pecially sensitive to climate impacts. Extreme weather events linked to climate change have the potential to harm com-
munity member health in numerous ways. Rising temperatures, for example, can result in a longer-than-average allergy
season, erode air quality. Longer growing seasons can prolong the stay and increase the population of insects increasing
the risk of vector-borne diseases. Climate impacts also exacerbate additional economic challenges that can directly im-
pact the ability of at-risk populations to cope with the additional risks exacerbated by climate conditions while creating
more exposure to dangerous living/working conditions and poor nutrition.
Strengthening community resilience is rooted in an on-going assessment of potential vulnerabilities, and anticipating po-
tential climate impacts. Climate adaptation focuses on development and implementation of strategies to address those
vulnerabilities, and communication and outreach to the members of the community.
Weather vs Climate
The difference between weather
and climate is a measure of time.
Weather is what conditions of the
atmosphere are over a short peri-
od of time, and climate is how the
atmosphere "behaves" over rela-
tively long periods of time. (NASA)
1-4 Edina Climate Vulnerability Assessment
About This Report
This Climate Vulnerability Assessment has
been developed in conjunction with the City
of Edina Climate Action Plan project effort.
This report seeks to:
• Increase awareness of potential climate
impacts and population vulnerabilities.
• Increase inclusion of climate adaptation
dialogue within City planning and deci-
sion making processes.
• Strengthen adaptive capacity based on
the best available information on re-
gional climate change projections and
impacts.
• Outline priority risks and vulnerabilities
in support of establishing strategies and
actions in the City’s future Climate Plan-
ning efforts.
• Prevent or reduce the risks to popula-
tions most vulnerable to the impacts of
climate change.
The Population Vulnerability Assessment
portion of this report describes how climate
affects the region today, the changes and
impacts expected over the coming decades,
and identifies population vulnerabilities
within the community.
Photo: Kettle River, Minnesota (via UnSplash)
2-1 Edina Climate Vulnerability Assessment
02
Climate Change In
The Midwest
S e c t i o n
2-2 Edina Climate Vulnerability Assessment
Climate Change in The Midwest
According to the United States National Climate Assessment on the Midwest Region:
(3rd National Climate Assessment, 2014 and 4th National Climate Assessment, 2018)
In general, climate change will tend to amplify existing climate-related risks to people, ecosystems, and in-
frastructure in the Midwest. Direct effects of increased heat stress, flooding, drought, and late spring freezes
on natural and managed ecosystems may be multiplied by changes in pests and disease prevalence, in-
creased competition from non-native or opportunistic native species, ecosystem disturbances, land-use
change, landscape fragmentation, atmospheric pollutants, and economic shocks such as crop failures or re-
duced yields due to extreme weather events. These added stresses, when taken collectively, are projected
to alter the ecosystem and socioeconomic patterns and processes in ways that most people in the region
would consider detrimental. Much of the region’s fisheries, recreation, tourism, and commerce depend on
the Great Lakes and expansive northern forests, which already face pollution and invasive species pressure
that will be exacerbated by climate change.
Most of the region’s population lives in cities, which are particularly vulnerable to climate change related
flooding and life-threatening heat waves because of aging infrastructure and other factors. Climate change
may also augment or intensify other stresses on vegetation encountered in urban environments, including
increased atmospheric pollution, heat island effects, a highly variable water cycle, and frequent exposure to
new pests and diseases. Some cities in the region are already engaged in the process of capacity building or
are actively building resilience to the threats posed by climate change. The region’s highly energy-intensive
economy emits a disproportionately large amount of the gases responsible for warming the climate.
Primary Issues for Midwest
1: Impacts to Agriculture
Increases will continue in growing seasons, likely
boosting some crop yields. Increases in extreme weath-
er, number of very-hot days, flooding, and days without
precipitation will likely decrease other yields. Overall,
Midwest productivity is expected to decrease through
the century.
2: Forest Composition
Rising air and soil temperatures, and variability in soil
moisture will stress tree species. Forest compositions
will change as habitats are driven Northward by as
much as 300 miles. Due to these ecosystem disrup-
tions, the region’s forests may cease acting as a carbon
sink, exacerbating greenhouse gas emission impacts.
3: Public Health Risks
Increased incident rate of days over 95 degrees, and hu-
midity are anticipated to contribute to degradations in air
and water quality. Each of these will increase public
health risk, especially for at-risk populations.
4: Increased Rainfall and Flooding
The frequency and size of extreme rainfall events and
flooding has increased over the last century. In addition,
the number of days without precipitation have increased.
These trends are expected to continue, causing erosion,
declining water quality, and impacts on human health,
and infrastructure.
Emissions Trends by Mid-Century (2040 - 2070)
According to the US National Climate Assessment, based on current emissions trends, by mid-century (2040 -
2070) the Midwest region is projected to experience a climate that is…
2-3 Edina Climate Vulnerability Assessment
Annual Average Temperature Annual Days Above 95°
Annual Frost-Free Days Annual Cooling Degree Days (CDD)
Hotter…
(Source: United States National Climate Assessment)
Edina Edina
Edina Edina
2-4 Edina Climate Vulnerability Assessment
Emissions Trends by Mid-Century (2040 - 2070)
According to the US National Climate Assessment, based on current emissions trends, by mid-century (2040 -
2070) the Midwest region is projected to experience a climate that is…
… and Drought
Annual Precipitation Annual Heavy Precipitation
Wettest 5-Day Period
Consecutive Dry Days
Hotter… With More Rain
(Source: United States National Climate Assessment)
Edina Edina
Edina Edina
3-1 Edina Climate Vulnerability Assessment
03
Climate Change In
Minnesota
S e c t i o n
Climate Change In Minnesota
Annual Rainfall
Heavier precipitation is a signature of climate change. For every 1°F of temperature increase, the atmosphere can effec-
tively hold 4 percent more water vapor. As the world warms from the increase in greenhouse gases, the amount of evap-
oration also increases from oceans, lakes, rivers, and soils. The extra water vapor is available to produce additional rain
and snow, creating an environment ripe for heavy precipitation events.
According to the Minneso-
ta Department of Natural
Resources, Heavy rains are
now more common in Min-
nesota and more intense
than at any time on record.
The state has seen dra-
matic increases in 1-inch
rains, 3-inch rains, and the
size of the heaviest rainfall
of the year. Since 2000,
Minnesota has seen a
significant uptick in dev-
astating, large-area ex-
treme rainstorms as well.
Rains that historically
would have been in the
98th percentile annually
(the largest 2%) have
become more common.
Between 1951 and 2012,
total precipitation
amounts increased by
over 20% (5.5 inches) in
the Twin Cities.
Mega-Rain Events
Throughout its history,
Minnesota has had 15
“Mega-rain” events.
Seven of those storms
have occurred since
2000, illustrating a in-
creased rate of occur-
rence. Mega-Rain events
represent a strain on
stormwater infrastruc-
ture as they deliver a
minimum of 13.9 billion
cubic feet of rainwater
over a very short time.
3-2 Edina Climate Vulnerability Assessment
(Graphic: Jaime Chrismar MPRnews.org)
3-3 Edina Climate Vulnerability Assessment
Climate Change In Minnesota
Summer Drought in Minnesota
By 2050, the severity of widespread summer drought in Minneso-
ta is projected to see an increase of 300 percent—with threat
being calculated by severity of drought weighted by the State’s
estimated drought vulnerable population. With this increase, by
2050, Minnesota is projected to be ranked 2nd for drought sever-
ity threat within the United States by 2030 and 5th by 2050 —an
increase from its current ranking as 8th.
Annual Temperatures
Annual temperatures have increased throughout Minnesota over
the last few decades. Typically, all seasons are warming across
the US, with winter temperatures increasing the fastest. Minne-
sota is no exception to this trend. Temperatures have been
warming in Minnesota since the 1980’s with the average annual
temperature increasing approximately 1.62° F. Temperature in-
creases have been more sharply felt in the winter season with an
increase of 3.57 F.
Extreme Heat Threat in Minnesota
By 2050, Minnesota is projected to see an increase in the Extreme
Heat Threat of six fold. With this increase, by 2050, Minnesota is
projected to be ranked 28th for extreme heat threat within the
United States.
Minnesota
Source: Climate Central
Minnesota
Source: Climate Central
Warming Trends in Minnesota
3-4 Edina Climate Vulnerability Assessment
Climate Change In Minnesota
Inland Flooding Threat in Minnesota
Minnesota already suffers from annual flooding. The increase in
heavy precipitation events over the last 60 years has coincided with
an increase in flood disaster declarations in the State by decade.
The projected increase in the frequency of heavy precipitation
events is likely to result in increasing risks from flooding.
All Disaster Declarations in Minnesota Since 1953
Minnesota Flood Disaster
Declarations by Decade
1960s: 6
1970s: 8
1980s: 1
1990s: 2
2000s: 2
2010s: 5
Source: FEMA
3-5 Edina Climate Vulnerability Assessment
Climate Change In Minnesota
Changing USDA Zones
In addition to warmer weather, Minnesota is experiencing less spring snow cover and earlier thaw dates resulting in more
rapidly warming soil. The cumulative effects is a shift of USDA Hardiness zones to the North. In 1990 Central Minnesota
had Zones 3 and 4, today it has Zones 4 and 5.
Trees Moving North
Maple forests, among other species, are moving northward, with the densest forests now occuring in the “arrowhead”
section of the State rather than central region. Beyond the impacts on the ecosystem, this shift is expected to impact Min-
nesota’s Maple syrup production in the coming years.
(Graphic: Jaime Chrismar MPRnews.org)
Zone
(Graphic: Arbor Day Foundation)
3-6 Edina Climate Vulnerability Assessment
Climate Change In Minnesota
Human Allergies
With the shift in hardiness
zones and increasing growing
season, increases in pollen
quantity and duration have
been experienced and project-
ed to continue. Beyond inflam-
mation and irritation associat-
ed with allergic reactions, some
studies indicate pollen can
affect the cardiovascular and
pulmonary system.
Since 1995, the State of Minne-
sota has experienced an in-
crease in allergy season of over
21 days.
(Graphic: Jaime Chrismar
MPRnews.org)
Vector Borne Disease
Vector borne diseases are spread
through insects and are highly
sensitive to climatic factors.
Warmer weather influences sur-
vival and reproduction rates of
vectors, in turn influencing the
intensity of vector activity
throughout the year.
The high levels of disease cases
from mosquitoes and ticks report-
ed for the State of Minnesota (to
right) may be an illustration of the
impacts of a warming climate. As
the region’s climate is projected
to continue to warm with an in-
crease in growing season, these
high vector borne disease case
trends may increase.
(Graphic: US CDC)
3-7 Edina Climate Vulnerability Assessment
Climate Change In Minnesota
Severe Weather - Observed Tornadoes in Minnesota
By May of 2019, the US had experienced one of its worst tornado outbreaks of the past decade, with more than 500 re-
ported over 30 days, with the total year to date over 200 higher than average. Research by Proceedings of The National
Academies of Science of The United States of America, like the report “Robust increases in severe thunderstorm environ-
ments in response to greenhouse forcing” by Noah S. Diffenbaugh, et al, has suggested that climate change will create
conditions more favorable to the formation of severe thunderstorms and tornadoes. The chart to the right shows the
path and numbers of observed tornadoes across the US since 1950. Overall, the number of tornadoes appears to be in-
creasing, however, the increase is currently observed only in weaker category storms.
The study “Report Increased variability of torna-
do occurrence in the United States” by Harold E.
Brooks, et al found that there has been consider-
ably more clustering of tornadoes in recent dec-
ades. In other words, there are more days in
which multiple tornadoes occur, but fewer over-
all days with tornadoes. In another study
“Spatial trends in United States tornado frequen-
cy” by Vittorio Gensini, the frequency trends of
tornado environments were mapped, showing
portions of Minnesota with a significant upward
trend.
Tornadoes in Minnesota Since 1950
Records by NOAA, charted below and mapped to the right, show the number of tornadoes in Northeast Minnesota in-
creasing since 1950. (Sources: NOAA, Proceedings of The National Academies of Science of The United States of America, Carbon Brief, Climate
Central, UStornadoes.com, Spatial Trends in United States Tornado Frequency )
Edina Climate Vulnerability Assessment 4-1
S e c t i o n 04
Local Climate Change
Local Climate Change
The climate in the City of Edina has already changed. From 1980
through 2018, the City has experienced an increase in annual aver-
age temperature, an increase in the number of days above 95 de-
grees, an increase in the number of heavy rain events, and a de-
crease in the number of days below 32 degrees.
Some of the most significant changes in the climate relate to varia-
bility. Climate variability can be seen in the changes in annual pre-
cipitation for Edina. Overall annual precipitation has increased,
however, this increase is not evenly distributed throughout the
year. Fall and Winter precipitation have increased up to 15.5%,
while Spring and Summer precipitation have remained nearly un-
changed.
(Sources: US Climate Resilience Toolkit, Climate Science Special Report, University
of Michigan Climate Center, US NOAA, Union of Concerned Scientists)
The City’s climate is anticipated to continue to warm through this
century and beyond. Precipitation is anticipated to likely increase
in all seasons particularly in the Spring and Fall. The primary
changes to climate characteristics for the City include:
• Warmer annual average temperatures with a more signifi-
cant warming in winter months.
• Increase in extreme heat days.
• Increase in heavy rain fall events, with increase in flood
potential.
• Increase in time between precipitation with increase in
drought potential.
• Greater variability in temperature and precipitation
trends.
Edina Climate Vulnerability Assessment 4-2
Looking Back
From 1980 through 2018,
Edina has experienced:
Increase in annual average
temperature:
Increase in annual precipitation:
Increase in heavy precipitation
Increase in Days above 95:
Decrease in Days below 32:
Increase in growing season:
1.62°
4.3%
34%
2 days
-8 days
+9 days
Storm Weather Events
Number of Events Reported In Hennepin County:
From April 2000 to March 2010:
From April 2010 to March 2020:
Average Annual Storm Weather Damage 2000-2020:
(source: NOAA National Centers for Environmental Information)
405 events
438 events an increase of 8%
$21,600,000 + 0.3 deaths
annually
Looking Forward
By 2100, Edina can expect:
Increase in annual average
temperature:
Increase in annual precipitation:
Increase in heavy precipitation
Increase in Days above 95:
Decrease in Days below 32:
Increase in growing, allergy,
and insect season:
Increase in Air Conditioning
Demand:
6-12°
30%
+50 days
-45 days
+43 days
-9% to+15% Increased Seasonal Variability
278%
To serve the same size population, the projected increase
in air conditioning demand would require an increase in
community-wide electricity consumption of: 70%
Mean Daily Maximum Temperature
This chart shows observed aver-
age daily maximum temperatures
for Hennepin County from 1950-
2010, the range of projections for
the historical period, and the
range of projections for two possi-
ble futures through 2100. Maxi-
mum temperature serves as one
measure of comfort and safety for
people and for the health of
plants and animals. When maxi-
mum temperature exceeds partic-
ular thresholds, people can be-
come ill and transportation and
energy infrastructure may be
stressed.
Days with Maximum Tem-
perature Above 95°F
This chart shows observed aver-
age number of days with tem-
peratures above 95°F for Henne-
pin County from 1950-2010,
the range of projections for the
historical period, and the range
of projections for two possible
futures through 2100. The total
number of days per year with
maximum temperature above
95°F is an indicator of how often
very hot conditions occur. De-
pending upon humidity, wind,
and access to air-conditioning,
humans may feel very uncom-
fortable or experience heat
stress or illness on very hot
days.
How To Read These Charts
Starting from the left and moving towards the right, the dark gray bars which are oriented vertically indicate observed historic values for
each year. The horizontal line from which bars extend shows the county average from 1960-1989. Bars that extend above the line show
years that were above average. Bars that extend below the line were below average. The lighter gray band, or area, shows the range of
climate model data for the historical period – in other words, the lighter gray area shows the range of weather for the historic period.
Starting from the left and moving right, the red toned band, or area, shows the range of future projections assuming global greenhouse
gas emissions continue increasing at current rates. The darker red line shows the median of these projections. For planning purposes,
people who have a low tolerance for risk often focus on this scenario.
The blue toned band, or area, shows the range of future projections for a scenario in which global greenhouse gas emissions stop in-
creasing and stabilize. The darker blue line shows the median of these projections. Though the median is no more likely to predict an
actual future than other projections in the range, both the red and blue lines help to highlight the projected trend in each scenario.
Edina Climate Vulnerability Assessment 4-3
Source: US Climate Resilience Toolkit
Source: US Climate Resilience Toolkit
Mean Daily Maximum Temperature for Hennepin County
(1950-2010 observed, 2010-2100 projected)
Days with Minimum Tem-
perature Below 32°F
This chart shows observed aver-
age number of days with tem-
peratures below 32°F for
Hennepin County from 1950-
2010, the range of projections
for the historical period, and the
range of projections for two
possible futures through 2100.
The total number of days per
year with minimum tempera-
ture below 32°F is an indicator
of how often cold days occur.
Winter recreation businesses
depend on days with below-
freezing temperatures to main-
tain snow pack. Additionally,
some plants require a period of
days below freezing before they
can begin budding or blooming.
Cooling Degree Days
This chart shows observed aver-
age degree cooling days for
Hennepin County from 1950-
2010, the range of projections
for the historical period, and the
range of projections for two
possible futures through 2100.
The number of cooling degree
days per year reflects the
amount of energy people use to
cool buildings during the warm
season.
Cooling degree days are calcu-
lated using 65°F degrees as the
base building temperature. On a
day when the average outdoor
temperature is 85°F, reducing
the indoor temperature by 20
degrees over 1 day requires 20
degrees of cooling multiplied by
1 day, or 20 cooling degree days.
How To Read These Charts
Starting from the left and moving towards the right, the dark gray bars which are oriented vertically indicate observed historic values for
each year. The horizontal line from which bars extend shows the county average from 1960-1989. Bars that extend above the line show
years that were above average. Bars that extend below the line were below average. The lighter gray band, or area, shows the range of
climate model data for the historical period – in other words, the lighter gray area shows the range of weather for the historic period.
Starting from the left and moving right, the red toned band, or area, shows the range of future projections assuming global greenhouse
gas emissions continue increasing at current rates. The darker red line shows the median of these projections. For planning purposes,
people who have a low tolerance for risk often focus on this scenario.
The blue toned band, or area, shows the range of future projections for a scenario in which global greenhouse gas emissions stop in-
creasing and stabilize. The darker blue line shows the median of these projections. Though the median is no more likely to predict an
actual future than other projections in the range, both the red and blue lines help to highlight the projected trend in each scenario.
Edina Climate Vulnerability Assessment 4-4
Days with Minimum Temperature Below 32°F for Hennepin County
(1950-2010 observed, 2010-2100 projected)
Cooling Degree Days for Hennepin County
(1950-2010 observed, 2010-2100 projected)
Source: US Climate Resilience Toolkit
Source: US Climate Resilience Toolkit
Edina Climate Vulnerability Assessment 5-1
05
City On The Move
S e c t i o n
5-2 Edina Climate Vulnerability Assessment
City on The Move
Projected changes in annual average temperatures
and growing seasons will result in a change in the
overall climate of Edina. Summertime conditions
for mid-twenty first century in Edina are projected
to be similar to the conditions currently felt 240-
360 miles or further to the South.
According to the University of Michigan Climate
Center, by 2040-70 summertime conditions in Edi-
na are anticipated to be similar to those today in
Distance southward the City of
Edina’s climate experience
moves every year.
Which is equal to moving
12 Miles 173 Feet every day
City On The Move
State of Minnesota Projected Climate Experience by 2095
University of Massachusetts Amherst
Edina Climate Vulnerability Assessment 5-3
Source: University of
Massachusetts Amherst
based on data provided
by K. Hayhoe and D
Wuebbles.
City On The Move
Edina Climate Vulnerability Assessment 5-4
Edina Climate Peers—2100
City Climate Peers experience current conditions which match
the projected conditions for Edina by the year 2100. Summer-
time conditions in Edina, Minnesota in this period can be antic-
ipated to be similar to those currently experienced by Denison
Texas, over 850 miles to the South.
(Source US Climate Assessment, Climate Central)
City of Edina Projected Climate Experience by 2100
(Source: Climate Central)
Edina, MN
(Summer 2020)
Denison,
Denison, TX
(Summer 2100)
Edina Climate Vulnerability Assessment 6-1
06
Climate Risks to
The Population
S e c t i o n
Climate Risks to The Population
The projected changes to the community’s climate in the coming decades represent potential risks to resi-
dents. These risks are particularly acute in populations especially vulnerable to them such as children under 5,
elders over 65, and those with disabilities – see Vulnerable Populations section for more information. Below
are some of the more significant risks to the community’s population:
Extreme Weather / Temperature:
Certain groups of people are more at risk of stress, health impacts, or death related to Extreme Weather
events including heat stress, tornadoes, wind storms, lightning, wildfires, winter storms, hail storms, and cold
waves. The risks related to extreme weather events include traumatic personal injury (tornadoes, storms),
carbon monoxide poisoning (related to power outages), asthma exacerbations (wildfires, heat stress), hypo-
thermia/ frostbite (cold waves, winter storms), and mental health impacts.
Vulnerability to heat stress can be increased by certain variables including the presence of health conditions
like diabetes and heart conditions; demographic and socioeconomic factors (e.g. aged 65 years and older living
alone); and land cover (e.g. Low percentage tree canopy cover). Studies of heat waves and mortality in the
United States demonstrate that increased temperatures or periods of extended high temperatures have in-
creased heat-related deaths.* During heat waves, calls to emergency medical services and hospital admissions
have also increased.
According to the US National Climate and Health Assessment:
“While it is intuitive that extremes can have health impacts such as death or injury during an event (for
example, drowning during floods), health impacts can also occur before or after an extreme event as indi-
viduals may be involved in activities that put their health at risk, such as disaster preparation and post-
event cleanup. Health risks may also arise long after the event, or in places outside the area where the
event took place, as a result of damage to property, destruction of assets, loss of infrastructure and public
services, social and economic impacts, environmental degradation, and other factors. Extreme events also
pose unique health risks if multiple events occur simultaneously or in succession in a given location, but
these issues of cumulative or compounding impacts are still emerging in the literature.”
In addition, extreme weather can cause economic stress. Property damage, business closure, crop loss, job
loss, and employment “down time” can all be caused by extreme storms, weather, and temperatures. These
economic impacts can affect individuals, families, businesses, and communities at large. According to the
North American Electric Reliability Corporation, the leading cause of electric transmission outages (in terms of
electric outage count) in Minnesota is “Severe Weather - Thunderstorm”.
Edina Climate Vulnerability Assessment 6-2
Increased Risk of Extreme Heat Increased Risk of Extreme Cold Caused by Jetstream “Wobble”
Graphic Source: Climate Central Graphic Source: NASA
* The Impact of Heat Waves on Emergency Department Admissions in Charlottesville, Virginia, U.S.A. Int J Environ Res Public Health.
2018; Mapping Community Determinants of Heat Vulnerability, Environmental Health Perspectives, Volume 117, Issue 11
Climate Risks to The Population
Extreme Weather / Temperature (continued)
Increased Risk of Extreme Cold
Though global temperatures are rising, there is evidence that the region is at risk of increased likelihood of ex-
treme cold temperatures during winter “cold snaps” due to variations in the jet stream caused by warming
ocean temperatures and a warming Arctic region. The jet stream—a powerful river of wind high in the atmos-
phere—shapes the Northern Hemisphere's weather, and it plays a key role in weather extremes. This powerful
river of wind transports moisture and moves masses of cold and warm air and storm systems along its path.
The jet stream is driven partly by the temperature contrast between masses of cold air over the North Pole and
warmer air near the equator. Climate change has led to faster warming in the Arctic than in the temperate
zones, reducing the temperature differences between the two regions and weakening the jet stream. As the
jet stream becomes weaker, it has periods of “wobble” in which it coils much more significantly dipping far to
the South. As the jet stream coils southward it brings bitter cold arctic air southward along with it. Studies
indicate that as arctic temperatures continue to rise, increases in jet stream “wobble” and extreme winter cold
snaps may increase in occurrence.
Flood and Drought Vulnerability
According to the latest National Climate Assessment, the frequency of heavy precipitation events has already
increased for the nation as a whole as well as for Minnesota specifically. These heavy rain events are projected
to increase throughout Minnesota. Increases in both extreme precipitation and total precipitation have con-
tributed to increases in severe flooding events in certain regions. Floods are the second deadliest of all weather
-related hazards in the United States.
In addition to the immediate health hazards associated with extreme precipitation events when flooding oc-
curs, other hazards can often appear once a storm has passed. Elevated waterborne disease outbreaks have
been reported in the weeks following heavy rainfall, although other variables may affect these associations.
Water intrusion into buildings can result in mold contamination that manifests later, leading to indoor air quali-
ty problems. Populations living in damp indoor environments experience increased prevalence of asthma and
other upper respiratory tract symptoms, such as coughing and wheezing, as well as lower respiratory tract in-
fections such as pneumonia, respiratory syncytial virus, and pneumonia.
Flooding causes economic stress. Property damage, business closure, crop loss, job loss, and employment
“down time” can all be caused by extreme storms, weather, and temperatures. These economic impacts can
affect individuals, families, businesses, and communities at large.
Edina Climate Vulnerability Assessment 6-3
By 2050, Minnesota is projected
to see:
An increase of flood risk by more
than 20%
As well as a 300% increase in its
index of the severity of wide-
spread drought.
(Source: US Climate Resilience Toolkit, Climate
Central; Graphic Source: Climate Central)
Climate Risks to The Population
Air Quality Impacts
According to the published literature, air pollution is associated with premature death, increased rates of hospitaliza-
tion for respiratory and cardiovascular conditions, adverse birth outcomes, and lung cancer. Air quality is indexed
(AQI) by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Minnesota Pollution Control Board to provide a simple,
uniform way to report daily air quality conditions. Minnesota AQI numbers are determined by hourly measure-
ments of five pollutants: fine particles (PM2.5), ground-level ozone (O3), sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen dioxide
(NO2), and carbon monoxide (CO). The levels of all of these pollutants can be effected by climate impacts as well as
the greenhouse gas emissions which are driving Minnesota’ changing climate impacts.
These pollutants have a range of potential health impacts. Ozone exposure may lead to a number of adverse health
effects such as shortness of breath, chest pain when inhaling deeply, wheezing and coughing, temporary decreases
in lung function, and lower respiratory tract infections. Long-term exposure to fine particulate matter (also known as
PM2.5 ) is correlated with a number of adverse health effects. In fact, each 10 µg/m³ elevation in PM2.5 is associated
with an 8% increase in lung cancer mortality, a 6% increase in cardiopulmonary mortality, and a 4% increase in death
from general causes. The annual average of PM2.5 provides an indication of the long-term trends in overall burden,
relevant to the long-term health effects. Increased surface temperatures are known to increase ground level ozone
levels. The projected Minnesota climate change impacts of extreme heat, changes in precipitation, drought and wild
fires can all cause increases in fine particulate matter, which in turn, can contribute to respiratory illness particularly
in populations vulnerable to them.
The US EPA designates counties with unhealthy levels of air pollution as “Non attainment” areas and areas which are
on the edge of unhealthy levels “maintenance” areas. The State of Minnesota has had multiple jurisdictions desig-
nated as “non attainment” areas. However some of these areas have re-met federal air quality requirements and
are now maintenance areas. Air quality issues currently being addressed in State of Minnesota implementation
plans include Carbon Monoxide, Sulfur Dioxide, and Particulate Matter. For current and forecasted air quality
throughout the state visit: https://cfpub.epa.gov/airnow. You can also download Plume Lab’s free mobile phone air
quality monitoring app: https://plumelabs.com/en/air/
Climate change is expected to affect air quality through several pathways, including production and potency of aller-
gens and increase regional concentrations of ozone, fine particles, and dust. Some of these pollutants can directly
cause respiratory disease or exacerbate existing conditions in susceptible populations, such as children or the elderly.
Other air quality issues with health considerations include allergens, pollen, and smoke from wildfires (traces suffi-
cient to cause respiratory impacts are capable of traveling great distances). Each of these are anticipated to be in-
creased with climate change.
Projected Change in Temperature, Ozone, and Ozone-Related Premature Deaths in 2030
Projected changes in average daily maximum temperature (degrees Fahrenheit), summer average maximum daily 8-
hour ozone (parts per billion), and excess ozone-related deaths (incidences per year by county) in the year 2030 rela-
tive to the year 2000. (Source: US Climate Resilience Toolkit)
Edina Climate Vulnerability Assessment 6-4
Source: US Climate Resilience Toolkit
Climate Risks to The Population
Vector-Borne Diseases
Vector-Borne diseases are diseases spread by agents such as ticks and mosquitoes. The projected climate
change impacts in this region are anticipated to increase the spread of vector borne diseases such as West Nile
virus, and Lyme disease by altering conditions that affect the development and dynamics of the disease vectors
and the pathogens they carry. Rising global temperatures can increase the geographic range of disease-
carrying insects, while increased rainfall, flooding and humidity creates more viable areas for vector breeding
and allows breeding to occur more quickly. In addition, Minnesota’ lengthening growing season and warming
winters will increase the population of vector carrying insects as well as open the region up to new species.
Food Insecurity and Food-borne Diseases
According to former U.S. agriculture secretary Tom Vilsack, climate change is likely to destabilize cropping sys-
tems, interrupt transportation networks and trigger food shortages and spikes in food cost. According to the
US National Climate Assessment for the Midwestern states: “In the next few decades, longer growing seasons
and rising carbon dioxide levels will increase yields of some crops, though those benefits will be progressively
offset by extreme weather events. Though adaptation options can reduce some of the detrimental effects, in
the long term, the combined stresses associated with climate change are expected to decrease agricultural
productivity.”
Nutritious food is a basic necessity of life, and failure to obtain sufficient calories, macronutrients (fats, pro-
teins, carbohydrates), and micronutrients (vitamins, minerals) can result in illness and death. While malnutri-
tion and hunger are typically problems in the developing world, Minnesota still has significant populations
affected by insufficient food resources and under-nutrition. Food can be a source of food-borne illnesses, re-
sulting from eating spoiled food or food contaminated with microbes, chemical residues or toxic substances.
The potential effects of climate change on food-borne illness, nutrition, and security are mostly indirect but
represent risks, especially for vulnerable populations. Some of the climate impacts which may increase food
insecurity and food-borne diseases in Minnesota include:
• Extreme weather events and changes in temperature and precipitation can damage or destroy crops
and interrupt the transportation and delivery of food
• Changes in agricultural ranges, practices and changing environmental conditions can reduce the availa-
bility and nutritional content of food supplies. For example, an increase in the use of pesticides leads
to a decrease in nutritional content of food.
• Extreme weather events, such as flooding, drought, and wildfires can contaminate crops and fisheries
with metals, chemicals, and toxicants released into the environment.
• Degraded soil health and soil erosion, exacerbated by increasing drought/flood cycles and increasing
storm intensities.
Edina Climate Vulnerability Assessment 6-5
Climate Risks to The Population
Water Quality/Quantity
Water risks consist of both water quality as well as water quantity issues. Water quantity issues are clearly
linked to precipitation levels and timing, water variability, as well as changes in water demand. Water demand
itself can be increased not only by population changes but also as a result of climate changes such as increased
temperatures and time frames between rain events which increase demands on water consumption. In addi-
tion, water withdraw from ground water sources deplete aquifer capacities. Indirectly, the lack of water can
cause pressure on agricultural productivity, increase crop failure, and cause reductions in food supply and in-
creases in food prices and food insecurity. As a highly precious resource, all communities should look to in-
crease water conservation regardless of the projected water stress levels of their immediate region, while com-
munities in regions with a projected increase in water stress should view water conservation as a major long-
term priority.
Water quality issues can be affected by climate impacts in a number of ways:
• Increased precipitation and rapid snow melt can result in flooding, which in turn increases the likeli-
hood of water contamination from sources such as sewage as well as contaminants such as chloride,
gasoline, oil, chemicals, fertilizers, and pesticides.
• Increased air and water temperatures can increase toxic algae blooms, decrease water oxygen levels,
and cause changes in fish populations as well as increases in mercury concentrations in fish.
• Increased heavy rain events can result in increases in sediment, diminishing water quality.
Waterborne Illness
Waterborne diseases are caused by a variety of microorganisms, biotoxins, and toxic contaminants, which lead
to devastating illnesses such as cholera, schistosomiasis and other gastrointestinal problems. Outbreaks of wa-
terborne diseases often occur after a severe precipitation event (rainfall, snowfall). Because climate change
increases the severity and frequency of some major precipitation events, communities could be faced with ele-
vated disease burden from waterborne diseases. Increased frequency of intense extreme weather events can
cause flooding of water and sewage treatment facilities, increasing the risk of waterborne diseases.
Infrastructure Failure
Extreme weather events, flooding and flash flooding, as well as increasing daily stresses caused by increasing
climate variability all represent potential causes of failure of our aging infrastructure. Power outages, road dam-
age, bridge collapse, water infrastructure failure - each of these represent significant physical climate risks to
the community, especially individuals who are climate vulnerable.
Edina Climate Vulnerability Assessment 6-6
Number of Power Outages by State, 2014
Power Outages
Minnesota Residents effected by
electric outages annually:
Average Annual duration of elec-
tric outages in Minnesota:
Leading cause of electric outages
in Minnesota (in terms of num-
ber of customers effected):
449,995
46.2 hrs/yr
Weather/
falling trees
Source: Eaton Blackout Tracker
Climate Risks to The Population
Infrastructure Failure (continued)
Edina Climate Vulnerability Assessment 6-7
Global Electric Loss Events, 2014
(Source: US DOE, NERC, Eaton; Graphic Source: US DOE)
Edina Climate Vulnerability Assessment 7-1
07
Climate Impact
Multipliers
S e c t i o n
Climate Impact Multipliers
As the area’s climate is projected to change (with
increased heat, shortened winters, greater varia-
bility in weather and precipitation, increased
storminess, annual rainfall as well as increased
time frames between rain and drought condi-
tions) there are physical characteristics of the
community which can have a multiplying or miti-
gating effect on the impacts of climate vulnerabil-
ities. Understanding and tracking the state of
these characteristics will help identify some of
the climate adaptive strategies appropriate for
the City.
Climate Impact Multipliers include: Tree Canopy,
Impervious Land Cover, Heat Island, and Water
Stress. This section will review the general char-
acteristics of each of these for the City.
In Section 10, these community characteristics
will be re-visited in light of the Vulnerable Popu-
lation characteristics which will be determined in
Section 9.
Climate Impact Multipliers
Tree Canopy
A healthy and extensive tree canopy within developed areas can mitigate the impacts of heat stress, water impacts, in-
creased levels of precipitation and drought, and air quality impacts. “Urban forests” deliver a range of environmental,
health, and social benefits. Shaded surfaces can be anywhere from 25°F to 45°F cooler than the peak temperatures of
unshaded surfaces. Trees cool communities, reduce heating and cooling costs, capture and remove air pollutants includ-
ing CO2 from the air; strengthen quality of place and local economies, improve the quality of storm water entering rivers
and streams, reduce storm water infrastructure costs, improve social connections, positively contribute to property value,
improve pedestrian/recreation experiences, reduce mental fatigue, improve overall quality of life for residents, and pro-
vide habitat to support biodiversity.
A healthy tree canopy mitigates heat stress in developed areas by providing direct shading on buildings and through tran-
spiration cooling. Neighborhoods well shaded by street and yard trees can be up to 6-10 degrees cooler than neighbor-
hoods without, reducing overall energy needs. Just three trees properly placed around a house can save up to 30% of en-
ergy use.
City of Edina Tree Canopy
paleBLUEdot has conducted a citywide Tree Canopy, Ground Cover, and Carbon Sequestration study of the City of Edina.
This study used the iTree Canopy tool to establish tree canopy and ground cover characteristics throughout the City on a
census tract basis. The values established through this study have a standard error of less than 2% with most categories
achieving an SE far lower. The Twin City Metro area numbers are based on the 2015 Urban Tree Canopy Assessment Twin
Cities Metropolitan Area study produced by the Remote Sensing and Geospatial Analysis Laboratory Department of Forest
Resources at the University of Minnesota. The existing tree canopy proportion reported is the aggregated tree canopy
area divided by the total area of each city. The potential tree canopy is the proportion of vegetated land (excluding agricul-
ture) that could be converted to tree canopy.
Planting Climate Adaptive Trees
Tree canopies in Minnesota also have some vulnerabilities associated with the current and projected impacts of climate
change. Trees have a degree of vulnerability to changes in temperature ranges, precipitation patterns, soil temperature
and moisture levels, and changes to winter processes and growing season length. Climate change also introduces the po-
tential for introducing new or expanding the life cycle or range of existing tree pests - such as Emerald Ash Borer (EAB)
which can cause vast damage to existing tree stock.
According to the US Forest service, urban forests are very susceptible to a number of climate change factors including spe-
cies invasion, and insect and pathogen attack. These stressors will make it more difficult to preserve or increase canopy
cover in Minnesota communities. Conducting tree canopy studies and creating climate adaptive tree canopy policies will
help Minnesota communities in adapting to these stressors.
Tree species projected to have stressors impacting their health and resilience in the Edina region include Aspen, Birch, Ash,
Balsam, and Spruce. Extended drought conditions and warming winters may also negatively impact other species such as
Sugar Maple, Red Maple, and Basswood. See Appendix 2 of this report for Climate Adaptive Tree Species by Minnesota
region. Climate Adaptive Tree Species should be considered for City tree planting policies and programs.
Edina Climate Vulnerability Assessment 7-3
Tree Canopy Existing Additional Tree
Tree Canopy Canopy Potential
City of Edina*: 35.5% 27.0%
Twin City Metro: 26.9% 47.4%
*See the 2021 City of Edina Community Wide Tree Survey and Carbon Seques-
tration Study for additional information.
Climate Impact Multipliers
Impervious Land Cover
Impervious surfaces, including building and pavement surfaces, typically absorb solar radiation faster than pervious land
coverings (grass, trees). This absorbed energy is typically retained throughout the day and then released slowly during the
night. Consequently, ambient temperatures near building and paved areas are higher than grasslands and forest areas.
The effects of higher levels of impervious surfaces impact not only large cities, but smaller cities and towns as well.
Increases in impervious cover can also dramatically increase the impact of so-called 100-year flood events. Typically,
floods in areas of high impervious surfaces are short-lived, but extended flooding can stress trees, leading to leaf yellow-
ing, defoliation, and crown dieback. If damage is severe, mortality can occur. In addition, flooding can lead to secondary
attacks by insect pests and diseases. Some species are more tolerant of flooding than others. See the 2021 City of Edina
Community Wide Tree Survey and Carbon Sequestration Study for a breakdown of Citywide impervious surface.
Heat Island and Micro Heat Island
Residents of cities and town centers are more at risk for heat-related illnesses than rural dwellers. The radiant heat
trapped by impervious surfaces and buildings as well as heat generated by building mechanical systems, motorized equip-
ment, and vehicles is known as the “Heat Island Effect” . In larger cities, heat island effects create a micro-climate
throughout the metro area while occupants of smaller cities and towns can still experience higher temperatures and de-
creased air movement due to the effects of surrounding buildings and impervious surfaces in what is sometimes referred
to as “Micro Heat Islands” which refers to urban hot spots such as poorly vegetated parking lots, non-reflective roofs and
asphalt roads.
Both the heat island effect of larger cities and the micro heat islands of smaller cities (or portions of communities) serve to
increase the impact of climate change effects in developed areas of all size populations, especially those with low or inter-
mittent tree canopy coverage. A developed area’s impervious surface characteristics and tree canopy conditions combine
to exacerbate or mitigate the community’s heat island or micro heat island impacts.
Due to the heat island effect, developed areas are usually hotter and cool off less at night than non developed areas. Heat
islands can increase health risks from extreme heat by increasing the potential maximum temperatures residents are ex-
posed to and the length of time that they are exposed to elevated temperatures. The heat island effect can make devel-
oped areas one hardiness zone warmer than the surrounding undeveloped area, allowing some more southern species to
be planted. In addition to milder winters, however, heat island effects can also make summer temperatures higher, espe-
cially near dark pavements and buildings. Thus, some native plants already threatened by climate change impacts could
experience increased negative impacts due to heat island and micro-heat island effects.
Agricultural Heat Island
Research indicates that in rural are-
as or regions with significant agri-
culture, crops can impact heat is-
land effect. Unlike many plants,
corn transpires, or sweats, both day
and night. Keeping humidity and
heat high at night means there is
little chance for relief. A University
of Minnesota study released in
2016 shows farm crops can increase
dew points and heat indices by as
much as 5 degrees, while a North-
ern Illinois University climatologist
David Changnon released a study in
2002 showing that modern-day
heat waves probably are worse
than a century ago because of
crops.
See the 2021 City of Edina Community Wide Tree Survey and Carbon Sequestration Study for a breakdown of Citywide
heat island impact values.
Edina Climate Vulnerability Assessment 7-4
Graphic Source: Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory
Illustration of Heat Island and Micro-Heat Island Impacts
Climate Impact Multipliers
Water Stress
Water stress occurs when the demand for water exceeds the available amount during a certain period or when poor quali-
ty restricts its use. Water stress causes deterioration of fresh water resources in terms of quantity (aquifer over-
exploitation, dry rivers, etc.) and quality (eutrophication, organic matter pollution, saline intrusion, etc.). Overall water
risks are impacted by projected changes in precipitation levels, seasonal and annual variability, flood and drought vulnera-
bilities, increased air and water temperature, and water use demand and supply.
Though most of these water stress influences are direct climate impacts, we call Water Stress a climate multiplier because
the existence of water stress can greatly increase the overall impact of climate conditions such as extreme heat and over-
all population vulnerability. It has economic ramifications for individuals as well as the community as a whole which de-
crease resilience. Water stress affects recreational tourism, industrial production, jobs, and income.
Water stress in developed areas is directly affected by a community’s impervious surface, tree canopy/ground cover, and
heat island characteristics. Higher temperatures and impervious surface run-off lead to increases in toxic algae blooms,
more rapid evaporation, reduced water retention within the water table, increased demand for irrigation, and decreased
lake/river levels. A review of a community’s water stress includes the overall water stress, overall water risk, and flood
vulnerability.
Overall water stress measures the ratio of total annual water withdrawals to total available annual renewable supply. This
number accounts for upstream consumptive use. Higher values indicate more competition among users. Increases in pro-
jected water stress into the future indicate a potential for water shortage, conflict, or management challenge.
Overall water risk identifies areas with higher exposure to water-related risks and is an aggregated measure of physical
risks related to quantity (flooding, drought, etc), physical risks related to water quality that may impact water availability
(such as the percentage of available water that has been previously used and discharged upstream as wastewater where
higher values indicate higher dependency on treatment plants and potentially poor water quality in areas that lack suffi-
cient treatment infrastructure), and water regulatory and conflict risks.
As indicated by the inclusion of upstream conditions in the overall water risk calculation, it is extremely important to note
that upstream communities can impact the water risk and stress of downstream communities. Failure to implement ap-
propriate storm water management, flood management, and water conservation policies in one community can greatly
impact the water stress of communities down stream. As a highly precious resource, all communities should look to in-
crease water conservation regardless of the projected water stress levels of their immediate region, while communities in
regions with a projected increase in water stress should view water conservation as a major long-term priority.
Edina Climate Vulnerability Assessment 7-5
Climate Impact Multipliers
Water Stress (current)
Baseline water stress measures the ratio of total annu-
al water withdrawals to total available annual renewa-
ble supply, accounting for upstream consumptive use.
Higher values indicate more competition among users.
The current water stress in Edina is “Low”
(Source: World Resources Institute)
Overall Water Risk Quantity (current)
Physical risks quantity measures risk related to too
little or too much water, by aggregating all selected
indicators from the Physical Risk Quantity category.
Higher values indicate higher water quantity risks.
The current water stress in Edina is “Low” to Low-
Medium”
(Source: World Resources Institute)
Risk Quality (current)
Physical risks quality measures risk related to water
that is unfit for use, by aggregating all selected indica-
tors from the Physical Risk Quality category. Higher
values indicate higher water quality risks.
The current water risk in Edina is “Low-Medium”
(Source: World Resources Institute)
Drought Risk (current)
Drought risk measures where droughts are likely to
occur, the population and assets exposed, and the
vulnerability of the population and assets to adverse
effects. Higher values indicate higher risk of drought.
The current drought risk in Edina is “Medium”
(Source: World Resources Institute)
Edina Climate Vulnerability Assessment 7-6
Edina Climate Vulnerability Assessment 7-7
Climate Impact Multipliers
Projected Water Stress (through 2040)
Water stress is an indicator of competition for water
resources and is defined informally as the ratio of de-
mand for water by human society divided by available
water.
The projected water stress in Edina is “Near Normal to
2x Increase” (Source: World Resources Institute)
Projected Seasonal Variability (Through 2040)
Seasonal variability (SV) is an indicator of the variabil-
ity between months of the year. Increasing SV may
indicate wetter wet months and drier dry months, and
higher likelihood of droughts or wet periods. We used
the within-year coefficient of variance between
monthly total blue water as our indicator of seasonal
variability of water supply.
The projected variability in Edina is “Near Nor-
mal” (Source: World Resources Institute)
Projected Water Supply (Through 2040)
Total blue water (renewable surface water) was our
indicator of water supply. Projected change in total
blue water is equal to the 21-year mean around the
target year divided by the baseline period of 1950–
2010.
The projected water supply in Edina is “1.2x de-
crease” (Source: World Resources Institute)
Projected Water Demand (Through 2040)
Water demand was measured as water withdrawals.
Projected change in water withdrawals is equal to the
summarized withdrawals for the target year, divided
by the baseline year, 2010.
The projected water demand in Edina is “near normal
to 1.4x Increase” (Source: World Resources Institute)
Edina Climate Vulnerability Assessment 7-8
Climate Impact Multipliers
Edina Flood Vulnerability
According to the US National Climate Assessment, the ten rainiest days can contribute up to 40% of the annual precipita-
tion in the Minnesota region. By 2070, the Edina area can anticipate an increase of up to 15% in the total annual precipi-
tation. In addition, the timeframe between rains is expected to continue to increase, (source US National Climate Assess-
ment). Under this scenario, it is likely that certain periods of the year, like spring, may be significantly wetter with storms
producing heavier rains. In anticipation of that, it is appropriate to review the areas of the City with flood risk and to re-
view current storm water management capacity against future extreme rainfall event projections.
The map shows the flood risk areas throughout the City as defined by FEMA . Flood risks illustrated relate to water sur-
face elevations for 1% chance annual floods (“100 year flood event”). Areas shown relate to existing bodies of water as
well as potential “flash flood” zones in low-lying areas.
(Source: FEMA, FM Global, National Flood Services )
Edina Climate Vulnerability Assessment 8-1
08
Climate Resilience
Indicators
S e c t i o n
Edina Climate Vulnerability Assessment 8-2
Climate Resilience Indicators
Similar to Climate Impact Multipliers, a community’s overall resilience can have a multiplying or a mitigating affect on the
population’s ability to adapt to climate risks and rapidly recover from extreme weather events. Understanding and track-
ing the state of these Resilience Indicators will help identify some of the climate adaptive strategies appropriate for the
City. Resilience Indicators include: Economic Stress, Health Indicators, EPA Environmental Justice Screen, EPA Social Vul-
nerability Index, Housing Burden.
Climate Resilience Indicators - Economic Stress
Economic stress within communities function as an impact multiplier. The issue is not limited to individuals – communities
with large lower incomes or low tax bases, or low tax rates, can have a lag in infrastructure planning, maintenance, and
redevelopment. These stressors on a city’s planning capacity or activity decrease the ability for a community to prepare
for and respond to climate stresses and vulnerabilities. In addition, a report by the World Health Organization points out
that disadvantaged communities are likely to shoulder a disproportionate share of the burden of climate change because
of their increased exposure and vulnerability to health threats.
Median Household Income: $99,295
(State Average: $70,422)
Poverty Rate: 4.91%
(State Average: 10.1%)
Wage Distribution: 0.463 Gini Index
(2% less even wage distribution than State Average)
The map to the right shows the household income level at
the 20th percentile by census tract. Tracts with 20th per-
centile at or below $45,000 indicate potentially high low
income rates while tracts at or below $33,000 indicate po-
tentially high poverty rates.
Household Income at 20th %tile by Census Tract
Source: Statistical Atlas
Source: Statistical Atlas
Source: Statistical Atlas
Legend For Map: 20th Percentile Income Levels:
Edina Climate Vulnerability Assessment 8-3
Climate Resilience Indicators—Health
The potential magnitude of the population climate risks outlined in section 6 “Climate Risks to The Population” can be an-
ticipated by understanding current community resilience indicators. Resilience indicators which are higher locally than
State or National averages may imply a potential weakness which could be exacerbated by the risks posed by projected
climate change. It should be understood that these community resilience indicators are usually only available at the gran-
ularity of County level. This means that the City should carefully consider potential implications for any community resili-
ence indicator even if the local demographic appears "stronger" (lower percentage/value/percentile) than State or Nation-
al levels.
State County
Poor/Fair Health 12% 10%
Uninsured 7% 7%
Asthma emergency department visits (per 10,000) 40.1 56.3
Pulmonnary Disease Hospitalizations (COPD per 100,000) 15.8 12.9
Heart attack hospitalizations (per 100,000) 26.7 21.9
Frequent Physical Distress 9.9% 8%
Frequent Mental Distress 11.6% 9%
(Source: County Health Rankings & Roadmaps program, CDC, United Health Foundation, Minnesota Department of Public Health)
Climate Resilience Indicators - Health and Heavy Traffic
Vehicles are a significant and wide-
spread source of air and noise pollution
in Minnesota communities. Heavy
traffic and busy roads increase the rela-
tive health risks caused by all air pollu-
tants coming from cars, trucks, and
buses. When it gets hot outside, the
impacts of pollution on health are even
worse. Hotter summers influenced by
climate change may mean more health
problems for people living, working, or
going to school in communities near
major roadways. People who live,
work, or attend schools near high-
traffic roadways are more exposed to
traffic-associated air pollutants. Even
people passing through these areas
while commuting, walking, or biking
are more at risk.
The map above shows concentrations of on-road vehicle noise, and potential particulate matter pollution distribution in
the city. Areas with higher measured road noise indicate areas with potentially higher traffic based air pollution and, sub-
sequently, those locations may pose greater risk to human health.
Climate Resilience Indicators - 2020 Local Particulate Matter PM 2.5 12 Month History
The chart to below shows the locally recorded Fine Particulate Matter (PM 2.5) which comes primarily from combustion
sources such as vehicles.
Source: US DOT National Transportation Road Noise Map
Edina Climate Vulnerability Assessment 8-4
Climate Resilience Indicators- EPA Environmental Justice Screen
EJSCREEN is an environmental justice mapping and screening tool that provides EPA with a nationally consistent data set
and approach for combining environmental and demographic indicators. All of the EJSCREEN indicators are publicly-
available data. EJSCREEN simply provides a way to display this information and includes a method for combining environ-
mental and demographic indicators into EJ indexes. Below are the EJSCREEN results for the City. All values circled in
orange are values in the upper 40th percentile for the State, representing areas of potential focus for the City.
Climate Resilience Indicators - EPA Social
Vulnerability Index
Social vulnerability refers to the resilience of communities
when confronted by external stresses on human health,
stresses such as natural or human-caused disasters, or dis-
ease outbreaks. Reducing social vulnerability can decrease
both human suffering and economic loss.
The Social Vulnerability Index (SVI) compares and ranks
every community in the United States at the Census Tract
level. Factors include poverty, lack of car access, and
crowded housing. The SVI is developed by the Centers for
Disease Control. The City of Edina has areas in two of the
four levels of vulnerability (lowest and second lowest quar-
tiles)
EPA Social Vulnerability Index
Source: US EPA Social Vulnerabilty Index
Edina Climate Vulnerability Assessment 8-5
Climate Resilience Indicators - Housing Burden
Housing burden can be understood as a household living
with any of four housing problems: overcrowding, high hous-
ing cost, no kitchen, no plumbing. Households with housing
burden can occur at any income level, though they may be
more common in middle to lower income brackets. Housing
burden factors, like other economic stress indicators, can
challenge a household’s capacity to respond to emergencies
increasing that household’s climate vulnerability.
According to the US Census Bureau, the average monthly
rent in Edina is over $1,460. The Census indicates Edina has
6,058 renter occupied housing units total. Over 42% are
households living with a housing cost burden of over 30%
and of those nearly 47% (19.8% of all renter occupied house-
holds) are living with a housing costs totaling 50% or more of
their income.
Edina has a total of 15,605 owner occupied housing units.
Of those households, 35.9% are living with housing cost bur-
den of over 30% with 1/3rd of those living with a housing
costs totaling 50% or more of their income. See maps to the
right for the distribution of these households throughout the
community.
Housing Type Impacts on Housing Burden
The type of structure a resident lives in can impact the level
of housing burden experienced by community members.
According to a 2005 study by the US Housing and Urban De-
velopment Agency, renters, on average, have 10% more of
their monthly income going to utility costs. Those who live
in mobile home type constructions often pay even more.
The Environmental and Energy Study Institute, indicates
that mobile homes built before 1980 consume an average
of 84,316 BTUs per square foot, 53 percent more than other
types of homes. A study by the energy consultant group
Frontier Associates found that residents in older manufac-
tured homes may pay up to $500 a month for electricity, or
over 24% of average monthly income. Mobile homes are
also less resilient to extreme temperatures, extreme weath-
er, high winds, and tornado events.
Edina Housing by Type and Occupancy
Housing Type Housing Units (occupied) Owner-Occupied Renter-Occupied
Number % of Total State Ave Number % of Total State Ave Number % of Total State Ave
1, detached 12,565 58.00% 66.90% 11,891 76.20% 85.50% 672 11.10% 20.20%
1, attached 1,235 5.70% 7.80% 905 5.80% 7.50% 339 5.60% 8.40%
2 apartments 217 1.00% 2.10% 47 0.30% 0.60% 176 2.90% 5.90%
3 or 4 apartments 152 0.70% 2.10% 78 0.50% 0.50% 73 1.20% 6.10%
5 to 9 apartments 390 1.80% 2.20% 218 1.40% 0.40% 176 2.90% 6.80%
10 or more apartments 7,084 32.70% 16.10% 2,466 15.80% 2.20% 4,622 76.30% 51.10%
Mobile home 0 0.00% 2.70% 0 0.00% 3.20% 0 0.00% 1.60%
Total Occupied Units 21,663 15,605 72.0% 71.6% 6,058 28.0% 28.4%
(Source: US Census Bureau)
Edina Homeowners
Paying More Than 30% of Income for Housing Costs
Edina Renters
Paying 30%-49% of Income for Housing Costs
Edina Renters
Paying >50% of Income for Housing Costs
Climate Resilience Indicators– Energy Burden
“Energy Burden” is the percentage of household income that goes toward energy costs (electricity, home heating, and
transportation). Individuals with lower incomes have a much higher likelihood of living under an energy burden—not
only because the energy costs experienced by a lower income household must be paid for out of a smaller income, but
also because lower income individuals frequently live in homes with higher energy costs due to older building age or lower
levels of insulation and energy equipment efficiency.
Higher energy burdens have real implications on the health and well-being of families and individuals. Families who have
to devote higher proportions of their income to utility bills may have to make trade-offs between heating and cooling their
homes or affording other necessities, such as food, medicine, and childcare. According to the US Census (2011–2016), the
national average energy burden for low-income households is 8.6 percent compared with less than 3% for non-low-
income households.
According to the US Department of Energy, average annual energy costs in Edina range from just under $900 for some
renter households in the second lowest income brackets (30%-60% Area Median Income) to $2,700 for some homeowners
in the highest income brackets (100%+ area median income). See chart below for a comparison of Edina energy costs
against State averages:
Comparing those costs against the annual household income identifies the community members living with high energy
burden. In Edina, the energy burden for households below 30% AMI is 7% for renters and 18% for home owners while the
energy burden for households at 100% AMI and above drops to 1%....less than 6% of the energy cost impacts on low-
income renter households.
Edina Climate Vulnerability Assessment 8-6
Source: US Department of Energy LEAD Tool
Source: US Department of Energy LEAD Tool
Climate Resilience Indicators– Energy Burden
Energy costs as a percentage of household income for rental and owner occupied households in Edina compared against
State averages (see Ave Energy Burden for Minnesota vs Edina above) can be broken down further by building age which
can help identify the households and building type/ages which are most likely living under high energy burden. This data
illustrates that households in the lowest income brackets (0-30% AMI) in homes built prior to 2010 are living with energy
burdens from 12% to 29% - the highest within that income bracket. This may indicate a potential need for increased ener-
gy efficiency within new construction housing units for LMI populations. See chart below for energy costs as a percentage
of household income by age of building in Edina compared against State averages:
Edina Climate Vulnerability Assessment 8-7
Source: US Department of Energy LEAD Tool
High Energy Burden
Source: US Department of Energy LEAD Tool
Source: US Department of Energy LEAD Tool
Edina Climate Vulnerability Assessment 9-1
09
Vulnerable
Populations
S e c t i o n
Vulnerable Populations in Edina
According to the study “Estimating economic damage from
climate change in the United States”, climate change eco-
nomic impacts will increase the unpredictability and inequity
of future economic outcomes.
Some groups face a number of stressors related to both cli-
mate and non-climate factors. For example, people living in
impoverished urban or isolated rural areas, floodplains, and
other at-risk locations such as areas of current or historically
high levels of toxic chemical pollution are more vulnerable
not only to extreme weather and persistent climate change
but also to social and economic stressors. Many of these
stressors can occur simultaneously or consecutively.
People or communities can have greater or lesser vulnerabil-
ity to health risks depending on age, social, political, and eco-
nomic factors that are collectively known as social determi-
nants of health. Some groups are disproportionately disad-
vantaged by social determinants of health that limit re-
sources and opportunities for health-promoting behaviors
and conditions of daily life, such as living/working circum-
stances and access to healthcare services. Populations of
concern are particularly vulnerable to climate change im-
pacts. Heightened vulnerability to existing and projected
climate impacts can be due to a sector of the population’s
exposure, sensitivity, or adaptive capacity to a climate im-
pact.
Who is Most Vulnerable?
Across the United States, people and communities differ in
their exposures, their inherent sensitivity, and their capacity
to respond to and cope with climate change related threats.
Community members who are most vulnerable include:
The following pages map the populations particularly vulner-
able to the risks of climate change impacts within the com-
munity.
People of Color At-Risk Workers Food Insecure Individuals Individuals Without Vehicle Access
Children Under 5 Elders 65 + Individuals with Disabilities Individuals in Economic Distress
Vulnerable Populations—Children under 5
According to the US Global Change Research Program “Children are vulnerable to adverse health effects associated with
environmental exposures due to factors related to their immature physiology and metabolism, their unique exposure
pathways, their biological sensitivities, and limits to their adaptive capacity. Children have a proportionately higher intake
of air, food, and water relative to their body weight compared to adults. They also share unique behaviors and interactions
with their environment that may increase their exposure to environmental contaminants such as dust and other contami-
nants, such as pesticides, mold spores, and allergens.”
Children are particularly sensitive to the following Climate Risks (see Section 6 for Climate Risk information):
Map of Vulnerable Population Distribution Within Community
Observations for Edina
The estimated total child population under five for Edina is 2,973. This
vulnerable population makes up 5.8% of the City’s total population. Chil-
dren under five are most concentrated in the Central, Northwest, and
Southeast sections of the City. These sections represent both the high-
est estimated population as well as the highest share of the total popula-
tion of these tracts - ranging from 5% to 8% of the total population of
those neighborhoods.
Edina Climate Vulnerability Assessment 9-3
Children Under 5
Estimated Population Share
Source: American Community Survey
5-Year Estimates
Children Under 5 Summary
Total Estimated Population: 2,973
Estimated Share of Total
Vulnerable Population: 8-12%
Estimated Share of Total
City Population: 5.8%
Edina Climate Vulnerability Assessment 9-4
Vulnerable Populations— Elders (65 and over)
Older adults are also vulnerable to the health impacts associated with climate change and weather extremes. Vulnerabili-
ties within older adults are not uniform due to the fact that this demographic is a diverse group with distinct sub-
populations that can be identified not only by age but also by race, educational attainment, socioeconomic status, social
support networks, overall physical and mental health, and disability status. According to the US Global Change Research
Program “the potential climate change related health impacts for older adults include rising temperatures and heat waves;
increased risk of more intense floods, droughts, and wildfires; degraded air quality; exposure to infectious diseases; and
other climate-related hazards.”
Older Adults are particularly sensitive to the following Climate Risks (see Section 6 for Climate Risk information):
Map of Vulnerable Population Distribution Within Community
Observations for Edina
The estimated total older adult population for Edina is 10,999. This vul-
nerable population makes up 21.5% of the City’s total population and
1/3rd or more of the total vulnerable population in the community. Old-
er adults over 65 are most concentrated in the Southeastern and South
Central sections of the City. These sections represent both the highest
estimated population as well as the highest share of the total population
of these tracts - ranging from 20% to over 44% of the total population of
those neighborhoods.
Older Adults
Estimated Population Share
Source: American Community Survey
5-Year Estimates
Older Adults Summary
Total Estimated Population: 10,999
Estimated Share of Total
Vulnerable Population: 30-34%
Estimated Share of Total
City Population: 21.5%
Edina Climate Vulnerability Assessment 9-5
Vulnerable Populations—Individuals with Disabilities
People with disabilities experience disproportionately higher rates of social risk factors, such as poverty and lower educa-
tional attainment, that contribute to poorer health outcomes during extreme events or climate-related emergencies.
These factors compound the risks posed by functional impairments and disrupt planning and emergency response. Of the
climate-related health risks experienced by people with disabilities, perhaps the most fundamental is their “invisibility” to
decision-makers and planners. Disability refers to any condition or impairment of the body or mind that limits a person’s
ability to do certain activities or restricts a person’s participation in normal life activities, such as school, work, or recrea-
tion.
Individuals with disabilities are particularly sensitive to the following Risks (see Section 6 for Climate Risk information):
Map of Vulnerable Population Distribution Within Community
Observations for Edina
The estimated total population of individuals with disabilities for Edina is
4,682. This vulnerable population makes up 9.2% of the City’s total pop-
ulation. Individuals with disabilities make up approximately 1 in every 7
climate vulnerable individuals in the community . Individuals with disa-
bilities are fairly evenly distributed throughout the City, however, the
Southeastern and South Central sections have the highest concentration
based on share of population. These sections range from 11% to over
18% of the total population of those neighborhoods.
Individuals with Disabilities Summary
Total Estimated Population: 4,682
Estimated Share of Total
Vulnerable Population: 12-16%
Estimated Share of Total
City Population: 9.2%
Individuals with
Disabilities
Estimated Population Share
Source: American Community Survey
5-Year Estimates
Edina Climate Vulnerability Assessment 9-6
Vulnerable Populations—Individuals In Economic Stress
Individuals and families living under economic stress, defined here as “low income” individuals (200% poverty level), are
frequently the most adaptive demographic group in our communities. Those living under economic stress exhibit on-going
adaptation capabilities simply navigating day-to-day challenges with less than needed resources. This adaptive capacity,
however, is overwhelmed in times of emergency as lack of sufficient economic resources greatly reduce the range of op-
tions available in response to crisis. For those in poverty, weather-related disasters or family members falling ill can facili-
tate crippling economic shocks.
With limited economic adaptive capacity, this portion of our population is especially vulnerable to every projected climate
impact. Frequently the most effective measures in avoiding extreme heat such as efficiently functioning air conditioning
or high performing building enclosures are simply not available to those in poverty while many work in outdoor or indus-
trial jobs which are particularly vulnerable to climate conditions. Diseases which may result from exposure to vector-
borne, water-borne, and air-borne pathways may go untreated due to lack of medical access or ability to pay and may
increase the level of economic stress due to missed work days or even loss of employment. Those living under economic
stress usually carry a heavy housing cost burden, including higher utility costs. This burden can be exacerbated from dam-
aged sustained by their home in extreme weather or flooding events.
Individuals experiencing economic stress, defined as those at 200% poverty level (the common definition of “Low In-
come”) are particularly sensitive to the following Climate Risks:
Map of Vulnerable Population Distribution Within Community
Observations for Edina
The estimated total population in economic stress for Edina is 6,175. Those living in economic stress in Edina make up
over 1 in 5 climate vulnerable individuals in the community and are most concentrated in the Eastern, Southeastern and
Northwest sections of the City. These sections represent have the highest share of the total population of these tracts -
Individuals in Economic
Stress
Estimated Population Share
Source: American Community Survey
5-Year Estimates
Individuals in Economic Stress Summary
Total Estimated Population: 6,175
Estimated Share of Total
Vulnerable Population: 16-24%
Estimated Share of Total
City Population: 12.1%
Edina Climate Vulnerability Assessment 9-7
Vulnerable Populations—Individuals In Economic Stress (continued)
Poverty by Age and Gender
4.91% of the population in Edina live below the poverty line. The largest demographic living in poverty is female 75+, fol-
lowed by female 45-54 and then female 55-64. The Census Bureau uses a set of money income thresholds that vary by
family size and composition to determine who classifies is impoverished. If a family's total income is less than the family's
threshold than that family and every individual in it is considered to be living in poverty.
Map of Individuals Living in Poverty Within Community
Individuals in Poverty
Estimated Population Share
Source: American Community Survey
5-Year Estimates
Vulnerable Populations—People of Color
These populations are at increased risk of exposure given their higher likelihood of living in risk-prone areas, areas with
older or poorly maintained infrastructure, or areas with an increased burden of air pollution. As summarized by Angel
Hsu, an environmental policy expert at the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill “Disparities in urban heat exposure as
a direct result of urban planning and design, environmental racism, and the policies such as redlining ... do in fact exist.” In
addition, according to the Center for Disease Control and the National Health Interview Survey these portions of our popu-
lation also experience higher incidence of chronic medical conditions which can be exacerbated by climate change im-
pacts. These populations may also be impeded from preparing, responding, and coping with climate related health risks
due to socioeconomic and education factors, limited transportation, limited access to health education, and social isola-
tion related to language barriers.
People of Color may be particularly sensitive to the following Climate Risks:
Map of Vulnerable Population Distribution Within Community
Observations for Edina
The estimated total people of color population for Edina is 7,188. This
vulnerable population makes up 14.1% of the City’s total population and
approximately 1/4th of the total vulnerable population in the communi-
ty. People of color are most concentrated in the Southeast and Southern
sections of the City. These sections represent both the highest estimat-
ed population as well as the highest share of the total population of
these tracts - ranging from 15% to over 39% of the total population of
those neighborhoods.
Edina Climate Vulnerability Assessment 9-8
People of Color Summary
Total Estimated Population: 7,188
Estimated Share of Total
Vulnerable Population: 20-26%
Estimated Share of Total
City Population: 14.1%
People of Color
Estimated Population Share
Source: American Community Survey
5-Year Estimates
> 36.1%
32.98% - 36.1%
29.88% - 32.98%
26.78% - 29.88%
23.67% - 26.78%
20.57% - 23.67%
17.47% - 20.57%
14.36% - 17.47%
11.26% - 14.36%
8.16% - 11.26%
< 8.16%
Edina Climate Vulnerability Assessment 9-9
Vulnerable Populations—Limited English Speakers
Individuals with limited English language skills may be more socially isolated. Their limited English also likely limits their
access to public information and notifications, potentially resulting in a knowledge gap related to community resources,
programs, or education which may be relevant in preparing for and recovering from climate impacts. In addition, commu-
nication barriers may create challenges for limited English speakers in understanding critical information or instructions
given in public address during an extreme weather event. Though not specifically a “person of color” category, individuals
with limited English frequently overlap with populations of color, making this group potentially doubly vulnerable.
Limited English Speakers may be particularly sensitive to the following Climate Risks:
Map of Vulnerable Population Distribution Within Community
Observations for Edina
The estimated total population of limited English speakers for Edina is
3,170. This vulnerable population makes up 6.2% of the City’s total pop-
ulation. Limited English speakers make up approximately 1 in every 6
climate vulnerable individuals in the community . Limited English speak-
ers are most concentrated in the Southeastern sections of the City.
These sections represent both the highest estimated population as well
as the highest share of the total population of these tracts - ranging from
15% to over 39% of the total population of those neighborhoods.
Limited English Speakers Summary
Total Estimated Population: 3,170
Estimated Share of Total
Vulnerable Population: 10-18%
Estimated Share of Total
City Population: 6.2%
Limited English Speakers
Estimated Population Share
Source: American Community Survey 5-
Year Estimates
Edina Climate Vulnerability Assessment 9-10
Vulnerable Populations—At Risk Workers
Climate change will increase the prevalence and severity of occupational hazards related to environmental exposure. As
our climate changes, we may also experience the emergence of new work related risks. Climate change can be expected
to affect the health of outdoor workers through increases in ambient temperature, more prevalent and longer-lasting heat
waves, degraded air quality, extreme weather, vector-borne diseases, and industrial exposures. Workers affected by cli-
mate change include farmers, ranchers, and other agricultural workers; laborers exposed to hot indoor work environ-
ments; construction workers; paramedics, firefighters and other first responders; and transportation workers. For individ-
uals employed in climate vulnerable jobs who also fall within other vulnerable population categories, the health effects of
climate change can be cumulative. For these individuals, the risks experienced in their work can be exacerbated by expo-
sures associated with poorly insulated housing and lack of air conditioning. Workers may also be exposed to adverse occu-
pational and climate-related conditions that the general public may be more able to avoid, such as direct exposure to ex-
treme heat, extreme weather events, low air quality, or wildfires.
Individuals employed in at-risk occupations may be particularly sensitive to the following Climate Risks:
Map of Vulnerable Population Distribution Within Community
Observations for Edina
The estimated total Edina residents employed in at-risk occupations is
1,879, nearly 8% of all Edina residents who are employed, and over 3.7%
of the City’s total population. At-risk workers make up at least 1 in every
12 climate vulnerable individuals in the City . At-risk workers are most
concentrated in the Eastern and Central sections of the City. The largest
at-risk worker categories are employed in Transportation, Material Mov-
er, Construction, Extraction, and Production jobs.
At-Risk Workers
Estimated Population Share
Source: American Community Survey
5-Year Estimates
At Risk Workers Summary
Total Estimated Population: 1,879
Estimated Share of Total
Vulnerable Population: 5-10%
Estimated Share of Total
City Population: 3.7%
Estimated Share of Total
Worker Population in City: 7.5%
Edina Climate Vulnerability Assessment 9-11
Vulnerable Populations—At Risk Workers (Continued)
Employment by Occupation
From 2017 to 2018, employment in Edina, MN grew at a rate of 2.16%, from 24.7k employees to 25.2k employees. The
most common job groups, by number of people living in Edina, MN, are Management Occupations (4,466 people), Sales &
Related Occupations (3,719 people), and Business & Financial Operations Occupations (2,778 people). This chart illustrates
the share breakdown of the primary jobs held by residents of Edina, MN
Employment by Industries
From 2017 to 2018, employment in Edina, MN grew at a rate of 2.16%, from 24.7k employees to 25.2k employees. The
most common employment sectors for those who live in Edina, MN, are Professional, Scientific, & Technical Services
(3,938 people), Health Care & Social Assistance (3,490 people), and Retail Trade (2,756 people). This chart shows the share
breakdown of the primary industries for residents of Edina, MN, though some of these residents may live in Edina, MN and
work somewhere else. Census data is tagged to a residential address, not a work address.
Employment by Occupation
Employment by Industries
Source: Data USA / Deloitte
Source: Data USA / Deloitte
Edina Climate Vulnerability Assessment 9-12
Vulnerable Populations—Individuals with Possible Food Insecurity
Those in economic stress are also frequently food insecure. In Minnesota, food insecurity affects 1 in 12 adults and 1 in 8
children. Many of the projected climate change impacts are likely to effect agricultural production and distribution, which
in turn, may cause spikes in food costs and increase food and nutrition insecurity among those in economic stress.
Climate change affects agriculture in a number of ways, including through changes in average temperatures, rainfall, and
extreme weather events and heat; changes in pests and diseases; changes in atmospheric carbon dioxide and ground-level
ozone concentrations. These effects can be anticipated regionally as well as worldwide to become more pronounced by
mid-century.
As the food distribution system becomes more stressed, individuals with less readily available access are more likely to be
negatively impacted by the resulting cycles of food shortages and food price increases.
Individuals experiencing food insecurity may be particularly sensitive to the following Climate Risks:
Map of Vulnerable Population Distribution Within Community
Food Access
On the map above, highlighted sections represent low-income census tracts (tracts where 20% or more of the population
is at or below poverty, or where family median incomes are 80% or less of State median) where a significant number (at
least 500 people) or share (at least 33 percent) of residents are distant from the nearest supermarket. In sections which
are green, residents are more than 1 mile (urban) or 10 miles (rural), while in orange sections residents are more than ½
mile (urban) or 10 miles (rural) from nearest supermarket.
None of the census tracts within Edina are identified as regions with significant populations with food access concerns. It
should be noted, however, that portions of the population may have food insecurity which could be identified through a
community wide food security assessment.
Edina Climate Vulnerability Assessment 9-13
Vulnerable Populations—Vehicle Access
Limited mobility due to lack of vehicle access may present challenges during emergency evacuation situations, especially
for individuals in high-risk areas. In addition, limited mobility can inhibit access to cooling stations (public facilities with air
conditioning) during extreme heat events and/or access to hospitals or clinics. In addition, individuals with limited vehicle
access may also be individuals in economic stress or older adults—both vulnerable populations for which mobility chal-
lenges may exacerbate climate vulnerabilities.
Individuals with limited or no vehicle access may be particularly sensitive to the following Climate Risks:
Map of Vulnerable Population Distribution Within Community
Observations for Edina
The estimated total population of individuals with no vehicle access for
Edina is 2,627. This vulnerable population makes up 5.2% of the City’s
total population. Individuals with no vehicle access are most concentrat-
ed in the Southeastern and Northwestner sections of the City. These
sections represent both the highest estimated population as well as the
highest share of the total population of these tracts - ranging from 10%
to over 20% of the total population of those neighborhoods.
No Vehicle Access Summary
Total Estimated Population: 2,672
Estimated Share of Total
Vulnerable Population: 8-12%
Estimated Share of Total
City Population: 5.2%
Individuals With No
Vehicle Access
Estimated Population Share
Source: American Community Survey
5-Year Estimates
Edina Climate Vulnerability Assessment 9-14
Edina Climate Vulnerability Assessment 9-15
Vulnerable Populations—Climate Migrant Populations
In the United States alone, within just a few decades, hundreds of thousands of homes on US coasts will be chronically
flooded. According to a study by the Union of Concerned Scientists, over 170 communities in the United States will be
chronically inundated from sea level rise by the end of this decade. More than half of these 170 communities are current-
ly home to socioeconomically vulnerable neighborhoods.
By 2060 the number may more than double to 360 communities and by 2100 double yet again to over 670 communities
chronically inundated. By that time more than 50 heavily populated areas—including Oakland, California; Miami and St.
Petersburg, Florida; and four of the five boroughs of New York City—will face chronic inundation. These effects of sea
level rise could displace 13,000,000 people within the United States by the end of this century. In addition to these inter-
nal-US climate migrants, the UN forecasts estimate that there could be anywhere between 25 million and 1 billion envi-
ronmental migrants by 2050.
Human migration is a natural response to these climate change pressures, and is one of many adaptation measures that
people will take in response to climate change. Understating how human migration will be affected by climate change is
therefore a critical input in the decision making process of many governments and organizations. In particular, it is im-
portant to understand how climate change driven migration will differ from “business as usual” forms and motivations
humans have to migrate, increasing the volume rate of migration brining with it indirect impacts on the communities likely
to receive migrants.
The impacts of climate migration will cause accelerated changes for inland
areas, particularly urban areas, that will observe much higher levels of in-
coming migrants than they would have without climate impacts. It is pro-
jected that 86% of all communities with populations of over 10,000 will be
impacted with climate migration this century. These changes can in turn
take the form of tighter labor markets and increased housing prices, and
impacts on income inequality. This climate migration can also have positive
impacts such as improved productivity, broadened skillsets within the labor
force, and expanded human capital.
Below are two modeled projections for US climate migration induced by sea level rise (SLR) only through 2100:
(Sources: School of Computational Science and Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, United Nations International Organization on Migration
Hauer, M. Migration induced by sea-level rise could reshape the US population landscape. Nature Clim Change 7, 321–325 (2017). https://
doi.org/10.1038/nclimate3271
Robinson C, Dilkina B, Moreno-Cruz J (2020) Modeling migration patterns in the USA under sea level rise. PLoS ONE 15(1): e0227436.
https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0227436)
Hauer Projection
Migration induced by sea-level rise in US
Robinson Projection
Migration induced by sea-level rise in US
Hennepin County:50,000-100,000
City of Edina
(Pro Rata Share): 2,000-4,000
Edina Climate Vulnerability Assessment 10-1
10
Findings
S e c t i o n
The measure of a country's greatness
should be based on how well it cares for
its most vulnerable populations.
Mahatma Gandhi
“
Findings
Summary of Vulnerabilities
The chart below summarizes the vulnerable population demographics by category for each census tract in the City. The
tracts with the highest two quartiles of each demographic are highlighted in blue. The “Total Instances of Vulnerabilities”
line shows the total instances of vulnerabilities for each census tract, with the tracts in the highest two quartiles highlight-
ed in blue. It should be noted that it is possible for individuals to be members of more than one vulnerable population.
For example, an individual may be both an adult over age 65 as well as an individual living below 200% of poverty level.
Consequently, the “total instances of vulnerabilities does not necessarily represent the numbers of vulnerable individuals
in each tract.”
The “Vulnerability Coefficient” represents the total instances of vulnerabilities divided by the total population of the cen-
sus tract (“Total Population in Tract”) and is a representation of the proportion of total climate vulnerabilities within the
population of the census tract. This number could be thought of as “Density of Vulnerability” meaning a high coefficient
represents a high density of instances of vulnerability compared to the total census tract population. Neighborhoods with
high vulnerability coefficients may represent portions of the community with higher overall need and may possibly be
viewed as neighborhoods the City may prioritize for an action if addressing the portions of the community with the great-
est need was desired. The tracts with Vulnerability Coefficients in the highest two quartiles are highlighted in light red.
The “Share of Total Vulnerability” represents the census tract’s share of the community-wide instances of vulnerability.
This number represents the raw total instances of vulnerabilities without consideration to the size of the overall popula-
tion of the Census Tract. It should be noted that a census tract with a lower Vulnerability Coefficient may still have a large
share of the total instances of vulnerability—particularly in census tracts with relatively high total populations. Census
tracts with high Share of Total Vulnerability can be viewed as neighborhoods the City may prioritize for an action if ad-
dressing the most instances of vulnerability was desired. The tracts with shares of total vulnerability in the highest two
quartiles are highlighted in light red.
Lastly, the chart includes a Composite Rank Score which
represents an average of the Vulnerability Coefficient and
the Share of Total Vulnerability for each census tract. (See
map to right for visualization of Vulnerability Coefficient by
Census Tract). This measure can be viewed as identifying
neighborhoods the City may prioritize for an action if a
balanced approach of addressing both high potential
neighborhood need and addressing the most instances of
vulnerability was desired. The tracts with Composite Rank
scores in the highest two quartiles are highlighted in dark
red.
Edina Climate Vulnerability Assessment 10-3
Summary of Vulnerable Populations by Census Tract
Data Source: US Census
Elders
Vulnerability Coefficient by Census Tract
Findings
Vulnerable Populations Risk Sensitivity Chart
Based on the total estimated population count for each
vulnerable population and considering the risks each de-
mographic is most sensitive to, the population vulnerabili-
ties can be considered from highest sensitivity (more vul-
nerable individuals) to lowest (fewer vulnerable individu-
als) sensitivity. It should be noted that risks which appear
to have lower sensitivity levels should not be considered
irrelevant for the community.
The Vulnerable Population Risk Sensitivity Chart tabulates
the instances of vulnerable population which are particu-
larly sensitive to each of the Climate Risks to the Popula-
tion as outlined in Section 6 and mapped/calculated in
Section 9. The left side of the chart includes all of the pri-
mary climate risks while the right side includes the eco-
nomic climate risks.
Prioritizing Risk and Vulnerabilities
Climate change impacts affect everyone and City policies
and actions should consider climate adaptive needs of the
entire community. As with all planning efforts, climate
adaptation benefits from analysis in order to assist in es-
tablishing priorities for initial efforts. An effort to struc-
ture a prioritization should not be seen as an attempt to
discard the need to address climate impacts for any popu-
lation within the City - whether or not it is defined as one
of the “vulnerable” populations . Prioritization, however,
is necessary to ensure the greatest impact and effective-
ness of limited City resources.
Based on the above review the City’s adaptive efforts may
be most effective by prioritizing strategies which address
the climate risks of Extreme Heat, Air Quality, Flooding,
Power/Infrastructure Failure, and Food Insecurity. Partic-
ular attention should be paid to strategies which are most
effective for Elders over 65, People of Color, and those in
Economic Stress.
Edina Climate Vulnerability Assessment 10-4
Edina Climate Risk
Sensitivity Ranking Summary
Elders
Edina Climate Vulnerability Assessment 10-5
Findings
Projected Economic Impacts of Climate Change
“Estimating economic damage from climate change in the United
States”, a 2017 study completed by Solomon Hsiang and others
from the University of California at Berkeley assessed the economic
impact of current climate projections throughout the United States.
The sectors assessed, and the findings for Hennepin County Minne-
sota and the City of Edina are below:
Agricultural Yields Through 2100 (Graphic A)
Agricultural yields are projected to decline with the increase of
Global Mean Surface Temperature in addition to impacts related to
precipitation changes. Although increased CO2 levels are anticipat-
ed to offset a portion of these yield loses, the impact for much of
the United States will be a net negative. Local projections:
Hennepin County and City of Edina: -20.3%
Energy Expenditures Through 2100 (Graphic C)
As average annual temperatures increase, demand for energy will
increase, resulting in increased energy expenditures. Local projec-
tions:
Hennepin County and City of Edina: +8.5%
Reduced Labor Productivity Through 2100 (Graphics D & E)
Labor productivity declines with the instance of increased tempera-
ture. Rates vary for “low-risk” workers who are predominantly not
exposed to exterior conditions and for “high-risk” workers (those
identified as “At Risk Workers” in Section 9). Local projections:
Low-Risk Labor Loss for
Hennepin County and City of Edina: -0.19%
High-Risk Labor Loss for
Hennepin County and City of Edina: -1.3%
Increases in Crime Rates Through 2100 (Graphics G & H)
Studies indicate property crime increases as the number of cold
days decrease due to the property crime suppression effect cold
days have. Violent crime rates have been shown to increase linear-
ly at a relatively precise 0.88% per 1°C. Local projections:
Property Crime Increase: +2.0%
Violent Crime Increase: : +4.0%
Graphic
Source:
“Estimating
economic
damage from
climate
change in the
United States”
Findings
Total Projected Economic Impacts Through 2100
According to research completed for “Estimating economic damage from climate change in the United States”, a 2017
study completed by Solomon Hsiang and others from the University of California at Berkeley the total annual economic
costs for Hennepin County Minnesota by 2100 will be:
Estimating the total annual economic costs for the City of Edina on a Pro Rata share results in:
Inequity of Economic Impacts Through
2100
According to the study “Estimating eco-
nomic damage from climate change in the
United States”, climate change economic
impacts will increase the unpredictability
and inequity of future economic out-
comes. The projected economic effects
are unequally borne. As the graphic to the
left illustrates, the poorest 10% are likely
to receive 5 to 10 times the negative eco-
nomic impacts of the wealthiest 10% in
the community.
Graphic Source: “Estimating economic damage
from climate change in the United States”
Muir-Wood, Paul Wilson, Michael Oppenhei-
mer, Kate Larsen and Trevor Houser Solomon
Hsiang, Robert Kopp, Amir Jina, James Rising,
Michael Delgado, Shashank Mohan, D. J. Ras-
mussen, Robert DOI: 10.1126/science.aal4369
Science 356 (6345), 1362-1369.
Edina Climate Vulnerability Assessment 10-6
$825,624,691 annually (2018 dollars)
$33,746,268 annually (2018 dollars)
Findings
Estimating Social Cost of Carbon
“Social Cost of Carbon” is an effort to properly account for the damages caused by greenhouse gas emissions and the re-
sulting climate change impacts. By including the social cost of carbon in planning efforts, agencies and businesses can
properly evaluate policies and decisions that affect greenhouse gas emissions. The “Social Cost of Carbon” is measure of
the share of climate change economic harm and impacts from emitting one ton of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.
The “Total Projected Economic Impacts” calculated on the previous page can be used to establish a reasonable localized
social cost of carbon for the community. The methodology is to simply take the projected annual climate impact value and
divide by the current community-wide GHG emissions:
Edina Climate Vulnerability Assessment 10-7
Estimating the
total annual eco-
nomic impact for
the City of Edina ÷ = Current Total
Citywide GHG
Emissions
Localized Social
Cost of Carbon
Edina Climate Vulnerability Assessment 10-8
Findings
Review of Climate Hazards for The Community
A “Climate Hazard” is a physical process or event (hydro-meteorological or oceanographic variables or phenomena) that
can harm human health, livelihoods, or natural resources. Climate Hazards are reviewed based on current hazard level,
anticipated change over time, and projected future hazard level.
The chart below reviews the current, future, and timeline of change for each of the primary Climate Hazards for the City.
In addition, the columns on the right illustrate the reported number of events, % change, and annualized economic impact
of each of these hazards over the last 20 years. Note, the number of events and annualized property losses are based
solely on the number of events reported by NOAA, the actual number is likely to vary.
Edina Climate Vulnerability Assessment 10-9
Findings
Review of Climate Risks for the City of Edina
A “Climate Risk” is the potential for negative consequences and outcomes for human health, systems, or communities.
The most common way of evaluating the level of risk associated is “likelihood of Occurrence” x “Impact Level” or vulnera-
bility. Two charts are provided below. The first reviews the expected impacts, likelihood of occurrence, impact level
based on Population vulnerability reviewed in Section 9 and earlier in Section 10, potential timeframe, and resulting over-
all risk level for Climate Risks to Population (Health Impacts). The second reviews the infrastructural and institutional Cli-
mate Risks to the Community. Each chart includes a brief review of the expected impacts and indicators.
Priority Climate Risks for Edina
The priority climate risks to the population of Edina include Extreme Heat, Flooding, and Air Quality impacts while the pri-
ority climate risks to infrastructure/institutions include Land Use Planning, Buildings, Roads, and Energy impacts.
Health Risks to Population
Climate Risks to Infrastructure and Institutions
Edina Climate Vulnerability Assessment 10-8
Photo Tanner Ford via Flickr
Edina Climate Vulnerability Assessment A1-1
A1
Appendix 1
Local Climate Risks
to the Environment
S e c t i o n
Edina Climate Vulnerability Assessment A1-2
Local Climate Risks To The Environment
Climate change projections for the Community represent potential risks. The types of risks can be organized into risks to
the environment and ecosystems and risks to the population. The following is an overview of the potential risks posed by
climate change for the region:
Warmer summers
Pollution control risks:
Wildfires may lead to soil erosion
Habitat risks:
Greater evaporation
Lower groundwater tables
Switching public water supply between surface and ground-
water sources may affect the integrity of water bodies
Fish Wildlife and Plant risks:
Species that won’t tolerate warmer summers may die/
migrate
Biota at the southern limit of their range may disappear
from ecosystems
Species may be weakened by heat and become out-
competed
Essential food sources may die off or disappear, affecting
the food web
Species may need to consume more water as temperature
rises
Recreation and Public Water Supply Risks:
More people using water for recreation may raise the po-
tential for pathogen exposure
Warmer temperatures may drive greater water demand
Evaporation losses from reservoirs and groundwater may
increase
Warmer winters
Pollution Control risks:
Increased fertilizer and pesticide use due to longer growing
season.
Warmer winters result in more ice and freeze thaw re-
sulting in greater chloride application and more permanent
damage to local water bodies due to increased salt concen-
trations.
Habitat risks:
Less snow, more rain may change the runoff/infiltration
balance; base flow in streams may change
Changing spring runoff with varying snow.
Fish Wildlife and Plant risks:
Species that used to migrate away may stay all winter and
species that once migrated through may stop and stay
Pests may survive winters that used to kill them and inva-
sive species may move into places that used to be too cold
Some plants need a “setting” cold temperature and may
not receive it consistently
A longer growing season may lead to an extra reproductive
cycle
Food supplies and bird migrations may be mistimed
Recreation and Public Water Supply Risks:
Summer water supplies that depend on winter snow pack
may be reduced or disappear
Cold places may see more freeze/thaw cycles that can
affect infrastructure
Warmer water
Pollution Control risks:
Temperature criteria for discharges may be exceeded
(thermal pollution)
Warmer temperatures may increase toxicity of pollutants
Higher solubility may lead to higher concentration of pollu-
tants
Water may hold less dissolved oxygen
Higher surface temperatures may lead to stratification
Greater algae growth may occur
Parasites, bacteria may have greater survival or transmis-
sion
Habitat risks:
Warmer water may lead to greater likelihood of stratifica-
tion
Desired fish may no longer be present
Warmer water may promote invasive species or disease
Fish Wildlife and Plant risks:
Newly invasive species may appear
Habitat may become unsuitably warm, for a species or its
food
Heat may stress immobile biota
Oxygen capacity of water may drop
Edina Climate Vulnerability Assessment A1-3
Local Climate Risks To The Environment
Some fish reproduction may require cold temperatures;
other reproductive cycles are tied to water temperature
Parasites and diseases are enhanced by warmer water
Fish resource food harvesting, Recreation, and Public Wa-
ter Supply Risks:
Harmful algal blooms may be more likely
Fishing seasons and fish may become misaligned
Desired recreational fish may no longer be present
Invasive plants may clog creeks and waterways
Changes in treatment processes may be required
Increased growth of algae and microbes may affect drinking
water quality
Increased drought
Pollution Control risks:
Critical-low-flow criteria for discharging may not be met
Pollutant concentrations may increase if sources stay the
same and flow diminishes
Pollution sources may build up on land, followed by high-
intensity flushes
Habitat risks:
Groundwater tables may drop
Base flow in streams may decrease
Stream water may become warmer
Increased human use of groundwater during drought may
reduce stream baseflow
New water supply reservoirs may affect the integrity of
freshwater streams
Fish Wildlife and Plant risks:
Species may not tolerate a new drought regime (birch fami-
ly)
Native habitat may be affected if freshwater flow in
streams is diminished or eliminated
Recreation and Public Water Supply Risks:
Freshwater flows in streams may not support recreational
uses
Groundwater tables may drop
Maintaining passing flows at diversions may be difficult
Increased storminess
Pollution Control risks:
Combined sewer overflows may increase
Treatment plants may go offline during intense floods
Streams may see greater erosion and scour
Urban areas may be subject to more floods
Flood control facilities (e.g., detention basins, manure man-
agement) may be inadequate
High rainfall may cause septic systems to fail
Habitat risks:
The number of storms reaching an intensity that causes
significant problems may increase
Stronger storms may cause more intense flooding and run-
off
Turbidity of surface waters may increase
Increased intensity of precipitation may yield less infiltra-
tion
Stream erosion may lead to high turbidity and greater sedi-
mentation
Lower pH from NPS pollution may affect target species
Fish Wildlife and Plant risks:
Greater soil erosion may increase turbidity and decrease
water clarity
Greater soil erosion may increase sediment deposition in
estuaries, with consequences for benthic species
Recreation and Public Water Supply Risks:
More frequent or more intense storms may decrease recre-
ational opportunities
Greater nonpoint source pollution may impair recreation
Water infrastructure may be vulnerable to flooding
Flood waters may raise downstream turbidity and affect
water quality
(Source: USEPA “Being Prepared for Climate Change A
Workbook for Developing Risk-Based Adaptation Plans”)
Edina Climate Vulnerability Assessment A2-1
A2
Appendix 2
Climate Adaptive
Tree Species
(A document by the
National Institute of
Applied Climate Sci-
ence of the USDA
Forest Service)
S e c t i o n
Edina Climate Vulnerability Assessment A3-1
A3 S e c t i o n
Appendix 4
Glossary of Climate
Adaptation and
Vulnerability Terms
Climate and Sustainability Glossary of Terms
1
A
Activity Data Data on the magnitude of a human activity resulting in emissions or removals taking place during a given period of
time. Data on energy use, metal production, land areas, management systems, lime and fertilizer use and waste
arisings are examples of activity data. (IPCC)
Adaptive Capacity
The social, technical skills, and financial capacities of individuals and groups to implement and maintain climate
actions.
Aerosols
A collection of airborne solid or liquid particles, with a typical size between 0.01 and 10 micrometer that reside in the atmosphere for at least several hours. Aerosols may be of either natural or anthropogenic origin. Aerosols may
influence climate in several ways: directly through scattering and absorbing radiation, and indirectly by acting as
cloud condensation nuclei or modifying the optical properties and lifetime of clouds. (IPCC2)
Afforestation Planting of new forests on lands that historically have not contained forests. (IPCC2)
Air Pollutant
Any man-made and/or natural substance occurring in the atmosphere that may result in adverse effects to
humans, animals, vegetation, and/or materials. (CARB)
Anthropogenic
The term "anthropogenic", in the context of greenhouse gas inventories, refers to greenhouse gas emissions and
removals that are a direct result of human activities or are the result of natural processes that have been affected
by human activities. (USEPA2)
Atmosphere
The gaseous envelope surrounding the Earth. The dry atmosphere consists almost entirely of nitrogen (78.1%
volume mixing ratio) and oxygen (20.9% volume mixing ratio), together with a number of trace gases, such as
argon (0.93% volume mixing ratio), helium and radiatively active greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide (0.035%
volume mixing ratio) and ozone. In addition, the atmosphere contains the greenhouse gas water vapor, whose
amounts are highly variable but typically around 1% volume mixing ratio. The atmosphere also contains clouds and
aerosols. (IPCC2)
B Baseline Emissions
A baseline is a measurement, calculation, or time used as a basis for comparison. Baseline emissions are the level
of emissions that would occur without policy intervention or without implementation of a project. Baseline
estimates are needed to determine the effectiveness of emission reduction programs (also called mitigation strategies).
Base Year
The starting year for the inventory. Targets for reducing GHG emissions are often defined in relation to the base
year.
Biogenic
Produced by the biological processes of living organisms. Note that we use the term "biogenic" to refer only to
recently produced (that is non-fossil) material of biological origin. IPCC guidelines recommend that peat be treated
as a fossil carbon because it takes a long time to replace harvested peat.
Climate and Sustainability Glossary of Terms
2
Biogeochemical Cycle Movements through the Earth system of key chemical constituents essential to life, such as carbon, nitrogen,
oxygen, and phosphorus. (NASA)
Biomass
Either (1) the total mass of living organisms in a given area or of a given species usually expressed as dry weight; or
(2) Organic matter consisting of or recently derived from living organisms (especially regarded as fuel) excluding
peat. Includes products, by-products and waste derived from such material. (IPCC1)
Biomass Waste
Organic non-fossil material of biological origin that is a byproduct or a discarded product. "Biomass waste" includes
municipal solid waste from biogenic sources, landfill gas, sludge waste, agricultural crop byproducts, straw, and
other biomass solids, liquids, and gases; but excludes wood and wood-derived fuels (including black liquor),
biofuels feedstock, biodiesel, and fuel ethanol. Note: EIA "biomass waste" data also include energy crops grown
specifically for energy production, which would not normally constitute waste. (EIA)
Black Carbon
Operationally defined aerosol species based on measurement of light absorption and chemical reactivity and/or
thermal stability; consists of soot, charcoal and/or possible light absorbing refractory organic matter (Charlson and
Heintzenberg, 1995, p. 401). (IPCC2)
C
Carbon Cycle
All parts (reservoirs) and fluxes of carbon. The cycle is usually thought of as four main reservoirs of carbon
interconnected by pathways of exchange. The reservoirs are the atmosphere, terrestrial biosphere (usually includes freshwater systems), oceans, and sediments (includes fossil fuels). The annual movements of carbon, the
carbon exchanges between reservoirs, occur because of various chemical, physical, geological, and biological
processes. The ocean contains the largest pool of carbon near the surface of the Earth, but most of that pool is not
involved with rapid exchange with the atmosphere. (NASA)
Carbon Dioxide (CO2)
A naturally occurring gas, and also a by-product of burning fossil fuels and biomass, as well as land-use changes
and other industrial processes. It is the principal anthropogenic greenhouse gas that affects the Earth's radiative
balance. It is the reference gas against which other greenhouse gases are measured and therefore has a Global
Warming Potential of 1. (IPCC2)\
Carbon Dioxide Equivalent (CO2e)
A metric used to compare emissions of various greenhouse gases. It is the mass of carbon dioxide that would
produce the same estimated radiative forcing as a given mass of another greenhouse gas. Carbon dioxide
equivalents are computed by multiplying the mass of the gas emitted by its global warming potential.
Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP)
An international organization that administers a platform for organizations and cities to publicly disclose their
environmental impacts, such as climate risk. CDP is one of the approved disclosure platforms utilized by GCoM.
Carbon Emissions
The release of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. Primary human sources of the release of carbon dioxide occur
from burning oil, coal, and gas for energy use.
Climate and Sustainability Glossary of Terms
3
Carbon Equivalent (CE)
A metric measure used to compare the emissions of the different greenhouse gases based upon their global warming potential. Carbon equivalents can be calculated from to carbon dioxide equivalents by multiplying the
carbon dioxide equivalents by 12/44 (the ratio of the molecular weight of carbon to that of carbon dioxide). The
use of carbon equivalent is declining in GHG inventories.
Carbon Intensity
The amount of carbon by weight emitted per unit of energy consumed. A common measure of carbon intensity is
weight of carbon per British thermal unit (Btu) of energy. When there is only one fossil fuel under consideration,
the carbon intensity and the emissions coefficient are identical. When there are several fuels, carbon intensity is
based on their combined emissions coefficients weighted by their energy consumption levels. (EIA)
Carbon Neutrality
For the purposes of the Plan, Carbon Neutrality refers to the point at which the organization / organization’s net
greenhouse gas emissions reach 0. This will likely be achieved through a combination of reducing emission sources
and offsetting and sequestering any remaining emissions.
Carbon Sinks
A forest, ocean, or other natural environment viewed in terms of its
ability to absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.
Carbon Sequestration
This refers to the capture of CO2 from the atmosphere and its long term storage in oceans (oceanic carbon
sequestration), in biomass and soils (terrestrial carbon sequestration) or in underground reservoirs (geologic
carbon sequestration).
Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs)
Greenhouse gases covered under the 1987 Montreal Protocol and used for refrigeration, air conditioning,
packaging, insulation, solvents, or aerosol propellants. Because they are not destroyed in the lower atmosphere,
CFCs drift into the upper atmosphere where, given suitable conditions, they break down ozone. These gases are
being replaced by other compounds, including hydrochlorofluorocarbons and hydrofluorocarbons, which are
greenhouse gases covered under the Kyoto Protocol. (IPCC3)
Circular Economy
An alternative to a traditional linear economy (make, use, dispose) in which an economy is a regenerative system
where resource input and waste are minimized. This is achieved through long-lasting product design, repair, reuse,
remanufacturing, and recycling. Circular economy strategies are often cited as systems level approaches to
reducing waste generation through product and system design.
Climate
Climate in a narrow sense is usually defined as the "average weather" or more rigorously as the statistical
description in terms of the mean and variability of relevant quantities over a period of time ranging from months
to thousands or millions of years. The classical period is 30 years, as defined by the World Meteorological
Organization (WMO). These relevant quantities are most often surface variables such as temperature,
precipitation, and wind. Climate in a wider sense is the state, including a statistical description, of the climate system. (IPCC2)
Climate Adaptation or Resilience
The capacity of a natural environment to prevent, withstand, respond to, and recover from a disruption. The
process of adjusting to new climate conditions in order to reduce risks to valued assets.
Climate and Sustainability Glossary of Terms
4
Climate Change
Climate change refers to a statistically significant variation in either the mean state of the climate or in its variability, persisting for an extended period (typically decades or longer). Climate change may be due to natural
internal processes or external forcings, or to persistent anthropogenic changes in the composition of the
atmosphere or in land use. (IPCC2)
Climate Hazard
An extreme climate event or condition that can harm human health, livelihoods, or natural resources. It can
include abrupt changes to the climate system such as extreme precipitation, storms, droughts, and heat waves.
Climate Risk
The potential for consequences where something of value is at stake and where the outcome is uncertain,
recognizing the diversity of values. Risk is often represented as probability of occurrence of hazardous events or
trends multiplied by the impacts if these events or trends occur. Risk results from the interaction of vulnerability
and hazard. (IPCC):
Climate Vulnerability
Is the degree to which a system is susceptible to, and unable to cope with, adverse effects of climate change,
including climate variability and extremes. Vulnerability is a function of the character, magnitude and rate of
climate change and variation to which a system is exposed, its sensitivity, and its capacity to adapt.
Vulnerability = potential impact (sensitivity x exposure) – adaptive capacity (IPCC):
Climate Vulnerability Assessment
A report used to identify and define the risks posed by climate change and inform adaptation measures needed to
combat climate change. Reports can be about a wide range of fields including food security, poverty analysis, and
extreme weather events.
Cogeneration
Cogeneration is an industrial structure, installation, plant, building, or self-generating facility that has sequential or
simultaneous generation of multiple forms of useful energy (usually mechanical and thermal) in a single,
integrated system. (CARB)
Combined Heat and Power (CHP)
Combined heat and power is the simultaneous production of both electricity and useful heat for application by the
producer or to be sold to other users with the aim of better utilisation of the energy used. Public utilities may
utilise part of the heat produced in power plants and sell it for public heating purposes. Industries as auto-
producers may sell part of the excess electricity produced to other industries or to electric utilities. (IPCC)
Community Solar
Solar facilities shared by multiple community subscribers who receive credit on their electricity bills for their share
of the power produced. Community solar allows members of a community to share the benefits of solar power on
their property without installing it on their own property. Electricity generated by the community solar farm
typically costs less than the price from utility companies.
Complete Streets
A “complete street” is a design approach that requires streets to be designed to support safe,
convenient and comfortable travel and access for users of all ages and abilities regardless of their mode
of transportation.
Climate and Sustainability Glossary of Terms
5
Consistency
Consistency means that an inventory should be internally consistent in all its elements over a period of years. An inventory is consistent if the same methodologies are used for the base and all subsequent years and if consistent
data sets are used to estimate emissions or removals from sources or sinks. (IPCC)
Continuous Emission Monitor (CEM)
A type of air emission monitoring system installed to operate continuously inside of a smokestack or other
emission source. (CARB)
Criteria Air Pollutant
An air pollutant for which acceptable levels of exposure can be determined and for which an ambient air quality
standard has been set. Examples include: ozone, carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide, and PM10 and
PM2.5. The term "criteria air pollutants" derives from the requirement that the U.S. EPA must describe the
characteristics and potential health and welfare effects of these pollutants. The U.S. EPA and CARB periodically
review new scientific data and may propose revisions to the standards as a result. (CARB)
D Deforestation
Those practices or processes that result in the change of forested lands to non-forest uses. This is often cited as
one of the major causes of the enhanced greenhouse effect for two reasons: 1) the burning or decomposition of
the wood releases carbon dioxide; and 2) trees that once removed carbon dioxide from the atmosphere in the process of photosynthesis are no longer present and contributing to carbon storage. (UNFCC)
Distillate Fuel Oil
A general classification for one of the petroleum fractions produced in conventional distillation operations. It
includes diesel fuels and fuel oils. Products known as No. 1, No. 2, and No. 4 diesel fuel are used in on-highway diesel engines, such as those in trucks and automobiles, as well as off-highway engines, such as those in railroad
locomotives and agricultural machinery. Products known as No. 1, No. 2, and No. 4 fuel oils are used primarily for
space heating and electric power generation. (EIA)
E Emissions
The release of a substance (usually a gas when referring to the subject of climate change) into the atmosphere.
(USEPA1)
Emission Factor
A coefficient that quantifies the emissions or removals of a gas per unit activity. Emission factors are often based
on a sample of measurement data, averaged to develop a representative rate of emission for a given activity level
under a given set of operating conditions. (IPCC)
Emission Inventory
An estimate of the amount of pollutants emitted into the atmosphere from major mobile, stationary, area-wide,
and natural source categories over a specific period of time such as a day or a year. (CARB)
Emission Rate
The weight of a pollutant emitted per unit of time (e.g., tons / year). (CARB)
Environmental Justice
The fair treatment and meaningful involvement of all people regardless of race, color, national origin, or income
with respect to the development, implementation and enforcement of environmental laws, regulations and
policies
Climate and Sustainability Glossary of Terms
6
Estimation Estimation is the assessment of the value of an unmeasurable quantity using available data and knowledge within
stated computational formulas or mathematical models.
F
Fluorocarbons
Carbon-fluorine compounds that often contain other elements such as hydrogen, chlorine, or bromine. Common
fluorocarbons include chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs),
and perfluorocarbons (PFCs). (UNFCC)
Flux
Either (1) Raw materials, such as limestone, dolomite, lime, and silica sand, which are used to reduce the heat or
other energy requirements of thermal processing of minerals (such as the smelting of metals). Fluxes also may
serve a dual function as a slagging agent. (2) The rate of flow of any liquid or gas, across a given area; the amount
of this crossing a given area in a given time. (e.g., "Flux of CO2 absorbed by forests"). (IPCC)
Fossil Fuel
Geologic deposits of hydrocarbons from ancient biological origin, such as coal, petroleum and natural gas.
Fuel Combustion
Fuel combustion is the intentional oxidation of materials within an apparatus that is designed to provide heat or
mechanical work to a process, or for use away from the apparatus. (IPCC)
Fugitive Emissions
Emissions that are not emitted through an intentional release through stack or vent. This can include leaks from industrial plant and pipelines. (IPCC)
G
Geologic Carbon Sequestration
It is the process of injecting CO2 from a source, such as coal-fired electric generating power plant, through a well into the deep subsurface. With proper site selection and management, geologic sequestration could play a major
role in reducing emissions of CO2. Research efforts to evaluate the technical aspects of CO2 geologic sequestration
are underway. (USEPA4)
Global Warming
Global warming is an average increase in the temperature of the atmosphere near the Earth's surface and in the
troposphere, which can contribute to changes in global climate patterns. Global warming can occur from a variety
of causes, both natural and human induced. In common usage, "global warming" often refers to the warming that
can occur as a result of increased emissions of greenhouse gases from human activities. Also see Climate Change
(USEPA1)
Global Warming Potential (GWP)
An index, based upon radiative properties of well-mixed greenhouse gases, measuring the radiative forcing of a
unit mass of a given well-mixed greenhouse gas in the present-day atmosphere integrated over a chosen time
horizon, relative to that of carbon dioxide. The GWP represents the combined effect of the differing times these
gases remain in the atmosphere and their relative effectiveness in absorbing outgoing thermal infrared radiation.
The Kyoto Protocol is based on GWPs from pulse emissions over a 100-year time frame. (IPCC2)
GCOM Global Covenant of Mayors:
GCoM is the largest global alliance for city climate leadership, built upon the commitment of over 10,000 cities and
Climate and Sustainability Glossary of Terms
7
local governments. The alliance’s mission is to mobilize and support climate and energy action in communities
across the world.
Green Streets
A “green street” is a stormwater management approach that incorporates vegetation, soil, and
engineered systems to slow, filter, and cleanse stormwater runoff from impervious surfaces.
Greenhouse Effect
Trapping and build-up of heat in the atmosphere (troposphere) near the earth's surface. Some of the heat flowing
back toward space from the earth's surface is absorbed by water vapor, carbon dioxide, ozone, and several other
gases in the atmosphere and then reradiated back toward the earth's surface. If the atmospheric concentrations of
these greenhouse gases rise, the average temperature of the lower atmosphere will gradually increase. (UNFCC)
Global Protocol for Community-Scale Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventories:
A robust, transparent and globally-accepted framework that cities and local governments can use to consistently
identify, calculate and report on city greenhouse gas emissions.
Greenhouse Gas
Any gas that absorbs infrared radiation in the atmosphere. Greenhouse gases include, but are not limited to, water
vapor, carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), nitrous oxide (N2O), hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), ozone (O3),
hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), perfluorocarbons (PFCs), and sulfur hexafluoride (SF6). (UNFCC)
Green Infrastructure
An approach to managing precipitation by reducing and treating stormwater at its source while delivering environmental, social, and economic benefits. Stormwater runoff can carry trash, bacteria, and other pollutants
and is a major cause of water pollution in urban areas.
Gross Domestic Product (GDP)
The sum of gross value added, at purchasers' prices, by all resident and non-resident producers in the economy,
plus any taxes and minus any subsidies not included in the value of the products in a country or a geographic region for a given period, normally one year. It is calculated without deducting for depreciation of fabricated assets
or depletion and degradation of natural resources. (IPCC3)
H
Halocarbons
A collective term for the group of partially halogenated organic species, including the chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs),
hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), halons, methyl chloride, methyl bromide, etc.
Many of the halocarbons have large Global Warming Potentials. The chlorine and bromine-containing halocarbons
are also involved in the depletion of the ozone layer. (IPCC2)
Hydrocarbons
Strictly defined as molecules containing only hydrogen and carbon. The term is often used more broadly to include
any molecules in petroleum which also contains molecules with S, N, or O An unsaturated hydrocarbon is any
hydrocarbon containing olefinic or aromatic structures. (IPCC)
Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs)
Compounds containing only hydrogen, fluorine, and carbon atoms. They were introduced as alternatives to ozone
depleting substances in serving many industrial, commercial, and personal needs. HFCs are emitted as by-products
of industrial processes and are also used in manufacturing. They do not significantly deplete the stratospheric
ozone layer, but they are powerful greenhouse gases with global warming potentials ranging from 140 (HFC-152a)
to 11,700 (HFC-23). (USEPA1)
Climate and Sustainability Glossary of Terms
8
I
ICLEI Local Governments for Sustainability: A membership organization for local governments to pursue reductions in carbon pollution and improvements in
advancing sustainable urban development. ICLEI’s members and team of experts work together through peer
exchange, partnerships and capacity building to create systemic change for urban sustainability.
Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change
The IPCC was established jointly by the United Nations Environment Programme and the World Meteorological
Organization in 1988. The purpose of the IPCC is to assess information in the scientific and technical literature
related to all significant components of the issue of climate change. The IPCC draws upon hundreds of the world's
expert scientists as authors and thousands as expert reviewers. Leading experts on climate change and
environmental, social, and economic sciences from some 60 nations have helped the IPCC to prepare periodic
assessments of the scientific underpinnings for understanding global climate change and its consequences. With its
capacity for reporting on climate change, its consequences, and the viability of adaptation and mitigation
measures, the IPCC is also looked to as the official advisory body to the world's governments on the state of the
science of the climate change issue. For example, the IPCC organized the development of internationally accepted methods for conducting national greenhouse gas emission inventories. (USEPA1)
K
Kilowatt Hour (kWh):
A measure of electrical energy equivalent to a power consumption of 1,000 watts for one hour.
Kyoto Protocol
The Kyoto Protocol to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) was adopted in
1997 in Kyoto, Japan, at the Third Session of the Conference of the Parties (COP) to the UNFCCC. It contains legally
binding commitments, in addition to those included in the UNFCCC. Countries included in Annex B of the Protocol (most Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development countries and countries with economies in
transition) agreed to reduce their anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions (carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous
oxide, hydrofluorocarbons, perfluorocarbons, and sulphur hexafluoride) by at least 5% below 1990 levels in the
commitment period 2008 to 2012. The Kyoto Protocol entered into force on 16 February 2005. (IPCC2)
L
Land Use and Land Use Change
Land use refers to the total of arrangements, activities and inputs undertaken in a certain land cover type (a set of
human actions). The term land use is also used in the sense of the social and economic purposes for which land is
managed (e.g., grazing, timber extraction and conservation). Land use change refers to a change in the use or
management of land by humans, which may lead to a change in land cover. Land cover and land use change may
have an impact on the surface albedo, evapotranspiration, sources and sinks of greenhouse gases, or other
properties of the climate system and may thus have a radiative forcing and/or other impacts on climate, locally or
globally. (IPCC2)
Living Streets
A “living street” combines the concepts of complete streets and green streets while putting additional
focus on quality of life aspects for City residents.
LULUCF
Acronym for "Land Use, Land Use Change and Forestry", a category of activities in GHG inventories.
M Megawatt Hour (MWH):
A measure of electrical energy equivalent to a power consumption of 1,000,000 watts for one hour.
Climate and Sustainability Glossary of Terms
9
Methane (CH4) A hydrocarbon that is a greenhouse gas with a global warming potential most recently estimated at 25 times that
of carbon dioxide (CO2). Methane is produced through anaerobic (without oxygen) decomposition of waste in
landfills, flooded rice fields, animal digestion, decomposition of animal wastes, production and distribution of
natural gas and petroleum, coal production, and incomplete fossil fuel combustion. The GWP is from the IPCC's
Fourth Assessment Report (AR4).
Metric Ton
The tonne (t) or metric ton, sometimes referred to as a metric tonne, is an international unit of mass. A metric ton
is equal to a Megagram (Mg), 1000 kilograms, 2204.6 pounds, or 1.1023 short tons.
Million Metric Tons (MMT)
Common measurement used in GHG inventories. It is equal to a Teragram (Tg).
Mitigation: Actions taken to limit the magnitude or rate of long-term global warming and its related effects. Climate change
mitigation generally involves reductions in human emissions of greenhouse gases.
Mobile Sources
Sources of air pollution such as automobiles, motorcycles, trucks, off-road vehicles, boats, and airplanes. (CARB)
Mode Share
The percentage of travelers using a particular type of transportation. Modal share is an important component in
developing sustainable transport within a city or region because it reveals the level of utilization of various
transportation methods. The percentage reflects how well infrastructure, policies, investments, and land-use patterns support different types of travel.
Model
A model is a quantitatively-based abstraction of a real-world situation which may simplify or neglect certain
features to better focus on its more important elements. (IPCC)
Municipal Solid Waste (MSW)
Residential solid waste and some non-hazardous commercial, institutional, and industrial wastes. This material is
generally sent to municipal landfills for disposal. (USEPA1)
N
Natural Sources
Non-manmade emission sources, including biological and geological sources, wildfires, and windblown dust.
(CARB)
Net-zero Emissions (NZE)
Building A building or property that generates or offsets all energy consumed. If the City develops a NZE building
code, this definition will have to be refined to provide additional guidance on calculating emissions and offsets to
achieve net-zero emissions.
Nitrogen Fixation
Conversion of atmospheric nitrogen gas into forms useful to plants and other organisms by lightning, bacteria, and
blue-green algae; it is part of the nitrogen cycle. (UNFCC)
Climate and Sustainability Glossary of Terms
10
Nitrogen Oxides (NOx)
Gases consisting of one molecule of nitrogen and varying numbers of oxygen molecules. Nitrogen oxides are produced in the emissions of vehicle exhausts and from power stations. In the atmosphere, nitrogen oxides can
contribute to formation of photochemical ozone (smog), can impair visibility, and have health consequences; they
are thus considered pollutants. (NASA)
Nitrous Oxide (N2O)
A powerful greenhouse gas with a global warming potential of 298 times that of carbon dioxide (CO2). Major
sources of nitrous oxide include soil cultivation practices, especially the use of commercial and organic fertilizers,
manure management, fossil fuel combustion, nitric acid production, and biomass burning. The GWP is from the
IPCC's Fourth Assessment Report (AR4).
O
Ozone (O3)
Ozone, the triatomic form of oxygen (O3), is a gaseous atmospheric constituent. In the troposphere, it is created
both naturally and by photochemical reactions involving gases resulting from human activities (smog).
Tropospheric ozone acts as a greenhouse gas. In the stratosphere, it is created by the interaction between solar
ultraviolet radiation and molecular oxygen (O2). Stratospheric ozone plays a dominant role in the stratospheric
radiative balance. Its concentration is highest in the ozone layer. (IPCC2)
Ozone Depleting Substances (ODS)
A compound that contributes to stratospheric ozone depletion. Ozone-depleting substances (ODS) include CFCs,
HCFCs, halons, methyl bromide, carbon tetrachloride, and methyl chloroform. ODS are generally very stable in the
troposphere and only degrade under intense ultraviolet light in the stratosphere. When they break down, they
release chlorine or bromine atoms, which then deplete ozone. (IPCC)
P
Perfluorocarbons (PFCs)
A group of human-made chemicals composed of carbon and fluorine only. These chemicals (predominantly CF4 and
C2F6) were introduced as alternatives, along with hydrofluorocarbons, to the ozone depleting substances. In
addition, PFCs are emitted as by-products of industrial processes and are also used in manufacturing. PFCs do not harm the stratospheric ozone layer, but they are powerful greenhouse gases: CF4 has a global warming potential
(GWP) of 7,390 and C2F6 has a GWP of 12,200. The GWP is from the IPCC's Fourth Assessment Report (AR4).
Photosynthesis
The process by which plants take carbon dioxide from the air (or bicarbonate in water) to build carbohydrates,
releasing oxygen in the process. There are several pathways of photosynthesis with different responses to
atmospheric carbon dioxide concentrations. (IPCC2)
Point Sources
Specific points of origin where pollutants are emitted into the atmosphere such as factory smokestacks. (CARB)
Power Purchase Agreement (PPA)
A power purchase agreement (PPA), or electricity power agreement, is a contract between two parties; one party
generates electricity (the seller) and the other party looks to purchase electricity (the buyer). Individual customers
and organizations may enter into PPAs with individual developers or may join together to seek better prices
as a group. PPAs can allow longer term commitments to renewable energy as well as a form of “direct” investing in
new renewable energy generation.
Property-Assessed Clean Energy (PACE)
Climate and Sustainability Glossary of Terms
11
A program created for financing energy efficiency and renewable improvements on private property. Private
property can include residential, commercial or industrial properties. Improvements can include energy efficiency, renewable energy and water conservation upgrades to a building.
Process Emissions
Emissions from industrial processes involving chemical transformations other than combustion. (IPCC)
R
Radiative Forcing
A change in the balance between incoming solar radiation and outgoing infrared (i.e., thermal) radiation. Without
any radiative forcing, solar radiation coming to the Earth would continue to be approximately equal to the infrared
radiation emitted from the Earth. The addition of greenhouse gases to the atmosphere traps an increased fraction
of the infrared radiation, reradiating it back toward the surface of the Earth and thereby creates a warming
influence. (UNFCC)
Reforestation
Planting of forests on lands that have previously contained forests but that have been converted to some other
use. (IPCC2)
Regeneration
The act of renewing tree cover by establishing young trees, naturally or artificially - note regeneration usually
maintains the same forest type and is done promptly after the previous stand or forest was removed. (CSU)
Renewable Energy
Energy resources that are naturally replenishing such as solar, wind, hydro and geothermal energy.
Renewable Energy Credits (RECs)
A market-based instrument that represents the property rights to the environmental, social and other non-power
attributes of renewable electricity generation. RECs are issued when one megawatt-hour (MWh) of electricity is
generated and delivered to the electricity grid from a renewable energy resource. The single largest category of
reductions in Evanston’s emissions has been through the purchase of RECs.
Residence Time
Average time spent in a reservoir by an individual atom or molecule. Also, this term is used to define the age of a
molecule when it leaves the reservoir. With respect to greenhouse gases, residence time usually refers to how long
a particular molecule remains in the atmosphere. (UNFCC)
Reservoir
Either (1) a component or components of the climate system where a greenhouse gas or a precursor of a
greenhouse gas is stored; or (2) Water bodies regulated for human activities (energy production, irrigation,
navigation, recreation etc.) where substantial changes in water area due to water level regulation may occur.
(IPCC)
Respiration
The process whereby living organisms convert organic matter to carbon dioxide, releasing energy and consuming
molecular oxygen. (IPCC2)
Retro-commissioning
The systematic process to improve an existing building’s performance ensuring the building controls are running
efficiently and balancing the designed use and the actual use of the building.
Climate and Sustainability Glossary of Terms
12
Ride-share
The practice of sharing transportation in the form of carpooling or vanpooling. It is typically an arrangement made through a ride-matching service that connects drivers with riders.
S
Scope 1:
Scope 1 includes emissions being released within the city limits resulting from combustion of fossil fuels and from
waste decomposition in the landfill and wastewater treatment plant.
Scope 2:
Scope 2 includes emissions produced outside the city that are induced by consumption of electrical energy within
the city limits.
Scope 3:
Scope 3 includes emissions of potential policy relevance to local government operations that can be measured and
reported but do not qualify as Scope 1 or 2. This includes, but is not limited to, outsourced operations and employee commute.
Short Ton
Common measurement for a ton in the United States. A short ton is equal to 2,000 lbs or 0.907 metric tons.
(USEPA1)
Sink
Any process, activity or mechanism that removes a greenhouse gas, an aerosol or a precursor of a greenhouse gas
or aerosol from the atmosphere. (IPCC2)
Social Cost of Carbon
The social cost of carbon is a measure of the economic harm from climate change impacts, expressed as the dollar
value of the total damages from emitting one ton of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.
Solar Radiation
Electromagnetic radiation emitted by the Sun. It is also referred to as shortwave radiation. Solar radiation has a
distinctive range of wavelengths (spectrum) determined by the temperature of the Sun, peaking in visible
wavelengths. (IPCC2)
Source
Any process, activity or mechanism that releases a greenhouse gas, an aerosol or a precursor of a greenhouse gas
or aerosol into the atmosphere. (IPCC2)
Stationary Sources
Non-mobile sources such as power plants, refineries, and manufacturing facilities which emit air pollutants. (CARB)
Sulfur Dioxide (SO2)
A compound composed of one sulfur and two oxygen molecules. Sulfur dioxide emitted into the atmosphere
through natural and anthropogenic processes is changed in a complex series of chemical reactions in the
atmosphere to sulfate aerosols. These aerosols are believed to result in negative radiative forcing (i.e., tending to
cool the Earth's surface) and do result in acid deposition (e.g., acid rain). (UNFCC)
Sulfur Hexafluoride (SF6)
A colorless gas soluble in alcohol and ether, slightly soluble in water. A very powerful greenhouse gas with a global
warming potential most recently estimated at 22,800 times that of carbon dioxide (CO2). SF6 is used primarily in
Climate and Sustainability Glossary of Terms
13
electrical transmission and distribution systems and as a dielectric in electronics. This GWP is from the IPCC's
Fourth Assessment Report (AR4).
T
Terrestrial Carbon Sequestration
It is the process through which carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere is absorbed by trees, plants and crops
through photosynthesis, and stored as carbon in biomass (tree trunks, branches, foliage and roots) and soils. The
term "sinks" is also used to refer to forests, croplands, and grazing lands, and their ability to sequester carbon.
Agriculture and forestry activities can also release CO2 to the atmosphere. Therefore, a carbon sink occurs when
carbon sequestration is greater than carbon releases over some time period. (USEPA3)
Therm:
A unit of measure for energy that is equivalent to 100,000 British Thermal units, or roughly the energy in 100 cubic
feet of natural gas. Often used for measuring natural gas usage for billing purposes.
Total Organic Gases (TOG)
Gaseous organic compounds, including reactive organic gases and the relatively unreactive organic gases such as
methane. (CARB)
Transparency
Transparency means that the assumptions and methodologies used for an inventory should be clearly explained to
facilitate replication and assessment of the inventory by users of the reported information. The transparency of
inventories is fundamental to the success of the process for the communication and consideration of information.
(IPCC)
Trend The trend of a quantity measures its change over a time period, with a positive trend value indicating growth in the
quantity, and a negative value indicating a decrease. It is defined as the ratio of the change in the quantity over the
time period, divided by the initial value of the quantity, and is usually expressed either as a percentage or a
fraction. (IPCC)
U
Urban Tree Canopy
Describes the makeup and characteristics of trees within the urban environment.
V VMT Vehicle Miles Traveled:
A unit used to measure vehicle travel made by private vehicles, including passenger vehicles, truck, vans and
motorcycles. Each mile traveled is counted as one vehicle mile regardless of the number of persons in the vehicle.
W Water Vapor
The most abundant greenhouse gas; it is the water present in the atmosphere in gaseous form. Water vapor is an
important part of the natural greenhouse effect. While humans are not significantly increasing its concentration, it
contributes to the enhanced greenhouse effect because the warming influence of greenhouse gases leads to a positive water vapor feedback. In addition to its role as a natural greenhouse gas, water vapor plays an important
role in regulating the temperature of the planet because clouds form when excess water vapor in the atmosphere
condenses to form ice and water droplets and precipitation. (UNFCC)
Weather
Atmospheric condition at any given time or place. It is measured in terms of such things as wind, temperature,
Climate and Sustainability Glossary of Terms
14
humidity, atmospheric pressure, cloudiness, and precipitation. In most places, weather can change from hour-to-
hour, day-to-day, and season-to-season. Climate in a narrow sense is usually defined as the "average weather", or more rigorously, as the statistical description in terms of the mean and variability of relevant quantities over a
period of time ranging from months to thousands or millions of years. The classical period is 30 years, as defined
by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO). These quantities are most often surface variables such as
temperature, precipitation, and wind. Climate in a wider sense is the state, including a statistical description, of the
climate system. A simple way of remembering the difference is that climate is what you expect (e.g. cold winters)
and 'weather' is what you get (e.g. a blizzard). (USEPA1)
Z
Zero Emission Vehicles (ZEV)
A vehicle that does not emit harmful emissions during operation. Harmful emissions can have a negative
impact on human health and the environment. Electric (battery-powered) cars, electric trains, hydrogen-
fueled vehicles, bicycles, and carriages are considered to produce zero emissions.
Zero Waste
A cyclical system in which products are designed for reuse, which creates no waste. A zero waste system
eliminates the volume and toxicity of waste and materials and conserves current resources through
reuse.
2515 White Bear Ave, A8
Suite 177
Maplewood, MN 55109
Contact:
Ted Redmond
tredmond@palebluedot..llc
Prepared By:
City of Edina
Solar Renewable Energy Potentials Study
March, 2021
Revised April 30, 2021
Prepared by:
Table of Contents
Section 01 Introduction
Section 02 Solar In Minnesota
Section 03 Solar In Edina
Section 04 City Wide Solar Potentials
Technical Capacity in Edina
Generation Capacity in Edina
Optimized Generation Capacity
Market Capacity
Section 05 Low to Medium Income Potentials
Section 06 City Wide Solar Benefits
Economic Potential for Edina
Environmental Benefits for Edina
Section 07 City Wide Municipal Solid Waste Plasma Gasification
Potential
Section 08 Recommendations
Edina Renewable Energy Potentials Study 1-1
S e c t i o n 01
Introduction
Introduction
Intent of This Study
The intent of this study is to support the City in appropriate and effective renewable energy goalsetting within the City’s
Climate Action Planning process. This study seeks also to support the City establish strategies addressing renewable ener-
gy development. The primary focus of this study is to establish the Community-Wide rooftop solar pv potential through-
out the City, including economic and environmental benefits. This report includes recommended near and long-term re-
newable energy targets and recommended implementation strategies for consideration through the Climate Action Plan-
ning process. As detailed in the report, this effort has included:
1) Collect City-wide satellite data (NREL, NOAA, and NASA data).
2) Determine building roof stock characteristics and solar suitable buildings, calculate total suitable areas by roof
configuration/orientation.
3) Calculate total rooftop solar capacity and annual energy generation by roof configuration/orientation
4) Identify cost efficient annual energy generation potential.
5) Research solar market at national, State and regional levels. Identify low, medium, and high solar market
absorption rates and City-wide solar pv goals.
6) Identify environmental and economic benefit of solar including economic development and job creation
potential (NREL JEDI model)
Edina Renewable Energy Potentials Study 1-2
Edina Renewable Energy Potentials Study 1-3
Introduction
The following are considerations building owners
should be aware of before “going solar”.
How Solar PV Works
Solar electricity is created using Solar Photovolta-
ic panels, or Solar PV for short. The word photo-
voltaic, or PV, comes from the process of con-
verting light (photons) to electricity (voltage),
which is called the PV effect. The key to a solar PV
panel is the semiconductor material.
Solar PV semiconductors combine properties of
some metals and properties of insulators - mak-
ing them uniquely capable of converting light into
electricity. The simple explanation of how solar
panels create electricity is that as sunlight
(specifically UV light) strikes the semiconductor
materials in the PV cell, the energy knocks loose
electrons. Those electrons then move back and
forth between semiconductor plates producing
an electric current.
Structural Capacity for Rooftop Arrays
The assessments included in this report do not
include assessments of rooftops tructures to ac-
cept the additional loading of a solar pv array.
Projects which anticipate rooftop arrays should
have a preliminary structural assessment to con-
firm solar pv loading can be adequately handled
by the existing structure. The weight of a PV sys-
tem varies based on the panel and racking sys-
tems selected. For rooftop arrays, two racking
system configurations are common: flush or tilted
mechanically fastened racking types (which re-
quire roof penetrations, or clamp on standing
seams); and ballasted racking types (which use
weighted components to make the array station-
ary through gravity and typically do not require
roof penetrations). A reasonable “rule of thumb”
for solar PV array assembly structural loading is 2
-4lbs per square foot for typical flush or tilted
racking systems, or 5-9lbs for ballasted racking
systems.
Introduction
Net Metering
The site concepts in this report are based on grid-connected systems with net metering. Net metering tracks the amount
of energy generated on site, as well as the amount of energy consumed from the grid. Net metering allows customers to
get credit on their energy bill from excess energy generation, when the amount of energy a solar panel system generates
is greater than the amount of energy consumed from the electric utility. Such interconnection is considered non-
incentivized, meaning that the site/solar array owner will retain the renewable energy credit that the PV system produces
and will offset the cost of energy needed when the solar panels are not producing energy (nighttime, short and cloudy
days).
Net Metering in Edina
According to the State of Minnesota Public Utilities Commission:
Generally, if a customer produces more electricity than it uses, a utility will compensate or credit the customer for their
excess generation depending on the option the customer elects to receive in the contract they signed with the utility.
Utilities keep the rates updated in a rate book.
The amount a customer is paid for the electricity they do not use is found in their utility’s tariff (often called the compen-
sation rate). The compensation rate depends on several factors:
The size of the customer’s system; The specific costs and retail rates of their utility (updated annually); and, Whether the
customer is served by a cooperative, municipal, or public utility.
Learn more about Net Metering in the State of Minnesota here: https://mn.gov/puc/energy/distributed-energy/net-
metering/
Edina Renewable Energy Potentials Study 1-4
Graphic Source: State of Minnesota Public Utility Commission
Introduction
Minnesota's Group Net Metering
Minnesota also offers “Virtual Net Metering” or “Community Solar Net Metering”. Under Virtual Net Metering, a group of
home or business owners can join together and benefit from one or more net metered solar systems. Under this pro-
gram, a group can pay for a large solar installation (1,000kW maximum array size) on the land of one person/entity with
sufficient open space, and ask the utility company to assign the credits earned by that system to each of the participants
based on a percentage they elect (minimum of 5 subscribers).
How Does Community Solar / Group Net Metering Work
Renewable Energy Credits
Renewable Energy Credits (RECs) are tradable, non-tangible energy commodities that represent proof that a quantity of
electricity was generated from an eligible renewable energy resource. RECs represent all of the “green” or clean energy
attributes of electricity produced from renewable resources like solar PV. A REC includes everything that differentiates the
effects of generating electricity with renewable resources instead of using other types of resources. It is important to re-
member that a REC also embodies the claim to the greenness attributes of renewable electricity generation, and only the
ultimate consumer of the REC has rights to the claim. Once a producer or owner of a REC has sold it, rather than consum-
ing it themselves, they have sold the claim and cannot truthfully state that they are using renewable electricity, or that the
electricity that was produced with the REC is renewable.
Many building owners interested in pursuing the installation of a solar pv system on their property are motivated from an
interest in using (and claiming) renewable energy for operations. Very careful understanding of a project’s Renewable
Energy Credits and the status of their ownership is critical. Failure to carefully define ownership of REC may cause the
inability of a building owner to claim the renewable benefits they wish to obtain. Building owners should assume that
RECs will not be available for any projects which are delivered through a “third party” project delivery method, community
solar subscription, or any project which utilizes a utility subsidized approach. It may be possible for building owners to
retain REC credits, however, and paleBLUEdot recommends that any building owner looking into “third party” solar arrays
explore the retention of all REC credits produced by the recommended projects if financially feasible.
From a Greenhouse Gas accounting perspective, this means that facilities served through community solar subscriptions
or third party ownership structures will not be able to account for emissions reductions due to renewable energy use un-
less REC credits are purchased. In this situation, without the purchase of REC credits, the City’s GHG Inventory will need to
use the regional electric grid emissions factors for calculation of emissions.
Edina Renewable Energy Potentials Study 1-5
Introduction
Peak Shaving and Demand Charges
Customers pay for electricity in one of two ways: consumption, measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh); and demand, meas-
ured in kilowatts (kW). Most residential customers only pay for consumption. Many commercial customers are on demand
charge tariffs and they pay for both demand and consumption. With demand charge billing the customer pays for the
highest power load reached – the peak demand. Peak demand is defined as the highest average load during a specific time
interval (usually 15 minutes) in each billing cycle. Utilities use demand charges to help recover costs associated with run-
ning power plants or buying power from other utilities on the energy spot market. Demand charges also help utilities re-
cover transmission costs to customers with large energy needs.
Not all utility customers are on demand charge tariffs, but for large consumers of electricity those charges can be a signifi-
cant part of a monthly utility bill. Utility customers who do have demand charge tariffs can see a large portion of their
monthly electric bill going towards demand charges (30% to 70% is not uncommon).
The most effective way to manage utility costs for customers with demand charges is a practice called peak shaving. Peak
shaving involves proactively managing overall demand to eliminate short-term demand spikes, which set a higher peak.
This process lowers and smooths out the electric use “curve” and reduces peak loads, which reduces the overall cost of
demand charges. Solar arrays with a battery energy storage system allows customers to peak shave. Battery energy stor-
age systems are dispatchable; they can be configured to strategically charge and discharge at the optimal times to reduce
demand charges. Sophisticated control software with learning algorithms differentiates battery energy storage systems
from regular batteries. These algorithms learn a customer’s load profile, anticipate peak demand, and switch from the grid
to batteries when needed most - reducing the customer’s peak load and saving on demand charge costs.
Peak Shaving and Local Utilities
Many local electric utilities and electric co-ops do not generate their own power. Instead, these utilities often purchase
power from large electric generators and then distribute that electricity to their consumers. In this situation, local elec-
tric utilities typically have long-term electric purchase agreements with their electricity suppliers. In some instances, the
pricing defined in the local utility’s power purchase agreement imposes increased rates for peak demand timeframes, like
the peak demand rates end customers may experience. For local electric utilities which have peak power purchase rates
defined, the deployment of solar arrays and solar storage systems within their local electric service area reduce the local
electric grid’s peak demand and avoid costs associated with peak demand power purchase.
Project Delivery Options
There are many options for pursuing solar projects on your business or residential property including:
Purchasing a System:
Paying for your system yourself is the simplest path for owning your solar system, but the initial cost of a solar panel sys-
tem can be the biggest hurdle. Through a direct purchase, or “cash option”, you purchase the solar system just as you
would a car or house.
Solar Lease:
A Solar Lease is one of the options for “third party ownership” where the system is owned by the leasing company and
typically installed with no “up front” costs. In a solar lease the customer typically pays a set monthly rate for your solar
panel system, but receive free electricity from the panels that offsets the monthly cost of the lease. Solar leases are allow-
able in many States, however, not all jurisdictions allow solar leases. The State of Minnesota does allow for Solar Leases.
Power Purchasing Agreement (PPA):
A solar power purchase agreement (PPA) is a financial agreement where a developer arranges for the design, permitting,
financing, and installation of a solar array on a customer’s property. The developer sells the power generated to the host
customer – typically at a fixed rate that is lower than the local utility’s retail rate. Payments within a PPA agreement are
based on the actual energy produced by the solar array every month. This lower electricity price serves to offset the cus-
tomer’s purchase of electricity from the grid. The developer receives the income from the sales of the electricity as well as
any tax credits and other incentives generated from the system. Customer’s entering into a PPA who wish to claim the
“green attributes” of the solar energy will need to negotiate with the solar developer to retain the solar Renewable Energy
Credits.
Edina Renewable Energy Potentials Study 1-6
Introduction
Solar Financing and Incentives
Solar energy delivers positive environmental impacts, and contributes to our nation’s energy independence. According to
the Department of Energy, solar provides more jobs in electricity generation nationally (373,800) than coal, natural gas,
oil, nuclear, and other fuels combined (288,000). To encourage the continued expansion of solar, governments, and utili-
ties offer solar tax breaks and financial incentives to make solar more accessible for today’s businesses and homeowners.
The following are some of the incentives available in Minnesota:
Minnesota Municipal Property Tax Exemptions
A system up to 50 kW that is net-metered OR is not connected to the grid and only provides power to the property on
which it is located is also exempt from municipal property taxes. A system up to 50 kW that is not net-metered and is con-
nected to the grid OR is not connected to the grid but provides power to multiple properties is subject to municipal prop-
erty taxes, unless the municipality has created a local exemption. Systems 50 kW and greater that are net-metered may
reduce their capacity by 50 kW for valuation purposes if they are subject to municipal property taxes.
Minnesota Solar Sales Tax Exemptions
When you install solar panels on your home or business in Minnesota, you don’t have to pay any sales tax on your solar
purchase. This translates into a 7% savings on every solar PV installation in the State.
Federal Investment Tax Credit
The federal solar tax credit, also known as the investment tax credit (ITC), allows you to deduct 26 percent of the cost of
installing a solar energy system from your federal taxes. The ITC applies to both residential and commercial systems, and
there is no cap on its value. The ITC credit is currently equal to 26% of the project costs in 2021 and will be stepping down
to 10% by year 2024 and beyond (for commercial only - residential will be eliminated in 2024). (https://
www.energysage.com/solar/cost-benefit/solar-investment-tax-credit/)
Federal Modified Accelerated Cost Recovery System (MACRS)
The U.S. tax code allows for a tax deduction for the recovery of the cost of tangible property over the useful life of the
property. The Modified Accelerated Cost Recovery System (MACRS) is the current depreciation method for most property.
The market certainty provided by MACRS allows businesses in a variety of economic sectors to continue making long-term
investments and has been found to be a significant driver of private investment for the solar industry and other energy
industries. Businesses can write off the value of their solar energy system through using MACRS, reducing their tax bur-
den and accelerating returns on solar investments. Accelerated depreciation can reduce net system cost by an additional
30 percent. (https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/a-brief-overview-of-depreciation)
Xcel Energy Program
Powered by the Minnesota Renewable Development Fund, this performance-based incentive offers solar homeowners in
Xcel Energy’s service area a yearly payment based on the energy production of their photovoltaic system. Xcel pays
homeowners $0.07 per kilowatt-hour (kWh) of solar power production annually for up to 10 years.
Edina Renewable Energy Potentials Study 1-7
1-8 Edina Renewable Energy Potentials Study
2-1 Edina Renewable Energy Potentials Study
S e c t i o n 02
Solar in Minnesota
Solar in Minnesota
As of December 2019, Minnesota has a total of 1,507.93 megawatts (1,507,930,000 watts) of solar capacity installed
statewide. There are a total of 7,544 solar installations in the State. The State of Minnesota ranks 14th nationally for total
solar energy production capacity.
The State’s solar installation total is enough to power 203,522 homes. The share of the State’s total electricity use that
comes from solar power is 3%. Current solar growth projections for the State equal an additional 1,133 MW over the next
5 years - a growth rate that ranks 27th nationally.
Costs for Solar PV installation in the State have declined 45% since 2015. Price declines have been accompanied with in-
creasing rate of investment in solar energy. A total of $2,221,000,000 has been invested in Solar PV installations. The
industry currently employs approximately 4,335 people in 146 companies Statewide (31 Manufacturers, 49 Installers/
Developers, 66 Others).
(sources: Solar Energy Industries Association SEIA, Solar Foundation, Project Sunroof)
Graphic Sources:
Project Sunroof, Solar Foundation
2-2 Edina Renewable Energy Potentials Study
2-3 Edina Renewable Energy Potentials Study
3-1 Edina Renewable Energy Potentials Study
S e c t i o n 03
Solar in Edina
Solar in Edina
As of January 2021, according to permit records, Edina has 61 installed solar PV arrays with a total of 1,491 KW (1,491,000
watts) of generating capacity. This is equal to 0.1% of the total solar generating capacity in the State, compared to the
City’s 0.92% share of State population. According to the Stanford University DeepSolar analysis project, Hennepin County
has an average of 1.82 solar PV installations per 1,000 homes. This is approximately 135% of the State average. Within
the City of Edina neighborhoods range from 0 to 7.9 solar PV installations per 1,000 homes. (see “City of Edina Solar In-
stallations Per 1,000 Homes” and “City of Edina’s Solar Share” chart).
The total solar installation capacity in the City of Edina is estimated to generate 1,356,000 kWh annually - enough to pow-
er 138 homes. The estimated breakdown of total installed capacity in the City by market sector is shown on the next page
(see “Estimated Breakdown of Edina’s Solar Installations by Sector”).
As noted in Section 2, costs for Solar PV installation in the State have declined significantly since 2015. The City of Edina
currently has an estimated total of 3 solar companies including 2 installers and 1 manufacturer, or approximately 2% of
the State’s total solar business entities (approximately 2.2 times the community’s share of State population).
3-2 Edina Renewable Energy Potentials Study
Tract 231 4.65/
1,000
Tract 236 1.5/
1,000
Tract 240.06
0.0/
1,000
Tract 238.01
0.0/
1,000
Tract 240.05
3.28/
1,000
Tract 238.02
5.43/
1,000
Tract 240.03 2.38/
1,000
Tract
240.04
0.78/
1,000
Tract 239.01
1.61/
1,000
Tract 237
4.38/
1,000
Tract 239.03
7.29/
1,000
Tract 235.02 1.31/
1,000
Tract 239.02
1.44/
1,000
Tract 235.01 1.15/
1,000
City of Edina Solar Installations Per 1,000 Homes
Graphic Source: DeepSolar
Solar in Edina
City of Edina’s Solar Share
Estimated Breakdown of Edina’s Solar Installations by Sector
Estimated Solar PV Installation Cost by Component in Edina
3-3 Edina Renewable Energy Potentials Study
Graphic Source: SolarReviews.com
State Edina Edina's Share
Population 5,640,000 51,746 0.92%
Number of Solar Installations 7,544 91 1.21%
Average Solar Installations / 1,000 households 1.35 4.17 308.98%
Estimated Solar Generating Capacity (MW) 1,507.93 1.74 0.12%
Average Array Size (KW) 199.88 19.09 10%
Solar Industry Businesses 146 3 2.05%
Sector Installed Capacity Number of Array
Installations
Average
Array Size
(kW)
Estimated
Share of
Sector's
Electricity
Use
375.0 77 4.9 0.25%
0.0 0 N/A
676.8 2 338.4 4.92%
685.0 12 57.1 0.86%
0.0 0 N/A 0.00%
Total Installed Capaicty 1,737 91 19.1 0.42%
4-1 Edina Renewable Energy Potentials Study
S e c t i o n 04
City Wide
Solar Potential
City Wide Solar Potentials
Methodology and Data
This section calculates the total technical capacity and total generation potential for rooftop solar in the City. Total solar
PV potential was calculated based on the following input, data, and methodology:
4-2 Edina Renewable Energy Potentials Study
Input Data
Roof plane survey data is provided by
National Renewable Energy Laboratory
(NREL). NREL data is based on lidar
data obtained from the U.S. Depart-
ment of Homeland Security (DHS).
Insolation levels for annual sun expo-
sure are based on data from NOAA and
NREL.
Tilt and Azimuth
The orientation (tilt and azimuth) of a
roof plane is important for determining
its suitability for PV and simulating the
productivity of installed modules. For
this study roof plane tilt for each
square meter of roof area within zip
codes 55424, 55435, 55436, and 55439
were determined using the lidar data
set. Roof tilts are organized into 5 cate-
gories:
Flat (0° - 9.5°)
Low (9.5°- 21.5°)
Mid-Low (21.5° – 34.5°)
Mid-High (34.5° – 47.5°)
High (47.5° and higher)
For this study, the second component
of roof plane orientation -the azimuth
(aspect) – was identified for each
square meter of roof area. Each square
meter was categorized into one of nine
azimuth classes, shown in the graphic
to the right, where tilted roof areas
were assigned one of the eight cardinal
and primary intercardinal directions.
All roof planes with Northwest, North,
and Northeast azimuths were excluded
from this study.
Generation Potential
The potential “Nameplate capacity”
potential per square foot of roof plane
area was calculated. This calculation
assumed a typical 400 watt capacity
panel with a footprint of 79” x 40”.
Next, this nameplate capacity was ad-
justed for assumed system losses in-
cluding shading, heat loss, mismatch,
snow, dirt, etc. Assumed losses were
calculated for each azimuth orientation
and rage from 22% system loss for flat
arrays to 34% for East/Southeast orien-
tations. Additionally, losses were calcu-
lated for roof tilt classifications based
on the System Advisor Model.
Lastly, generation potential was calcu-
lated using the base Energy Production
Factor for the region (annual KWH pro-
duction/KW nameplate capacity), modi-
fied by the loss factors outlined above.
Energy Production Factor Map
Source: NREL
KWH / KW
City Wide Solar Potentials
Technical Capacity In Edina
Technical capacity represents the total rooftop solar pv potential assuming economics and grid integration are not con-
straints. Based on the input and methodology previously outlined, there are an estimated 16,962 total buildings in Edina,
of those, it is estimated that 11,826 are “solar suitable” buildings.
These solar suitable buildings have an estimated 8,488 roof planes which are either flat or with an azimuth orientation of
East, Southeast, South, Southwest, or West, with a total estimated square footage of 4.44 million square feet. The chart
below shows a further breakdown of roof orientation by roof tilt classifications as well. The potential installed technical
energy capacity for all rooftops meeting selection criteria totals 83.06 Megawatts DC.
Generation Capacity In Edina
Generation capacity represents the total amount of energy generation potential of the total Technical Capacity of the City.
As previously outlined, the generation capacity is calculated using City-specific annual energy production factor (annual
KWH production/KW nameplate capacity) which is based on the region’s weather patterns and annual insolation levels
(exposure to sun’s energy). This energy production factor is then modified by estimated system losses by azimuth and
estimated system losses by roof tilt.
The chart below illustrates the total generation potential by roof azimuth and by roof tilt classifications. The Grand Total
rooftop solar PV energy generation potential for the City is 89,295,358 KWH annually. This is estimated to be approxi-
mately 16.7% of the City’s total electric consumption (based on US Energy Information Agency data).
4-3 Edina Renewable Energy Potentials Study
City Wide Solar Potentials
Optimized Generation Capacity In Edina
Though the total energy generation outlined above is reasonably feasible, for purposes of establishing City Wide poten-
tials expectations it is appropriate to modify the total generation to reflect the likely most cost efficient installation poten-
tials given current technologies and cost parameters. Solar PV installations which have less than ideal orientations cap-
ture less light per panel and therefore generate less energy per dollar spent. Establishing an Optimized Capacity establish-
es the cost effective solar pv installation potential based on current technology.
Identifying the installations most likely to be highly cost effective ultimately requires a site-by-site assessment, however,
typical installation performance characteristics can be extrapolated to establish reasonable City-wide estimates. For the
latitude and geography of Edina, it can be assumed that all solar suitable roof planes that are flat or south facing should
ultimately be reasonably cost effective installations.
For West and Southwest facing roof planes, it is likely that all low and mid-low roof tilt installations would be cost effec-
tive, while mid-high and high roof tilt installations with West or Southwest orientation may produce self-shading for many
of the solar productive hours making those installations viable on a case-by-case basis. Like wise, for East and Southeast
facing roof planes, it is likely that all low roof tilt installations would be cost effective, while mid-low, mid-high, and high
roof tilt installations facing East may tend to have limited timeframes during which their solar exposure is optimal, making
those installations also viable on a case-by-case basis.
On the chart below, all solar suitable roof planes with roof tilt and azimuth orientation combinations likely to be consist-
ently cost effective are shown and are considered to be the City’s Optimized Generation Capacity. It should be noted that
installations outside of these selections may still be cost effective but require individual feasibility assessment. The
total Optimized Rooftop Solar Generation Capacity in Edina is estimated to be 68,678,455 KWH annually, approximately
12.9% of the City’s total electric consumption.
4-4 Edina Renewable Energy Potentials Study
City Wide Solar Potentials
Market Capacity
Adequately anticipating the potential for new solar PV installations must consider not only the potential technical and
generation capacities, but also the likely market capacity. As an emerging energy sector, there is little data upon which to
base projections for likely installation of rooftop solar PV in the private sector. Additionally, the solar PV market is rapidly
changing in both sophistication as well as in pricing and cost effectiveness. As noted in the Solar in Minnesota section of
this report, the installed cost of solar PV in the state has dropped 45% since 2015 and is expected to continue to decline in
the coming years. Projections of solar PV installations should anticipate a continued increase in the number of solar pv
installations year over year.
Market History
According to the Department of Energy, since 2005 the residential solar PV market has grown at an annual rate of 51%. A
growth rate that has resulted in a residential solar PV capacity 95 times larger in just 12 years. In the State of Minnesota,
the new installed capacity that went on line in 2019 was nearly 250 MW; equal to 16.6% of the cumulative total of all solar
PV installations in the state for all previous years.
According to City of Edina permit records, there are a total of 1,737 KW of installed capacity in the City, approximately
0.12% of the total State installed capacity. If Utility scale and government facility arrays are subtracted, the approximate
installed capacity is 1,060 KW, or approximately 0.07% of the total State installed capacity. These can be compared
against the City’s share of the total State population of 0.92%.
State Market Projections
The Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) projects solar PV installation capacity in the State to increase 1,133 MW by
2025. This is equal to a sustained compound increase of installed capacity of 12% annually. The timeframe of this projec-
tion overlaps with the currently established Federal Income Tax incentive program. For years 2024 and beyond, the tax
incentive is expected to be phased out for residential solar pv installations, but a smaller incentive (10%) will remain for
commercial property owners while cost projections anticipate a continued decrease in installation costs.
4-5 Edina Renewable Energy Potentials Study
City Wide Solar Potentials
Edina Market Absorption Projections
Scenario A: Edina Rooftop Solar PV Projection Based on Existing Share of Statewide Arrays Installed per Household
Scenario A anticipates the City’s rate of increase in solar PV installed capacity matches the projected Statewide 12% annu-
al rate of increase over the next 5. This scenario would mean an increase of approximately 996 KW of installed capacity
within the City by 2025. Based on the City’s current lower-than-average share of existing installed solar pv capacity, this
would result in a continued lower-than-average per capita share of total statewide solar in 2025 (12% of average). This
scenario would result in around 2,733 KW of installed capacity by 2025, equivalent to approximately 4.35% of the opti-
mized capacity potential within the City by 2025 and 11% of optimized capacity potential by 2040.
As the market continues to mature through the 2020’s it may be reasonable to assume a reduction in the growth rate of
new installed capacity beginning in year 2031. For purposes of this study, we recommend a 50% reduction of the annual
rate of growth for 2030. This would result in a growth rate of 9.6% through 2030 and a 4.8% growth rate for years 2030
through 2040. The chart below shows projections through 2040 using the assumptions outlined above.
NOTE: This projection does not include distributed ground-mounted solar pv potentials nor utility scale solar pv installation potential.
4-6 Edina Renewable Energy Potentials Study
City Wide Solar Potentials
Scenario B: Edina Rooftop Solar PV Share of Statewide Projections Based on Population Share
Scenario B anticipates the City’s rate of increase in solar PV installed capacity achieves 3 times the projected Statewide
annual rate of increase over the next 5. This scenario would mean an increase of approximately 4,205 KW of installed
capacity within the City by 2025. This scenario would result in the City’s per capita share rate of Statewide installed pv
capacity doubling from 12% that of Statewide average per capita share to 24% that of Statewide per capita share by 2025.
This scenario would result in around 5,942 KW of installed capacity by 2025, equivalent to approximately 9.5% of the opti-
mized capacity potential within the City by 2025 and 37% of optimized capacity potential by 2040.
As the market continues to mature through the 2020’s it may be reasonable to assume a reduction in the growth rate of
new installed capacity beginning in year 2031. For purposes of this study, we recommend a 50% reduction of the annual
rate of growth for 2030. This would result in a growth rate of 14.5% through 2030 and a 7.2% growth rate for years 2030
through 2040. The chart below shows projections through 2040 using the assumptions outlined above.
NOTE: This projection does not include distributed ground-mounted solar pv potentials nor utility scale solar pv installation potential.
4-7 Edina Renewable Energy Potentials Study
Ground Mounted Solar
This report does not include an assessment of poten-
tial ground mounted solar, however, it should be not-
ed that ground mounted solar can be a highly viable
solution in many cases. In general, comparing a
rooftop solar array to a similarly sized ground mounted
solar array, ground mounted solar arrays frequently
have slightly higher installation costs due to the in-
creased racking needs. However, in many instances,
subject sites are capable of supporting a larger ground
mounted array than their rooftop potential. As ground
mounted arrays become larger, their costs decrease—
ultimately becoming less than smaller rooftop arrays.
Some of the considerations on the feasibility of ground
mounted arrays for specific sites include:
• Land status and planned future use
• Land quality and alternative use options
• Distance to electric grid interconnection
• Accessibility and security
• Slop and configuration
• Flooding and wetland considerations
• Proximity to primary air traffic lanes and air traffic
control jurisdictions relative to glare concerns
City Wide Solar Potentials
Edina Rooftop Solar PV Share of Statewide Projections Based on Current Share of Installed KW
This scenario assumes the City’s share of Statewide solar array increases will match the City’s share of total Statewide
population (0.92%). This scenario would mean an increase of approximately 13,660 KW of installed capacity within the
City by 2025, approximately 72% annual increase over that timeframe. This would result in around 15,409KW of installed
capacity, equivalent to approximately 25% of the total rooftop technical capacity potential or 99.6% of the optimized ca-
pacity potential within the City.
For this scenario, we project an 80% reduction in the annual growth rate for 2025-2030 and then another 50% reduction
for years 2030-2040. This would result in a growth rate of 14.8% through 2030 and a 7.4% growth rate for years 2030
through 2040. The chart below shows projections through 2040 using the assumptions outlined above.
NOTE: This projection does not include distributed ground-mounted solar pv potentials nor utility scale solar pv installation potential.
above.
Based on the City’s current lower-than-average per capita installed solar capacity, we recommend striving for a higher rate
of increase than that illustrated in Scenario A. On the other hand, though Scenario C may be ideal, the rate of increase
may be extremely challenging to meet. Scenario B, however, would achieve a significant increase in the City’s solar instal-
lations, achieve a notable increase in the City’s share of Statewide installations, and the required pace of 120-130 new
residential scaled installations annually should be achievable.
4-8 Edina Renewable Energy Potentials Study
S e c t i o n 05
Low to Medium
Income Potentials
5-1 Edina Renewable Energy Potentials Study
Low to Medium Potentials
The Need to Focus on Low and Moderate Income Solar Potential
Solar PV systems provide a wide range of potential benefits, including long-term energy cost savings, energy resilience,
and reductions in air pollution including particulate matter and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions – with positive implica-
tions for environmental and human health. Currently, most of the solar customers in the United States are in the same
demographic -middle to upper class, middle-aged, and usually male. “Rooftop Solar Technical Potential for Low-to-
Moderate Income Households in the United States”, a recent study by NREL, found that the median income of households
that install solar panels in some states was roughly $32,000 higher than the median household income in those states.
The growth of solar in the United States provides a tremendous opportunity to address some of the greatest challenges
faced by lower-income communities: the high cost of housing, unemployment, and pollution. Solar can provide long-term
financial relief to families struggling with high and unpredictable energy costs, living-wage jobs in an industry where the
workforce has increased 168% over the past seven years, and a source of clean, local energy sited in communities that
have been disproportionately impacted by traditional power generation. Yet, access to distributed solar power remains
elusive for a significant slice of the U.S. population, particularly low- and moderate-income (LMI) communities— house-
holds whose income is 80% or less of the area’s median.
Although solar PV costs have dropped significantly in recent years, upfront installation costs are still persistently out of
reach for most LMI populations, which, by definition, have less disposable income. Beyond having limited cash-on-hand
for solar power purchases, LMI populations face other obstacles in pursuing distributed solar systems, including:
• frequently lower credit scores, making it difficult to attain a loan for solar investments;
• insufficient tax burden to benefit from state and federal solar tax incentives; and
• lower rates of homeownership and higher likelihood of living in multifamily housing units—making for
limited control over decisions about utilities, especially rooftop solar.
The solar potential for LMI communities is a critical market that must be developed within any community seeking to sig-
nificantly advance renewable energy, energy resilience, or Climate Action goals. Increasing access for LMI communities is
important not only in order to help address some of the challenges outlined above, it is likely necessary in order to meet
long-term community-wide renewable energy goals. Nationally, half of all residential solar potential is on LMI households.
Solar capacity on LMI households could total 320 GW—over thirty times the total new solar in 2017.
Energy Burden In Edina
A household’s energy burden—the percentage of household income spent on energy bills—provides an indication of ener-
gy affordability. Researchers define households with a 6% energy burden or higher to experience a high burden. Factors
that may increase energy burdens include the physical condition of a home, a household’s ability to invest in energy-
efficient upgrades, and the availability of energy efficiency programs and incentives.
See the charts on the following page for a breakdown of households with high energy burden.
5-2 Edina Renewable Energy Potentials Study
Low to Medium Potentials
Energy Burden In Edina—Energy Burden by Housing Type and Ownership
Energy Burden In Edina—Energy Burden by Income and Housing Type
5-3 Edina Renewable Energy Potentials Study
Dotted Line = High Energy Burden Threshold
Dotted Line = High Energy Burden Threshold
Source: US DOE Low-Income Energy Affordability Data
Source: US DOE Low-Income Energy Affordability Data
Low to Medium Potentials
Energy Burden In Edina (continued)
As illustrated in the charts on the previous page, the households with the most significant housing burden over 6% in Edi-
na tend to be homeowners rather than renters. Over 29% of LMI households in the community have high energy burden,
comprising 9.1% of all households in Edina. The LMI households, by income as a percentage of Area Median Income (AMI)
and housing type, which are effected by high (over 6%) energy burden are:
Share of Total LMI Households with High Energy Burden
Housing Type By Income Level
Total in Edinawith
High Energy Burden
Share of Income
Category Total
Share of Total LMI
Households with
High Energy Burden
Income 0-30% AMI: 934 47.58%
Single Family Household detached 638 68.3% 32.50%
Single Family Household Attached 191 20.4% 9.73%
2 Unit Buildings 41 4.4% 2.09%
3-4 Unit Buildings - #VALUE! #VALUE!
5-9 Unit Buildings 59 6.3% 3.01%
10-19 Unit Buildings - #VALUE! #VALUE!
20-49 Unit Buildings - #VALUE! #VALUE!
50+ Unit Buildings - #VALUE! #VALUE!
Mobile Home/Trailer -
Income 30-60% AMI: 1,029 52.42%
Single Family Household detached 1029 110.2% 52.42%
Single Family Household Attached - #VALUE! #VALUE!
2 Unit Buildings - #VALUE! #VALUE!
3-4 Unit Buildings - #VALUE! #VALUE!
5-9 Unit Buildings - #VALUE! #VALUE!
10-19 Unit Buildings - #VALUE! #VALUE!
20-49 Unit Buildings - #VALUE! #VALUE!
50+ Unit Buildings - #VALUE! #VALUE!
Mobile Home/Trailer - #VALUE! #VALUE!
Income 60-80% AMI: 0 0.00%
Single Family Household detached - #VALUE! #VALUE!
Single Family Household Attached - #VALUE! #VALUE!
2 Unit Buildings - #VALUE! #VALUE!
3-4 Unit Buildings - #VALUE! #VALUE!
5-9 Unit Buildings - #VALUE! #VALUE!
10-19 Unit Buildings - #VALUE! #VALUE!
20-49 Unit Buildings - #VALUE! #VALUE!
50+ Unit Buildings - #VALUE! #VALUE!
Mobile Home/Trailer - #VALUE! #VALUE!
Total LMI Households With High Energy Burden: 1,963
Total LMI Households in Community: 6,589
% of LMI House-
holds in Community
with High Energy
Burden: 29.8%
Total Households in Community: 21,663
Total LMI House-
holds in Community: 9.1%
5-4 Edina Renewable Energy Potentials Study
Low to Medium Potentials
Solar Potential of LMI Buildings in Edina
According to the study “Rooftop Solar Technical Potential for Low-to-Moderate Income Households in the United States”
by NREL, the 6,589 LMI households live in 1,690 buildings. These LMI residential buildings are estimated to have a opti-
mized solar generation capacity of 29,175,700 kWh annually. According to NREL, the generating capacity of these LMI
buildings alone is capable of meeting 116% or more of the total Annual Solar Generation for 2040 as projected by Scenario
B (see Section 4) - meaning strategies which resulted in significant increases in solar PV options for LMI communities could
not only provide significant benefit for relief from energy burden impacts, but also meaningfully contribute to the City’s
long-term renewable energy goals. Put simply, there is more potential for solar generation on LMI rooftops than what LMI
residents would use. Below is a breakdown of optimized solar generation by building type:
Building Type Estimated Optimized Generation Potential Average LMI Household Savings
Potential
LMI Single Family: 14,386,900 kWh Annually
LMI Multi-Family: 14,788,400 kWh Annually
Mapping LMI Household Potential In Edina
The map below illustrates the total LMI households as a share of total households by census tract. Census tracts with
higher share of LMI households may offer significant opportunities for actions which advance LMI solar PV programs.
5-5 Edina Renewable Energy Potentials Study
$x in potential annual savings
$2,858 Annually
S e c t i o n 06
City Wide
Solar Benefits
6-1 Edina Renewable Energy Potentials Study
City Wide Solar Benefits
Economic Potential
As with all energy sources, solar PV installations require investment up-front for construction and installation as well as
annual maintenance costs. When measured on a per unit of energy consumed, these costs are similar, or more competi-
tive than, the costs associated with other energy sources. Unlike almost all other forms of electricity, however, a signifi-
cant portion of the initial and on-going costs associated with solar PV are capable of remaining in the local economy. This
means that for communities who plan carefully for the increase in renewable energy, a local economic development po-
tential exists.
Economic Potential for Edina
According to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), the additional solar pv capacity which could be installed
in the City by 2030 (Scenario B) has a total construction value of $27.15 million (2021 dollars). The potential share of
those investments for the local economy totals 31 jobs and $2.81 million in local income potential during construction and
6 jobs and $420,000 in local income potential for maintenance annually through the lifetime of the installations. Below is
a breakout of the Edina Economic Development potential of new installed solar pv capacity through 2030 based on popu-
lation share of Statewide market absorption projection numbers:
Additional Economic Benefit
In addition to the local re-investment share of the construction and maintenance costs, Edina residents and business own-
ers who invest in solar PV will have direct economic benefit in the form of savings. These savings represent increased eco-
nomic potential within the City and include:
1) All residents and businesses who install solar PV prior to the phase out of the Federal Tax Incentive will be able to
save 10-26% of the cost of installation. In addition, all commercial solar pv owners can harvest additional tax
benefits through the federal accelerated depreciation. At the projected additional installation through 2025 out-
lined in the previous section, this could mean $1 million to $3 million or more in savings and local re-investment
potential through 2030.
2) Many owners who install solar pv see a decrease in their annual energy costs (including solar pv project finance
costs). Though savings vary, a reasonable estimate of the out-of-pocket savings for residents and businesses in
Edina is $300,000 to $400,000 annually by 2030 (assuming third party ownership structure, long-term savings for
direct ownership can be significantly higher).
6-2 Edina Renewable Energy Potentials Study
Edina Local Economic Impacts - Summary Results Based on Scenario B
Jobs Earnings Output Value Added
During construction period Million$ 2020 Million$ 2020 Million$ 2020
Project Development and Onsite Labor Impacts 11 $1.52 $2.08 $1.69
Construction and Interconnection Labor 7 $1.31
Construction Related Services 4 $0.21
Equipment and Supply Chain Impacts 11 $0.72 $2.93 $1.44
Induced Impacts 9 $0.57 $1.58 $0.86
Total Impacts 31 $2.81 $6.58 $3.99
Annual Annual Annual Annual
Jobs Earnings Output Output
During operating years (annual) Million$ 2020 Million$ 2020 Million$ 2020
Onsite Labor Impacts 4 $0.31 $0.31 $0.31
Local Revenue and Supply Chain Impacts 1 $0.05 $0.16 $0.11
Induced Impacts 1 $0.06 $0.17 $0.09
Total Impacts 6 $0.42 $0.64 $0.51
City Wide Solar Benefits
Environmental Benefits for Edina
The core environmental benefits of Solar PV electric energy generation relate to improved air quality, reduced greenhouse
gas emissions, and reduced water consumption.
6-3 Edina Renewable Energy Potentials Study
Greenhouse Gas and Electricity
Greenhouse gas emissions form, primarily, from the burning
of fossil fuels. The carbon footprint of electricity is the total
greenhouse gas emissions throughout the life-cycle from
source fuel extraction through to end user electricity. Ac-
cording to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change
(IPCC), the median greenhouse gas emission, measured in
metric tonnes, for 1 Gwh of electricity by fuel type is as fol-
lows:
Electricity Source Metric Tonnes
GHG/GWh
Hydroelectric 4
Wind 12
Nuclear 16
Biomass 18
Geothermal 45
Solar PV 46
Natural gas 469
Coal 1001
The Water/Energy Nexus
Water and energy are inextricably linked in our current
modern infrastructure. Water is used in all phases of ener-
gy production. Energy is required to extract, pump and de-
liver water for use, and to treat waste-water so it can be
safely returned to the environment. The cumulative impact
of electricity generation on our water sources can be signifi-
cant, and varies by fuel source. According to The River Net-
work, the average fresh water use for 1 Gwh of electricity
by fuel type is as follows:
Electricity Source Gallons/GWh
Hydroelectric 29,920,000
Wind 1,000
Nuclear 2,995,000
Biomass 2,000
Geothermal 2,000
Solar PV 2,000
Natural gas 1,512,000
Coal 7,143,000
Current Electric Grid Profile
According to Xcel Energy, the total GHG emissions per MWH equal 0.356 metric tons. Using the River Network average
fresh water use by fuel type, the average water use per 1 Gwh of electricity in the city is 5,306,500 gallons.
Based on these numbers, by 2025 the additional solar pv installed in the City of Edina can reduce its annual Greenhouse
Gas emissions by 2,313 metric tons (45,383,646 cubic feet of man-made greenhouse atmosphere), and its annual water
footprint by 34.46 Million Gallons.
S e c t i o n 07
City Wide Municipal
Solid Waste Plasma
Gasification Potential
7-1 Edina Renewable Energy Potentials Study
City Wide Municipal Solid Waste Plasma
Gasification Potential
Exploration of gasification of Municipal Solid Waste for ener-
gy and beneficial use bi-products should not be instituted in
competition with traditional goals of waste reduction, reuse,
and recycling efforts. Gasification works in conjunction with
this established waste hierarchy - even after efforts to re-
duce, reuse, recycle and compost, there is still residual waste
generated. Rather than send this residual waste to a landfill
where harmful greenhouse gas emissions are released, cap-
ture the energy value of the waste through plasma gasifica-
tion energy recovery facilities. This approach to energy gen-
eration may be a potential for any community that gener-
ates solid waste, regardless of whether or not that solid
waste is currently landfilled within the community’s bounda-
ries. For communities that currently export their solid waste
to locations outside of the community, it may be possible to
create a gasification plant within the community, or to ex-
plore partnering with the existing site handling the commu-
nity’s solid waste.
What is Gasification?
Gasification can be defined as a thermochemical process
that uses heat and a low-oxygen environment to transform
carbonaceous feedstock such as biomass or MSW through
partial oxidation to release other forms of energy. This
means that oxygen is injected but not enough to cause com-
plete combustion as it does in waste incinerators. Unlike
incineration, gasification converts solid or liquid waste feed-
stock into gaseous product by exposing it to a range of high
temperatures in a controlled supply of oxygen without actu-
ally burning it. At such elevated temperatures, bonds in solid
and liquid wastes are broken, releasing simple gaseous mol-
ecules, which are mainly a mixture of carbon monoxide (CO)
and hydrogen (H2) known as synthesis gas (syngas), which
has energy content and can be used to generate electrical
power in fuel cells or as a fuel in gas engines and turbines
after cleaning.
How Does a Gasification System Work?
Waste is fed into the top of the gasifier vessel through an
airlock. Purified oxygen and steam are injected into the base.
The gasification reaction occurs at temperatures around
2,200°C (4,000°F). As the waste descends within the gasifier,
it passes through several reaction zones reaching the hottest
area at the base. In each zone, different materials are driven
off. At the lowest point of the gasifier, the waste is reduced
to carbon char, inorganic materials, and metals. Injected
oxygen and steam react with the carbon char to produce a
synthesis gas (syngas), comprised predominately of carbon
monoxide and hydrogen. This reaction is highly exothermic,
meaning that it releases a large amount of energy in the
form of heat. The syngas and heat rise through the gasifier,
interacting with the waste as it descends through the vessel.
Syngas then exits the top of the gasifier vessel. At the base
of the gasifier, inorganic materials and metals collect in a
molten state. This molten liquid is periodically tapped out
and cools into a vitrified stone that is very similar in appear-
ance to volcanic rock and suitable for use in landscaping or
as construction material aggregate. Systems which use ultra
high temperatures and purified oxygen (as opposed to nitro-
gen-rich ambient air) avoids greenhouse gas emis-
sions because it eliminates nitrogen from the process and
preventing the formation of harmful substances such as ni-
trogen oxides.
Use of Municipal Solid Waste as Feedstock for Gasification
Systems which use ultra high temperatures and purified oxy-
gen, similar to Serria Energy’s FastOx, system can ac-
cept most waste, with the exception of radioactive and ex-
plosive materials. This includes municipal solid waste, bio-
mass, construction and demolition waste, industrial waste,
and even complex wastes, such as hazardous, toxic and med-
ical wastes without any additional treatment requirements.
The process requires minimal pre-treatment of feedstock.
After waste material is delivered to the site, it is shredded
prior to gasification. The gasfiier can handle wastes with
moisture contents of up to 50% by weight although optimal
moisture content is 20% and below. MSW is ideal feedstocks
for systems which use ultra high temperatures and purified
oxygen. The EPA defines MSW as waste consisting of every-
day items "used and then thrown away, such as product
packaging, grass clippings, furniture, clothing, bottles, food
scraps, newspapers, appliances, paint, and batteries,” which
come from “homes, schools, hospitals, and businesses” (US
Environmental Protection Agency, 2013). MSW makes a
great feedstock for these types of gasification systems due
to its abundance and its variable composition which tends to
optimize the gasification process. Use of MSW as gasifica-
tion feedstock should focus on converting non-recyclable
trash into energy. Therefore, processing MSW waste to ex-
tract all recyclable content should occur prior to entering the
gasification process.
End-product Creation
Gasifiers produce a high-quality syngas that can be convert-
ed into a number of valuable end products. The most com-
mon end products are syngas which can be used to generate
electricity, and solids including biochar, and vitrified stone
that is very similar in appearance to volcanic rock and suita-
ble for use in landscaping or as construction material aggre-
gate. To generate electricity, syngas must be cleaned to the
degree at which it can be used to power an electrical genera-
tion engine. The production of diesel, hydrogen fuel, and
other end products, requires additional syngas cleaning
efforts, as their purity requirements are more stringent than
that of electricity production. As a result, each desired end-
product may require a unique syngas cleaning and condition-
ing process.
7-2 Edina Renewable Energy Potentials Study
7-3 Edina Renewable Energy Potentials Study
Graphic Source: Sierra Energy
City Wide Municipal Solid Waste Plasma Gasification Potential
What Emissions are Produced through Gasification?
Environmental performance in a MSW thermal treatment technology is important for the feasibility of the whole process.
Recent research has shown that the operation of thermo-chemical and biochemical solid waste conversion processes pos-
es little risk to human health or the environment compared to other commercial processes. Biochemical processes and
those of anaerobic digestion have gained a wider acceptance in recent years. The strong opposition to gasification pro-
cesses from environmental organizations is the result of misunderstanding that these processes are only minor variations
of incineration.
The type of thermal chemical conversion that occurs in gasification, as outlined above, has several important aspects that
make it different from conventional MSW incineration. The technology makes air pollution control easier and cheaper
compared with the conventional combustion processes. Exhaust gas cleanup of thermochemical conversion processes is
easier compared with incineration process, though still requires a proper process and emission control system design to
satisfy safety and health requirements.
University of California researchers conducted a limited study in 2005 of three prototype thermochemical conversion
technologies. Results from the analysis indicate that pyrolysis and gasification facilities currently operating throughout the
world with waste feedstocks meet each of their respective air quality emission limits. With few exceptions, most meet all
of the current emission limits mandated in California, the United States, the European Union, and Japan. In the case of
toxic air contaminants (dioxins/furans and mercury), every process evaluated met the most stringent emission standards
worldwide.
Systems which use ultra high temperatures and purified oxygen have zero direct emissions. It is a closed loop system that
converts waste into syngas, which is processed at the back end of the system into useful energy.
Plasma Gasification Potential in Hennepin
According to Sierra Energy, based on the City of Edin’a pro rata share of Hennepin County total landfilled municipal solid
waste, the current waste stream wthin Edina could generate:
7-4 Edina Renewable Energy Potentials Study
Source: Sierra Energy
Edina Total
66,962,640
or
1,655,150
or
2,801,932
kWh Electricity
annually
(14% of Edina citywide electric consumption)
Pounds Hydrogen Fuel
annually
Gallons of Biodiesel
annually
Edina Renewable Energy Potentials Study
S e c t i o n 08
Recommendations
8-1
Recommendations
Community-Wide Solar Recommendations
In support of the City’s interest in Greenhouse Gas emissions reductions and increase in renewable energy generation, we
recommend the following:
1) Maximize new installations through 2023 for both Residential and Commercial scale projects in order to leverage the
greatest potential for local cost savings from the Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit. Actions to support this include:
a) Develop and distribute information on the advantages of solar with a particular focus on the current tax incentive
savings available for both homeowners and businesses. Information should also include detailed information on
incentives and opportunities for financing.
b) Develop and provide a solar benefits educational seminar for residents and businesses, content to include infor-
mation on the tax incentive savings potential as well as tools and resources for solar procurement and financing.
c) Conduct a “Solar Top 50” study to identify the top 50 commercial and industrial properties for on-site solar gener-
ation. Develop feasibility assessments for each property illustrating energy generation potential and estimated re-
turn on investment. Combine feasibility information with information developed in item a above and provide to
each subject property owner.
d) Organize and lead a Commercial Group Purchasing campaign annually to competitively bid contractors to offer
maximum cost savings based on power of quantity buying. This program could focus on the Solar Top 50 sites identi-
fied in item c above as well as combined with municipal facilities. Program should explore the inclusion of cash pur-
chase as well as third party purchase options.
e) Organize and lead a Residential Group Purchasing campaign in annually to competitively bid contractors to offer
maximum cost savings based on power of quantity buying.
f) Develop and distribute a “Solar Ready Guide” outlining steps building owners can take for new construction and
renovation projects to make buildings solar ready and decrease the cost of future installations.
g) Establish a requirement that all municipal owned new construction projects and significant renovation projects as
well as any projects which receive City funding are to be Solar Ready (based on City’s Solar Ready Guide see item f
above).
h) Establish a requirement that all municipal owned new construction projects and significant renovation projects as
well as any projects which receive City funding are to include a detailed solar feasibility assessment with projected
financial payback (cash purchase and 3rd party ownership options) to be included at time of building permit applica-
tion. (Strategy encourages awareness of solar potential and potential long-term economic savings)
2) Maximize new installations in years 2024 and beyond. Actions to support this include:
i) Establish an incentive for all privately owned new construction projects and significant renovation projects that are
designed to City’s Solar Ready Guidelines developed in item f above (incentive may include credit on building permit
application and/or expedited permit processing)
j) Establish a requirement that all new construction projects requiring a Conditional Use Permit or Planned Unit De-
velopment be designed to the City’s Solar Ready Guidelines developed in item f on previous page.
k) Establish a requirement that new construction projects and significant renovation projects within the City (private
and publicly owned) are to include a detailed solar feasibility assessment with projected financial payback (cash pur-
chase and 3rd party ownership options) to be included at time of building permit application. (Strategy encourages
awareness of solar potential and potential long-term economic savings)
i) Establish a requirement that all private or public projects receiving City funding be constructed as fully solar ready
and include an on-site solar pv array.
l) Coordinate with County to explore the development of new incentive programs, particularly those aimed at low
and moderate income residents. Program opportunities may include development of Low Income Home Energy As-
sistance Program (LIHEAP) based funding sources.
8-2 Edina Renewable Energy Potentials Study
Recommendations
Community-Wide Solar Recommendations (continued)
3) Maximize Solar benefits for Low and Moderate Income (LMI) communities:
o) Collaborate with County to explore opportunities to adapt local utilization of energy assistance programs, like the
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) and the Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP), to in-
clude solar power as approved cost-effective measures.
q) Identify municipally controlled properties suitable to house large ground-mounted community solar arrays and
issue RFP for community solar developer offering use of property at no cost in exchange for achievement of mini-
mum LMI participation.
r) Explore the potential of establishing a Community Development Financing Institution (CDFI) or Community Devel-
opment Entity (CDE) to identify and expand accessing to low income solar financial mechanisms.
4) Explore the potential for plasma gasification diverting all existing landfilled municipal solid waste for the development
of renewable energy, particularly for the production of hydrogen, renewable natural gas, or biodiesel for use in the com-
munity to reduce fossil fuel combustion within the building or transportation sector.
8-3 Edina Renewable Energy Potentials Study
Prepared by:
2515 White Bear Ave, A8
Suite 177
Maplewood, MN 55109
Contact:
Ted Redmond
tredmond@paleBLUEdot.llc
Ground Cover Survey
and
Carbon Sequestration
Study
April 2021
Revised April 29, 2021
Prepared by:
Trees are sanctuaries. Whoever knows
how to speak to them, whoever knows
how to listen to them, can learn the
truth.
Herman Hesse, Poet
Edina Ground Cover And Carbon Sequestration Study 1-1
Table of Contents
Section 01 Introduction and Methodology
Section 02 Land Coverage Characteristics
Section 03 Land Cover Impacts and Benefits
Section 04 Tree Canopy Economic Value
Section 05 Findings
Section 06 Calculating Potential Goals
Section 07 Recommendations
Appendix 1 i-Tree Technical Notes
Appendix 2 Climate Adaptive Tree Species
Introduction
The intent of this study is to support the City of Edina in understanding
the extent of Citywide tree canopy, grass, and impervious surface cover-
age and in establishing appropriate goals and strategies to improve the
environmental impacts and opportunities of land coverage within the
City. The findings of this report are to support establishment of goals,
strategies, and actions for the City’s Climate Action Plan. As a visionary
planning document, the goals established for the City should be a
“stretch” while also being achievable.
Why Study the City Wide Tree Canopy?
Trees play a central role in supporting community health, improving air
and water quality, helping to reduce building energy use, and supporting
heat island and climate mitigation.
Community Health Benefit of Trees
Recent studies have shown that sometimes going to a park, or even look-
ing at a single tree can significantly improve a person’s health and stress
levels. Our understanding of the value of trees has been expanded to
include mental and physical health benefits.
Trees are critical in filtering air, removing harmful pollutants, such as Car-
bon Monoxide, particulate matter, and Ground-level Ozone - pollutants
that can be toxic at high levels and which can cause asthma and other
respiratory impacts.
Stormwater Management
Every tree catches the rain as it comes down, increasing the soil’s capaci-
ty to retain water longer. A mature White Oak can intercept up to 12,010
Gallons of water in a single year. This water stays in the leaves until it’s
absorbed by the tree or evaporates to cool our air. Within an urban en-
vironment, this prevents that water from needing to be piped or treated
by other stormwater infrastructure.
Edina Ground Cover And Carbon Sequestration Study 1-2
Introduction
Pollution Absorption
Trees remove gaseous air pollution primarily by uptake via leaf stomata, though some gases are removed by the plant surface. Once inside the
leaf, gases diffuse into intercellular spaces and may be absorbed by water films to form acids or react with inner-leaf surfaces. Trees also remove
pollution by intercepting airborne particles. (Source: USDA Forest Service)
Heat Island Mitigation
Tree transpiration and tree canopies affect air temperature, radiation absorption and heat storage, wind speed, relative humidity, turbulence,
surface albedo, surface roughness and consequently the evolution of the mixing-layer height. These changes in local meteorology can alter pollu-
tion concentrations in urban areas. Maximum mid-day air temperature reductions due to trees are in the range of 0.07 to 0.36 degrees F for eve-
ry percent canopy cover increase. (Source: USDA Forest Service)
Carbon Sequestration
Through photosynthesis,
trees take in carbon dioxide
(CO2) and release oxygen
(O2). Trees then transfer
the remaining carbon to
their trunks, limbs, roots,
and leaves as they grow.
When leaves or branches
fall and decompose, or
trees die, the carbon that
has been stored will be re-
leased by respiration and/
or combustion back to the
atmosphere or transferred
to the soil.
Edina Ground Cover And Carbon Sequestration Study 1-3
Edina Ground Cover And Carbon Seques-1-4
Introduction
Methodology
To arrive at recommended goals, this study looks at the existing extent of tree canopy, grass/shrub, and impervious surface coverage. Coverage for
each category are established using aerial imagery and a random point technique using the USDA Forest Service’s i-Tree Canopy Software tool. i-Tree
Canopy is a quick and simple method to obtain statistically valid estimates for canopy cover and other land uses based on the point method. Further
technical information on i-Tree canopy is included in Appendix 1
i-Tree Canopy was used to interpret aerial images across the community using 8,149 random points. This overall picture was built up by analyzing the
14 census tracts (see map below) that make up the City of Edina. The point samples averaged 580 plots to each neighborhood until a satisfactory
standard error for each land cover category was reached. The standard error (SE) achieved is typically between .2 and 2%.
Classification of coverage categories included Trees/Shrubs, Lawn, Prairie Grass/Gardens, Water, Impervious Surface Light (buildings), Impervious Sur-
face Light (pavement), Impervious Surface Dark (buildings), and Impervious Surface Dark (pavement). The land classes assigned and their descriptions
are provided in the table below. Once statistically valid land cover calculations in these classifications were obtained for each neighborhood, calcula-
tions were created, by neighborhood, for Tree Canopy Benefits, Tree Canopy Values, and Baselines for community-wide Heat Island Contribution,
Stormwater Runoff, and Carbon Sequestration. With these values established a range of potential goals and strategies to protect and improve the envi-
ronmental benefits of the City’s tree canopy and green infrastructure were identified and are included in the Recommendations Section of this report.
Population Density of Edina Per Acre within the 14 Census Tracts Land Coverage Categories Measured
2-1 Edina Ground Cover And Carbon Sequestration Study
02 S e c t i o n
Land Coverage
Characteristics
Click here to
return to TOC
Classification of coverage categories included
Tree Canopy, Grass/Shrub/Crop, Water, Im-
pervious Surface Light, and Impervious Sur-
face Dark.
Tree Canopy Coverage
City Average: 35.9%
Census Tract High: 46.7%
Tract: 236
Census Tract Low: 12.6%
Tract: 240.05
Lawns and Grass Coverage
City Average: 21.2%
Census Tract High: 34.1%
Tract: 239.01
Census Tract Low: 10.0%
Tract: 240.05
2-2 Edina Ground Cover And Carbon Sequestration Study
Land Coverage Characteristics
Open Water Coverage
City Average: 3.9%
Census Tract High: 10.2%
Tract: 240.06
Census Tract Low: 0%
Tract: 240.05
Light Impervious Surface
Coverage (buildings+pavement)
City Average: 6.4%
Census Tract High: 18.4%
Tract: 240.05
Census Tract Low: 3.4%
Tract: 235.01
Dark Impervious Surface
Coverage (buildings+pavement)
City Average: 25.5%
Census Tract High: 46.6%
Tract: 240.04
Census Tract Low: 18.4%
Tract: 240.05
3-1 Edina Ground Cover And Carbon Sequestration Study
03 S e c t i o n
Land Cover
Impacts and
Benefits
Click here to
return to TOC
Pollution Absorption by Trees
Air pollution is a major environmental concern
in most major metropolitan areas globally. Air
pollutants are known to increase incidents of
heart disease, asthma, emphysema, and cancer.
Meanwhile, global warming projections for Min-
nesota anticipate an increase in the impacts felt
by air quality issues. Healthy tree canopies offer
the ability to remove significant amounts of air
pollutants and consequently improve environ-
mental quality and human health.
Pollution Absorption by Trees - Particulates
Particulate matter pollution is divided into two
categories: Fine Particulate (PM2.5) and Course
Particulate (PM10). Numerous studies have
linked fine particulate pollution with a number
of health risks including respiratory disease,
asthma, bronchitis, and increased heart disease
and heart attacks. Course particulate matter
has been shown to aggravate heart and lung
diseases and to cause lung damage.
The condition and health of a community’s Tree Canopy and green infrastructure and the magni-
tude and nature of impervious surfaces have meaningful consequences on the area’s environ-
ment. Estimating the baseline land cover contributions to the community’s environment enables
the City to project the impact of potential strategies and to track improvements over time. The
following maps in this section diagram the impacts and benefits of the City’s Tree Canopy, grass,
and impervious surface coverage.
3-2 Edina Ground Cover And Carbon Sequestration Study
Pollution Absorbed Annually by City’s Tree Canopy
The values shown in the legends below are mapped
by census tract on the following page.
Carbon
Monoxide
3,930 lbs
Nitrogen
Dioxide
21,211 lbs
Ozone
167,710 lbs
Land Cover Impacts and Benefits
Sulfur
Dioxide
10,673 lbs
Fine
Particulate
(PM2.5)
8,568 lbs
Course
Particulate
(PM10)
47,600 lbs
Electric Energy
Savings
21,684,278 kWh
Natural Gas
Savings
4,517,952 Therms
Land Cover Impacts and Benefits
Energy Savings
Trees are important elements in many urban areas and alter the local cli-
mates by producing shade, blocking winds and reducing air temperatures
through evaporation of water from leaves. To determine exact energy sav-
ings values, tree locations and relationships to buildings need to be as-
sessed in detail. Trees which help buildings reduce their energy consump-
tion based on their location - an example is a tree planted on the South
side of a building helping to shade the building from hot summer sunlight -
are known as energy-affecting trees. At the community-wide scale, how
ever, reasonable approximations can be calculated using average energy
affecting trees per acre based on community density type established
through the study “Residential building energy conservation and avoided
power plant emissions by urban and community trees in the United States.”
Using these averages, we can estimate the total electrical and natural gas
savings contributed by Edina’s tree canopy. (Note; based on regional aver-
ages, it is assumed 25% of electricity consumption is for air conditioning
and 80% of natural gas use is for heating buildings.)
3-3 Edina Ground Cover And Carbon Sequestration Study
Energy Savings Annually From City’s Tree Canopy
3-4 Edina Ground Cover And Carbon Sequestration Study
Land Cover Impacts and Benefits
Heat Island Contribution of Edina Impervious Surfaces
(summer values)
City Average: 4.4°F
Census Tract High: 8.0°F
Tract: 240.04
Census Tract Low: 3.1°F
Tract: 240.05
Heat Island Contribution
Heat island refers to the phenomenon of higher atmospheric and sur-
face temperatures occurring in developed areas than those experi-
enced in the surrounding rural areas due to human activities and in-
frastructure. Increased heat indices during summer months due to
heat island effects raise human discomfort and health risk levels in
developed areas, especially during heat waves.
According to NOAA projections, if global greenhouse gas emissions
proceed under a “business as usual” scenario, Edina may have an an-
nual average of 50 days above 95 degrees compared to the recent 30
year average of 2. Depending upon humidity, wind, access to air-
conditioning, humans may feel very uncomfortable or experience heat
stress or illness, or even death on days with such high heat indices.
Consequently, planning and management efforts to address Heat Is-
land effects will be increasingly important to the City of Edina.
Based on a 2006 study done by Minnesota State University and the
University of Minnesota*, the relationship between impervious sur-
face percentage of a City and the corresponding degree of heat island
temperature increase can be understood as a ratio. The ratios vary
slightly for each season. We’ve selected the ratio for summer heat
island contribution as the effects of heat island on heat related risks
are and will become increasingly more acute during summer heat
waves. The numbers shown below for each of the Census Tracts rep-
resents the increase in summer temperatures a City would experience
if the entire region had impervious land characteristics identical to
that Census Tract. These numbers do not necessarily represent the
actual summer time temperature difference from tract to tract, but
instead are a representation of the comparative level of overall heat
island impacts for the overall community.
*Comparison of impervious surface area and normalized difference vegetation index
as indicators of surface urban heat island effects in Landsat imagery. Fi Yuan and
Marvin Bauer, February 2007
Land Cover Impacts and Benefits
Total Stormwater Runoff Generated Edina’s Impervious Surfaces An-
nually
City Total: 3.3 Billion Gallons
Land Cover Impacts and Benefits
Stormwater Runoff and Management by Green Infrastructure
Increases in impervious cover can dramatically increase the impact of
so-called 100-year flood events. Typically, floods in areas of high im-
pervious surfaces are short-lived, but extended flooding can stress
trees, leading to leaf yellowing, defoliation, and crown dieback. If
damage is severe, tree mortality can occur. In addition, flooding can
lead to secondary attacks by insect pests and diseases. Some species
are more tolerant of flooding than others.
According to data from National Climatic Data Center and NOAA, the
city receives 30.6” of precipitation annually. That total precipitation
level and the impervious surface coverages can then be used to esti-
mate the total stormwater runoff values by neighborhood as indicated
below.
3-5 Edina Ground Cover And Carbon Sequestration Study
Total Stormwater
Uptake by Grasses
15.8 Million Gallons
Stormwater Runoff and Management by Green Infrastructure
Green Infrastructure such as native grasses, wetlands, and especially trees
are a critical stormwater management tool. Healthy green infrastructure
within a community can help protect, restore, and mimic the natural water
cycle - which has typically been significantly impacted through community
development.
To estimate the total stormwater uptake, in gallons, by neighborhood, we
have used calculations developed by stormwater sustainability specialist
Aarin Teague and US Forestry Service forester Eric Kuehler. Detailed val-
ues can only be calculated using detailed soil hydrology data and accurate
Land Cover Impacts and Benefits
runoff curve numbers. As that level of detail is not a part of this study,
we’ve used curve numbers averaged across soil groups A-D for “fair” hy-
drology and cover conditions. The result should not be considered an ac-
curate indication of total uptake volumes, but rather as an “order of mag-
nitude” analysis tool for comparison between neighborhoods.
These maps indicate the estimated total annual water uptake of trees and
of grass/open land as well as the total green infrastructure water uptake
as a percentage of the total stormwater runoff of each neighborhood.
Total Stormwater
Uptake by Trees
79 Million Gallons
3-6 Edina Ground Cover And Carbon Sequestration Study
Estimated Percentage
of Stormwater Runoff
Uptake by Green In-
frastructure
City Average:
2.9%
Census Tract High:
4.4% Tract: 239.02
Census Tract Low:
0.9% Tract: 240.05
3-7 Edina Ground Cover And Carbon Sequestration Study
Annual Carbon
Sequestration by Grasses
13,720,886 pounds
(6,224 Metric Tons —
0.9% of annual GHG emissions)
Land Cover Impacts and Benefits
Pollution Absorption - Carbon
By volume, Carbon Dioxide pollution is the largest man-made emission
contributing to Global Warming. Throughout the City of Edina, 919 million
cubic feet of CO2 pollution is produced by vehicles alone annually. Carbon
Sequestration occurs throughout the growing season of all plants. Long-
term carbon storage occurs within the tree/plant structure in the form of
the plant material as well as below-grade in the form of soil carbon. 3.663
pounds of CO2 sequestered produces 1 pound of carbon stored. The fol-
lowing diagrams are the annual carbon sequestration levels by neighbor-
hood provided by the City’s tree canopy and by its lawns and grasses.
Annual Carbon
Sequestration by Trees
34,822,060 pounds
(15,795 Metric Tons —
2.2% of annual GHG emissions)
3-8 Edina Ground Cover And Carbon Sequestration Study
Land Cover Impacts and Benefits
Pollution Absorption - Carbon
The combined carbon sequestration services of grasses and trees through-
out the community can be seen as a measure of equity of green infrastruc-
ture when viewed on a per-acre basis. Higher per-acre carbon sequestra-
tion rates reflect combined higher rates of per-acre green infrastructure
(trees and grasses). In addition, these per-acre values can help guide fu-
ture tree canopy increase goals by focusing on portions of the community
with lower per-acre baselines.
Annual Carbon
Sequestration of
Green Infrastructure
per Acre
(in Metric Tons)
City Average:
4,962
Census Tract High:
5,751 Tract: 239.02
Census Tract Low:
1,783 Tract: 240.05
4-1 Edina Ground Cover And Carbon Sequestration Study
04 S e c t i o n
Tree Canopy
Economic Value
Click here to
return to TOC
In recent years, several computer models have been
developed by the USDA Forest Service and collabora-
tors to assist cities in assessing the value and environ-
mental benefits of their tree resources. Each of the
benefits outlined in Section 3 of this report have eco-
nomic benefit as well as environmental benefit.
Air Pollution Removal Values
The air pollutants estimated are the six criteria pollu-
tants included in Section 3 of this report, defined by
the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA); car-
bon monoxide (CO), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), ozone
(O3), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and particulate matter
(PM), which includes particulate matter less than 2.5
microns (PM2.5) and particulate matter greater than
2.5 and less than 10 microns (PM10).
Air pollution removal value estimates are based on
procedures detailed in Nowak et al. (2014). This pro-
cess used local tree cover, leaf area index, percent
evergreen, weather, pollution, and population data to
estimate pollution removal (g/m2 tree cover) and
values ($/m2 tree cover) in urban and rural areas.
Current i-Tree Canopy Annual Tree Benefit Estimate
values per ton of pollution removed are: CO at
$1,333.50; NO2 at $477.89; O3 at $2,443.66; PM2.5 at
$91,955.05; SO2 at $163.18; PM10 at $6,268.44, and
CO2 sequestration at $35.38.
Building Energy Savings Values
As outlined in Section 3 of this report, building energy
savings values can be estimated using average energy
affecting tree counts per acre, by community density
type, established through the study “Residential build-
ing energy conservation and avoided power plant
emissions by urban and community trees in the Unit-
ed States.” Using these averages, we can estimate
the total electrical and natural gas savings contributed
by the City’s tree canopy using average local electrical
and natural gas costs.
Annual Pollution
Absorption Value of
Trees
$1.64 Million
Annual Energy
Savings Value of
Trees
$4.9 Million
4-2 Edina Ground Cover And Carbon Seques-
Tree Benefit
per Acre
City Average:
$660
Census Tract High:
$774 Tract: 231
Census Tract Low:
$233 Tract: 240.05
Tree Benefit
per Household
City Average:
$301
Census Tract High:
$1,123 Tract: 239.02
Census Tract Low:
$46 Tract: 240.04
Tree Canopy Economic Value
Equity in Tree Value
The economic benefits outlined on the previous page
can be viewed on the basis of value-per-acre and value
-per-household to establish an understanding of tree
benefit equity throughout the City.
5-1 Edina Ground Cover And Carbon Sequestration Study
05 S e c t i o n
Findings
Click here to
return to TOC
The health of the City’s green infrastructure and the impacts of impervious land cover affect every-
one in the community and City policies and actions should consider needs of the entire communi-
ty. As with all planning efforts landcover planning benefits from analysis in order to assist in estab-
lishing priorities for efforts. An effort to structure a prioritization should not be seen as an attempt
to discard the need to address or improve land cover impacts for any neighborhood of the city -
whether or not it is defined as one of the “priority” neighborhoods. Prioritization, however, is nec-
essary to ensure the greatest impact and effectiveness of limited City resources.
To assist in prioritization, in the following pages, this report reviews the community Green Infra-
structure and Impervious Surface data through “filters” in order to arrive at a recommended priori-
tization of neighborhoods for policy action. These “filters” are based on the land coverage infor-
mation detailed in Section 2 of this report.
Ground Cover Charac-
teristics by Census
Tract
Organized by Share of Low
Income Population (LMI)
The bar chart below
provides a side-by-side
comparison of the of
land cover data de-
tailed in Section 2, by
Census Tract.
Ground Cover
Breakdown by Type More LMI Less LMI Trend Line Trend Line
5-2 Edina Ground Cover And Carbon Sequestration Study
Review Criteria - Green Infrastructure
Prioritization of locations for increased green
infrastructure included in this report is based
on an equity approach. This approach reviews
a range of land cover and demographic charac-
teristics of each neighborhood in an
“Environmental Equity Index”. This process is
based on procedures developed by the USDA
Forest Service.
To determine the best locations to plant trees,
tree canopy and impervious cover maps devel-
oped for this report’s Section 2 were used in
conjunction with U.S. Census data to produce
an index of priority planting areas by neighbor-
hood. Index values were produced for each
neighborhood with higher index values relating
to higher priority of the area for tree planting.
This index is a type of “environmental equity”
index with areas with higher human population
density, higher economic stress, lower existing
tree cover, and higher total tree canopy poten-
tial receiving the higher index value. The criteria
used to make the index were:
• Tree Stock Potential
• Economic Stress Density
• Population Density
• Heat Island Mitigation Potential
Findings
Priority Tree Canopy Increase Based on Tree
Stock Potential Levels:
Tree stock potential level refers to the ratio of
additional tree canopy potential to the total
area of potential tree canopy and existing tree
canopy coverage. Higher tree stock potential
levels represent higher potential and priority
for tree planting. Higher numbers represent
higher prioritization based on this category.
Priority Tree Canopy Increase Based on Eco-
nomic Stress Density:
The social, economic, and environmental ben-
efits of a robust tree canopy are a benefit to all
community residents, however, those living
under economic stress are both more likely to
live in areas with lower tree canopy coverage
as well as those for whom the benefits have
the largest positive impacts. Higher economic
stress density values represent higher poten-
tial for increasing environmental equity of tree
canopy cover. Higher numbers represent high-
er prioritization based on this category.
Edina Ground Cover And Carbon Sequestration Study 5-3
Findings
Priority Tree Canopy
Increase Based on
Population Density:
The greater the popu-
lation density, the
greater the opportuni-
ty for tree planting to
impact community
members. Population
densities shown are
estimates based on US
Census data by tract.
Higher numbers repre-
sent higher prioritiza-
tion based on this cate-
gory.
Priority Tree Canopy
Increase Based on Heat
Island Mitigation Po-
tential:
As outlined in Section 3,
heat island or micro-
heat island impacts are
not equally felt
throughout the city.
This prioritization re-
view organizes the cen-
sus tracts based on op-
portunity to mitigate
current and future heat
island impacts through
tree planting. Higher
Weighted Priority Tree Canopy Increase
The weighted prioritization for tree canopy increase looks to balance
the potential for increased tree canopy with the opportunity to im-
prove tree canopy benefit equity, potential to positively impact as
many households as possible, and the need for mitigation of heat is-
land impacts. Higher numbers represent higher prioritization. The
priorities above are weighted as follows:
Potential for new trees: 20%
Population density: 20%
Low Income Population (equity adjustment): 30%
Heat Island mitigation need: 30%
Edina Ground Cover And Carbon Sequestration Study 5-4
Findings
In addition to opportunities to expand and improve the city’s tree canopy, the find-
ings of the ground cover study as outlined in Section 2 may be used to identify ad-
ditional opportunities for increased heat island mitigation and increased native
grass installations.
Turf Reduction Potential
As illustrated in the chart to the right, 93% of grass lands in Edina are manicured
lawns—representing a great opportunity for turf reduction. Turf reduction can
increase stormwater uptake, reduce potable water use, and increase soil carbon.
Impervious Surface Characteristic
As outlined in Section 3, the city’s experienc-
es of heat island are directly impacted by
the level of impervious surface coverage—
particularly dark roofs and pavement. As
the diagram to the right illustrates dark
pavements make up 50% of all impervious
surfaces, followed by dark roof surfaces at
30%. These represent significant opportuni-
ties for decreasing heat island impacts in the
community.
Impervious Surface Characteristics by Cen-
sus Tract
The bar chart to the right shows the imper-
vious surface characteristics by census
tract. The portions of the community with
the highest shares of dark building and dark
pavement surfaces may benefit the most
from heat island mitigation strategies like
cool pavement systems or green roofs. More LMI Less LMI
6-1 Edina Ground Cover And Carbon Sequestration Study
06 S e c t i o n
Calculating
Potential Goals
Click here to
return to TOC
Calculating Tree Canopy Coverage Goal for 2040
Total tree canopy coverage goals are central to
long-range land cover goal recommendations for
the city. In support of an “Environmental Equity”
approach to tree canopy goalsetting, as outlined
in the Findings Section of this report, identifica-
tion of long-term tree canopy coverage goals
includes consideration of each neighborhood’s
Tree Stock value (the amount of existing tree
canopy compared to available land for tree cano-
py coverage), population densities, economic
stress densities, and heat island mitigation need.
The recommended goals for 2040 Tree Canopy
coverage are based on individual neighborhood
calculations, corresponding to the neighborhood
prioritizations outlined in the Findings Section of
this report. 2040 Tree Canopy goals are first cal
culated as Tree Stock goals, that is, goals calcu-
lated against the total potential Tree Stock area
(existing tree canopy area + existing lawn/grass/
shrub area), with a progressive percentage in-
crease goal based on neighborhood prioritiza-
tion. As the total Tree Stock area (potential tree
canopy) varies by neighborhood, the resulting
Tree Canopy percentage varies for each neigh-
borhood.
The recommended Tree Stock increase goals are:
For neighborhoods in the top 1/3rd Neighbor-
hood Priority Ranking: 10%
For neighborhoods in middle 1/3rd Neighbor-
hood Priority Ranking: 6.3%
For neighborhoods in bottom 1/3rd Neighbor-
hood Priority Ranking: 2.5%
Tree Canopy In-
crease in Absolute
Land Cover %
Tree Canopy In-
crease Over Existing
Tree Canopy Area
6-2 Edina Ground Cover And Carbon Sequestration Study
Calculating Potential Goals
New Tree Plantings Needed to Achieve Tree
Canopy Coverage Goal for 2040
While it is easy to think of the long range Tree
Canopy coverage goals for each neighborhood
in terms of planting trees, it is critical that tree
canopy enhancement goals include a combina-
tion of tree protection, tree maintenance, and
tree planting in order to be fully realized and
efficiently implemented.
A common calculation used to determine the
new tree planting requirements in order to
meet the long-range tree canopy coverage
goals, while recognizing the impacts of tree can-
opy growth and mortality was established by a
2002 Report to North East State Forester Asso-
ciation by Luley and Bond. That report offers
the following conceptual analysis for increasing
UTC:
CB + CG - CM + CN = CT
Where:
CB= the existing Tree Canopy;
CG= the growth of existing Tree Canopy
(protection and maintenance);
CM= Tree Canopy mortality or loss due to
natural and man -induced causes.
CN= Tree Canopy increase from new trees
(planting); and
CT= total Tree Canopy Result (or goal)
The maps on the following pages illustrate
these calculations for the city.
6-3 Edina Ground Cover And Carbon Sequestration Study
Calculating Potential Goals
Translating Tree Canopy Coverage Goal To New Tree Planting - Growth Rates (CG)
Consideration of tree canopy growth rate is important in anticipating long-range tree canopy goals
and annual new planting needs. According to a 2014 USDA report, the average growth rate for non-
managed forests is 2% while the average growth rate for managed forests is 2.5% annually.
Translating Tree Canopy Coverage Goal To New Tree Planting - Mortality Rates (CM)
As with growth rate, consideration of tree canopy mortality is necessary for long-range Tree Canopy
planning. According to the 2014 USDA report, the average mortality rate for non-managed forests is
1.86% while the average mortality rate for managed forests is 1.5% annual. There are few studies ex-
ploring mortality rates for trees in urban and suburban settings, those studies that exist indicate a
range from 2.7% for general suburban trees and 3.5% to 14% for street trees*. As many trees in the
city exist in forest type setting on publicly owned land and much of the balance are general suburban
trees observed regularly and likely seen as having value, we recommend using a mortality rate of
1.5%.
Ash Tree Mortality
Ash trees are projected to be significantly impacted by the infestation of the Emerald Ash Borer insect. Long-term tree canopy planning for the city
should anticipate substantial (complete for all non-treated trees) Ash tree mortality within the next 10-15 years.
The exact extent of Ash trees community wide has not been surveyed, however, according to a 2012 study by Whittier College, (Potential impacts of
emerald ash borer invasion on biogeochemical and water cycling in residential landscapes across a metropolitan region) for the potential long-term
impact on community-wide tree canopy, we recommend an estimated extent of Ash trees throughout the city of up to 19% of the existing tree canopy.
We recommend a detailed tree species study be conducted to identify the City wide canopy make-up by species. Until that detailed information is
available, this report will use an assumed average community wide ash tree coverage of 10%, for an additional annualized tree canopy loss of 0.667%
due to potential Emerald Ash Borer loss over 15 years. With this Ash tree mortality adjustment, the total recommended tree canopy mortality rate for
long-range tree canopy planning is 2.13%
*How Many Trees Are Enough? Tree Death and the Urban Canopy https://scenariojournal.com/article/how-many-trees-are-enough/
6-4 Edina Ground Cover And Carbon Sequestration Study
CB
(existing)
CG
(growth)
CM
(loss)
CN
(new)
CT
(year goal)
UTC
(year end
coverage %)
2022 3555 78 74 16 3575 36.2%
2023 3575 79 74 16 3595 36.4%
2024 3595 79 75 16 3614 36.6%
2025 3614 80 75 16 3634 36.8%
2026 3634 80 76 16 3654 37.0%
2027 3654 80 76 15 3674 37.2%
2028 3674 81 77 15 3693 37.4%
2029 3693 81 77 15 3713 37.6%
2030 3713 82 77 15 3733 37.8%
2031 3733 82 78 15 3753 38.0%
2032 3753 83 78 15 3772 38.2%
2033 3772 83 79 15 3792 38.4%
2034 3792 83 79 15 3812 38.6%
2035 3812 84 79 15 3832 38.8%
2036 3832 84 80 15 3851 39.0%
2037 3851 85 80 15 3871 39.2%
2038 3871 85 81 15 3891 39.3%
2039 3891 86 81 15 3911 39.5%
2040 3911 86 81 15 3930 39.7%
Translating Tree Canopy Coverage Goal To New Tree Planting - New Tree
Planting Annual Target (CN)
Using the new planting requirement calculation method (CB + CG - CM +
CN = CT) with the previously defined values for existing tree canopy (CB),
growth rates (CG), mortality rates (CM), and the 2040 Tree Canopy (CT)
goals by neighborhood the required number of new trees to be planted to
meet that goal can be identified. The map below shows the annual new
tree count required to meet the 2040 tree canopy goals for each neighbor-
hood.
Calculating Potential Goals
Annual Path to 2040 Tree Canopy Cover Goal
The chart below shows the community wide average values for year begin-
ning canopy cover (CB), annual growth rate (CG), mortality rate (CM), the
new tree planting targets (CN) and the year end tree canopy goal (CT) for
each year through the 2040 goal.
-
- + + =
- + + =
- + + =
- + + =
- + + =
- + + =
- + + =
- + + =
- + + =
- + + =
- + + =
- + + =
- + + =
- + + =
- + + =
- + + =
- + + =
- + + =
- + + =
New Tree Planting Annual Target to Meet 2040 Tree Canopy Goal
(CN)
Community-Wide Total:
Note, Acreage represents the canopy coverage at year of planting,
with an assumed new tree crown radius of 5’:
1,976 New Trees 16 Acres
6-5 Edina Ground Cover And Carbon Sequestration Study
07 S e c t i o n
Recommendations
Click here to
return to TOC
Conclusions
Even with a strong existing green infrastructure,
the City has the potential for more. Using re-
search from the University of Minnesota, this
study indicates that the City of Edina has a heat
island impact of at least 3-4 degrees in daytime
and 4-6 degrees in nighttime temperature in-
crease. Meanwhile, even with the significant
pollution absorption services the City’s green
infrastructure provides, only a fraction of the
man-made air quality impacts occurring in the
City are mitigated. Consequently, increases in
green infrastructure offer significant reward po-
tential for the City.
Primary Strategic Goal Recommendations
Section 6 of this report provided a range of rec-
ommended goals for the City of Edina. The over-
arching goals recommended in this report are:
1) To increase the tree canopy coverage
throughout the City, particularly in the Priori-
ty Neighborhoods identified in Section 6, to
an average of at least 39.7% City-wide by
2040.
2) Decrease the quantity of “dark” impervious
surfaces throughout the City by an average
of at least 5% of total citywide coverage by
2040.
The percentage targets identified for both of
these goals are intended to be achievable goals -
in both instances, exceeding the percentage
goals would be ideal.
Supportive Strategic Goal Recommendations
Based on the 2040 Tree Canopy Cover and 2040
Heat Island Reduction goals outlined in the previ-
ous page, we offer the potential additional strat-
egies for consideration:
Lawns and Grasslands
L1: Increase pollinator supportiveness of lawns
and grasslands in City of Edina and achieve
a 5% turf replacement with native grasses
and wildflowers by 2030.
Tree Canopy
T1: Create economic development potential
through identification and creation of urban
wood programs.
T2: Create strategic compatibility between City
wide tree canopy and renewable energy
goals.
6-6 Edina Ground Cover And Carbon Sequestration Study
A1 S e c t i o n
i-Tree Technical
Notes
Click here to
return to TOC
A2 S e c t i o n
Climate Adaptive
Tree Species
(Northern Institute of Applied
Climate Science)
Click here to
return to TOC
Prepared by:
2515 White Bear Ave, A8
Suite 177
Maplewood, MN 55109
Contact:
Ted Redmond
tredmond@paleBLUEdot.llc
Date: May 6, 2021 Agenda Item #: V.B.
To:Energy and Environment Commission Item Type:
Other
From:Grace Hancock, Sustainability Coordinator
Item Activity:
Subject:Board and Commission Member Review Information
CITY OF EDINA
4801 West 50th Street
Edina, MN 55424
www.edinamn.gov
ACTION REQUESTED:
None, information only
INTRODUCTION:
MJ Lamon, Edina Community Engagement Coordinator, will present to the EEC on general training and process
topics related to effective Board & Commission participation.
ATTACHMENTS:
Description
Commission Annual Review Presentation
Commission Member Handbook
MJ Lamon, Community Engagement
Coordinator
Updated 2021.05.05
Commission
Member Review
2021
Agenda
2
Roles
Communication
Guiding Documents
Work Plan Development
Council
StaffCommissions
Decide Strategy
Advise Council
Community
Perspective
Manage Operations,
Implement Policy,
Advise Council
Technical Analysis
Council
•Make policy-level decisions
•Hire & supervise City Manager•Approve
-Budget and related work plan
-Ordinances and policy decisions
-Development proposals
-Variances and rezoning requests•Appoint advisory boards and commissions
Staff
•Provide best efforts and technical advice to
Council
•Manage operations and staff
•Propose budget and policies•Carry out Council decisions
•Deliver services
•Equitable enforce codes and policies
Advisory Boards, Commission & Task Forces
•Provide community perspective on values and
needs•Propose work plan items
•Advise the council through work plan charges
•Hold hearings as directed by Council
•Assist as directed in work plan with engagement
efforts
Supporting Council
4
Commission Subcommittee Working
Group Task Force
Tenure Ongoing Temporary Temporary Temporary
Members Residents Commission
members only
Commission +
Public members As defined
Scope Work Plan Work Plan Item Work Plan Item Task Force
Charge
OML Required Not required Not required Not required
Staff Yes No Not typically Yes
Reports To Council Commission Commission Council or
City Manager
Key Roles
5
CHAIR STAFF LIAISON
•Work with liaison to prepare
agenda
•Lead meetings and
facilitate discussion
•Facilitate development of
the annual work plan and
provide progress updates
•Encourage member
participation
•Manage areas of conflict
•Support chair with agenda and
preparation of meeting materials
•Provide official notice of
meetings
•Record & prepare minutes.
•Maintain BC official records
•Provide technical expertise and
access to City staff and
resources
•Relay information to council
6
Meeting Minutes •Staff Liaison submits in council packet once approved.
•Provide a summary of discussion.
•All meetings are audio or video recorded.
Work Plan •Approved by the council, assigns work for the year and authority level
(Council Charge)
Joint Work Session •Annual meeting of Council & one BC to discuss progress on work plan.
Staff Report •Staff reports are prepared by the liaison to forward a work plan item to
the council for approval or direction.
•Staff reports outline: 1) BC recommendations, 2) Staff
recommendations, and 3) Highlight any differences between.
Advisory
Communication
•Prepared and approved by the BC.
•Placed on “Report & Recommendations” if an approved work plan item.
•Placed on “Correspondence” if not a work plan item.
Communication with Council
www.EdinaMN.gov 7
Guiding Documents
City Code
Roles of Boards and Commissions generally and specifically
Polices & Procedures
Member Handbook (updated annually)
Work Plan
Work approved and directed by Council
8
Work Plans
9
Commission Work Plan Calendar
9
Annual Work Plan Begins
January
Commissions develop proposed work plans with liaison advice and feedback
June–Aug.
Commission approves proposed work plan
September 25
Chairs present proposed work plans to Council
October
Staff present recommendations to Council
November 4
Council approves work plans
December 7
Work Plan Development
10
Commission Chair
•Lead work plan development
•Make sure work plan is not overloaded
•Ensure there is a “lead to each initiative
•Present proposed work plan to City Council
Staff Liaison
•Provide technical expertise, recommendations and advice to the commission
•Provide clear recommendations to City Management and/or Council to consider
•Ensure work plan template fields are completed
11
Title
Be clear and provide detail
Outcome
What exactly will be the product / result of your initiative
Budget
Commission’s can not approve spending of money
Liaison Comments
Liaisons will provide you technical advice and feedback
Target Completion
Be realistic, impacts to supporting departments
Partner Projects
Cross commission initiatives, outside requests
Work Plan
Tips
Questions?
www.EdinaMN.gov 12
Board/Commission Member Handbook 1 | P a g e
Inside the City ............................................................................................................................................................................. 3
Mission ............................................................................................................................................................. 3
Local Government Structure ..................................................................................................................... 3
Department Functions ................................................................................................................................. 3
City Council ................................................................................................................................................... 4
City Leadership .............................................................................................................................................. 4
Staff Liaisons ................................................................................................................................................... 4
About Boards & Commissions ................................................................................................................................................ 5
Roles ................................................................................................................................................................. 5
Membership & Guidelines ........................................................................................................................... 6
Types of Members ........................................................................................................................................ 6
Key Players ..................................................................................................................................................... 6
Committees and Working Groups ........................................................................................................... 7
Committee / Working Group Membership & Guidelines .................................................................. 7
Appointments and Chair Assignments ..................................................................................................... 9
Disbanding....................................................................................................................................................... 9
Guiding Documents ...................................................................................................................................... 9
Annual Calendar .......................................................................................................................................... 10
Meetings ...................................................................................................................................................................................... 10
Types of Meetings ....................................................................................................................................... 10
Attendance ................................................................................................................................................... 11
Quorum and Voting ................................................................................................................................... 12
Meeting Packet ............................................................................................................................................. 12
Agenda ........................................................................................................................................................... 12
Minutes .......................................................................................................................................................... 13
Robert’s Rules of Order............................................................................................................................ 13
Communication ......................................................................................................................................................................... 14
Open Meeting Law...................................................................................................................................... 14
Communication with City Council ......................................................................................................... 14
Annual Work Plan....................................................................................................................................... 15
Communication with the Public .............................................................................................................. 17
Ethical and Respectful Conduct ............................................................................................................................................. 17
Board/Commission Member Handbook 2 | P a g e
Conflict of Interest ..................................................................................................................................... 17
Gifts ................................................................................................................................................................ 17
Respectful Behavior .................................................................................................................................... 17
Code of Ethics ............................................................................................................................................. 18
Novus Boardview ........................................................................................................................................ 18
Board/Commission Member Handbook 3 | P a g e
Mission
Our mission is to provide effective and valued public services, maintain a sound public infrastructure,
offer premier public facilities and guide the development and redevelopment of lands, all in a manner
that sustains and improves the uncommonly high quality of life enjoyed by our residents and
businesses.
Local Government Structure
Edina is a statutory Plan B City.
• City Council consists of the Mayor and four Council members.
• The vote of the Mayor counts the same as a Council member vote.
• The City Council is responsible for policy and legislative decisions.
• City Council employs the City Manager, who oversees the day-to-day operations of the City.
Department Functions
Human Resources
• Recruitment and selection
• Compensation and benefits
• Employee and labor relations
• Employment policies
• Performance management
• Training and development
• Safety and worker’s compensation
• General liability and risk management
• Payroll
Communications
• Media and publications
• Marketing
• Website and social media
Finance
• Budget
• Investments
• Accounts payable
• Accounts receivable
Police
• Patrol
• Investigations
• Dispatch
• Records
• Community Health
Fire
• Fire suppression and prevention
• Emergency medical
• Emergency preparedness
• Building plan review
Public Works
• Street maintenance
• Utility Operations
• Fleet Maintenance
• Electrical
• HVAC
Engineering
• Design
• Project management
• Environmental services
• Transportation
• Sustainability strategy & measurement
• Property management
Parks and Recreation
• Recreation programs
• Manage enterprise facilities
• Liquor Store Operations
• Parks maintenance
Community Development
• Planning
• Zoning
• Heritage preservation
• Sign permits
• Residential & commercial appraisal
• Economic Development
Administration
• Council relations
• Boards and Commissions
• Strategic Planning
• Neighborhood Associations
Board/Commission Member Handbook 4 | P a g e
• Building permits
• Building inspections
I.T.
• Network management
• Telecommunications
• End-user support and training
• GIS
• Elections
• Records Management & Licenses
• Performance measurement
City Council
Mayor James
Hovland
James Pierce Carolyn Jackson Kevin Staunton Ron Anderson
City Leadership
Scott Neal
City Manager
• Responsible for hiring and managing
City staff
• City Manager carries out policy
direction of Council
Lisa Schaefer
Assistant City Manager
Staff Liaisons
Susan Tarnowski
Arts & Culture
Commission
Cary Teague
Planning
Commission
Perry Vetter
Parks & Recreation
Commission
Andrew Scipioni
Transportation
Commission
Bob Wilson
Board of Appeals
& Equalization
Emily Bodeker
Heritage
Preservation
Commission
Dave Fisher
Construction Board
of Appeals
Grace Hancock
Energy &
Environment
Commission
Jeff Brown
Community Health
Commission
Heidi Lee
Human Rights &
Relations
Commission
Board/Commission Member Handbook 5 | P a g e
Roles
Objectives of Boards and Commissions:
• City Council establishes Boards and Commissions to engage residents into city work.
• City Staff supports Boards and Commissions to assist with effective governance.
• Board and Commission members serve the community and can participate in meaningful work.
Supporting City Council:
Edina’s Boards and Commissions are
established by the City Council and serve
as advisors to the council. Boards and
Commissions and City Staff are
accountable to City Council.
Council
• Make policy-level decisions
• Hire & supervise City Manager
• Appoint advisory boards and commissions
• Approve
- Budget and related work plan
- Ordinances and policy decisions
- Development proposals
- Variances and rezoning requests
Staff
• Provide best efforts and technical advice to
Council
• Manage operations and staff
• Propose budget and policies
• Carry out Council decisions
• Deliver services
• Equitable enforce codes and policies
Advisory Boards, Commission & Task Forces
• Provide community perspective on values and
needs
• Propose work plan items
• Advise the council through work plan charges
• Hold hearings as directed by Council
• Assist as directed in work plan with
engagement efforts
Board/Commission Member Handbook 6 | P a g e
Membership & Guidelines
BOARDS & COMMISSIONS
Membership
• Members are selected by City Council.
• Membership consists of regular and student
members.
• All appointments have term limits.
• Subject to Open Meeting Law
• The City Manager appoints a staff liaison who
provides administrative support to the
board/commission as a body.
Guidelines:
• Boards and commissions are established to
advise the City Council
• Establishment and missions are outlined in City
code
• Boards and commissions are on-going
• Meetings of boards and commissions are public
meetings
• Commissions can establish committees and
working groups
Types of Members
There are two types of board and commission members:
Key Players
1 Chair
• Prepare agenda with Staff Liaison
• Lead meeting and facilitate discussion
• Facilitate development of annual work plan
• Maintain meeting decorum
• Consult with members regarding
attendance issues
• Encourage participation by all
members and the public
2 Vice-chair
• Supports the Chair as needed
• Performs the Chair duties if the
Chair is unavailable
3 Staff Liaison
• Support Chair in preparing agendas and
meeting materials
• Work with Chair to ensure bylaws are
followed
• Record and prepare meeting minutes
• Maintain records
• Provide technical expertise and
access to City resources
• Provide official notice of
meetings
• Relay information from City
Council
Regular
Members
Must be 18 years
of age or older
Must live in
Edina Voting member
Terms are
typically 3 years
in duration
Student
Members
Full time
sophmore, junior
or senior
Open enrolled at
Edina High
School
Non voting
member
Serve a one year
term
Board/Commission Member Handbook 7 | P a g e
Committees and Working Groups
Local governments often use a variety of Citizen Advisory groups, including Boards and Commissions, to
complete the mission of the City. Commissions may create Committees and Working Groups to assist them
with their work plan, however, committees and working groups work at the direction of the whole
board and commission.
Role of these groups:
• Study issues in greater depth and report findings
• Assist with community initiatives or events
Committee / Working Group Membership & Guidelines
COMMITTEES
Membership
• The commission selects at least two, but
less than a quorum of members
• All members must be members of the
commission
• The commission selects a chair or co-chairs
• Not subject to Open Meeting Law
Guidelines:
• Committees are established with the approval of the
commission to assist with a work plan initiative
• The commission has final recommendations on all
matters which the committee has been given
guidance
• Staff does not provide support to committees
• Meetings of Committees are not public meetings
Board/Commission
Committee Commission
Members only
Working
Group
Commission
Members
Public
Members
Board/Commission Member Handbook 8 | P a g e
WORKING GROUPS
Membership
• A Working Group is comprised of one or
more members of the
Board/Commission, but less than a
quorum of members and includes
members of the public.
• Commission selects the chair or co-chairs
• The chair will recommend to the
commission other working group
members who are outside of the
Board/Commission. The
board/commission appoints additional
working group members.
• Not subject to Open Meeting Law
Guidelines:
• Established with the approval of the commission
• Created when work requires more support
• Set timeline
• Notice is given to the public of the formation of the
working group providing a minimum of 14 days for
the public to express interest before members are
selected
• Commission has final recommendations on all
matters of the working group
• Staff liaison does not support working groups
• Meetings of working groups are not legally required
to be public
Boards and commissions should consider creating a working group when:
• The board or commission members need more support.
• The work requires a specific expertise or time.
• The work needs more community engagement to identify issues and concerns
Key Components of Working Groups
Establishment
• Prior to the establishment of a working group, the commission should complete a “greenprint” which is a
template for determining the need of the working group
• The “greenprint” should be approved by the commission at a regular scheduled meeting
Public Notice
• The commission must put out notice of the establishment of the working group (i.e. press release, city
communication channels)
• Notice should be given a minimum of 14 days so interested individuals can come forward to volunteer
Leadership
• The chair or co-chair positions should be held by voting commission members
• The commission appoints the chair or co-chairs
Size
• Working groups should not exceed 7 members (5 is preferable)
Time
• Working groups are established for a set time in order to complete a task set forth by the commission
Disbanding
• The commission can disband a working group at any regular meeting by a majority vote
• In the case that no member of the commission is available to serve, the working group will be automatically
disbanded
Work
• Working groups do not provide direction to the commission
• The commission has final recommendation on all matters
Board/Commission Member Handbook 9 | P a g e
Appointments and Chair Assignments
Appointments:
Committees and working groups work at the discretion of the entire commission so therefore the
commission makes the appointments of all members.
Resignation or Removal:
Committee and working group members may voluntarily resign by notifying the chair of the group. A
committee or working group member may be removed by a majority vote of the commission.
Chair Assignments:
Every committee and working group should have regular member(s) serving as the chair or co-chairs. The
commission approves the selection of chairs.
Chair Duties:
• Set the meeting schedule
• Prepare meeting agenda
• Maintain meeting decorum
• Recommend members (working group) and notify commission of changes in membership
• Report on the group’s activities to the regular commission meetings
• Ensure the group is working as directed by the commission
• Communicate to the Committee or Working Group any directives, questions or input from the
commission
Disbanding
Committees and working groups are not intended to be ongoing. These groups can be disbanded by a
majority vote of the commission or they will automatically disband in the following instances:
• Completion of work / charge
• No member of the commission is available to serve
Guiding Documents
1 City Code
• Outlines general roles of boards and commissions
• Identifies each board or commissions mission
• If there is discrepancy between city code and other guiding documents, city
code prevails
2 Work Plan
• Work approved and directed to the commission by Council
3 Member Handbook
• The guide you are reading right now!
Board/Commission Member Handbook 10 | P a g e
Annual Calendar
Annual work plans ensure that the Commissions’ initiatives are aligned with the City Council’s priorities.
Types of Meetings
1 Regular Meetings
• All Commissions have a regular meeting schedule; e.g., “7 p.m. on the fourth Thursday of
each month.”
• Regular meetings can be rescheduled if members and the public are given notice at a prior
meeting
• If notice at a prior meeting cannot be given for a schedule change, the regular meeting is
considered to have been cancelled and a special meeting called
• At the regular February meeting, each commission holds annual elections for Chair and
Vice Chair
2 Special Meetings
• A meeting held in addition to the regular meeting schedule
• A meeting scheduled without notice at a prior meeting
3 Joint Work Session Meeting
• Work sessions are held jointly with City Council
• Every Commission has at least one a year
• Goal is to review work plan and get direction if needed
**All meetings are audio recorded and some are televised.
Annual Work
Plan Calendar
January: Annual
Work Plan Begins
June-August:
Proposed work plan
created by
Commissions
September: Work
plans due!!
October: Work Plan
proposals presented
by each chair to
Council at Work
Session
November: Staff
present comments
to Council
December: Council
approves work plans
Board/Commission Member Handbook 11 | P a g e
Attendance
Attendance Policy:
There are two ways members fail to meet attendance requirements. Student members do not have an attendance
requirement.
1 75% Requirement
• If a member fails to meet the 75% attendance requirement, they will not be removed
from the Board or Commission until the end of the calendar year. At this time, if the
member wants to ask to be reappointed, they can request the Community Engagement
Coordinator to include this in the staff report.
2 3 Consecutive Meeting Requirement
• If a member fails to attend 3 consecutive meetings (4 for Planning Commission), they
will be removed from the Board or Commission effective immediately upon their 3rd
absence (4th for Planning Commission). Under this scenario, members cannot request
reappointment, but can reapply for the Board or Commission for the following year.
Counted vs Not Counted:
Board and commission meetings listed under “Counted towards Attendance” will be used to factor into the
board and commission attendance policy. “Not Counted towards Attendance” are not used in the formula.
*A rescheduled meeting occurs when members are notified of a new meeting date/time at a prior meeting. If shorter
notice is given, the previously scheduled meeting is considered to have been cancelled and replaced with special
meeting.
**A cancelled meeting can be done by the Chair, City Council, City Manager or by the majority of voting members.
Reasons a meeting may be cancelled include:
• Insufficient business
• Lack of quorum
• Conflict with a holiday or religious observance
• Inclement weather
• Community emergency
Attendance Sheets:
Attendance sheets are maintained by the Staff Liaison. Annually the City conducts an attendance assessment to
identify attendance issues.
Members Responsibility:
Since attendance impacts quorum and the ability for a board or commission to conduct business, it is important to
communicate conflicts in advance of the meeting. Members should contact the staff liaison if:
• They cannot attend a scheduled meeting
• They will be late or need to leave early
Counted
towards
Attendance
Regular
Meeting with
Quorum
Regular
Meeting
without
Quorum
Rescheduled
Meeting*
Canceled
Meeting**
Not Counted
towards
Attendance
Special
Meetings
Joint Work
Sessions
Subcommittee
or working
group
meetings
Board/Commission Member Handbook 12 | P a g e
Quorum and Voting
Voting:
• Regular members can participate in voting
• Student members are expected to participate in the discussion but do not vote and do not count
towards quorum
Quorum = A majority of seated voting members
• Quorum is required to vote on business items
• Meetings can be held without a quorum, however, members cannot “conduct business” by taking votes
on motions
Meeting Packet
Each meeting packet contains:
• Agenda
• Draft Minutes
• Reports and Recommendations
The packet posted in Novus Agenda Board web at least three days prior to your scheduled meeting. It is important
that you review the packet in advance to be prepared.
Agenda
Static Items (will always appear):
I. Roll Call
II. Approval of Meeting Agenda
III. Approval of Meeting Minutes
IV. Community Comment
V. Reports & Recommendations
VI. Chair & Member Comments
VII. Staff Comments
VIII. Adjournment
Additional Categories (in green):
I. Roll Call
II. Approval of Meeting Agenda
III. Approval of Meeting Minutes
IV. Special Presentations & Recognitions
V. Public Hearings
VI. Community Comment
VII. Reports & Recommendations
VIII. Chair & Member Comments
IX. Staff Comments
X. Adjournment
Community Comment:
• Residents can speak during community comment on any topic that is NOT already on the current agenda.
• Members should not engage in direct debate or dialogue with the resident outside of thanking them for the
comment or noting when the item might be discussed by the BC in the future.
• Commissions should not take action from the content of the community commenter.
• Commenters must provide their name and address before speaking.
• Commenters have 3 minutes to speak.
Board/Commission Member Handbook 13 | P a g e
Minutes
Minutes are recorded at each Board or Commission meeting. Commissions may have an additional city staff person in
attendance that supports the liaison with this particular task.
Meeting minutes’ document actions taken at a meeting, not discussion.
Meeting minutes will include:
• Meeting name including the date, place and
time
• Members in attendance
• Approval of previous meeting minutes and
corrections, if any
• Motions made (exact wording of the motion,
who made the motion, seconded the
motion, and the result of the vote)
• Reports (can use bulleted lists)
• Other actions
Meeting minutes will NOT include:
• What was said
• Who said it
Each meeting packet will contain a draft of the minutes from the previous meeting. After the minutes are approved,
your City Staff Liaison will submit the approved minutes for publication on the City’s website and to City Council for
receipt. This is an important channel of communication to City Council from the Commissions.
Robert’s Rules of Order
Edina Boards and Commissions use Robert’s Rules of Order to transact business through motions. Robert’s
Rules of Order will prevail in the event of a procedural conflict.
General Principles:
• Only one subject (main motion) is before the group at one time.
• Negative motions are generally not permitted; phrase the motion as a positive action. If the BC
does not want to take action, the motion should be voted down.
• Only one member speaks at a time. Each speaker should first be recognized by the Chair. The
maker of a motion is usually allowed to speak first and last.
• Each item is presented for full debate. Each member speaks once until all members have had an
opportunity to speak.
• All members have equal rights. The rights of the minority are protected and heard, but the will of
the majority prevails.
Steps to a motion:
• Member addresses the Chair and the Chair recognizes the member.
• Member states motion “I move to adopt the policy.”
• Another member seconds the motion “I second.”
• Chair repeats the motion to the BC.
• Motion is discussed by the group.
• Members can make subsidiary motions that assist the group in disposing of the main motion, “I
move to table this discussion to the next meeting.”
• Members vote on the subsidiary motion.
• If applicable, members vote on the main motion.
• Chair announces the results.
Board/Commission Member Handbook 14 | P a g e
Open Meeting Law
Why it exists:
• Prohibits actions from being taken at a secret meeting, where it is impossible for the interested
public to become fully informed concerning decisions of public bodies or to detect improper
influences.
• Ensures the public’s right to be informed.
• Afford the public an opportunity to present its views to the public body.
To Comply:
• Provide public notice of the meeting a minimum of three days in advance.
• Hold meetings in public places.
Violation of Open Meeting Law:
There is a violation of open meeting law if there is discussion of business between quorums of members
outside of a publicly noticed meeting. Serial communication defined below is an open meeting law violation.
Serial Communication:
Serial communication is communication between Board and Commission members that lead to a
concurrence among the majority of the members. Serial communication may involve a series of
communications (example: email, face-to-face, text) with each communication involving less than a quorum of
the Board or Commission, but when taken as a whole, involve a majority of the Board or Commission.
Ensure Compliance:
• Email communication intended for the group to your Staff Liaison for distribution.
• Members should not “reply all” to group messages.
• Members should not blind copy other members.
Committees and Working Groups:
While Committees and Working Groups are not covered under the Open Meeting Law, some Committee
or Working Group meetings may be designated as public meetings by the City Council, or the Commission
based on potential public interest in the topic.
Communication with City Council
When presenting recommendations to City Council it is essential that Board and Commission members keep
the following in mind:
• Recommendations should be in written form.
• Ideas should be expressed in clear and concise language.
• Proposed solutions should be viable and cost-effective.
• Recommendations should identify reasons for the changes suggested.
• Advice should reflect the views of a consensus or a majority of Board and Commission members.
Role of Staff Liaison. One of the primary roles of the Staff Liaison is to assist in delivering information from the
City Council to, and vice versa. It is the responsibility of the Staff Liaison to communicate the guidance of their Board
and Commission completely and impartially.
Board/Commission Member Handbook 15 | P a g e
Communication Tools. Boards and Commissions have five primary tools for communication with the City
Council. Since Council time is limited and it is important that all members of the Council receive the information, it is
imperative that communication is done through these formal channels. The table below outlines each tool and its
intended purpose:
1 Meeting Minutes
• Meeting minutes are intended to give members a record of Board and Commission
proceedings. After the minutes are approved, they are included as part of the upcoming
Council packet. Council members are very diligent about reading Board and Commission
minutes.
2 Joint Work Session
• Joint work sessions are held at least once a year. This is an opportunity to update the
Council on the Commission’s work plan and to get Council feedback on the progress to
date.
3 Annual Work Plan
• The annual work plan process enables Commissions to share their goals for the
upcoming year. The Council reviews those goals and other ideas before giving final
direction on Commission priorities.
• Council will assign each work plan item a Council Charge
4 Staff Reports
• Staff reports are prepared by staff to forward a regulatory item or other goal from the
Commission’s approved work plan to a Council meeting for approval or direction. It is
staff’s responsibility to outline the Commission's recommendation, as well as staff
recommendations, and to highlight any important differences between the two.
5 Advisory Communication
• Advisory communication is prepared by the Commission members under the direction
of the Commission. This template should be used when the Commission wants to give
input on an issue but due to timing or the nature of the issue, meeting minutes are
deemed insufficient. Advisory communications should be used if the Commission wishes
to advise the Council on a topic not included on their approved work plan.
Annual Work Plan
Council Charge:
• The Council Charge is a guide for Council to provide clear and specific direction to Boards and
Commissions on.
• Council Charge is given in instances when Council tasks a board or commission with an initiative.
• City staff ensures Council identifies the charge level of the task.
• The Council Charge concept is implemented in Board and Commission work plans.
Board/Commission Member Handbook 16 | P a g e
Charge 1: Study &
Report
2: Review &
Comment
3: Review &
Recommend
4: Review &
Decide
Commission
Role
Study a specific issue
or event and report
its findings to Council
Review a specific
policy issue and staff
will seek comments
from each individual
member of the group
to pass on to Council
Review a specific
policy issue and
provide a
recommendation on
the issue to Council
Study, review and
decide on an issue.
The Decision will be
the City’s official
position on the matter
unless the issue is
formally reversed by
Council
Commission
Vote
No vote is taken by
the commission
No vote is taken by
the commission
A majority vote is
required
A majority vote is
required
Commission
Recommendation
No official
recommendation is
provided to Council
No official
recommendation is
provided to Council
An official
recommendation is
provided to Council
No official
recommendation is
provided to Council
Report
Type
Required: Advisory
Communication &
Staff Report
Required: Staff Report
Required: Staff Report
Optional: Advisory
Communication
None
Work Plan Approval Process:
Approving work plans is a three-part process. Work plans development starts in the summer months and
ends in December.
1 Chair Presents Proposed Work Plan
• Annual work session meeting (typically October)
• Meeting Purpose: Chair to present proposed work plan and allow Council to ask clarifying
questions from the chair
2 Staff Presents Proposed Work Plan
• Annual work session meeting (typically November)
• Meeting Purpose: City staff (City Manager Comments) will present proposed work plans along
with recommended changes
3 Council Review and Final Approval
• Annual City Council meeting (typically first meeting in December)
• City staff will incorporate council changes from previous meeting and present proposed work
plans for approval
Board/Commission Member Handbook 17 | P a g e
Communication with the Public
We want members to promote their Board and Commission’s work with the public.
Members are asked to take care when conveying:
• Any decisions of the Board or Commission based on the information shared and resulting discussion
of the group during open meetings.
Conflict of Interest
Definition: any member who has a financial interest in, or who may receive a financial benefit as a result of, any BC
action or if there is potential for the appearance of conflict of interest.
Members who have a conflict of interest must:
• Disclose the conflict of interest to the group, and
• Abstain from discussing or voting on the matter.
Gifts
• Members may not receive gifts from any “interested person” in conjunction with their BC duties.
• BC can recommend acceptance of general gifts through the City’s donation policy.
Respectful Behavior
Members should strive to:
• Treat people with courtesy, politeness and kindness.
• Encourage others to express their opinions and ideas.
• Listen to what others have to say.
• Use the ideas of others to improve decisions and outcomes.
• Recognize and respect differences.
Members should avoid:
• Speaking over or cutting off another individual’s comments.
• Insulting, disparaging or putting down people or their ideas.
• Bullying other members by displaying a pattern of belittling, demeaning, judging or patronizing comments.
Violence or the threat of violence will not be tolerated.
The Chair or the Staff Liaison can call for the removal of any anyone who threatens or commits an act of
violence.
Board/Commission Member Handbook 18 | P a g e
Code of Ethics
• I have been entrusted by the Edina City Council to perform my duties and services as a volunteer Board
or Commission Member in manner that is always in the best interests of the community of Edina.
• While honest differences of opinion may develop, I will work harmoniously with other Board or
Commission members to assure residents the services they require.
• I will invite all residents to express their opinions so I may be properly informed prior to making my
decisions. I will make them based solely upon the facts available to me. I will support the final decision of
the Board or Commission.
• I must devote the time, study and thought necessary to carry out my duties.
• I understand that the Board or Commission members recommend policies, the City Council establishes
policies and the staff is responsible for administering the policies of the City Council.
• I understand that as a Board or Commission Member, I have no authority outside of the proper meeting
of the Board/Commission.
• I understand that all Board/Commission meetings shall be open to the public, except as provided by law.
• I understand that it is my duty as a Board or Commission member to treat all residents, staff and fellow
Board and Commission members in a respectful and professional manner at all times.
• I will withdraw from discussions and decision-making actions in cases where I have a conflict of interest
and I will disclose those conflicts of interest when they arise.
Novus Boardview
Packets are created electronically by each Board and Commission’s staff liaison. Liaisons complete packets
three business days prior to the regular scheduled meeting. Members are asked to review meeting packets in
advance using the Novus Boardview Portal.
URL: Edina.novusagenda.com/boardweb
Username: first letter of first name and full last name
Password: New Members should receive a password reset email.
Contact MJ Lamon, if you have questions or forgot your password.
952-826-0360
mlamon@edinamn.gov
Date: May 6, 2021 Agenda Item #: VI.A.
To:Energy and Environment Commission Item Type:
Correspondence
From:Grace Hancock, Sustainability Coordinator
Item Activity:
Subject:Initiatives 2 and 5, info only: To-Go Packaging &
Green Business
Information
CITY OF EDINA
4801 West 50th Street
Edina, MN 55424
www.edinamn.gov
ACTION REQUESTED:
INTRODUCTION:
Information only - from initiatives lead Michelle Horan:
To-go packaging: Commissioners are working to provide council with possible goals/objectives and language for
an ordinance so they can weigh in at June 15 work session before the final report and ordinance is sent them.
Green Business Recognition Program: Recruiting new volunteers for the working group that will become a
volunteer group in 2022. Application here: https://www.edinamn.gov/926/Volunteer-Edina
ATTACHMENTS:
Description
2021 EEC Work Plan
Approved by Council December 1, 2020 [Do not modify fields except progress reports]
Commission: Energy and Environment Commission
2021 Annual Work Plan Proposal
Initiative # 1 Initiative Type ☒ Project ☐ Ongoing / Annual ☐ Event
Council Charge ☐ 1 (Study & Report) ☐ 2 (Review & Comment) ☒ 3 (Review & Recommend) ☐ 4 (Review & Decide)
Make recommendations to Council regarding the development of the
City’s Climate Action Plan [which will include information on GHG
emission inventory and routes to carbon neutrality]. Create a Climate
Action Plan Working Group to provide feedback and support for the
plan development. The working group will report to the EEC which will
provide formal recommendation to Council. Staff liaison will support
this working group.
Deliverable
Recommendation to Council
Leads
H. Martinez
A. Martinez
Mans
Rajat
Tessman
Target
Completion Date
December 2021
Budget Required: No additional funds required.
Staff Support Required: Staff Liaison (40hrs)
Progress Q1: Received introductory presentation from facilitating consultant in March
Progress Q2:
Progress Q3:
Progress Q4:
Initiative # 2 Initiative Type ☒ Project ☐ Ongoing / Annual ☐ Event
Council Charge ☐ 1 (Study & Report) ☐ 2 (Review & Comment) ☒ 3 (Review & Recommend) ☐ 4 (Review & Decide)
Review and recommend on development of to-go packaging ordinance
and policy avenues. Includes an update to the 2016 study and report to
incorporate the recently launched organics recycling program.
Deliverable
-Report and recommendation to
Council
Leads
Horan (primary), Lukens,
Dakane, A. Martinez,
Lanzas, Mans
Target
Completion Date
December 2021
Budget Required: No additional funds requested.
Staff Support Required: Staff Liaison (20hrs), Health Division (40hrs)
Progress Q1: Focus groups in Feb/March 2021 were conducted
Progress Q2:
Progress Q3:
Progress Q4:
Approved by Council December 1, 2020 [Do not modify fields except progress reports]
Initiative # 3 Initiative Type ☐ Project ☐ Ongoing / Annual ☒ Event
Council Charge ☐ 1 (Study & Report) ☐ 2 (Review & Comment) ☐ 3 (Review & Recommend) ☒ 4 (Review & Decide)
Initiative Title
Review and decide on commission members coordinating and tabling
at City events to educate the community on organics recycling and
sustainable living.
Deliverable
-Presence at up to 4 City events to
include Fourth of July, Open Streets,
and Farmers Market
Leads
Lanzas (primary), A.
Martinez, Horan, Mans
Densmore
Target
Completion Date
June – September
2021
Budget Required: Funds available, $200 for supplies and food.
Staff Support Required: Coordinator (20hrs) and Organics Recycling Coordinator (8hrs) can advise and provide materials already created.
Progress Q1:
Progress Q2:
Progress Q3:
Progress Q4:
Initiative # 4 Initiative Type ☒ Project ☐ Ongoing / Annual ☐ Event
Council Charge ☐ 1 (Study & Report) ☒ 2 (Review & Comment) ☐ 3 (Review & Recommend) ☐ 4 (Review & Decide)
Review and comment on staff recommendations for the City’s Green
Building Policy.
Deliverable
- Commission comments on policy
Leads
All, Haugen, Tessman
Target
Completion Date
December 2021
Budget Required: No additional funds requested.
Staff Support Required: Staff Liaison (16hrs)
Progress Q1:
Progress Q2: Received intro presentation, final draft city policy for comment, initial draft commercial policy for comment
Progress Q3:
Progress Q4:
Approved by Council December 1, 2020 [Do not modify fields except progress reports]
Initiative # 5 Initiative Type ☐ Project ☒ Ongoing / Annual ☐ Event
Council Charge ☐ 1 (Study & Report) ☐ 2 (Review & Comment) ☐ 3 (Review & Recommend) ☒ 4 (Review & Decide)
Evaluate the effectiveness and impact of the Business Recognition
Program by Q1 and decide future of the program. Implement changes,
if any.
Deliverable
Report to commission.
Leads
Horan, Lukens, A.
Martinez, Mans,
Tessman
Target
Completion Date
ongoing
Budget Required: No additional funds requested.
Staff Support Required: Staff Liaison support to manage intake and acceptance process (16hrs), Communications to support communication updates (16hrs),
Community Engagement Coordinator (8hrs).
Progress Q1: Agreed to continue program, began to compile and implement updates
Progress Q2:
Progress Q3:
Progress Q4:
Initiative # 6 Initiative Type ☐ Project ☒ Ongoing / Annual ☐ Event
Council Charge ☐ 1 (Study & Report) ☒ 2 (Review & Comment) ☐ 3 (Review & Recommend) ☐ 4 (Review & Decide)
Initiative Title
Review and Comment on Conservation and Sustainability (CAS) fund
proposed Capital Improvement Plan.
Deliverable
- Commission comments on Capital
Improvement Plan
Leads
All
Target Completion Date
Q2, 2021
Budget Required: No additional funds requested.
Staff Support Required: Staff Liaison (4hrs)
Progress Q1; COMPLETE - Received for comment at Mar 11, 2021 meeting
Progress Q2:
Progress Q3:
Progress Q4:
Approved by Council December 1, 2020 [Do not modify fields except progress reports]
Initiative # 7 Initiative Type ☒ Project ☐ Ongoing / Annual ☐ Event
Council Charge ☐ 1 (Study & Report) ☒ 2 (Review & Comment) ☐ 3 (Review & Recommend) ☐ 4 (Review & Decide)
Review and comment on the ETC’s report and recommendation on
organized trash collection.
Deliverable
-Memos to ETC for their study and
report
Leads
Haugen
Target
Completion Date
December 2021
Budget Required: No additional funds requested.
Staff Support Required: Staff Liaison (4hrs)
Progress Q1: no updates Mar21
Progress Q2:
Progress Q3:
Progress Q4:
Parking Lot: (These items have been considered by the BC, but not proposed as part of this year’s work plan. If the BC decides they would like to
work on them in the current year, it would need to be approved by Council.)
Develop a program with realtors to give sellers the opportunity to showcase environmental improvements to their homes (such as insulation).
Coordination with other cities on climate action., Advocating for street sweeping, Education and engagement on water initiatives.
Study and report on inequities in the environmental movement.
Research enforcement of state law requiring water sensors for irrigation systems and other water saving tools, including rebates.
Exploring ways of partnering with under-served/other communities to outreach/educate businesses.
Community wide environmental event listening to what the community is saying.
Plastic bag policy / program / options
Date: May 6, 2021 Agenda Item #: VI.B.
To:Energy and Environment Commission Item Type:
Other
From:Grace Hancock, Sustainability Coordinator
Item Activity:
Subject:Initiative 3: EEC Event Tabling Discussion
CITY OF EDINA
4801 West 50th Street
Edina, MN 55424
www.edinamn.gov
ACTION REQUESTED:
INTRODUCTION:
Update on progress and request action on current EEC initiative.
Date: May 6, 2021 Agenda Item #: VI.C.
To:Energy and Environment Commission Item Type:
Correspondence
From:Grace Hancock, Sustainability Coordinator
Item Activity:
Subject:Initiative 7: ETC & organized trash collection Information
CITY OF EDINA
4801 West 50th Street
Edina, MN 55424
www.edinamn.gov
ACTION REQUESTED:
Receive memo by Edina Transportation Commission regarding progress on organized trash collection
INTRODUCTION:
ATTACHMENTS:
Description
May21 Organized Trash Update - from ETC
City of Edina • 4801 W. 50th St. • Edina, MN 55424
Engineering Department
Phone 952-826-0371 • Fax 952-826-0390 • EdinaMN.gov
Date: May 6, 2021
To: Energy & Environment Commission
Grace Hancock, Sustainability Coordinator
From: Transportation Commission
Andrew Scipioni, Transportation Planner
Subject: Organized Trash Collection Initiative Update
Background
The Transportation Commission (ETC) is investigating the traffic, road wear and environmental impacts of Edina’s
waste hauling system. Currently, Edina residents are required to choose from six city-licensed haulers for trash,
organic waste and recycling collection resulting in multiple trucks driving within the same route on a given day.
To evaluate more efficient methods of waste collection, the ETC is partnering with Minnetonka High School’s
advanced professional studies program VANTAGE. This is an academic program where students help solve real-world
business problems via hands-on learning and project-based assignments. The group contacted Andrew Scipioni,
Transportation Planner, in November 2020 and asked to assist the ETC in compiling information on the benefits of
organized trash collection systems.
Objectives
On March 4, 2021, the ETC Initiative Leads met with the VANTAGE team to review their project charter (see
attached) and to provide further input into the key framing questions and research components. As VANTAGE is an
academic program, their involvement is semester based and will conclude at the end of May 2021.
Progress
At the mid-point meeting held April 16, 2021, the VANTAGE team provided updates on their continued research in
the areas of:
• Comparative road wear-and-tear for garbage trucks vs. cars
• Effects of noise pollution on human health
• Material-use reduction and cost savings in road repair using organized trash collection
• Environmental impacts from fuel inefficient garbage trucks
• Case studies from cities across the county who have converted to organized trash collection . This also
includes articles of opposition to organized trash collection.
Additional methods of inquiry
• Sending a brief trash collection survey to Edina residents. Distribution of survey will be sent through the City of
Edina via NextDoor. Survey questions include:
1. How many waste hauling trucks drive through your neighborhood on pick up days?
Page 2
City of Edina • 4801 W. 50th St. • Edina, MN 55424
2. How many and which waste hauling companies are you currently
subscribed to?
(specific ones for recycling, trash, yard waste, food waste, etc.)
3. What are your greatest concerns about the current waste hauling methods
of Edina?
(ex. safety, traffic, street wear & tear, environmental impact)
4. Does the current waste hauling system interfere with your day to day life? If so, how?
(ex. traffic jams in the neighborhood)
• Video footage of specific intersections to evaluate trash collection congestion. Cameras to be provided and
installed by the city in residential areas. Camera locations TBD.
Outcomes Report
The final meeting with the VANTAGE team is tentatively scheduled for the late May. The students will present a final
report which will include survey results, video footage, relevant data, research articles and recommendations for next
steps.
Attachments
VANTAGE Project Charter
City of Edina Project Charter
Traffic, Road Wear, and Environmental Impact of Waste Hauling
VANTAGE STRAND: Global Sustainability for Spring 2021
Project Overview / Information
Community Overview (from company website):
Edina is a first-ring suburb known for its shopping and dining, its parks and recreational facilities and the
excellent quality of life for residents. Like many cities and communities around the world, the City of
Edina is always looking for ways to make their community more economically successful, sustainable,
and supportive of a high quality of life.
Project Primary Objective and Task:
In this dynamic project, the VANTAGE student team will work with Andrew Scipioni, the City’s
Transportation Planner and members of the Edina Transportation Commission (ETC) to evaluate several
important impacts of waste hauling. Edina currently requires residents to sign-up for residential waste
hauling with one of six city-licensed haulers. This results in many garbage trucks running on the same
streets on trash day. While Edina has no current plans to change their waste hauling system, the ETC
would like a better sense for the potential impacts of changing to a different model. The impacts they
would like to understand better are traffic impact, road wear, and environmental impacts.
While there are many different models for waste hauling, the student team should compare the current
multi-hauler system to a system where a single garbage truck would run on each street on trash day.
Key framing questions:
● Garbage trucks are often the heaviest vehicle on a residential street in any given week. Heavy
vehicles are a major source of road wear. Road maintenance is a significant expense for the city.
Would there be a material reduction in road wear if the City changed to a single-hauler-per-
street model? What kind of savings could the City expect if they implement a single-hauler-per-
street model?
● How does the impact of a garbage truck on road wear compare to an average passenger vehicle,
and what percentage of traffic is composed of garbage trucks?
● Garbage trucks are often the loudest vehicle on a residential street in any given week.
Moreover, garbage trucks operate during the morning commuting hours when traffic is
significant. Would switching to a single-hauler-per-street materially reduce traffic noise and/or
traffic congestion?
● Carbon emissions from vehicle operation are a major contributor to greenhouse gasses that lead
to climate change. Would switching to a single-hauler-per-street reduce the greenhouse gas
emissions for waste hauling?
● Are there other important environmental impacts of waste hauling in Edina that would improve
from switching to a single-hauler-per-street model?
Recommended preliminary/secondary research:
1. Learn about the evolution of solid waste management in Minnesota. How has it changed over
the last two decades?
2. Learn about different waste hauling models:
a. How do the Cities of Minneapolis, Richfield, Plymouth, Golden Valley, White Bear Lake,
and Eden Prairie manage waste hauling?
b. St. Paul and Bloomington recently switched their systems for waste hauling. What
system did they switch from/to, and how did the switch work out? What was the
rationale behind the switches?
3. Learn about carbon emissions for heavy trucks.
4. Learn about how traffic congestion and noise is analyzed.
Project Contact Information
Project Partner(s) Contact Info:
Name: Andrew Scipioni
Role: Transportation Planner for the City of Edina
Email: ascipioni@EdinaMN.gov
Phone: 952-826-0440
Instructional Team
The team is coached by VANTAGE Instructional Supervisors Lisa Patrick, and Brent Veninga
Dates for Key Milestones and Project Partner Interaction
February ##: Project Charters to Project Team
● Team contacts partner to schedule Kickoff MeeƟng
February ##: Project Kickoff Meeting
Team meets with partner to:
● Introduce team and partner parƟes
● Confirm project scope
● Clarify charter
● Discuss preliminary research plans
● Understand addiƟonal project context
April ##: Mid-point Check-in
Team meets with partner to:
● Discuss progress-to-date
● IdenƟfy and discuss challenges
● Evaluate remaining work
● Consider scope modificaƟons
● Understand addiƟonal project context
May ##: Final presentation - Team meets with partner to:
● Present final findings and recommendaƟons
Date: May 6, 2021 Agenda Item #: VII.A.
To:Energy and Environment Commission Item Type:
Other
From:Grace Hancock, Sustainability Coordinator
Item Activity:
Subject:EEC Brief History and Context Information
CITY OF EDINA
4801 West 50th Street
Edina, MN 55424
www.edinamn.gov
ACTION REQUESTED:
INTRODUCTION:
Vice Chair Horan will share a short presentation on history of EEC to orient new members and inform future
work planning.
ATTACHMENTS:
Description
EEC Work Plan 2015-2020
2016 Edina Electricity Action Plan
2018 Comp Plan - Environment
Timeline - EEC History 1-pager
CITY OF EDINA MINNESOTA
ENERGY & ENVIRONMENT COMMISSION
March 2015 – February 2016 Term SUMMARY AND DRAFT SCHEDULE
Item # Workplan Item Monthly Activity
WP1.1 GHG Measurement July Partners in Energy report
WP1.2 City Building Energy March staff report on building energy use
WP1.3 Capital Process Environmental Considerations
WP2.1 Community Solar May CC Community Solar advisory. July CC PW Solar Proposal
Advisory
WP2.2 Coordinate with PC, ETC, PB
WP2.3 Promote Home Energy Squad April Edina dialogue event, April Movie, June Motion to
recommend $3200
OR1 Green Step Cities Reporting May annual assessment
OR2 Urban Forestry
OR3 Solid Waste and Recycling June water bottle advisory reconsideration tabled. August
motion to support recycling grant to Hennepin County.
OR4 Purchasing policy, review annual report August motion to ask City Manager to provide 2014
purchasing policy report at October or November EEC
meeting.
OR5 Business Recycling
OR6 Local Food / Bees and Chickens Ordinances passed Spring 2015. July Duck Keeping Request.
May recommendation for Xcel franchise agreement
WP = work plan number. OR = ongoing responsibility number
Advisory, Date MM/YY Acted on Not Acted
Golf dome re-commissioning 10/12 X
New facility carbon goals 10/13 X
Urban forest task force 3/13 X
Yorktown community garden pervious parking 4/13 X
Water bottle sales 4/14 X
EEEP transfer to SPPA 5/14 X
Building energy system CIP 1/15 X
Braemar capital improvements, 1/15 X
CIP environmental considerations, 1/15 X
Fleet operations task force, 1/15 X
Grandview sustainability principles, 3/15 X
Community solar joint purchase, 5/15 X
March 12, 2015 Televised Meeting
Item of focus: Elect Chair and Vice Chair.
Presentations: TELEVISED MEETING
April 9, 2015 Meeting
Item of focus: EEC/CC Meeting Recap
Presentations: None
May 14, 2015 Meeting
2015 EEC Workplan
Approved by City Council on December 15, 2015
Initiative 5 added #4 by City Council on April 19, 2016
Board/Commission: Energy and Environment
Commission 2016 Annual Work Plan
Initiative 1 ☒New Initiative
☐Continued Initiative
☐On-Going Initiative
Target
Completion
Date
Budget
Required
Staff Support Required
(To be completed by Staff
Liaison)
Liaison Comments
City’s Partners in Energy (PiE) initiative
•Up to three EEC members will participate
constructively in the City’s Partners in Energy
(PiE) initiative. These members will provide
periodic updates to the EEC on the status of the
action plan.
•The EEC will review and comment on the draft
Energy Action Plan before it is presented to the
City Council.
2016 None Environmental Engineer,
40hrs
Assistant Finance Director,
20hrs
City Manager
8hrs
(Staff estimate for planning
phase)
The Partners in Energy
initiative was approved by
Council.
Additional Staff needs for
implementation phase should
be assessed by Council and
Manager at the time of plan
approval.
Progress Report:
Initiative 2 ☐New Initiative
☒Continued Initiative
☐On-Going Initiative
Target
Completion
Date
Budget
Required
Staff Support Required
(To be completed by Staff
Liaison)
Liaison Comments
Support efforts to reduce energy consumption and
greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by City of Edina
municipal government operations.
1.GHG Measurement. Create protocol,
methodology and metrics for measurement of
the City's GHG production. Create baselines for
GHG reduction goals for the City's buildings, fleet
and utility operations.
2.Support efforts to reduce energy consumption
and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in the City
of Edina
3.City Capital Process Environmental
Considerations Initiative. Commission will
1.April
2016
2.July 2016
3.April
2016
Staff time
Staff Time
Staff Time
Unknown Staff, 20hrs
Public Works, 8hrs
Finance, 8hrs
Approved by City Council on December 15, 2015
Initiative 5 added #4 by City Council on April 19, 2016
research and develop options for City staff to
more explicitly describe the GHG production of
proposed capital improvements proposed for the
City's CIP budget process.
4. City Fleet Environmental Audit. Receive a
presentation from City staff concerning the City's
vehicle fleet and how decisions are made that
shape the size and nature of the fleet. Provide
comments and ideas to staff regarding the City's
fleet management practices.
4. Dec.
2016
Fleet Manager, 8hrs
Progress Report:
Initiative 3 ☐ New Initiative
☒ Continued Initiative
☐ On-Going Initiative
Target
Completion
Date
Budget
Required
Staff Support Required
(To be completed by Staff
Liaison)
Liaison Comments
Support tangible efforts and projects in the community
that promote the reduction of energy consumption and
GHG.
1. Support the City's effort to create a Community
Solar Garden at City's Public Works and Parks
Maintenance Facility.
2. Support the City's effort to participate in the
Metropolitan Council's proposed Community
Solar Garden project.
3. Expand the City's subsidized Home Energy Squad
(HES) installs for residents. City will fund 100 HES
installs at a cost of not more than $5,000.
Early 2016
Early 2016
Early 2016
TBD by City
Mgr
None
$5000
(consultant)
Engineering, 60hrs
Engineering, 24hrs
Engineering, 2hrs
Progress Report:
Initiative 4 ☒ New Initiative
☐ Continued Initiative
☐ On-Going Initiative
Target
Completion
Date
Budget
Required
Staff Support Required
(To be completed by Staff
Liaison)
Liaison Comments
Work with City Staff to revise Chapter 10 of City
Comprehensive Plan
1. Update Ch. 10 to reflect progress in City
operations and City metrics since 2008 Plan was
TBD –
depends
upon City
Staff
None Engineering, Planning, Public
Works staff as needed
Approved by City Council on December 15, 2015
Initiative 5 added #4 by City Council on April 19, 2016
issued
2. Revise City sustainability goals (i) to align with
state and city policies, (ii) establish interim goals
for sectors (i.e. energy, transportation,
waste/recycling, etc.), and (iii) establish and
maintain quarterly or annual metrics that
measure progress towards goals
3. Work to create City staff driven processes for
long-term ownership of sustainability measures
and implementation of Chapter 10.
schedule for
revision of
City Comp
Plan
Progress Report:
Initiative 5 ☒ New Initiative
☐ Continued Initiative
☒ On-Going Initiative
Target
Completion
Date
Budget
Required
Staff Support Required
(To be completed by Staff
Liaison)
Liaison Comments
Solid Waste, Organics and Recycling Management.
1. Research and Report on MPCA compost rule-
making process and its impact on City operations
2. Research and Report on proposal to ban
Styrofoam food packaging materials in Edina
3. Research and Report on the alternatives for
reorganizing the manner in which solid waste is
collected from single family homes in Edina.
4. Study and report on the advisability of
implementing a ban on the use of plastic bags,
similar in scope the ban recently adopted in the
City of Minneapolis, in the City of Edina.
Q3 2016
Q2 2016
Q4 2016
None
None
None or
minimal
Recycling Coordinator, 8hrs
Recycling Coordinator,
Unknown hours.
Recycling Coordinator,
Unknown hours.
The reported total tons of
recycling collected by the
licensed haulers in Edina for
2014 was 2377 tons and for
2013 was 2044 tons. Numbers
for 2015 are not yet in for the
year
Progress Report:
Initiative 6 ☐ New Initiative
☒ Continued Initiative
☐ On-Going Initiative
Target
Completion
Date
Budget
Required
Staff Support Required
(To be completed by Staff
Liaison)
Liaison Comments
Public Education.
1. Plan and execute the annual ECC Community
Education Event
1. Q2 2016
Staff time
plus event
costs
Communications Specialist,
40hrs
Successful annual event held in
2015; film series held in 1 H
2015 but currently suspended
Approved by City Council on December 15, 2015
Initiative 5 added #4 by City Council on April 19, 2016
2.Student members will create and execute a plan
for 2016 student activities
2.Ongoing None Annual event has run about
$1500-$2500 in past years.
Progress Report:
Initiative 7 ☒New Initiative
☐Continued Initiative
☐On-Going Initiative
Target
Completion
Date
Budget
Required
Staff Support Required
(To be completed by Staff
Liaison)
Liaison Comments
Water
1)Continue water drain education and stenciling efforts
2) Receive annual report from City staff on Edina water
quality issues and activities
3)Continue winter salt education efforts
4)Actively monitor the activities of the Nine Mile Creek
Watershed District and the Minnehaha Creek Watershed
District
Engineering 8hrs
Engineering 4hrs
Engineering 4hrs
Engineering 2hrs
Progress Report:
Ongoing Responsibilities
Annual Green Purchasing Report
Annual joint meetings with City Council and City Manager
Green Step Cities reporting
Other Work Plan Ideas Considered for Current Year or Future Years
Proposed Month for Joint Work Session (one time per
year, up to 60 minutes):
March
Council Comments: Work plans proposed by the Boards and Commissions were reviewed at the December 1 work
session. The following changes/comments were made and are reflected on this work plan:
•Initiative 1 – changed language as recommended by City Manager
•Initiative 2 – changed language as recommended by City Manager
•Initiative 3 – changed language as recommended by City Manager
Approved by City Council on December 15, 2015
Initiative 5 added #4 by City Council on April 19, 2016
•Remove prior initiative 5 - EEC will hold a 90 minute working session with City Council
•Initiative 5 –changed language as recommended by City Manager
•Initiative 6 – changed language as recommended by City Manager
•Initiative 7 – added initiative as recommended by City Manager
•Ongoing Responsibilities – changed language as recommended by City Manager
Approved by Council 12/6/16
Board/Commission: Energy and Environment Commission
2017 Annual Work Plan
Initiative
1
Council Charge
☒1 ☐ 2 ☐ 3 ☐ 4
Target Completion
Date
Budget Required
(Staff Liaison)
Staff Support Required
(Staff Liaison)
☐New Initiative ☒ Continued Initiative ☐ Ongoing Responsibility December 2017 None Sustainability Coordinator (10 hrs)
Study and Report on proposal to ban Styrofoam food packaging
materials in Edina.
Progress Report: Click here to enter text.
Initiative
2
Council Charge
☒1 ☐ 2 ☐ 3 ☐ 4
Target Completion
Date
Budget Required
(Staff Liaison)
Staff Support Required
(Staff Liaison)
☐New Initiative ☒ Continued Initiative ☐ Ongoing Responsibility December 2017 None Sustainability Coordinator (10 hrs)
Recycling Coordinator Study and report on the advisability of implementing a ban on the
use of plastic bags, similar in scope the ban recently adopted in the
City of Minneapolis, in the City of Edina
Progress Report: Click here to enter text.
Initiative
3
Council Charge
☐1 ☒ 2 ☐ 3 ☐ 4
Target Completion
Date
Budget Required
(Staff Liaison)
Staff Support Required
(Staff Liaison)
☐New Initiative ☒ Continued Initiative ☐ Ongoing Responsibility January 2018 None Sustainability Coordinator (10 hrs)
Center for Energy & Environment
(CEE) (10 hrs) Review staff implementation of Partners in Energy’s Electricity
Action Plan City Facilities’ Strategy.
Progress Report: Click here to enter text.
Initiative
4
Council Charge
☐1 ☒ 2 ☐ 3 ☐ 4
Target Completion
Date
Budget Required
(Staff Liaison)
Staff Support Required
(Staff Liaison)
☐New Initiative ☒ Continued Initiative ☐ Ongoing Responsibility January 2018 $500 from CEE for a
tablet for onsite
Windsource sign-up
$1,000 for printing
materials from CEE
Sustainability Coordinator will
create and provide materials for
outreach events. (75 hrs)
CEE support (60 hrs)
Communications Staff (40 hrs)
Assist staff in the implementation of PiE Residential Energy Focus
Area.
Approved by Council 12/6/16
Progress Report: Click here to enter text.
Initiative
5
Council Charge
☐ 1 ☒ 2 ☐ 3 ☐ 4
Target Completion
Date
Budget Required
(Staff Liaison)
Staff Support Required
(Staff Liaison)
☐ New Initiative ☒ Continued Initiative ☐ Ongoing Responsibility January 2018
$1,000 for printing
materials from CEE
Sustainability Coordinator is
planning events with key leaders
and will create and provide
materials to working group. (50 hrs)
CEE support (60 hrs)
Communications Staff (30 hrs)
Assist staff in the implementation of PiE’s Business Energy Focus
Area.
Progress Report: Click here to enter text.
Initiative
6
Council Charge
☐ 1 ☒ 2 ☐ 3 ☐ 4
Target Completion
Date
Budget Required
(Staff Liaison)
Staff Support Required
(Staff Liaison)
☒ New Initiative ☐ Continued Initiative ☐ Ongoing Responsibility December 2017 None Sustainability Coordinator (10 hrs)
Assist as requested with the development of the City’s new
Comprehensive Guide Plan.
Progress Report: Click here to enter text.
Initiative
7
Council Charge
☐ 1 ☐ 2 ☒ 3 ☐ 4
Target Completion
Date
Budget Required
(Staff Liaison)
Staff Support Required
(Staff Liaison)
☐ New Initiative ☒ Continued Initiative ☐ Ongoing Responsibility June 30th, 2017 None Sustainability Coordinator (40 hrs
for residential)
Recycling Coordinator (30 hrs for
residential)
Review and make a recommendation regarding staff’s action plan to
attain Hennepin County waste reduction goal for residential.
Progress Report: Click here to enter text.
Initiative
8
Council Charge
☐ 1 ☐ 2 ☐ 3 ☒ 4
Target Completion
Date
Budget Required
(Staff Liaison)
Staff Support Required
(Staff Liaison)
☐ New Initiative ☒ Continued Initiative ☐ Ongoing Responsibility One event in Spring
$1,500 Communications Staff (40 hrs)
Plan and execute an annual event with Energy Working Groups. This
event will include an environmental film series leading up to an
education event.
Progress Report: Click here to enter text.
Approved by Council 12/6/16
Parking Lot: (These items have been considered by the BC, but not proposed as part of this year’s work plan. If the BC decides they would like
to work on them in the current year, it would need to be approved by Council.)
Potential for a City Fleet Study and Report from the Subcommittee but resources have not been verified.
Review and comment on surface and ground water quality report.
Review and comment on opportunities that arise to reduce the City’s greenhouse gas emissions (ex. Natural gas efficiency projects).
Proposed Month for Joint Work Session (one time per year, up to 60 minutes): March
Item# 2018 Workplan Item
WP1 Assist as requested with the development of the City’s new Comprehensive
Guide Plan.
WP2 Review and comment on the PiE staff report.
WP3 Coordinate up to two annual community outreach and education events to increase
community awareness and actions regarding environment /
sustainability / resiliency.
WP4 Review and comment on policy options for residential organics recycling.
WP5 Review and comment on proposed groundwater conservation policy.
WP6 Review and recommend on city resolution regarding state bill on limited liability to salt
applicators that are certified.
2019 Work Plan Discussion
Matrix submitted for Comp Plan
Work Plan ideas submitted
•Help pass the green building code
•Pass a benchmarking ordinance
•Implement a green business recognition program
•Help pass compost recycling
•Increase City street sweeping to 3 x per year
•Help pass an enhanced tree ordinance (must replace mature trees with relatively large trees or
face serious fine)
•Set a timeline and parameters for a Climate Action Plan (or otherwise named comprehensive
environmental effort)
•Assist Transportation Commission with EV charging station map
•Pass a pollinator ordinance
Approved by Council 12/4/18
ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENT COMMISSION
Commission: Energy and Environment Commission
2019 Annual Work Plan
Initiative # 1 Council Charge (Proposed Charge Completed by CM)
☐1 (Study & Report) ☐ 2 (Review & Comment)
☐3 (Review & Recommend) ☒ 4 (Review & Decide)
Target
Completion
Date
Budget Required
(Staff Liaison)
Staff Support
Required
(Staff Liaison)
Initiative Type: ☐ New Initiative ☒ Continued Initiative ☐ Ongoing Responsibility ☐Funds available
Funds are available for this project.
☒Staff Liaison: Hrs_8
☐CTS (including Video)
☒Other Staff: Hrs_16__Promote residential curbside organics recycling by attending local events. ☒Funds not available
Lead Commissioners: Seeley
Progress Report:
Initiative # 2 Council Charge (Proposed Charge Completed by CM)
☐1 (Study & Report) ☐ 2 (Review & Comment)
☐3 (Review & Recommend) ☒ 4 (Review & Decide)
Target
Completion
Date
Budget Required
(Staff Liaison)
Staff Support
Required
(Staff Liaison)
Initiative Type: ☒ New Initiative ☐ Continued Initiative ☐ Ongoing Responsibility ☒Funds available
Funds are available for this project. ☒Staff Liaison: Hrs_60_
☒CTS (including Video)
62hrs
☐Other Staff: Hrs_____
Review and establish an annual Business Recognition Program Award and consult
with members of the Human Rights Commission who coordinate the Tom Oye
Award.
☐Funds not available
Lead Commissioners: Horan
Partners: Energy & Environment Commission [LEAD] and Human Rights & Relations
Commission [Consult]
Progress Report:
Initiative # 3 Council Charge (Proposed Charge Completed by CM)
☐1 (Study & Report) ☐ 2 (Review & Comment)
☒3 (Review & Recommend) ☐ 4 (Review & Decide)
Target
Completion
Date
Budget Required
(Staff Liaison)
Staff Support
Required
(Staff Liaison)
Approved by Council 12/4/18
ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENT COMMISSION
Initiative Type: ☒ New Initiative ☐ Continued Initiative ☐ Ongoing Responsibility ☒Funds available
Funds are available for this project.
☒Staff Liaison: Hrs_40_
☐CTS (including Video)
☒Other Staff: Hrs_8___Review and recommend a building energy benchmarking policy ☐Funds not available
Lead Commissioners: Jackson
Progress Report:
Initiative # 4 Council Charge (Proposed Charge Completed by CM)
☒1 (Study & Report) ☐ 2 (Review & Comment)
☐3 (Review & Recommend) ☐ 4 (Review & Decide)
Target
Completion
Date
Budget Required
(Staff Liaison)
Staff Support
Required
(Staff Liaison)
Initiative Type: ☒ New Initiative ☐ Continued Initiative ☐ Ongoing Responsibility ☐Funds available
Funds are available for this project. ☒Staff Liaison: Hrs_6_
☐CTS (including Video)
☒Other Staff: Hrs_16_
Study and report on pollinator resolution. ☒Funds not available
Lead Commissioners: Horan
Progress Report:
Initiative # 5 Council Charge (Proposed Charge Completed by CM)
☒1 (Study & Report) ☐ 2 (Review & Comment)
☐3 (Review & Recommend) ☐ 4 (Review & Decide)
Target
Completion
Date
Budget Required
(Staff Liaison)
Staff Support
Required
(Staff Liaison)
Initiative Type: ☒ New Initiative ☐ Continued Initiative ☐ Ongoing Responsibility ☐Funds available
Funds are available for this project. ☒Staff Liaison: Hrs_32
☐CTS (including Video)
☒Other Staff: Hrs_20_
Study and report about timeline and parameters recommendation for a Climate
Action Plan including the city’s leadership role ☒Funds not available
There are not funds available for this
project (explain impact of Council
approving initiative in liaison
comments). Lead Commissioners: Satterlee
Progress Report:
Parking Lot: (These items have been considered by the BC, but not proposed as part of this year’s work plan. If the BC decides they would like to
work on them in the current year, it would need to be approved by Council.)
Increase street sweeping, water quality improvements and conservation actions
Approved by Council 12/4/18
ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENT COMMISSION
Education and outreach events,
Green building policy,
Pass an enhanced tree ordinance
City owned building energy efficiency
Energy & Environment
2020 DRAFT Commission Work Plan Template
Initiative 1 Initiative Type Completion Date Council Charge
Continue Dec-20 2 (review and comment)
Lead Commissioners Budget Staff Support
Staff Liaison
NA Staff Liaison (40 hrs)
Initiative 2 Initiative Type Completion Date Council Charge
Event Dec-20 4 (review and decide)
Lead Commissioners Budget Staff Support
Funds available Staff Liaison, Other
$200 for supplies
and food
p ()g
Coordinator (20hrs) and Recycling Coordinator (8
hrs) can advise and provide materials already
created.
Initiative 3 Initiative Type Completion Date Council Charge
Ongoing 4 (review and decide)
Lead Commissioners Budget Staff Support
Review and Comment
Progress Report:
Review and comment on Climate Action Plan during development
and final plan.
Jackson, Satterlee
Review and Decide
Review and decide on commission members coordinating and
tabling at City events to educate the community on organics and
recycling.Lanzas, Maynor
Progress Report:
Review and Decide
Review and decide on the Business Recognition Program outreach
and application review. By the end of Q4, complete a program
assessment.Horan
NA
Staff liaison to manage in take and acceptance process (40 hrs),
CTS to support communication updates (16 hrs), Staff liaison to
manage in take and acceptance process (40 hrs), CTS to support
communication updates (16 hrs), Community Engagment
Coordinator (8 hrs)
Initiative 5 Initiative Type Completion Date Council Charge
Event July 4 (review and decide)
Lead Commissioners Budget Staff Support
Funds available Staff Liaison
Initiative 6 Initiative Type Completion Date Council Charge
New Dec-20 2 (review and comment)
Lead Commissioners Budget Staff Support
NA
Initiative 7 Initiative Type Completion Date Council Charge
New April 4 (review and decide)
Lead Commissioners Budget Staff Support
Staff Liaison
NA CTS
Progress Report:
Review and Comment
Appoint up to 2 members to provide feedback on PARC's initiative (#4) to
develop criteria that incorporates sustainability and equity for prioritizing
capital improvements for park infrastructure needs, including playground
equipment, warming houses and core amenities for expansion and
replacement before final criteria goes to Council.
Review and Decide
Co-chair a cross-commission committee (EEC & HRRC) to coordinate the
"Sharing Values, Sharing Communities Event" on the adpatation and /or
resilience on climate change. Committee will be comprised of no more
than 2-3 members from each commission and one member from each
commission will serve as a co-chair
Hussian, Martinez
Progress Report:
Review and Decide
Coordinate 50th Anniversary of Earth Day event with Edina Community
Education.
Progress Report:
Progress Report:
An Electricity Action Plan for:
July 2016
Table of Contents
Executive Summary .................................................................................................................. i
Introduction .............................................................................................................................. 1
The City of Edina – Community Background ......................................................................... 2
Demographics ........................................................................................................................ 3
Businesses & Employment .................................................................................................... 3
Education ............................................................................................................................... 3
Housing .................................................................................................................................. 4
Commitment to Sustainability ................................................................................................ 4
Community Communications and Outreach ........................................................................... 7
Xcel Energy Partners in Energy .............................................................................................. 8
Where Does the Community Stand? – Baseline Electricity Analysis...................................13
Residential Electricity Use .....................................................................................................16
Business Electricity Use ........................................................................................................20
City Electricity Use and Data .................................................................................................21
School District Electricity Use and Sustainability ...................................................................23
Where is Edina Headed? – Edina’s Energy Vision, Focus Areas, and Goals ........................25
Focus Area: Municipal Facilities ............................................................................................27
Focus Area: Residential Information Campaign .....................................................................27
Focus Area: Business Energy ................................................................................................28
How Are We Going To Get There? – Strategies ...................................................................32
Focus Area: Municipal Facilities ............................................................................................32
Focus Area: Residential Information Campaign .....................................................................36
Focus Area: Business Energy ................................................................................................40
How Are We Going To Stay On Course? – Monitoring and Reporting ...............................44
Appendix 1: Glossary of Terms
Appendix 2: Workshop Process Overview
Appendix 3: City of Edina Climate Change Goals presented on behalf of the EEC by
Bill Sierks
Appendix 4: 2015 City Greenhouse Gas Footprint Analysis and Reduction Concept
presented by Ross Bintner
Appendix 5: School Facilities
Appendix 6: Focus Area Options Considered by the Planning Team
Appendix 7: Detailed Focus Area Timelines
Appendix 8: Partners in Energy Planning Memorandum of Understanding
Appendix 9: Xcel Energy Demand Side Management Program Summaries
Appendix 10: Detailed Program Participation and Associated Savings
Appendix 11: List of Relevant Case Studies
CITY OF EDINA ENERGY ACTION PLAN
*Using the EPA Greenhouse Gas Equivalencies Calculator (https://www.epa.gov/energy/greenhouse-gas-
equivalencies-calculator)
i
Executive Summary
Our Vision:
Edina’s residents, schools, businesses, and government will successfully reduce the
community’s greenhouse gas emissions by 30% by the year 2025 through strategies and
actions that are sustainable, practical, and measurable.
How Will We Get There?
The City will focus on these near-term priority areas to address electricity usage:
Municipal
Facilities
Goals:
·Short term: Within the next 18 months lower the City’s electricity
greenhouse gas emissions by 7.5%, which is 1.34 million kWh, or 943
metric tons of CO2 equivalent.*
Strategies:
·Implement recommended energy use reduction projects from building
study currently being conducted by CR-BPS
·Negotiate renewable purchase for municipal electricity
Residential
Information
Campaign
Goals:
·750 homes take energy savings actions each year, saving 562,000
kWh annually, or 395 metric tons of CO2 equivalent.*
·Double the number of subscribers to Windsource®, and double the
average subscription amount within 18 month, producing 8,505,000
kWh total, or 5,977 metric tons of CO2 equivalent.*
Strategies:
·Drive traffic to a City-operated web resource through City
communications channels
·Foster neighborhood-based outreach and leadership
·Leverage outreach events for Windsource® sign-up
·Assess and recommend policy options to support efficiency for Edina
Business
Energy
Goals:
·Reduce and/or off-set 2% of electricity usage annually, which is 7.3
million kWh, equivalent to 5,140 metric tons of CO2 equivalent.*
Strategies:
·Engage the top business energy users to take action on greenhouse
gas through offsets and reductions
·Target smaller businesses such as restaurants, retail, and others with
recognition programs
·Ongoing management and tracking
·Assess and recommend policy options to support greenhouse gas
reduction for Edina businesses
CITY OF EDINA ENERGY ACTION PLAN
ii
Playbook for Achieving Our Goals
More details on actions and strategies may be found in the section “How Are We Going To Get
There? –Strategies” starting on page 32. Note that these actions strategies primarily address
electricity usage, and further plans will be made to address other sources of greenhouse gas
emissions, including gas, transportation, water and waste water, and solid waste.
Longer-term Actions
(Oct. 2016 – Dec. 2017)
Municipal:
·Support implementation of
prioritized projects
·Prioritize and recommend
adoption of renewable
energy opportunities
·Research funding
Residential:
·Launch City website
presence
·Plan and implement a
social media campaign
·Table at in-person events
·Reach out to local
community leaders
·Develop multi-channel
information campaign
Business:
·Identify top 100 prospects
to reach out to first
·Roll out large business
outreach effort
·Launch City website
presence by end of 2016
Immediate Actions
(July– Sept. 2016)
Municipal:
·Review building study
recommendations
·Prioritize projects based on
energy savings potential and
cost analysis
·Meet with Xcel Energy to
learn about renewable energy
opportunities and programs
for identified projects
Residential:
·Develop messaging
·Identify in-person events
·Identify and train volunteers
·Leverage EEC members as
neighborhood advocates
·Recommend the City
subsidize Home Energy
Squad visits for low income
and other households each
year at $10,000 subsidy for
200 visits
Business:
·Start to identify 400 largest
businesses and contacts and
keep them in a database
·Develop the “ask” for
businesses
Ongoing – Tracking
Track progress quarterly for
all focus areas, and report to
the Energy and Environment
Commission / City Council
quarterly.
Municipal:
· Update City website
quarterly with current
information
· Assist in development
of City facilities case
studies
Residential:
· Update City website
quarterly
· Check on goal progress
quarterly
· Evaluate effectiveness
of messaging mid-way
through the campaign
Business:
· Develop or identify a
tool that will be used to
measure results by
March 2017
· Plan recognition events
for businesses
CITY OF EDINA ENERGY ACTION PLAN
1
Introduction
The purpose of this plan is to outline tangible steps for
the City of Edina to move the community towards its
greenhouse gas goals, by increasing energy efficiency
investments and the use of renewable electricity across
the community. This plan focuses first and foremost on
the electricity sector, and both informs the community
about Edina’s current state of electricity use, and
provides the necessary framework to continue working
toward the City of Edina’s defined greenhouse gas
emissions reduction targets through electricity oriented
strategies. While natural gas is not explicitly analyzed or
tracked in this plan, several plan strategies will also be
leveraged to reduce Edina’s natural gas footprint, as
detailed in section “How Are We Going To Get There? –
Strategies” starting on page 32. Further plans will be
made to specifically address other sources of greenhouse gas emissions, including gas,
transportation, water and waste water, and solid waste. The 2013 metrics for Water, Travel,
and Waste, taken from the Regional Indicators Initiative are shown in the section titled “Where
Does the Community Stand? – Baseline Electricity Analysis.”
In June of 2015, Edina’s City Council signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Xcel
Energy to participate in Partners in Energy (see Appendix 8). From October 2015 to April 2016,
a 12-member Energy Action Team appointed by the Edina City Council participated in a series
of workshops to develop the contents of this Energy Action Plan alongside representatives
from Xcel Energy, Edina’s electricity provider. The team was comprised of Edina residents,
members of Edina’s Energy and Environment Commission, City staff, and representatives from
Edina School District and the Chamber of Commerce.
The planning team reviewed electric energy data, prioritized areas of focus for Edina, and
developed this Energy Action Plan. Although Edina’s greenhouse gas reduction goals span
many sources of greenhouse gas emissions, the work this Energy Action Team has done has
focused primarily on electricity, which makes up approximately 40% of Edina’s greenhouse gas
emissions. The group would like to carry out this plan to help the community work toward
short- to mid-term electric energy goals in conjunction with other strategies and actions
targeting additional sources of greenhouse gas emissions, including natural gas. Included in this
plan is detailed action planning for meeting short-term identified electric energy goals over an
18 month initial implementation period (July 2016-December 2017).
The process was facilitated through Xcel Energy’s Partners in Energy offering for communities,
and convened by the City of Edina and the Edina Energy and Environment Commission. The
Photo by Gephart / CCBY
CITY OF EDINA ENERGY ACTION PLAN
2
Energy and Environment Commission pursued Partners in Energy as a way to work toward
meeting their existing greenhouse gas emissions targets and expand community participation
in sustainability.
The following plan provides an overview of the Edina community, the community’s baseline
electricity use, documentation of the Partners in Energy planning process, a summary of priority
focus areas identified by the Energy Action Team for implementation, and the near-term actions
and strategies required to keep the implementation of this plan on track.
The City of Edina – Community Background
The City of Edina’s mission is to provide effective and
valued services, maintain a sound public infrastructure,
offer premier public facilities and guide the development
and redevelopment of lands, all in a manner that
sustains and improves the uncommonly high quality of
life enjoyed by our residents and businesses.
The City’s vision is to be the preeminent place for living,
learning, raising families and doing business
distinguished by:
· a livable environment,
· effective and valued city services,
· a sound public infrastructure,
· a balance of land uses, and
· innovation.
Edina is located in the first ring of suburbs within the Twin Cities metropolitan area, and is part
of Hennepin County. Nearly 48,000 residents call Edina home. Edina is known for the high
quality of life experienced by residents, and also houses a vibrant retail community, including
the Southdale Shopping Center, Galleria Edina, and the 50th and France shopping district.
Edina Facts and Figures
County Hennepin
Metro Area Location Directly west of Minneapolis
Size 15.97 sq. miles
Development 95% developed
Population 49,596 in 2014
Population Density 1,460 housing units per sq. mile
3,103 inhabitants per sq. mile
Southdale Mall
Photo by Bobak Ha’Eri / CCBY
CITY OF EDINA ENERGY ACTION PLAN
3
Demographics
Nearly a quarter of the population is under 18, and 20% of the population is over 65. The
average household size is 2.34, and most people have stayed in their homes for more than a
year, with 88% of residents living in the same home as a year ago. Just over half the
population, 53.4%, is female. Edina is one of the most affluent suburbs of Minneapolis with a
median household income of $84,349. Between 2009 and 2013, four percent of Edina
residents were living in poverty.
Businesses & Employment
Edina has a prominent business community and
contains a mix of large and small retail, health care,
corporate offices, and food businesses. Major Edina
employers include: Fairview Southdale Hospital, Edina
Public Schools, City of Edina, BI Worldwide, Regis
Corporation, Barr Engineering, Lund Food Holdings,
International Dairy Queen, Edina Realty, and FilmTec
Corporation1. The Edina Chamber of Commerce has a
membership of over 400 and holds monthly meetings
and three annual events. Other large business
organizations include Edina Rotary Club, with 160
members, and the 50th and France Business
Association. Twenty-three and a half percent of people who work in Edina are Edina residents,
higher than St. Louis Park (17.7%), and lower than Bloomington (29.9%)
Education
Edina has both public and private
schools serving its students. All of the
public schools fall under the Edina
School District, ISD 273. There are
approximately 8,500 students in Edina
public schools, between six elementary
schools, two middle schools, and one
high school. In 2015, a referendum was
passed for $124.9 million in funding for
the purposes of updating learning spaces and enhancing building security at the district’s
schools, while improving district infrastructure. Edina schools leverage “service learning,” a
1 City of Edina Website (http://edinamn.gov/index.php?section=community-profile)
A Cross Section of Edina’s Community Assets
Highlights from community members’ feedback
during the planning workshops
· Good city management
· Engaged community
· Community reputation
· Great schools
· Shopping
· Accessibility to metro area; location
· Bike Trails
50th and France
Photo by Meet Minneapolis/ CCBY
CITY OF EDINA ENERGY ACTION PLAN
4
teaching strategy that engages students in addressing community issues or needs as part of
their academic study. In Edina, part of this is manifested in a Passion Project and a May Term
during high school. Almost a third of Edina households have children under the age of 18. There
is a green team at the school called Project Earth.
Almost 98% of Edina residents 18 or older have obtained a high school diploma. Sixty-seven
percent have received a Bachelor’s degree or higher. Edina has four private schools.
Housing
The total number of housing units in Edina is 22,360, and 74.8% are owner occupied. Edina has
a low homeowner vacancy rate of 2.3% and rental vacancy rate of 11.7%. Neighborhoods in
Edina are recognized by the City through the voluntary formation of neighborhood associations.
The City has a total of 35 neighborhoods, and nine are recognized neighborhood associations.
Much of Edina’s housing stock was built between 1950 and 1979 (see below). The majority of
Edina housing is detached single family homes (72%), although several multi-family buildings
have been recently built or are in development. More than 100 home building permits were
issued annually in 2014 and 2015. There is relatively high participation in Energy Star Homes, an
energy efficiency program for new homes, with 46 participants within the past three years.
Figure 1: Original Year of Construction for Edina’s Housing Stock
Commitment to Sustainability
Edina’s participation in Partners in Energy was
preceded by several years of sustainability work.
The City of Edina established a citizen Energy
Edina City Hall Photo by Gephart / CCBY
CITY OF EDINA ENERGY ACTION PLAN
5
and Environment Commission (EEC) in 2007 to promote sustainability initiatives and to advise
the City Council. The commission is comprised of Edina residents and has several working
groups and subcommittees which focused on specific sustainability topics. The commission
creates a work plan annually, and the focus has been on carbon reduction. A presentation
outlining Energy and Environment Commission activities, climate change goals, and
recommendations to the City of Edina is included as Appendix 3. This presentation was shared
with the Energy Action Team in Workshop 2.
It will be essential to coordinate the Energy Action Plan so that it fits well with what the
community is already doing. The City plans to leverage a new conservation and sustainability
fund to add a full time position focused on sustainability within the City in the fall of 2016.
Selected Citywide Sustainability Actions Related to Energy and Climate
2007
Became a participant in the Regional Indicators Initiative (RII)
Established Energy and Environment Commission (EEC)
Signed U.S. Mayor’s Climate Protection Agreement
Became an ICLEI City for Climate Protection
2008 Included a chapter on Energy and Environment in the Comprehensive Plan
2009 Completed Greenhouse Gas Inventory under direction of the EEC
2010
Began benchmarking City Buildings
Installed a closed loop geothermal system at the Public Works building with a
minimum coefficient of performance of 3.3
2011
Entered into a Guaranteed Energy Savings Contract—12 City buildings audited
and actions taken
Joined GreenStep Cities (Currently Step 3)
Installed solar panel system on the roof of City Hall
2012-2016 Variety of LED lighting retrofits at City Hall, Public Works, Edinborough Park, 50th
and France Ramps, and others.
A core priority of the City and the EEC has been to lead by example by operating City facilities
sustainably The City of Edina utilizes B3 benchmarking data to track energy use for heating and
cooling in public facilities, most buildings also have and centralized HVAC control system that
allow operators the ability to track and control on a daily basis. B3 data is entered for all
municipal buildings and is kept current by the Finance department. Trends and energy savings
opportunities are reviewed and an annual summary is provided to the Energy and Environment
Commission.
In 2011, the City contracted with McKinstry under the Guaranteed Energy Savings Program.
Under the contract, the 12 largest municipal facilities were audited. This energy audit identified
and implemented the following efficiency improvements: building envelope insulation, water
conservation, and interior lighting retrofits. This retrofit project included 11 separate City
CITY OF EDINA ENERGY ACTION PLAN
6
buildings. The performance contract project was projected to reduce energy use by over
540,000 kWh and 19,600 therms of gas on an annual basis, reduce the City’s carbon footprint
by 540 metric tons of CO2 annually, and qualified for a guaranteed annual savings of
approximately $54,000.
Additionally, the City’s 2008 Comprehensive Plan outlines the following goals (Chapter 10):
· GHG reduction goal: 15% reduction by 2015, 25% reduction by 2025, 80% reduction by
2050.
· Develop a local action plan.
The basis for setting the greenhouse gas reduction level was set by state policy established in
the 2007 Next Generation Energy Act. The state goal in statute is to reduce emissions 30% by
2025, not 25%, and this discrepancy was addressed through this planning process.
Edina’s energy work for local business includes the Edina Emerald City Energy Program (EEEP),
which includes financing, promotion of efficiency and renewable energy, and recognition of
businesses. Through this program, Edina was the first local government to launch a property
assessed clean energy (PACE) service to allow commercial properties to repay energy loans
using an assessment on their local property taxes. EEEP won the 2012 Environmental Initiative
award for energy and climate protection.
Edina joined ICLEI (International Council for Local Environmental Initiatives) in 2007, and
completed a baseline Greenhouse Gas Inventory in 2009. The inventory calculated that 55% of
Edina’s CO2 output on 2007 resulted from a combination of residential electrical consumption
and commercial and industrial electrical consumption. Other factors measured included:
residential, commercial, and industrial natural gas usage; other service and public authority
electrical usage; public streets and highway lighting electrical usage; and Edina vehicle miles
traveled (VMT).
Additionally, the Energy and Environment Commission
worked closely with Xcel Energy and CenterPoint
Energy to bring the Home Energy Squad Enhanced
(HES) program to residents. The City of Edina has
bought down the cost of the visit to $50 for residents,
making the program affordable for more households.
The program is promoted through the EEC's Education
& Outreach Working Group with door hangers and
participation in the annual 4th of July parade and other
community outreach.
Edina recently supported renewable development by working with the Metropolitan Council
and creating a model lease for Community Solar Gardens (CSG) through participation in a solar
Home Energy Squad Enhanced
CITY OF EDINA ENERGY ACTION PLAN
7
power purchase initiative through the Metropolitan Council and has signed contracts with two
developers for multiple megawatts of installation. Both the Energy and Environment
Commission and the City Council supported this endeavor. Edina is slated to be the first city to
host a rooftop lease, and is making all bid documents available for other public agencies to use.
Additionally, the City established a Conservation and Sustainability fund in late 2015, leveraging
a utility tax, in part to add a City staff position focused on conservation and energy activities. It
is anticipated that this staff member will be hired in summer of 2016, and play a significant role
in implementing this action plan.
Community Communications and Outreach
Engaging the community is critical to reaching this plan’s goals. Below are some of the ways
that Edina’s residents and businesses currently receive information. These communication
channels will be helpful during implementation efforts. The City has a robust communications
staff which will be able to support implementation of this plan, and also has the capacity to
produce videos.
Edina hosts a variety of annual events and
structured outreach opportunities that could bring
program awareness to residents and businesses.
The City uses a variety of social media platforms to
communicate with residents. Their portfolio
includes: Facebook, Foursquare, Blog, Twitter, and
YouTube. The City of Edina website is used by
residents and businesses to look up information.
Additional channels are listed below:
About Town: A quarterly publication of the City of
Edina produced to keep Edina residents informed of
new activities and programs that are important to
them. Articles of interest about citizens and
community history are included as well. The
magazine is distributed to all households in the City
and most businesses, with a total circulation of
25,000.
City Extra: An email subscription that provides residents with updates from City Hall, city
departments, and city facilities.
Edition Edina: A newsletter summarizing news of the City of Edina, based on the City Council's
six strategic priorities: infrastructure, commercial and mixed-use redevelopment, workforce,
communication and engagement, community vision and aviation noise.
Annual Events in Edina
· Winter Ice Festival
· Taste of Edina
· Edina Dialogue Forum
· Edina Art Fair
· Parade of Boats
· Annual Independence Day Parade
and Fireworks
· Night to Unite
· Lighthouse Night
· Fall into the Arts Festival
· Barnyard Boogie
· Indoor Music in the Park
· Pumpkin Festival
· Outdoor Concerts, Entertainment,
and Movies in the Park
CITY OF EDINA ENERGY ACTION PLAN
8
Edina to Go: A smartphone app to facilitate communication with the City.
Friday Report: A weekly Friday Report for the City Council about current City operations and
activities, prepared by the City Manager. It previews matters that will concern Council
Members in the near future.
SunCurrent: A newspaper delivered weekly to Edina’s residents.
Results from the 2013 Edina Residential Survey show that the top principal information sources
for residents about city government and its activities were the local newspaper (37%), the City
newsletter (35%), and the City website (12%).2
Xcel Energy Partners in Energy
Xcel Energy is the electricity service provider for Edina residents and businesses. Partners in
Energy is an offering developed for Xcel Energy communities in Minnesota and Colorado that
supports communities in the development and implementation of a customized energy action
plan. The service was launched in 2014, and Edina was chosen as the fifth Minnesota
community to participate. Other Minnesota communities at the time of this writing are the Lake
Street/Midtown Greenway Corridor in Minneapolis, the Cities of Maplewood, Red Wing, and St.
Louis Park, and Ramsey County’s Parks and Recreation Department. There are currently six
Colorado communities participating. The offering has a history of working with communities to
establish plans that reduce energy use and promote renewables that drive cost savings and
greenhouse gas emissions.
The objective of the Partners in Energy
planning process is to allow communities to
develop actionable plans that advance their
goals while being supported by Xcel Energy’s
technical expertise, facilitation process, and
program knowledge. After six months of
planning, Xcel Energy continues to support
partnering communities by providing plan
implementation assistance over the course of
18 months.
In addition to planning workshops, communities can participate in joint learning opportunities
with three to five other Partners in Energy communities, forming an “Exchange.” Exchanges
meet for office hour calls, webinars, and peer-to-peer conversations developed around topics
2http://edinamn.gov/corecode/uploads/document/uploaded_pdfs/corecode_edina/2013%20Edina%20Surv
ey%20Results_62.pdf
Edina's Exchange Communities
CITY OF EDINA ENERGY ACTION PLAN
9
that support planning and implementation tasks. The goal of these interactions is to allow for
collaboration between communities and access to experts in the field.
Energy Action Team
The City of Edina worked to ensure a range of Energy Action Team members, and issued an
open call for applications on the City’s Facebook page, website, and in the Sun Current.
Volunteers were asked to commit to attending planning workshops, have an interest in energy
and related topics, and the ability to represent and educate the community. In addition to four
at-large citizen members, three Energy and Environment Commission members, two City staff
members, one Chamber of Commerce appointed member, and one School District appointed
member were solicited. The City Council reviewed applications and made appointments on
September 1, 2015.
Edina's Energy Action Team
Front Row: Richard Manser, Jenny Edwards, Sarah Klauer
Middle Row: Tami Gunderzik, Bill Sierks, Kevin Schwain, Curt Johanson, Sarah Zarrin, Carolyn Jackson,
Rozy Eastaugh, Yvonne Pfeifer
Back Row: Ross Bintner, Kyle Sawyer, Roy Jenson, Rick Murphy, Kevin Staunton
CITY OF EDINA ENERGY ACTION PLAN
10
Edina’s Energy Action Team
City of Edina
a) Ross Bintner, Environmental Engineer, City of Edina
b) Kyle Sawyer, Assistant Finance Director, City of Edina
c) Kevin Staunton, City Council Member, City of Edina
Energy and Environment Commission
d) Bill Sierks
e) Richard Manser
f) Sarah Zarrin
Business and Organizations
g) Rick Murphy, Chamber of Commerce
h) Curt Johanson, Edina School District
Residents
i) Carolyn Jackson (appointed to EEC in 2016)
j) Marshall Silberstein
k) Roy Jenson
l) Rozy Eastaugh
Xcel Energy Representatives
m) Tami Gunderzik, Partners in Energy Program Manager
n) Yvonne Pfeifer, DSM Community Manager
o) Kevin Schwain, Product Strategy and Development Director, Edina
Resident
p) Michelle Swanson, Community and Local Government Relations Manager,
Edina Resident
q) Jenny Edwards, Partners in Energy Facilitator
r) Sarah Klauer, Partners in Energy Facilitator
s) Emma Struss, Partners in Energy Facilitator
Workshop Guests
a) Scott Neal, City Manager, City of Edina (Workshop 1)
b) M. Sarah Schaffer, Senior Administrator of Energy Efficiency Programs,
CenterPoint Energy (Workshop 2)
At the beginning of the planning process, Energy Action Team members filled out a welcome
survey. The survey showed that over half of team members had lived in Edina for more than 10
years, with 9% living in Edina for 2-5 years and 9% living in Edina 0-2 years. Twenty-seven
CITY OF EDINA ENERGY ACTION PLAN
11
percent of the team did not live in Edina. Fifty-four percent of the team worked in Edina, and
82% of the team considered energy as part of their job. The team’s energy literacy was split
between advanced (46%), intermediate (27%), and beginner (27%).
Planning Process
The content of this plan is derived heavily from a series of five planning workshops. Xcel
Energy’s role in the planning process was to facilitate the workshops, provide electricity use
data, program participation data, and other technical data as available, to advise the community
on effective strategies and actions, and to produce this energy action plan based upon the
community’s input and feedback. A central emphasis throughout the process is community
ownership of the energy plan, which requires active
participation and broad input.
The Energy Action Team met for the first time in
October of 2015 and continued meeting via
workshops and phone calls through May 2016. The
primary planning objectives were to develop a
unifying vision for Edina’s energy future, to share
information on the existing activities within the
community, to develop priority focus areas for near-
term implementation, and to work through detail on
strategies, goals, and the initial work plan during
implementation. A summary of each of the five in-
person workshops is listed on the following pages,
and additional information is located in Appendix 2.
The workshops were led by community facilitators from the Center for Energy and
Environment and attended by Xcel Energy staff. An overview of the major activities at each
workshop is included on the following page. A more detailed overview of each workshop can
be found as Appendix 2.
Xcel Energy’s Partners in Energy
Planning Process
CITY OF EDINA ENERGY ACTION PLAN
12
Partners in Energy Workshop Process
Workshop 1
October 14, 2015
· Team introductions and Partners In Energy process overview
· Review of baseline energy data & past energy initiatives
· Discussion of community assets and energy vision
Workshop 2
December 15, 2015
· Review of Workshop 1 and team introductions
· Presentation by the Energy and Environment Commission
· Review of Xcel Energy’s sustainability initiatives
· Review of data pertaining to residential and business energy
use
· Discussion and brainstorm of focus areas
Workshop 3
January 21, 2016
· Welcome and recap of Workshop 2
· Prioritization and selection of focus areas
· Small groups work on draft goals and strategies for each
selected focus area
Workshop 4
February 23, 2016
· Welcome and review of selected focus areas, adding a
business focus area
· Review data on GHG emissions and reduction impact
· Presentation on City facilities and opportunities
· Small groups work on strategies and goals for each selected
focus area
Workshop 5
April 4, 2016
· Welcome and review of activity that has taken place between
Workshops 4 and 5.
· Windsource® focus area is moved to the residential and
business focus areas
· Small groups work to refine strategies and place actions on
timelines.
Post-Workshop 5
Calls
April 29, May 6 2016
· Small groups discussed detailed action planning for each focus
area
CITY OF EDINA ENERGY ACTION PLAN
13
Where Does the Community Stand? – Baseline Electricity Analysis
An early step in the Partners in Energy planning process was to review the current electricity
use in the city of Edina.3 The Xcel Energy project team calculated community electricity
statistics from the past three years of available data (2012-2014) to help the planning team
understand how and where electricity is currently used in the community.4 The baseline year
for the community’s overall energy goal is 2009, however the electricity data here shows three
years of historical use and program participation. The data show that 2012 electricity
greenhouse gas emissions were 10% below 2009 electricity greenhouse gas emissions.
In 2014, the community used a total of 584 million kWh of electricity. Figure 2 shows the
breakdown of that electricity use by residential homes, commercial and industrial businesses,
municipal, and public school properties. Commercial and industrial use accounted for 60% of
the community total, residential use was 34%, and municipal and school operations were 5%.
The total energy-related electricity expenditures in 2014 were $59.2 million (not including taxes,
franchise fees, or other costs).
Figure 2: Segmented Community-Wide Electricity Use in 2014 (kWh)
3 Xcel Energy is the electricity service provider in Edina; natural gas service is provided by CenterPoint
Energy.
4All energy data presented through this process was developed for planning purposes, and therefore it
may contain some variation from data obtained through other sources. All energy and program data
presented here complies with Xcel Energy’s 15x15 data privacy rules (all summary statistics must
contain at least 15 entities, and no single entity can be responsible for more than 15 percent of the total
or they will be removed from the summary). In Edina, no entities were removed from these summary
statistics.
CITY OF EDINA ENERGY ACTION PLAN
14
Xcel Energy served 23,393 total premises in Edina in 2014.5 Ninety-one percent of those
premises are residential, while commercial and industrial buildings (including schools and
municipal properties) comprised 9% of the total number of premises.
Figure 3: Edina Community-wide Electricity Use in 2014
Figure 4 shows Edina’s electricity use compared to previous Minnesota Partners in Energy
communities, for a sense of scale and comparison. Note that St. Louis Park and Edina show the
most recent year of data, 2014, while the other communities show 2013 annual data.
Partners in
Energy
Community
Xcel
Energy
Fuels
Served
Total
Residential
GWh
Residential
Premises
Total
Commercial
– Industrial
GWh
Commercial-
Industrial
Premises
Lake Street
Corridor,
Minneapolis
(2013)
E 210 43,000 432 1,400
Maplewood
(2013) E, G 119 15,192 201 1,503
Red Wing (2013) E, G 58 6,893 112 1,049
St Louis Park
(2014) E 144 22,769 333 2,156
Edina (2014) E 201 21,277 384 2,116
Figure 4: Partners in Energy Community Electricity Use Compared
5 A premise is a unique identifier for the location of electricity or natural gas service. In most cases, it is a
facility location.
CITY OF EDINA ENERGY ACTION PLAN
15
Another point of community-wide comparison is offered through the Regional Indicators
Initiative6 (RII), which inventories energy, potable water, travel, waste, and greenhouse gas
emissions for Minnesota cities. Edina has been tracking community energy use through RII
since 2007, for both natural gas and electricity. Figure 5 shows that Edina’s energy use is
higher than some nearby cities, including St. Louis Park, but lower than Bloomington.
Figure 5: Regional Indicators Initiative Energy Comparison 2013 (MMBtu)
In addition to looking at the community’s energy usage in comparison to nearby cities, the team
looked at projections around Xcel Energy’s electricity supply. The carbon intensity of Xcel
Energy’s electricity supply will significantly impact greenhouse gas reductions in the electricity
sector. Current unofficial projections of the electricity grid are based on Xcel Energy’s filing with
the Minnesota State Public Utilities Commission, dated October 2, 2015, which proposed a
schedule for fuel conversion of existing coal power generation facilities. Based on this
proposed plan, Xcel Energy’s carbon intensity is projected to decrease 35% between 2012 and
2025, and 42% from 2009, which is Edina’s baseline for greenhouse gas emissions reduction.
Figure 6 shows the impact of Xcel Energy’s energy supply mix projections on greenhouse gas
reductions in the electricity sector.
6 More information on the Regional Indicators Initiative website
(Minnesota.uli.org/initiatives/environment/regional-indicators-initiative/)
CITY OF EDINA ENERGY ACTION PLAN
16
Figure 6: Electricity Grid Projections (dark blue) based on the
filing with MN PUC on October 2, 2015
Residential Electricity Use
Further segmentation of the residential sector shows how household use is distributed across
the community. In the residential sector, the top 20% of electricity users consume 45% of
Edina’s residential electricity. This data shows that higher impacts may be achieved in targeting
high usage homes, and that the top 20% of households use more electricity than the bottom
60% of users combined. In targeting residential home electricity usage, age of housing stock
can be a factor. Newer homes have improved building shells and more efficient appliances;
however older homes may be smaller and cool during the summer in zones through window air
conditioning units, rather than through a central air system. Many of Edina’s homes were built
from 1950-1979.
0
1,000
2,000
3,000
4,000
5,000
6,000
Built
1939
or
earlier
Built
1940
to
1949
Built
1950
to
1959
Built
1960
to
1969
Built
1970
to
1979
Built
1980
to
1989
Built
1990
to
1999
Built
2000
to
2009
Built
2010
or
laterNumber of HomesFigure 7: Residential Electricity Use Figure 8: Age of Residential Housing Stock
Top
20%
45%
2nd
24%
3rd
16%
4th
10%
Lowest
20%
5%
CITY OF EDINA ENERGY ACTION PLAN
17
In 2014, there were 21,288 residential premises in Edina, and the average residential electricity
use was 9,430 kWh/year. Figure 9 shows a geographic breakdown of Edina’s average
residential premise electric use by neighborhood. The neighborhoods with the lowest average
consumption are Cahill and Pentagon Park, and the neighborhoods with the highest average
consumption were Rolling Green and Hilldale. By considering this data, the team was able to
determine whether a geographically oriented strategy would be a priority.
Figure 9: Residential Electricity Use
Figure 10 shows the total residential use by the top 15 electricity using neighborhoods in
ranked order. Parkwood Knolls had the highest energy usage in total by a significant lead,
followed by Country Club, Countryside, Morningside, and Lake Cornelia. This total use by
neighborhood reflects the total number of residential properties, as well as the average use by
home, and differs from the average consumption per premise shown above. This information
contributed to the consideration of a neighborhood-oriented or geographically oriented strategy
by the Energy Action Team.
CITY OF EDINA ENERGY ACTION PLAN
18
Figure 10: Top 15 Neighborhood Total kWh Usage 2014
Residential Program Participation
Another component of the community baseline is how much residents have participated in
conservation or renewable energy programs, and which programs have been most popular.
Average participation by neighborhood is shown in Figure 11. Neighborhoods with the highest
rates of participation were Lake Cornelia, Sunny Slope, Rolling Green, and Normandale Park,
which all had program participation rates between 35% and 40%.
Figure 11: Residential Program Participation Benchmarked to Population
CITY OF EDINA ENERGY ACTION PLAN
19
Xcel Energy’s residential conservation programs with the highest customer participation over
the past three years are shown below, by participation count. When one includes all residential
programs (beyond these top 4), energy efficiency saved residential customers the equivalent of
0.3% of their annual electricity use.
Figure 12: Residential Energy Efficiency Program Participation
Windsource® is a renewable energy program offered by Xcel Energy, where residents and
businesses voluntarily pay a premium to subscribe to wind power to cover their electric use.
These subscriptions count above and beyond any planned wind energy projects.7 Subscribers
can choose to subscribe in blocks of 100 kWh, or cover their entire household usage. In 2014,
the average cost for one 100 kWh block was an additional $0.68 over the retail rate. Six-
hundred and seventy five households and eight businesses currently participate in
Windsource®. Almost half of residential Windsource® subscribers subscribe to just one 100
kWh block.
7 Windsource® is therefore in addition to any projects that being developed to meet Minnesota’s
renewable portfolio standard. Xcel Energy will retire the Renewable Energy Credits (RECs) for the
Windsource® customer.
100 kWh
48%
200 kWh
12%
300-500
kWh
15%
> 600 kWh
5%
Full
Subscription
20%
Figure 13: Residential Windsource®
Subscription Amount
CITY OF EDINA ENERGY ACTION PLAN
20
In addition, eight households participated in Xcel Energy’s Solar*Rewards programs, which
offers incentives and rebates for installation of photovoltaic (PV) solar panels. Detailed
information on program participation and associated savings is included in Appendix 10, and
specific program descriptions can be found in Appendix 9.
Business Electricity Use
In the business sector, the top 20% of commercial energy users consume 87% of Edina’s
commercial electricity use, shown in Figure 14. The number of businesses included in the top
20% of users is 392. Factors that may contribute to the highest 20% of users consuming a
disproportionate amount of electricity could include business sector and business size. In
general, the sectors with the highest electricity consumption are: food service, inpatient health
care, food sales, enclosed and strip malls, and lodging.8 This information highlights the potential
of targeting the top 20% of business users over small businesses.
Figure 14: Business Electricity Use
The commercial efficiency programs with the highest customer participation over the past
three years are shown in Figure 15. Participation in all commercial efficiency programs
combined saves 1.8% of electric use by Edina businesses annually.
8 From the U.S. Energy Information Administration Commercial Buildings Energy Consumption Survey
87%
8%
5%
Top 20% of all
businesses
Next 20% of all
businesses
Lowest 60% of all
businesses
CITY OF EDINA ENERGY ACTION PLAN
21
Figure 15: Business Program Participation
In the past three years, 11 businesses participated in Solar*Rewards programs. Detailed
information on business program participation is included in Appendix 10. While many of the
programs for the largest/industrial customers have the highest average savings per participant,
the programs that had the most participation were Small Business Lighting, Lighting Efficiency,
Cooling Efficiency, and Motor Efficiency.
City Electricity Use and Data
Together, municipal facilities and school district facilities contribute 5% of community wide
electricity use. City facilities consumed 17.9 million kWh in 2014, while School District facilities
consumed 13.8 million kWh. Both the City of Edina and Edina Public School District signed data
privacy waivers enabling public sharing of facilities electricity data for this planning project.
Energy use for the 20 highest using municipal facilities has been tracked through the B3
benchmarking program as part of Edina’s participation in GreenStep Cities. The Partners in
Energy planning process allowed for a synthesis with Xcel Energy electricity data to update
existing data and expand tracking to all municipal facilities. Electricity usage for the City’s top 20
facilities for the year ending in October 2015 is show in Figure 16.
CITY OF EDINA ENERGY ACTION PLAN
22
Figure 16: Top 20 City Facilities Electricity Usage
In addition, Ross Bintner, Environmental Engineer, prepared a series of data to inform
strategies for reducing City greenhouse gas emissions. The results estimate how electricity use
in municipal facilities compares to other sources of greenhouse gas emissions, and against
budget expenditures, though the results were issued with a data quality caveat.9 A wedge
diagram showing the impact of proposed strategies on City greenhouse gas emissions is
shown in Figure 17. The complete assessment can be found as Appendix 4. This information
informed decisions about how to prioritize strategies targeting municipal greenhouse gas
emissions. Mr. Bintner used a 2015 budget spreadsheet provided by the City finance
department and analyzed it to group expenses and convert them to total dollar values, which
were converted into units of material or energy, or directly translated to GHG using sources
including the International Local Government Greenhouse Gas Emissions Analysis Protocol.
9 Mr. Bintner explained to the planning team: “The “concept” level of detail is important to note, as I
have not been trained to perform GHG analysis. In performing this analysis I worked with planning team
member Kyle Sawyer, and Michael Orange with Orange Environmental to translate 2015 City of Edina
expenses data into approximate GHG emissions. Mr. Orange has conducted GHG assessments and
politely emphasizes my lack of training when asked! In addition to GHG, I also attempted to summarize
other notable environmental footprint not directly related to energy, such as water and land to
demonstrate the concept of tradeoffs in City operations.”
CITY OF EDINA ENERGY ACTION PLAN
23
Figure 17: Conceptual Diagram Showing Impact of Proposed Actions Prepared by Ross Bintner
School District Electricity Use and Sustainability
The Edina Public School District has completed a variety of sustainable and energy saving
projects. Several strategies are incorporated into each school’s mechanical design, and Xcel
Energy’s Energy Design Assistance program has been utilized by the District to develop utility
rebate incentives. Specifics on the sustainable strategies designed for the Edina Public Schools
Next Generation Facilities Plan currently in progress with Wold Architects and Engineers and
Kraus-Anderson Construction may be found in Appendix 5.
The District-wide Go Green committee has implemented several initiatives. As a group, the
committee is finding ways to motivate students and help them be aware of their carbon
footprint. The committee meets once a month to discuss ways to help the schools and
leverage parent and staff volunteers to support sustainability, and reports to District staff on a
monthly basis. The committee actively supports initiatives coming out of high school and
middle school green groups. The committee received a grant from Hennepin County to
purchase and implement waste sorting stations at all elementary schools and to hire staff to
monitor lunchroom waste sorting. Through this, staff and students are being educated to sort
waste responsibly.
CITY OF EDINA ENERGY ACTION PLAN
24
2013 Data on Other Greenhouse Gas Emissions Sectors
While this plan focuses on electricity, the community would also like to address other
greenhouse gas contributors. Information taken from the Regional Indicators Initiative is shown
here to provide some context around the community’s non-electric goals. In 2013 Edina had:
· 500,897,300 Vehicle Miles Traveled
· 3,865,778 BTUs of Natural Gas
· 54,980.51 Tons of Solid Waste
· 748,497,250 Gallons of Water Used by Businesses
· 1,655,865,000 Gallons of Water Used by Residents
The following table shows these sectors of greenhouse gas emissions as Metric Tons of CO2
emissions.
Non-Electricity Greenhouse Gas Emissions in 2013
CITY OF EDINA ENERGY ACTION PLAN
25
Where is Edina Headed? – Edina’s Energy Vision, Focus Areas, and
Goals
A clearly articulated, transparent,
and shared energy vision serves
the purpose of guiding decisions
about how to prioritize
community resources, including
the selection of focus areas,
goals, and strategies for
achieving those goals. At the
beginning of the planning
process, participants shared their
individual visions for what Edina’s
energy future could be, and
iterated on a unified vision to
guide the process. Essential to
the vision statement is the pre-
established greenhouse gas emissions reduction goal, established by the City of Edina and the
Energy and Environment Commission. The targeted greenhouse gas emissions reduction
percentage has been updated by the Energy Action Team to reflect the State of Minnesota
energy conservation goals. The results of that effort are the vision statement below, with the
reduction goal targeted over a 2009 baseline.
Edina’s Community Energy Vision
Edina’s residents, schools, businesses, and government will successfully reduce the
community’s greenhouse gas emissions by 30% by the year 2025, through strategies and
actions that are sustainable, practical, and measurable.
Focus Areas
This vision statement guided the Energy Action Team in the development of the focus areas,
strategies and short term goals. Focus areas are Edina’s key priorities under which goals and
strategies of the plan are organized. To determine which focus areas would best fit the Edina
community, the planning team reviewed opportunities and data within each major sector:
municipal, residential, and commercial. Details on the opportunities the planning team explored
are included as Appendix 6.
Energy Vision Brainstorm and Direction
CITY OF EDINA ENERGY ACTION PLAN
26
Five focus areas originally emerged out of the planning process: Schools and Service Learning,
City Facilities, a Residential Information Campaign, Residential Windsource®, and Business
Energy Efficiency. These focus areas were selected by the Energy Action Team based on areas
that supported Edina’s energy vision, that team members were personally excited to work on,
and had strong potential for short term impact.
The Schools and Service Learning focus area was selected because the schools are a valued
asset in Edina, and the group felt it was important to start energy education at a young age. As
the group explored options, they were sensitive to the opportunity to partner with the school
district, and didn’t want to overreach in terms of asking for specific actions. Between the fourth
and fifth workshop, the group decided to shift away from Schools and Service learning as a
focus area, but rather to use Partners in Energy as an opportunity to connect with the school
district and invite them to partner on energy initiatives. The team wants to recognize the work
the school district is already doing and planning to do to reduce energy usage and engage
students in sustainability education. Detailed information on energy projects within the schools
can be found in Appendix 5.
Renewable energy subscriptions emerged as the group reviewed available programs, and the
group is interested in leveraging the low consumer price point, as well as direct impact on
reduction of GHG. The group initially targeted Residential Windsource® as a focus area, and
decided in the fifth workshop to combine the strategies and messaging in this focus area with
the Residential Information Campaign. The work the group did on Residential Windsource® is
reflected in the goals, actions, and strategies of the Residential Information Campaign.
Further information on the three focus areas for near-term action follows: Municipal Facilities, a
Residential Information Campaign, and increasing Business Energy Efficiency and Renewables.
The Energy Action Team voting on focus areas in Workshop 3
CITY OF EDINA ENERGY ACTION PLAN
27
Focus Area: Municipal Facilities
This focus area is a continued commitment to demonstrating leadership in City operations
when asking businesses and residents to complete energy conservation and renewable energy
actions. A series of building studies are currently in progress through CR-BPS, and the results
of those studies will significantly impact how this focus area moves forward. The City’s Capital
Improvement Plan is also currently in progress for the next two years, which will include
budgets for capital improvement projects, including for City facilities.
Beyond the scope of this plan, other strategies will support other sources of City greenhouse
gas emissions, including strategies addressing transportation and natural gas use. City facilities
and operations consume about 6% of total community electricity use. The greenhouse has
reduction strategies will be embedded in City processes and plans, and not treated as stand-
alone efforts.
Goals:
· Long term: Reduce the City’s greenhouse gas emissions 30% by 2025 from a 2012
baseline.
· Short term: Within the next 18 months lower the City’s electricity greenhouse gas
emissions by 7.5%
Seven and a half percent of the City’s electricity usage is 1.34 million kWh, which is equivalent
to 943 metric tons of Carbon Dioxide Equivalent, using the EPA’s greenhouse gas
equivalencies calculator.
Focus Area: Residential Information Campaign
The Energy Action Team prioritized reaching out to Edina residents
because this strategy would be impactful and achievable in the
short term. The planning group also wanted to leverage the
neighborhood residential energy data shared during planning, and
the experience planning team members had sharing their own
energy use, to motivate other residents. The Edina community is
strong, with lots of involved families and a general sense of
community pride. The team feels that residents don’t realize the
impact they can have by doing some fundamental and easy things
in their homes. This focus area leverages the sophisticated
communications channels the City of Edina already has in place, as
well as the peer-to-peer network of the Energy and Environment
Commission.
Residential energy use composes 34% of Edina’s overall electricity use. The goals outlined
below would result in 175 tonnes of reduced carbon emissions by 2025 through conservation
CITY OF EDINA ENERGY ACTION PLAN
28
and 2,665 tonnes of reduced carbon emissions by 2025 through the utilization of renewable
energy.
Goals:
· 750 homes take energy savings actions each year.
· Double the number of subscribers to Windsource®, and double the average
subscription amount within 18 months.
Currently, the average number of residential rebates filed annually is 715. Given the priority
actions identified in the strategies, described below, achieving this goal of 750 additional
actions annually will more than double the electricity savings from conservation programs,
saving 562,000 kWh per year. There was an average of 675 residential subscribers to
Windsource in 2015, with an average subscription amount of 4,200 kWh annually, or 350 kWh
per month.
The Energy Action Team would like to leverage learnings from similar campaigns and best
practices. For outreach, there are several important factors:
· The audience the message is trying to reach, and their experiences
· The clear ask that the recipient of the message should take
· The reason the recipient of the message will care
· The channels which are best suited to reaching the target audience
Throughout implementation of this focus area, special efforts will be made to communicate
how people benefit from the impact of their energy efficiency, conservation, and renewable
energy actions, including saving money, helping to reduce CO2 emissions, and reducing energy
usage. A list of relevant case studies is located in Appendix 11. As the team works to
implement this plan, they will review further best actions and case studies.
Focus Area: Business Energy
Businesses are responsible for 66% of Edina’s electricity usage. The top 20% of business
comprise 87% of total business energy usage. Given this data, the Energy Action Team felt it
was important to target such a large portion of overall usage. A key idea behind this focus area
is to leverage existing resources to promote energy savings actions and to recognize
businesses in the community that are leaders in energy efficiency and renewable energy.
Knowing that businesses vary greatly in how they use energy, the group has identified a need
for customized messaging to reach businesses in the most impactful way. In order for this
focus area to be successful, the messaging will need to convey the business case for
greenhouse gas reduction.
CITY OF EDINA ENERGY ACTION PLAN
29
Goals:
· Reduce and/or off-set through renewable energy 2% of electricity usage annually.
Over the past three years, businesses have saved 1.8% of their energy usage on an annual
basis. This number is averaged between the past three years, but overall conservation in the
business sector has been trending down. The 2% goal is aggressive, and will compound year
over year to meaningfully impact progress toward the City’s 30% greenhouse gas reduction
goal, in combination with the other strategies and the decarbonization of the electricity grid.
This focus area will leverage the largest businesses to act as leaders in the energy space by
taking actions and by recognizing them. Two percent of annual business usage is 7.3 million
kWh, equivalent to 5,140 metric tons of CO2 equivalent.
Additionally, education sector facilities are included in this business oriented focus area. The
team will continue to communicate with the school facilities staff to track energy efficiency and
renewable energy projects, highlighting them as case studies when appropriate.
The Energy Action Team would like to leverage learnings from similar campaigns and best
practices. The same four key components that are important for residential outreach are
important for business outreach. The group would like to highlight a call for leadership and
energy efficiency actions that will save businesses money in the long term. Additionally, the
group will work to build resident support of businesses that demonstrate a commitment to
energy efficiency and renewable energy.
A list of relevant case studies is located in Appendix 11. As the team works to implement this
plan, they will review further best actions and case studies.
Impact of Focus Area Goals on kWh
The following graph shows the impact of each focus area’s goals in comparison to baseline
energy efficiency and renewable subscription activity.
CITY OF EDINA ENERGY ACTION PLAN
30
Impact of Energy Action Plan Goals on Carbon Reduction
The following illustration shows how the Partners in Energy goals and the projected carbon-
intensity of the regional electricity grid will help achieve Edina’s community wide greenhouse
gas targets. Carbon intensity trends used are based on the most recent projections of Xcel
Energy’s upper Midwest electricity grid, as shared above.10 Partners in Energy strategies are
focused on goals for the next 18 months, and this illustration projects continued activity to
2025, assuming a continuation of activity at an intensity of 66%. Additional assumptions are
detailed below. The data in the graph below differs from the data provided in the Regional
Indicators Initiative in that it includes gas, electricity, and transportation, and not “waste” and
“others” categories.11
· Electricity use from 2009-2011 is taken from the
Regional Indicators Initiative; natural gas and
transportation GHGs from 2009 – 2013 are taken
from the Regional Indicators Initiative.
· Electricity use from 2012-2014 is calculated using
Xcel Energy community wide electricity data from
Partners in Energy.
· The business as usual (BAU) assumptions for
electricity assume that annual baseline growth
occurs at 1.5% annually in the residential and
commercial sectors, and that in addition, baseline
energy savings from ongoing conservation programs
will occur, matching the average rate from 2012-
2014. These two assumptions result in a net zero
change to baseline additions.
· Natural gas and transportation is projected flat from 2013 levels for illustrative purposes,
although there are likely planned reductions in those sectors.
10 These projections are taken from Xcel Energy’s Integrated Resource Plan dated October 2, 2015.
11 In the Regional Indicators Initiative data, these sections should make up about 747,000 mtCO2e.
CITY OF EDINA ENERGY ACTION PLAN
31
CITY OF EDINA ENERGY ACTION PLAN
32
How Are We Going To Get There? – Strategies
This section outlines in more detail the specific strategies that will meet the goals of each focus
area. The Energy Action Team developed these strategies by examining the state of current
energy use and program activity, brainstorming and prioritizing possible actions that draw on
core community strengths, and assessing the likelihood that strategies will meet identified
goals. The Energy Action Team spent several sessions revising strategies with technical input
from the Xcel Energy team.
Each focus area identified has its own action plan that identifies responsible parties, outlines
implementation steps and a timeline, identifies partners or resources, and assigns metrics for
tracking progress. This plan focuses on actions over the next 18 months. More detailed
workplans will be developed for each focus area by the implementation workgroups, which
may include more detailed goals tailored to each action.
Members of the Energy Action Team who developed this plan, as well as other community
members, have the opportunity to be involved with implementation through joining Energy and
Environment Commission work groups dedicated Municipal, Residential, and Business energy,
including work on gas usage reduction, solid waste reduction, and water usage reduction. A
quarterly newsletter with update on progress in the electricity sector and volunteer
opportunities will be distributed.
Focus Area: Municipal Facilities
Two key strategies support the Municipal Facilities focus area, which will be championed by
the new Conservation and Sustainability (CAS) Staff member. The ongoing actions for this
focus area will be heavily dependent on the outcomes from the municipal building study
recommendations. This section outlines actions that will take place in the first few months of
implementation with the expectation that ongoing actions will be determined by the CAS Staff
member and City staff.
MUNICIPAL FACILITIES OVERVIEW
Goals · Short term: Within the next 18 months lower the City’s electricity
greenhouse gas emissions by 7.5%, which is 1.34 million kWh, or 943
metric tons of CO2 equivalent.
· Long term: Reduce the City’s greenhouse gas emissions by 30% from a
2012 baseline by 2025.
Strategy: Implement
recommended
energy use reduction
projects from
building study
Actions:
· Prioritize recommendations based on greenhouse gas reduction and
cost analysis
· Meet with Xcel Energy to review building study reports and evaluate
opportunities for rebates and conservation programs
· Support implementation of projects
CITY OF EDINA ENERGY ACTION PLAN
33
currently being
conducted by CR-
BPS
Leadership: CAS
Support Staff
· Review supplemental funding options for project implementation
· Track electricity and greenhouse gas impact of projects
· Communicate greenhouse gas impacts to broader community through
City communications channels
· Evaluate use of projects as case studies for business programs
· Integrate greenhouse gas reduction principles on maintenance
program for existing facilities
· Incorporate greenhouse gas considerations on capital purchases
· Look into research opportunities with education organizations
· Assist with development of business case for GHG reduction options
· Review current City policy and propose changes to support energy use
and greenhouse gas reductions
Strategy:
Negotiate renewable
purchase for
municipal electricity
Leadership: CAS
Support Staff
Actions:
· Coordinate with Xcel Energy to evaluate opportunities, including
Windsource® and Renewable Connect
· Continue to evaluate solar
· Research supplemental funding opportunities
· Draft three possible levels of participation
· Present options to EEC and City Council
· Communicate impact of any renewable purchase to broader
community through City communications channels
Measuring Success Measure progress every six months using electricity data provided by Xcel
Energy OR use B3 data. Quarterly reports to EEC and City Council.
TEAM:
Community Lead
Lead: CAS Staff
Team: Ross Bintner, Environmental Engineer, Tim Barnes, Facilities
Manager, Jennifer Bennerotte, City Communications, EEC Energy Work
Group
Community Partners EEC, City Council, City Communications Staff
Outreach and
Communication
Channels
· Regular update presentations at EEC
· Potential project case studies distributed and developed by the
Business Focus Area
· Communicate project progress to the community through on-site
signage and City website
Xcel Energy Support
Provide information on relevant rebates and programs, work with City to
evaluate renewable energy opportunities, provide electricity data to track
progress every six months.
CITY OF EDINA ENERGY ACTION PLAN
34
KEY ROLES FOR MUNICIPAL FOCUS AREA
Implement
recommended projects
from building study
EEC Working Group: Coordinate with City Staff for updates, provide feedback,
coordinate messaging of case studies with other EEC work groups
City Staff: Review building study report and coordinate with Facilities
Manager and Xcel Energy to prioritize projects for implementation,
research outside funding opportunities and pursue them, ongoing role
based on results of building study, research opportunities to partner with
education organizations, help develop the business case for GHG
reduction options, train City staff (beyond the CAS staff) on energy
efficiency and the impacts of their actions, reach out to receive lessons
learned from other cities
Xcel Energy: Meet with City Staff to offer perspective on prioritizing projects
based on the building study report and connect with relevant program
opportunities
Negotiate renewable
purchase for municipal
electricity
EEC Working Group: Advocate for renewable purchase, offer feedback,
coordinate messaging of case studies with other EEC work groups
City Staff: Assess renewable purchase options, draft proposals to the EEC
and City Council, present opportunities to City Council and EEC, follow
through with implementation of selected option(s) , reach out to receive
lessons learned from other cities
Xcel Energy: Provide renewable energy opportunity expertise, tailored to
Edina municipal facilities, meet with City staff and others as appropriate to
discuss options, provide supporting data as appropriate
Ongoing management
Tracking and reporting
EEC Working Group: Review updates and share with the broader EEC, advise
on tracking metrics and progress
City Staff: Maintain library of tracking data, assess progress
Xcel Energy: Provide quarterly data briefings based on identified tracking
metrics, provide regular updates on renewable rates, opportunities, and
promotions and conservation offerings
CITY OF EDINA ENERGY ACTION PLAN
35
Municipal Facilities Focus Area Timeline
Longer-term Actions
(Oct. 2016 – Dec. 2017)
·Support implementation
of prioritized projects
·Assess if any City
facilities would benefit
from Turn Key services
·Prioritize renewable
energy opportunities,
based on off-set potential
and cost analysis
·Recommend adoption of
renewable energy
opportunities
·Research funding
opportunities for projects
Immediate Actions
(July– Sept. 2016)
·Review building study
recommendations
·Meet with Xcel Energy to
review the building study
recommendations and
evaluate opportunities for
program participation
·Prioritize projects based on
energy savings potential
and cost analysis
·Meet with Xcel Energy to
learn about renewable
energy opportunities
Ongoing – Tracking
· Update City website
quarterly with current
information
· Assist in development
of City facilities case
studies to be
distributed by the
Business group
· Present quarterly to
EEC
· Check on goal
progress quarterly
CITY OF EDINA ENERGY ACTION PLAN
36
Focus Area: Residential Information Campaign
Four key strategies support the Residential Information Campaign, which will be championed
by the Energy and Environment Commission energy work group, City communications staff,
the CAS staff position, City leadership, and community leaders. Mid-way through
implementation, it is anticipated that the success of the actions outlined below will be
assessed, and continuing activities will be driven by the results of that assessment, to ensure
the campaign is as successful as possible. A detailed implementation timeline is included as
Appendix 7.
RESIDENTIAL INFORMATION CAMPAIGN OVERVIEW
Goals · 750 homes take energy-savings actions each year, saving 562,000 kWh
annually, or 395 metric tons of CO2 equivalent.
· Double the number of subscribers to Windsource® and double the
average amount subscribed within 18 months. (675 new Windsource®
subscribers, average subscription of 534 kWh per month) This would
produce an additional 8,505,000 kWh total, or 5,977 metric tons of CO2
equivalent.
Key Messages · Join your community to combat climate change.
· Don’t be an energy hog!
· Save money on your energy bill, through energy efficiency and
conservation.
· Try the latest technologies in your home.
Targeted Actions · Install and program smart thermostats
· Get a Home Energy Squad® visit
· Sign up for “My Account” online and look under “My Energy”
· Subscribe to Windsource®
Strategy:
Drive traffic to a City
operated web
resource through
City communications
channels
Leadership: City
communications staff
Actions:
· Drive residents to a city-hosted website, where they will have access to
actionable resources, a gauge that shows community progress, a
calendar of activities and events, and testimonials
· Create paced content for: the Sun Current, City Website, and City social
media
· Consider secondary channels, such as water bill inserts
· Evaluate outside funding or donations from local businesses to
provide incentives for residents to complete actions
· Evaluate effectiveness of messaging mid-way though the campaign,
and add additional actions/refine messaging if goals aren’t being hit
Strategy:
Foster
neighborhood-based
outreach and
leadership
Leadership: EEC
Actions:
· Develop EEC members as ambassadors to their neighborhoods
· Identify additional neighborhood advocates passionate about energy
· Provide tips and tools for community leaders to post to NextDoor and
promote energy-savings actions at community events, such as block
parties
· Solicit ‘best practice’ sharing from community members on their
experience and what works with neighbors in semi-annual online or in-
CITY OF EDINA ENERGY ACTION PLAN
37
Energy Work Group,
Neighborhood
leaders
person forums.
· Increase EEC budget to train leaders and volunteers
· Increase environmental forum frequency to twice each year
Strategy:
Leverage outreach
events for
Windsource® sign-
ups
Leadership: EEC
Energy Work Group
Actions:
· Develop a calendar of events (e.g. farmer’s markets, Edina art festival),
and prioritize based on target participants
· Test on-the-spot sign-up functionality for Windsource®
· Identify volunteer groups (i.e. Edina Community Foundation, student
groups) and assess possible incentives for volunteer participation
· Develop materials to train volunteers; coordinate with City volunteer
coordination staff
Strategy:
Assess policy options
to support efficiency
for Edina residents
Leadership: Small
group composed of
City staff and EEC
work group
Actions:
· Recommend ongoing City subsidization of Home Energy Squad visits
for low income and other households each year and an increase from
the previous $10,000 subsidy for 200 visits
· Assist with establishing best practices and policies for energy
efficiency and conservation for City of Edina residents
· Develop a short term and long term list of potential policies
Measuring Success
Website click rates and in-person signups. Track program participation and
overall energy usage through Xcel Energy data. Have regular reports to
the EEC and City Council. Potentially leverage Edina’s bi-annual quality of
life survey for tracking. Quarterly reports to EEC and City Council.
Interim Goals
TEAM
Community Lead(s)
Lead: EEC Energy Work Group, Conservation and Sustainability staff, : City
communications staff, City leadership, community leaders
Team: City Council member to champion, potential for students and
schools to partner
Community Partners City communications staff, neighborhood organizations, outreach work
group of EEC, others who could distribute or display content...
Outreach and
Communication
Channels
Highlight specific messages as detailed above.
Channels: Use Edina publications (Edina Sun Current, City website, City
videos), Nextdoor, ask neighborhood associations to distribute content,
leverage in-person events
Xcel Energy Support Marketing material development support, program information, goal
tracking, email blasts, etc.
CITY OF EDINA ENERGY ACTION PLAN
38
KEY ROLES FOR RESIDENTIAL INFORMATION CAMPAIGN
Drive traffic to a City
operated web resource
through City
communications
channels
EEC Working Group: Provide feedback on messaging for website and
publication pieces, provide “feature” content leads for publications
City Staff: Program and maintain website, refine messaging and layout for
website, implement distribution of messaging through City channels,
ensuring a coordinated ask for residents and regularly timed outreach,
leverage highest performing channels, research tools residents can use to
monitor and reduce energy consumption to share on the website,
including developing real-time case studies showing ongoing energy
usage and how actions impact electricity usage
Xcel Energy: Provide technical content and advise on website messaging as
desired, provide community-specific data, provide best practice expertise
in reaching residential energy users, help to plan outreach schedule,
review/format any marketing materials or messages, contribute best
practice expertise on community outreach
Foster neighborhood-
based outreach and
leadership
EEC Working Group: Ask EEC members to be pilot leaders within their
communities, identify and contact other community leaders
City Staff: Act as a point of contact for interested leaders, distribute
materials as appropriate, City leadership to take message to gatherings
and invite audiences to join the effort, arrange for a public gather to
exchange ideas on GHG reduction
Xcel Energy: Provide best practice expertise in community based social
marketing, format/review any marketing materials or tools, provide
neighborhood-specific data and mapping as appropriate
Leverage outreach
events for Windsource®
sign-ups
EEC Working Group: Identify and recruit volunteers, track ongoing
coordination, help to develop training materials, maintain community
events calendar and set up tabling opportunities
City Staff: Support maintenance of events calendar and volunteer
coordination for tabling, host tabling supplies, act as point of contact for
interested volunteers
Xcel Energy: Help refine messaging to volunteers and residents who visit
tables, format/review any marketing materials or tools, contribute best
practice expertise on tabling at events
Assess policy options to
support efficiency for
Edina residents and
ongoing support
EEC Working Group: Share updates with the broader EEC, coordinate with
City staff, advocate for policy options
City Staff: Coordinate with EEC, provide analysis of policy options
Xcel Energy: Provide quarterly updates based on identified tracking metrics,
provide overall project tracking and management, including facilitated
meetings and follow up, research case studies for policy options as
needed, provide regular updates on renewable rates, opportunities, and
promotions and conservation offerings
CITY OF EDINA ENERGY ACTION PLAN
39
Residential Information Campaign Focus Area Timeline:
Longer-term Actions
(Oct. 2016 – Dec. 2017)
·Launch City website
presence
·Plan and implement a
social media campaign
·Research and develop
Sun Current feature
articles
·Table at in-person events
·Reach out to local
community leaders to be
advocates
·Develop and maintain an
on-going multi-channel
information campaign
Immediate Actions
(July– Sept. 2016)
·Develop messaging for
Phase I of the campaign /
test specific messages
·Strategize around Sun
Current highest impact /
investigate queue for
stories
·Identify in-person events
with strong sign up
potential; utilize mayor and
City Manager for messages
·Identify and train a
volunteer base to table at
events
·Leverage EEC members as
community ambassadors
·Recommend the City
subsidize Home Energy
Squad visits for low income
and other households each
year at $10,000 subsidy for
200 visits
Ongoing – Tracking
· Update City website
quarterly with current
information
· Check on goal
progress quarterly
· Evaluate effectiveness
of messaging mid-way
through the campaign
· Consider leveraging
Edina’s bi-annual
quality of life survey
for tracking
CITY OF EDINA ENERGY ACTION PLAN
40
Focus Area: Business Energy
Three key strategies support the Business Energy focus area, which will be championed by the
new Conservation and Sustainability (CAS) Staff member, City leadership, the EEC energy work
group, and will leverage partnerships with local business associations. A detailed timeline is
included as Appendix 7. While this plan is focused on electricity, messaging for businesses
may be combined with other city priorities, such as recycling.
BUSINESS ENERGY OVERVIEW:
Goals
Reduce and/or off-set through renewable energy 2% of electricity usage
annually, or by 7.3 million kWh in the first year, or 5,140 metric tons of
CO2 equivalent.
Short-term: Engage 100 of the top 400 business energy users
Long-term: Engage all 400 of the top 400 business energy users
Strategy:
Engage the top
business energy
users to take action
on greenhouse gas
through offsets and
reductions
Leadership: City
leadership, CAS staff,
EEC work group,
local business
organizations
Actions:
· Compile list of largest businesses and develop tracking tool for
outreach coordination; assess potential barriers.
· Develop outreach message and clear ask to partner with the City in
achieving the City’s GHG reduction goals
· Compile relevant resources on energy efficiency, renewable energy
opportunities, and other GHG reduction strategies, including natural
gas strategies as appropriate
· Use city and local leadership to contact 100 of the 400 largest
businesses through direct contact or existing forums
· Develop 3-4 case studies of local business projects, including a
potential real-time case study showing ongoing energy usage and how
actions impact electricity usage
· Share progress and make policy recommendations through regular
reports to the EEC and City Council
· City leadership and chamber of commerce to identify and recognize
business partners, such as at in-person gathering
· Work with Xcel Energy to identify partners and best practices
· Create a recognition and/or competition partnership with businesses
Strategy:
Target small to
medium businesses,
such as restaurants
and retail with
recognition
programs
Leadership: CAS Staff,
Energy Work Group,
local business
organizations
Actions:
· Document existing City and EEC outreach to small business and
lessons learned
· Develop standardized messages based on business type to distribute,
including both energy efficiency and renewable energy strategies.
· Work with the Chamber of Commerce, City, and 50th and France
Association to assemble lists of similar businesses types and contact
through mail and emails
· Work with Xcel Energy small to medium business programs, such as
TurnKey Services and renewable energy opportunities, and to
collaborate on community–specific outreach
· Connect businesses with additional resources that can help with GHG
reduction, including solid waste
· Design and implement a retail-oriented recognition program in
partnership with the City Council for companies that undertake the
CITY OF EDINA ENERGY ACTION PLAN
41
program successfully
· Share case studies of businesses that have completed energy projects.
Feature these businesses in conjunction with Residential Information
Campaign, if applicable
· Distribute a tracking tool for setting an energy baseline, measuring and
reporting
· Work with Xcel Energy to identify best practices
Strategy:
Ongoing
Management and
tracking
Leadership: CAS Staff
Actions:
· Keep list of recognized business to form a library of best practices.
Incorporate reports of City and School actions into this library
· Provide quarterly progress updates from Xcel Energy
· Identify other metrics tor track progress
Strategy:
Assess policy options
to support
greenhouse gas
reduction for Edina
businesses.
Leadership: CAS Staff
Actions:
· Review best practice policy options for engaging large and small
businesses, including current local policy, and mandatory energy
disclosure for large businesses, such as in Minneapolis
· Assess impact and benefits of city policy options to reduce greenhouse
gas emissions in businesses, including: sustainability, roof gardens,
LED lighting, energy efficiency, planting trees, composting, and
renewable energy subscriptions
· Research case studies on effective policies from other cities (e.g.
Minneapolis, Portland, OR)
Measuring Success Track program participation through Xcel Energy data every six months.
Document leadership responses from large Edina businesses. Quarterly
reports to EEC and City Council.
TEAM
Community Lead(s)
Lead: Climate and Sustainability Staff, City Council member as champion
Team: Energy and Environment Energy Work Group small group, City
leadership
Community Partners
Chamber of Commerce, Rotary Club, 50th and France organization, City
communications staff, Xcel Energy program managers, other community
leaders.
Outreach and
Communication
Channels
Large Businesses: Leverage business organizations and City staff with
connections to largest businesses. Personalized calls from CAS staff,
follow-up mailings and calls. Meetings, webinars, and website presence.
Small and Medium Businesses: Reach through local business associations,
e-blasts, and door-to-door flyer distribution.
General Public: City media channels, including: social media, Sun Current,
signage, a video.
Xcel Energy Support Coordination with Xcel Energy Program Managers, marketing material
development support, goal tracking, email blasts, etc.
CITY OF EDINA ENERGY ACTION PLAN
42
KEY ROLES FOR BUSINESS ENERGY STRATEGIES
Engage the top business
energy users to take
action on greenhouse
gas reductions
EEC Working Group: Facilitate partnerships with Chamber of Commerce, City
Economic Development Manager, and CAS Staff; help to prioritize
messaging and asks to the largest businesses; advocate for resident
support of participating businesses; work with City communications, the
facilitation team, and Xcel Energy to connect businesses to resources
City Staff: Primary lead on direct business outreach, in coordination with
EEC network and Xcel Energy staff; create and maintain database of
contacts, coordinate with local business organizations, help to refine
messaging and marketing materials, program and maintain relevant
website content, lead on organizing recognition platforms, City leadership
to partner with businesses that want to make a difference and be part of
the community to reduce GHG emissions, City leadership to recognize
business partners publically
Xcel Energy: Provide community-specific segmentation of top energy users
that adheres to privacy guidelines, provide informed guidance on how to
prioritize businesses, directly contact managed accounts to inform and
invite participation, review and help develop marketing materials and
relevant program information, contribute best practice expertise on
contacting large businesses and compelling calls to action, offer Xcel
Energy subject matter experts given interest in specific efficiency and
renewable energy topics
Target small to medium
sized businesses, such
as restaurants and retail,
with recognition
program
EEC Working Group: Facilitate partnerships with the Chamber of Commerce
and other professional organizations; review priority actions of small
businesses for greenhouse gas impact; coordinate with City
communications and Xcel Energy team to develop and promote successful
recognition campaign; advocate for resident support of participating
businesses
City Staff: Document existing work, develop list of local businesses,
develop outreach and recognition materials, coordinate with professional
organizations, create recommended list of energy tracking tools and
software for business energy reduction, manager workload for City leaders
Xcel Energy: Provide community-specific data to inform business
segmentation; assist in developing and reviewing marketing materials,
provide Xcel Energy subject matter experts to provide energy reduction
practices if there’s enough interest, contribute best practice expertise on
contacting small businesses
Ongoing management
and tracking
Assess policy options to
support greenhouse gas
reduction for Edina
businesses
EEC Working Group: Share updates with the broader EEC, coordinate with
City staff, advocate for policy options, design an annual recognition
program, research case studies for policy options as needed
City Staff: Coordinate with EEC and Xcel Energy, provide analysis of policy
options, manage library of case studies and participating businesses,
administer recognition program, provide regular updates on renewable
rates, opportunities, and promotions and conservation offerings
CITY OF EDINA ENERGY ACTION PLAN
43
Xcel Energy: Provide quarterly updates based on identified tracking metrics,
provide overall project tracking and management, including facilitated
meetings and follow up, provide expertise on business recognition
programs
Business Energy Focus Area Timeline
Longer-term Actions
(Oct. 2016 – Dec. 2017)
·Identify top 100
prospects to reach out to
first
·Continue to develop an
outreach campaign to
large businesses,
complete by September 1
·Roll out large business
outreach effort
(September – November
2016)
·Launch City website
presence by end of 2016
·Continue to identify 400
largest businesses and
contacts and keep them
in a database, complete
by September 1
Immediate Actions
(July– Sept. 2016)
·Start to identify 400 largest
businesses and contacts
and keep them in a
database
·Develop an outreach effort
to large businesses
·Develop the “ask” for
businesses
Ongoing – Tracking
· Develop or identify a
tool that will be used
to measure results by
March 2017
· Plan any recognition
events for businesses
CITY OF EDINA ENERGY ACTION PLAN
44
How Are We Going To Stay On Course? – Monitoring and Reporting
This plan outlines strategies and specific actions that will meet community wide goals, focusing
on the first 18 months of Partners in Energy supported activity. As the planning team
transitions to implementation, structuring implementation teams around regular accountability
and progress updates will be key to success.
Core City staff, including the Conservation and Sustainability Staff and potentially members of
the EEC work groups, will initially meet bi-weekly with Xcel Energy Partners in Energy staff to
coordinate resources and develop a more detailed work plan. The Xcel Energy Partners in
Energy staff will work to schedule these meetings on a standing basis with City staff. These
meetings will serve to share information on progress and strategies, and to coordinate support
from Xcel Energy Partners in Energy staff. EEC members will start with the actions outlined in
the “immediate actions” outlined in this plan, and develop more detailed monthly work plans
within specific focus area work groups and share these work plans with the Conservation and
Sustainability staff.
Operational Actions and Tracking
The Partners in Energy facilitation team will work with Xcel Energy to obtain electricity usage
data and program participation data, and will share outcomes with the new Conservation and
Sustainability staff position. Data can be split by sector, so each focus area will be able to track
progress. The Conservation and Sustainability staff will work with the Energy and Environment
Commission Energy Work Group to publicize results and share with City Council and the
broader Edina community.
Strategy and focus area leads are identified for each of the three focus areas. In addition to City
support for implementation of this action plan, the Energy and Environment Committee will
form citizen work groups to work on each focus area. Xcel Energy and the facilitation team will
continue to support project management and provide other resources throughout
implementation.
The new Conservation and Sustainability staff member will act as a point person for
implementation, and should be cc’d on work group emails to track progress, as well as
community facilitator Emma Struss (estruss@mncee.org). As the role is onboarding, Ross
Bintner (RBintner@edinamn.gov) should be cc’d until the new staff is in place.
Communication and Reporting
Each strategy has outlined plans to keep the broader Edina community engaged and informed
throughout Partners in Energy implementation. A website presence will be developed to
provide access to resources and tracking for all community members. Energy and Environment
Commission work groups for each focus area will meet regularly. The full EEC meets on a
CITY OF EDINA ENERGY ACTION PLAN
45
monthly basis. Overall, progress will be tracked on a quarterly basis from energy data provided
by Xcel Energy and analyzed by the facilitation team. The team will work closely with the
Conservation and Sustainability staff member and EEC small group to ensure data is
distributed.
Evolution of Strategies and Goals
This plan outlines strategies and goals for an 18-month implementation period. It is anticipated
that the success and outcomes of initial actions will impact how each focus area moves
forward. Initial actions that will happen in the next three months are more clearly defined, with
following actions intentionally left more broad to flex with the outcomes of the first few months
of implementation. City staff and the citizen small groups working on plan implementation will
help to determine how and when strategies and actions need to shift course.
Lessons Learned
Experience in implementation of Energy Action Plans with other Partners in Energy
communities has shown that the following things are key factors for success:
· Continued involvement of select members of the core planning team for continuity
during implementation
· Committed availability of staff coordination time
· Regular progress tracking and shifting actions and goals as needed
· Focus on getting strategies off the ground early on in implementation
· Work to continuously engage the community while avoiding burnout
· Celebrate early successes to motivate the team and the community
CITY OF EDINA ENERGY ACTION PLAN
Appendix 1: Glossary of Terms
Community Data Mapping: A baseline analysis of energy data in a geospatial (map) format
across the community.
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.
Energy Action Plan: A written plan that includes an integrated approach to all aspects of
energy management and efficiency. This includes both short- and long-term goals, strategies,
and metrics to track performance.
Energy Star Homes: A certification program administered by the U.S. Environmental rotation
Agency, for new homes that are designed and built to defined high energy efficiency standards.
Goals: The results toward which efforts and actions are directed. There can be a number of
objectives and goals outlined in order to successfully implement a plan.
Greenhouse Gas (GHG): Atmospheric gases that absorb infrared radiation and contribute the
greenhouse gas effect, including carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), nitrous oxide (NO2),
and water vapor.
kWh (kilowatt-hour): A unit of electricity consumption.
Home Energy Squad (HES): Home Energy Squad is a joint offering between Xcel Energy and
CenterPoint Energy in communities where CenterPoint Energy provides natural gas service.
The program helps residential customers reduce energy use in their homes by completing
direct installs. The “Enhanced” version of the program includes diagnostic testing and follow-
up support. The City of Edina currently buys down Home Energy Squad Enhanced visits for
residents to $50.
Metro Clean Energy Resource Teams (CERTs): A Twin Cities based organization that
empowers communities and their members to adopt energy efficiency and renewable energy
technologies and practices for their homes, businesses, and local institutions.
Minnesota GreenStep Cities: Minnesota GreenStep Cities is a voluntary challenge,
assistance, and recognition program to help cities achieve their sustainability and quality-of-life
goals.
CITY OF EDINA ENERGY ACTION PLAN
Premise: A unique identifier for the location of electricity or natural gas service. In most cases it
is a facility location. There can be multiple premises per building, and multiple premises per
individual debtor.
Recommissioning: An energy efficiency service focused on identifying ways that existing
building systems can be tuned-up to run as efficiently as possible.
Regional Indicators Initiative: The Regional Indicators Intiative measures annual performance
metrics for 22 Minnesota cities. The project tracks data on Energy, Water, Travel, Water, GHG
Emissions, and Cost. To learn more, visit www.regionalindicatorsmn.com.
St. Paul Port Authority PACE of MN Program: This program finances energy efficiency and
renewable energy upgrades to buildings. PACE provides low-cost, long-term financing that is
repaid as a property tax assessment for up to 20 years.
Windsource®: A program from Xcel Energy that allows customers to purchase blocks of wind
energy as their electricity source.
CITY OF EDINA ENERGY ACTION PLAN
Appendix 2: Workshop Process Overview
Workshop Process Overview
The section below includes more detail on how the group developed the above vision, focus
areas, and strategies over the course of four workshops.
Workshop 1
The facilitation team introduced the Partners in Energy program,
and presented an initial set of data on Edina energy usage. The
group brainstormed their favorite Edina assets. First individually,
and then as a group, the team defined what an ideal energy
future for Edina looks like. As team members presented the
qualities they deemed most important, trends surfaced which
included a focus on high quality of life, good City government,
innovation, leadership, and a desire for a measurable, affordable
and attainable vision. At the end of Workshop 1, three volunteers
formed a small workgroup to wordsmith a draft vision statement.
Small Visioning Group
A small group developed three energy vision statements based upon the Energy Action Team’s
workshop discussion. They used materials provided by the facilitation team as a guideline, and
drafted a vision statement. These three statements were sent out for community feedback
between Workshop 1 and Workshop 2. The most preferred statement was presented to the
group at Workshop 2.
Workshop 2
The workshop started by recapitulating Workshop 1 and setting
objectives for Workshop 2. Background information on Edina’s
25/25 Goals and the Energy and Environment Commission was
presented by Bill Sierks and Sarah Zarrin. Michelle Swanson
presented on Xcel Energy’s Sustainability Activities. The
facilitation team then presented detailed data and opportunities
in the residential and business energy sectors. The group
worked individually and then as a team to identify areas of focus
for the Energy Action Plan, grouping ideas into “residential,”
“business,” and “other” categories. As the group discussed
focus areas, several themes emerged: providing information to
residents about existing programs and technologies, leveraging
the schools and youth, creating new City policies, reaching out
Workshop 1 Visioning
Activity
Workshop 2 Focus Areas
Activity
CITY OF EDINA ENERGY ACTION PLAN
to businesses through professional organizations, leveraging feedback on energy usage to
promote behavior change, and increasing Windsource® subscriptions. The group reviewed and
discussed the energy vision statement, identifying a few areas for clarification. At the end of
Workshop 2, the facilitation team identified next steps.
Workshop 3
The group shared their individual energy use during
introductions, and recapped Workshop 2. Then the group
walked through each of the focus areas brainstormed in
Workshop 2, noting impact and feasibility considerations
as well as addition background research provided by the
facilitation team. The group then nominated and voted on
focus areas. The top four focus areas were: Schools and
Service Learning (6 votes), Residential Information
Campaign (5 votes), City Facilities (5 votes), and
Residential Windsource® (4 votes.) The next focus area
was Outreach through Organizations for Businesses,
which was shelved to revisit at Workshop 4, when more
business representatives could attend. The facilitation
team walked through an introduction to goals and
strategies. The group broke into three small groups to
discuss Schools and Service Learning, Residential Information Campaign, and Residential
Windsource®. Each small group brainstormed draft goals and strategies and shared them back
with the larger group.
Workshop 4
As an introduction, the group shared energy savings actions they
would recommend to their neighbors. The group then reviewed
focus areas selected at Workshop 3, including information on the
potential impact of draft goals. The group also discussed Edina’s
BAU (business as usual) projections for carbon emissions in the
electricity sector, showing that Edina is anticipated to exceed a
30% reduction in electricity-driven carbon emissions by 2025.
Ross Bintner presented calculations and research on the
Municipal Facilities focus area, including a rough greenhouse gas
inventory. The group discussed adding a business-oriented focus
area and decided that it would be beneficial. The team broke into
small groups by focus are to refine strategies and goals. Small groups included: Residential
Information Campaign, Schools and Service Learning, and Business Efficiency. The group
shared back with the group and noted actions to accomplish before the next workshop.
Workshop 3 Small Groups
Workshop 4 Strategy Work
CITY OF EDINA ENERGY ACTION PLAN
Workshop 5
The facilitation team gave a recap of the
resources available for implementation
and what the next steps for the plan
would look like. The Energy Action team
reviewed decisions made between
workshops four and five, including the
change of the Schools and Service
Learning focus area, as well as a desire
to call out the electricity-centric focus of
this planning document. The team voted to discontinue the Windsource® focus area as a
separate focus area, but to include components in the business focus area as well as the
residential focus area. The bulk of the workshop was spent in two small groups: Residential
Information Campaign and Business Energy. The small groups worked on finalizing goals and
strategies, and the residential small group worked to place actions on a timeline. Both small
groups cited a need to meet again and refine the strategies, goals, and actions of the focus
areas.
Workshop 5 Energy Action Team Group Photo
CITY OF EDINA ENERGY ACTION PLAN
Appendix 3: City of Edina Climate Change Goals presented on behalf of
the EEC by Bill Sierks
CITY OF EDINA ENERGY ACTION PLAN
Appendix 4: 2015 City Greenhouse Gas Footprint Analysis and Reduction
Concept presented by Ross Bintner
CITY OF EDINA ENERGY ACTION PLAN
Appendix 5: School Facilities
At the District level, the lighting standard for replacement and installation is LED. All new
construction will use LED lighting. Building management systems are being installed, allowing
for control of all building units, giving the ability to shut buildings off and decrease electricity
consumption. For paving projects, the District is using an Under Ground Water Retention
System to hold rainwater back. Fertilizer usage for District grounds has been reduced by one
third, as well as a reduction in salt distribution with eight staff members having been trained
and certified through the MPCA Salt Distribution Certification. When re-roofing facilities, the
District has committed to adding considerable insulation that will result in less heat loss.
Architecturally, the District has committed to a roofing requirement of R-30 minimum, with 5
½” base plus roof slope for drainage. Walls will have a minimum of R-13 wall assembly and
2.5” of insulation. Low-e Argon filled energy efficient glazing will be used. All paints are
required to meet low VOC Green Seal Standards, with exceptions for special epoxy or stains.
The District encourages skylights to provide natural lighting to interior spaces.
The District has also committed to several mechanically-oriented sustainable strategies. High
efficiency condensing boilers will be installed to serve the new building addition; there is a plan
for future building-wide conversion from steam to hot water. The hot water temperature will be
re-set based on outside air temperature. Variable speed pumps with premium efficiency motors
for hot and chilled water distribution will be used, and water chillers will be selected to exceed
code minimum efficiency standards. A cooling tower sump basin will be used to minimize
cooling tower water treatment. High efficiency condensing hot water heating plants will be
used. In new additions, perimeter fin tubs will be used for unoccupied heating. Air handling
units serving classrooms will have total heat recovery. Large volume spaces, including game
gymnasiums, will be provided with variable speed fans for multiple modes of operation to save
energy. High volume spaces will be provided with de-stratification fans. There is a planned
building wide conversion from constant volume reheat air delivery to variable air volume.
Carbon dioxide control of outside air volumes will be used to prevent over-ventilation during low
occupancy periods. Building Automation Systems controls will be installed for enhanced
control, monitoring of system performance, alarm logs, and trending to aid in troubleshooting.
Electrical sustainability strategies include using robust lighting controls for LED fixtures,
including dimmable fixtures, daylight harvesting, and manual on-switching. Occupancy sensors
will be used t conserve energy. There will be time of day scheduling used for lighting in
common areas and exterior lighting. District-wide exterior lighting is being systematically
replaced with LED. The District also plans to install photovoltaic solar panels on the high school
on an educational scale. A larger solar plant is being investigated for the new transportation
building site.
CITY OF EDINA ENERGY ACTION PLAN
Appendix 6: Focus Area Options Considered by the Planning Team
The Energy Action Team considered a variety of focus areas before voting on the final five,
which later evolved into a final three. The following list outlines several of the focus areas
considered by the team.
Residential Brainstormed Focus Areas
Information Campaign
There are more than 22,560 housing units in Edina (2010 US Census), and many potential energy
savings actions that could be promoted.
Windsource®
Almost 700 households have enrolled in Windsource®. In 2014, Windsource® cost $0.68 per block
(100 kWh) per month. For the lowest residential user in Edina, the cost would be $21.36/year, and
the highest would be $258.40/year.
Residential Redevelopment
Edina issued more than 100 home building permits this year and a similar number last year. There
were 46 Edina Energy Star Homes participants in 36 months, with average savings of 1,360 kWh.
Schools/Service Learning
There are 8,500 students at Edina schools, and almost a third of Edina households have children
under the age of 18. The school also has a green team. Opportunities would be to leverage the
May projects for high school seniors.
Feedback-based Neighborhood Competition
There are nine registered neighborhoods in Edina (Normandale, Pamela Park, Strachauer Park,
Morningside, Countryside, Concord, Arden Park, Chowen Park, Creek Knoll), and they represent
24% of Edina’s residential energy use.
Feedback-based School Competition
As we researched neighborhood competitions, this came up as an alternative. There are six
elementary schools with rough geographic enrollment areas. There are 3,752 elementary students.
Competition can be inspiring, and families may be connected to their schools more so than
neighborhoods.
Youth Sports Teams
There are many youth sports teams, including 90 at the high school. Some sports teams have
service hours. Distribution of materials at sports games has been ineffective in the past.
Neighborhood Association Engagement
There are nine registered neighborhoods in Edina, and they represent 24% of Edina’s residential
energy use. In 2010, the Morningside Neighborhood Association helped to distribute information
about Home Energy Squad visits.
CITY OF EDINA ENERGY ACTION PLAN
Business Brainstormed Focus Areas
Information Campaign
There are more than 4,000 businesses in Edina and several potential energy actions that could be
promoted. Businesses make up 66% of Edina’s electricity usage.
Outreach Through Organizations
There are several active business organizations in Edina, including the Chamber of Commerce (400
members), Rotary Club (160+), and 50th and France organization.
Target the Retail Sector
There are several retail businesses in Edina, including at 50th and France, Southdale, the Galleria,
and Centennial Lakes Plaza. A recent lighting project saved a Galleria store ~50% in electricity
costs. Retail locations could be targeted geographically and through organizations.
Business Recognition and Awards
There are many businesses to target, but this would require extensive awareness building to be
successful. There are many electricity-savings actions that could be encouraged.
Windsource®
In 2014, Windsource® cost $0.68 per block (100 kWh). Average commercial consumption in Edina
is about 15,000 kWh monthly, so an entire usage subscription would cost approximately
$102/month with current Windsource® premiums.
Target the Healthcare Sector
Fairview Southdale hospital is a large facility that has already won awards for sustainability. There
are many clinics and medical offices in the Edina as well, and they could be targeted
geographically. Healthcare in general is a very energy intensive sector.
Other Brainstormed Focus Areas
Leverage School New Construction and Maintenance Projects
There are opportunities for efficiency and renewables in school projects, and a $125M bond
measure was passed in May to renovate schools.
Leverage a Campaign Like Edina Unplugged
There are many businesses and residents in Edina that could be reached and this could work as an
awareness campaign tactic.
Build Recognition of Edina as an Energy-Conscious City
The City is already enrolled in ICLEI, GreenStep Cities, and the US Mayor’s Climate Protection
Agreement.
Leverage Existing Environmental Action Groups in the Community
There are a few environmental action groups in Edina—Citizen’s Climate Lobby, Cool Planet, and a
school-associated group, Project Earth.
CITY OF EDINA ENERGY ACTION PLAN
Other Brainstormed Focus Areas
Target Hennepin County Facilities Energy Use
There are two Hennepin County facilities in Edina. Southdale Service Center, which includes a
library, and the Edina Library. In 2015, there was an article that discussed the possibility of moving
the Southdale Service Center.
CITY OF EDINA ENERGY ACTION PLAN
Appendix 7: Detailed Focus Area Timelines
Municipal Facilities Actions by Quarter
Q3 2016: (July-Sept)
· Review building study recommendations
· Meet with Xcel Energy to review the building study recommendations and evaluate
opportunities for program participation
· Prioritize projects based on energy savings potential and cost analysis
· Meet with Xcel Energy to learn about renewable energy opportunities
· Update City website
· Share an update with the Energy and Environment Commission (EEC)
Q4 2016: (Oct-Dec)
· Support implementation of prioritized projects
· Assess if any City facilities would benefit from Turn Key services
· Prioritize renewable energy opportunities, based on off-set potential and cost analysis
· Recommend adoption of renewable energy opportunities
· Research funding opportunities for projects
· Update City website
· Share an update with the EEC
Q1 2017: (Jan-Mar)
· Support implementation of prioritized projects
· Pursue implementation of selected renewable energy opportunity
· Research funding opportunities for projects
· Update City website
· Share an update with the EEC
Q2 2017: (April-Jun)
· Support implementation of prioritized projects
· Pursue implementation of selected renewable energy opportunity
· Research funding opportunities for projects
· Assist in development of a case study of City facilities
· Update City website
· Share an update with the EEC
Q3 2017: (July-Sept)
· TBD
CITY OF EDINA ENERGY ACTION PLAN
· Support implementation of prioritized projects
· Pursue education of City staff on energy conservation actions
· Update City website
· Share an update with the EEC
Q4 2017: (Oct-Dec)
· TBD
· Support implementation of prioritized projects
· Assist in development of a case study of City facilities
· Update City website
· Share an update with the EEC
Residential Information Campaign Actions by Quarter
Q3 2016: (July-Sept)
· Update on availability of community solar for Edina residents and include in messaging
· Develop and refine initial campaign messaging
· Scope potential research needs to support effective campaign
· July: Collect data to show energy information by neighborhood and draft information for
City website
· July: Start research for Sun Current feature / case study
· August: report on results of research
· August: Launch City website which will include clear summary of campaign, availability
to track, and links to take action
· September: Publish Sun Current feature
· September: Develop case studies and get more information
Q4 2016: (Oct-Dec)
· Oct: Design potential social media campaign design, launch phase I
· Oct: Use NextDoor (make the message catchy, a challenge, focus on new technologies)
· Nov: Conduct signups at Fall Event?
· Nov: Update City website with new tracking information (and revised message, if
needed)
· Dec: Advertise smart thermostat rebates
· Dec: Check on progress to goal
CITY OF EDINA ENERGY ACTION PLAN
Q1 2017: (Jan-Mar)
· Jan: Update messaging to reflect new opportunities
· Jan: (Start development for Sun Current feature 2?)
· Feb: Launch social media strategy phase II
· Feb: Update City website
· Feb: (Prep for EEC Forum?)
· March: Sun Current feature 2
Q2 2017: (April-Jun)
· April: EEC Forum
· May: Update City website
· June: (Prep for Fall Event?)
Q3 2017: (July-Sept)
· Aug: Update City website
· Sept.: Fall event
Q4 2017: (Oct-Dec)
· TBD
Business Energy Actions by Quarter
Q3 2016: (July-Sept)
· Begin to identify largest 400 businesses:
· Compile a database/spreadsheet of largest users, identifying contacts who are in
charge of billing as well as PR
· Use a map to help identify regions with high usage intensity
· Note that businesses with more square footage tend to use more energy
· Use City list of all businesses in Edina
· Use City records of water records
· Ask Xcel Energy to email the top 400 premises and invite them to self-identify, or to
email all of the accounts with account managers and ask them to self-identify
· Partner with local entities to help identify and contact largest businesses
· Chamber of Commerce and other local business organizations
· City Manager
· Mayor and City Council
· Economic Development Staff
CITY OF EDINA ENERGY ACTION PLAN
Q4 2016: (Oct.-Dec)
· Narrow in on first 100 businesses to contact
· Continue to identify largest 400 businesses
· Plan outreach to largest businesses.
· Launch campaign to call businesses to partnership: A big Council (Mayor keynote)
and Chamber presence, two or three local significant success stories highlighting (a)
why this made financial sense and how the company is paying for it; (b) the GHG
and other green impacts; and (c) why it’s important for their company to be able to
claim they are an Edina Emerald Energy leader.
· Type of contact: Leadership level outreach (emphasize recognition and $ savings);
Need to have both facility managers and other leaders on board.
· Invite business leaders or assigned representative to join the working group.
· Messaging: Publicize the campaign, with events where businesses can get
recognized. Money savings and recognition from a professional organization such as
Chamber of Commerce or the City (Emerald Energy Business award?). Need to have
the incentives lined up before the kickoff meeting, would need to ask the local
Chamber approve a recognition program several months before kick-off.
Q1 2017: (Jan-Mar)
· Continue planning of large business outreach
· Roll out outreach campaign to largest businesses
· Coordinate with City Council, who may provide guidance
· Track outreach
· (By December 31, 2016) Launch a city website that contains resources and program
information.
· Develop list of tracking software/tools to recommend to businesses.
· (By March 1, 2017) Develop and identify a tool that we will use to measure results
· Needs to set a baseline, measure, and report
· Research available software or reporting tools
· Leverage CERTs and/or others for technical energy assistance
· Plan first year awards event
Q2 2017: (April-Jun)
· Report to EEC, City Council
· Gather Recommendations for the future, including policy changes
· TBD
· Track progress
CITY OF EDINA ENERGY ACTION PLAN
Q3 2017: (July-Sept)
· Report to EEC, City Council
· Gather Recommendations for the future, including policy changes
· TBD
· Track progress
Q4 2017: (Oct-Dec)
· Report to EEC, City Council
· Gather Recommendations for the future, including policy changes
· TBD
· Track progress
CITY OF EDINA ENERGY ACTION PLAN
Appendix 8: Partners in Energy Planning Memorandum of
Understanding
CITY OF EDINA ENERGY ACTION PLAN
Appendix 9: Xcel Energy Demand Side Management Program
Summaries
CITY OF EDINA ENERGY ACTION PLAN
Appendix 10: Detailed Program Participation and Associated Savings
Residential Programs
Xcel Energy Residential Program Savings Information
Program Participants
(2013)
Participants
(2014)
Average MN kWh
Savings per Year
ENERGY STAR Homes 21 12 943
Heating System Rebates 250 193 621
Home Energy Audits 15 19 Indirect savings
Home Energy Squad 82 116 820*
Insulation Rebate 0 2 1,064
Refrigerator Recycling 138 165 1,036
0
200
400
600
800
1000
1200
1400
0
200
400
600
800
1,000
1,200
Residential Efficiency Programs
* indicates programs for low income customers
** indicates Edina-specific savings
Average MN kWh Savings
per Year
Participants (2013-2014)kWh Savings Participants
CITY OF EDINA ENERGY ACTION PLAN
Residential Cooling 338 330 496
School Education Kits
(Available for 4th and 5th grade
classrooms)
n/a n/a 98
Residential Saver's Switch 438 790 8
*Edina-specific savings average
Xcel Energy Low Income Program Savings Information
Program Participants
(2013)
Participants
(2014)
Average MN kWh
Savings per Year
Home Energy Savings Program 10 14 386
Multi-Family Energy Savings
Program*
0 0 1,042
*Separate from the recently launched Multi-Family Building Efficiency program.
Business Programs
0
20
40
60
80
100
120
0
100,000
200,000
300,000
400,000
500,000
600,000
700,000
800,000
900,000
1,000,000
Business Efficiency Programs
* indicates programs for
the largest/industrial customers
Average MN kWh Savings /
Year
Participants (2013-2014)kWh Savings Participants
CITY OF EDINA ENERGY ACTION PLAN
Xcel Energy Commercial Program Savings Information
Program Participants
(2013)
Participants
(2014)
Average MN
kWh Savings
per Year
Business New Construction 1 2 457,204
*Commercial Efficiency 0 0 410,192
Computer Efficiency 1 2 3,987
Cooling Efficiency 33 38 6,009
*Custom Efficiency 2 1 129,790
Data Center Efficiency 1 0 538,633
Efficiency Controls 5 1 179,315
Fluid Systems Optimization 1 3 28,197
Foodservice Equipment 0 1 9,469
Lighting Efficiency 42 31 62,469
Motor Efficiency 12 9 38,363
*Process Efficiency 0 0 731,035
Recommissioning 1 1 89,923
*Self-Direct 0 0 926,303
Turn Key Services 5 1 18,333
Electric Rate Savings 0 0 3,532
Saver's Switch for Business 18 9 17
Small Business Lighting 51 59 23,019
*Indicates programs for largest/industrial customers
CITY OF EDINA ENERGY ACTION PLAN
Appendix 11: List of Relevant Case Studies
Additional case studies will be researched and referenced during implementation of this plan.
Business and Residential Case Studies
Case Studies/Clean Energy Resource Teams
This website includes a searchable library of case studies, including for businesses.
http://www.cleanenergyresourceteams.org/casestudies?field_region_tid=All&field_community_tid
=All&field_technology_tid=All&page=1
Cool California Challenge
This online resource sponsors challenges and provides tools for cities, businesses, and residents,
and recognizes small business leaders.
http://www.coolcalifornia.org/small-business/business-case-studies
Energy Benchmarking /City of Minneapolis
An ordinance requires buildings containing at least 50,000 gross square feet that is not classified
as residential or industrial use report their energy use to the City. There has been a phased roll out.
http://www.minneapolismn.gov/environment/energy/WCMS1P-116916
Live Energy Dashboard/Macalester College
Energy data is available by dormitory for weekly, monthly, and per resident usage.
(http://www.macalester.edu/sustainability/living-laboratory/meters/live-energy-data.html)
Master Water Stewards /Freshwater Society
Modeled after Master Gardener programs, volunteer community leaders participate in a 50 hour
course and are certified to install pollution prevention projects. (http://freshwater.org/master-water-
stewards-a-community-approach-to-protecting-water/)
Rock the Bulb/Puget Sound Energy
Through a combination of events, outreach, and prizes, residents were encouraged to switch from
incandescent lighting to CFLs.
(http://pse.com/aboutpse/PseNewsroom/NewsReleases/Pages/PSEs-Rock-the-Bulb-Campaign-to-
Give-Away-400000.aspx)
8-1
8. Energy and Environment
Chapter Highlights
• The people in the City of Edina strongly value building and
maintaining a sustainable environment, although that has
not always been matched by actions.
• The City of Edina will take actions to address climate
change, including greenhouse gas reduction and solid
waste reduction.
• Climate change will have an increasing impact on Edina, as
evidenced by a recent United Nations report.
• The City intends to learn from the experience of
implementation since the last comprehensive plan, to
build a stronger foundation to implement its values.
• The City will make sustainability a foundational element of
its decision-making process.
• The decision-making process should also take into
account the goal of an equitable distribution of benefits.
Introduction
The people in the City of Edina strongly value building and maintaining a sustainable environment. Each
development decision must consider the ‘triple bottom line’ – people, planet and profit – so that the
economic factors are not favored over the health and welfare of the city’s natural environment and/or
its residents in present and future decisions.
The City of Edina supports an environmental policy approach that positively impacts the community. In a
recent citywide visioning process, environmental stewardship was identified as one of seven key
strategic focus areas for the City. Vision Edina states: “Community residents and stakeholders believe
that Edina can take an active and ambitious internal and regional leadership role in embedding
environmental stewardship principles through actions such as promoting more comprehensive recycling,
smart building and energy efficiency practices.”
• This includes clean energy, reduction of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, clean water,
responsible management of solid waste, clean air, transportation, ecological health, and
wise management of natural resources.
• This means actions throughout the city which includes all parts of the city: city
operations, commercial, industrial, and residential.
• This addresses tradeoffs that occur when working to meet multiple goals, including
environmental, fiscal/economic, and quality of life.
• This proactively pursues resiliency and adaptation in the face of a changing climate.
This chapter outlines existing conditions and progress to date as well as a framework for
recommendations for the future to ensure the economic and environmental health of the community.
Definitions
Environment includes factors that
act upon a community and ultimately
determine its form and survival,
including the impact humans have on
natural resources.
Sustainability means protecting
regional vitality for future
generations by preserving our
capacity to maintain and support our
region’s well-being and productivity.
Resilience is the ability to recover
from a disaster or disruption while
maintaining integrity and purpose.
Edina Comprehensive Plan
Energy and Environment Chapter Draft 12-31-19
8-2
Background:
Edina’s Commitment to Sustainability
History
From the early 1970’s, with the establishment of its first
Environmental Quality Commission, Edina has sought to be on
the forefront of environmental and natural resource issues.
The past decade has included significant action in that area,
particularly around energy and climate change topics.
The City of Edina established a citizen Energy and Environment
Commission (EEC) in 2007 to promote sustainability initiatives
and to advise the City Council. The commission is comprised
of Edina residents focused on specific sustainability topics. The
commission creates a work plan annually, and recent focus has
been on carbon emission reduction.
Since its founding, the EEC has overseen several sustainability
initiatives, as summarized in the sidebar to the right. An early
focus has been on municipal facilities, looking for opportunities
for the City to lead by example.
In 2007, the City Council set specific goals related to
greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction: 15% reduction by 2015, 25%
reduction by 2025, and 80% reduction by 2050 (based on the
state 2007 Next Generation Energy Act). These goals were
incorporated in the city’s 2008 comprehensive plan. When the
2015 goal was not met, this was a wakeup call to do more. The
Conservation and Sustainability Fund was created to fund a
dedicated resource to manage and measure carbon reduction
actions.
An important tool in meeting future goals was the
development of an energy action plan, to jump-start a citywide
effort towards energy efficiency. In 2016, the City worked with
the Partners in Energy program to complete its Electricity
Action Plan, the first element of this plan, to begin its strategy
for energy use reduction. Additional action plans are
anticipated to be completed in the following years, as outlined
in this plan.
Key Edina Sustainability
Milestones
2007: Became a participant in the
Regional Indicators Initiative (RII)
Established EEC
Signed U.S. Mayor’s Climate
Protection Agreement
Became an ICLEI City for Climate
Protection
2008: Energy and Environment
chapter in the Comprehensive Plan
2009: Completed Greenhouse Gas
Inventory
2010: Began benchmarking City
Buildings; Installed a closed loop
geothermal system at the Public
Works building
2011: Entered into a Guaranteed
Energy Savings Contract; Joined
GreenStep Cities; Installed solar
panels on the roof of City Hall
2012-2016: LED lighting retrofits in
multiple public buildings
2015: Established Conservation and
Sustainability Fund
2016: Hired sustainability
coordinator; completed Electricity
Station Plan
2017: Participation in Community
Resilience-Building Workshop Series
2018: MN GreenCorps member
provided recommendations to green
City Fleet and meet GHG goals
664kW Community Solar Garden
installed on top of the Public Works
building.
Edina Comprehensive Plan
Energy and Environment Chapter Draft 12-31-19
8-3
What We Have Learned
The past decade has shown that the strong values and intentions of Edina to pursue environmental
sustainability have not always been demonstrated in decisions and results. Therefore, the EEC seeks to
learn from past experiences to support a renewed approach moving forward.
This chapter takes from a 2008 experience and builds on it. In 2008, Edina was the first city in the
metropolitan area to include environmental action in its comprehensive plan. In 2018, Chapter 10 seeks
to summarize the framework created since 2008 for taking environmental action:
• Sustainability actions will focus on key subject areas. To date, those areas include energy,
water, solid waste, air quality, natural habitat, trees, and environmental contamination.
• Environmental decisions and actions vary across different sectors of the community: City
municipal operations, residents, other governmental bodies, and commercial and
industrial businesses.
• The City of Edina will take actions affecting all of these actors and, most importantly, lead
by example.
It is our intent that future Energy and Environment Commissions use this chapter to frame their
annual work plans. Building on the past experience of the EEC, we direct future EECs to advise
the City to:
• Meet existing goals of Greenhouse Gas (GHG) and waste reduction.
• Set new goals with community input to address climate change.
• Continually learn about environmental best practices and integrate those into action
plans.
• Educate the community about the environment and sustainability.
• Leverage areas where the environment intersects with other commissions.
Edina: A Community of Learning. Edina has a prized education system of high-quality
public schools. The Energy and Environment chapter of the Comprehensive Plan recognizes the
importance of extending the benefits of education to the entire community.
The work of City staff and the Energy and Environment Commission includes educating the public
about best practices related to environment and sustainability. This covers what the public can do to
support community goals regarding environmental quality and energy use. For instance, education
about climate change can strengthen support for city goals and actions to address its impacts on the
community.
Edina Comprehensive Plan
Energy and Environment Chapter Draft 12-31-19
8-4
Existing Conditions, Trends, and Challenges
Climate Change – The urgency of action on climate change has been emphasized by an October 2018
report by the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. This report asserts that
unprecedented changes are needed within the next 12 years to keep rising temperatures in check and
thereby lessen severe climate and weather impacts. While climate change is a global challenge, there are
local implications regarding impacts and policy. Addressing this will require coordinated change on many
fronts including reduction of emissions, promotion of alternative energy sources, and alterations in
consumption patterns and waste production and management. This action will extend over multiple City
departments and commissions.
Climate Resilience – Resilience is defined as the ability to absorb and respond to stresses, and to
adapt and evolve accordingly. The key changes in weather patterns that the Minnesota Department of
Natural Resources (MN DNR) Climatologist is predicting include warmer winters with more freezes
and thaws, more extreme precipitation, strong storms and winds, and high summer humidity. This will
affect the health and safety of people and property in Edina, including increased risk from ice, flooding,
and pests such as mosquitoes. The City will need to mitigate climate impacts on the community to
maintain a safe and desirable community. Developing a resilience strategy will include identifying and
responding to climate vulnerabilities in the community, in terms of both people and resources.
Leading by Example – The City of Edina can set an example for sustainability best practices through
its own operations and facilities. It will be important to look at the complete lifecycle of purchases and
processes to determine the opportunities to meet sustainability goals and improve the community’s
health and resiliency. This will need to be done through a triple-bottom line lens, which identifies the
true financial, environmental, and societal costs to allow productive discussion and decision making
about the level of commitment needed. While there have been some significant steps in this direction,
including the hiring of a sustainability coordinator and the completion of an electricity action plan, the
data show that there is a still a long way to go to live up to the City’s goals and aspirations.
Energy – Sustainability best practices support continued energy efficiency and expanded use of
alternative energy sources which replace large GHG emissions sources. Costs for renewable energy
have reduced significantly at a commercial level. The cost of wind is on parity with coal generation.
However, there are still issues regarding the availability and affordability of renewable energy generation
on small residential scale (solar photovoltaic systems on a home). Conversion to renewables cannot be
done overnight as there is significant infrastructure investment around current energy generation that
will take time and resources to replace. Additionally, continued focus on efficiency use of energy
generated will be critical to reducing emissions and keeping costs down. Data on Edina’s energy
consumption patterns, included in the following charts, shows that the city consumes energy at a fairly
high rate with significant room for efficiency and reduction. The missing years reflect a gap in the
available data.
Edina Comprehensive Plan
Energy and Environment Chapter Draft 12-31-19
8-5
Source: Regional Indicators Initiative
0
0.05
0.1
0.15
0.2
0.25
0.3
0.35
0.4
2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017
Figure 8.1: Energy Use -Total All Energy Types
(MMBtu per capita per day)
St Louis Park Minnetonka Edina Eden Prairie Bloomington
Edina Comprehensive Plan
Energy and Environment Chapter Draft 12-31-19
8-6
Figure 8.2: Energy Use – Residential
(MMBtu per capita per day)
Edina Comprehensive Plan
Energy and Environment Chapter Draft 12-31-19
8-7
Solid Waste – Sustainability also leads to an increased focus on a reduce/reuse/recycle approach to
resources – with the goal of reducing overall waste generated. Undifferentiated waste in landfills,
particularly organic waste, creates methane gas which is a primary contributor to climate change.
Additionally, siting new landfills is increasingly costly and undesirable for communities. For these
reasons, it is critical to address different waste streams, seek best practices and new technologies to
reduce solid waste. This includes segregating the waste streams for the most sustainable outcome. The
market for materials continues to change which makes recycling complex. These macro level systems
will be challenging for a small community, like Edina, to change. However, education and behavior
changes for city operations, residents, and businesses to alter their purchasing and disposal practices will
be critical for successful recycling and waste reduction. In particular, education is needed on reducing
waste contamination of the recycling stream, to ensure a higher percentage of recyclables collected can
be processed cost-effectively.
Natural Habitat – Much of the land in Edina has been removed from its original ecological and natural
function to make way for human development. While development impacts will remain, there are
opportunities to retain, restore, and connect natural habitat areas within the city. A fuller picture
emerges when looking at how this developed area fits into the larger ecological context of the region.
Impacts on the city’s tree canopy due to single-family home development, and pests such as the emerald
ash borer, need to be addressed.
Water – Water quantity and quality must be wisely managed to deliver core services of drinking water
distribution and source protection, sanitary sewer service, flood protection, runoff management, and
clean surface water (lakes, creeks, ponds, and wetlands). Climate change and land use decisions have the
biggest impacts on the resilience of our water resources systems. See Chapter 8 for more information
and direction on water resources. The energy-water nexus is an important issue for sustainability as
well: water treatment and transportation takes a considerable amount of energy, so reduction in water
usage can reduce energy usage as well.
Density and Development – On the regional scale, it is generally more sustainable for development
to be located in developed communities that are well-served by infrastructure, rather than on the
outskirts where undeveloped land is being consumed and infrastructure is being created and extended,
creating a larger carbon footprint. However, at the local level, as the City considers development and
density options it must consider local impacts to the environment. Meeting the carbon reduction goal
will necessitate discussions on tradeoffs in development, density, and their carbon impacts. For example,
density can provide a lower carbon footprint per resident and new development can be more energy
efficient. But increasing the population through density may increase the community’s overall carbon
footprint (though possibly not at a per capita level). Stopping density within the city will not solve
sustainability problems and meet sustainability goals, but accommodating growth does require
investigation of ways to grow more sustainably, and to seek to decouple carbon increases from
economic growth.
Youth Activism – Climate change will impact youth and young adults much more than older
generations. As a result, there is growing concern and activism among young people in Edina around the
issue of climate change. Youth will need to be involved in the discussion and decision-making process to
ensure their views are taken into consideration. The role of student members on the EEC is an example
of this.
Attracting New Residents – Many young adults and families are taking green and sustainable values
into account when deciding where they will live. To continue to attract young people and families to the
community, it is important for the City to demonstrate a commitment to these values.
Edina Comprehensive Plan
Energy and Environment Chapter Draft 12-31-19
8-8
Financial Stewardship – A comprehensive approach to sustainability also includes a financial element.
Strategic and timely investments in the short term may preclude much larger expenses later. One key
element of this is identifying the lifecycle cost of investments – for example a larger up-front capital cost
may at times be justified by lower operations and maintenance cost over the life of an investment. This
should be taken into account in decision making.
Ongoing Data Needs – Particularly with regards to its commitment to GHG and waste reduction
goals, the City will need to continually monitor data regarding environmental and climate conditions,
energy usage, water usage, waste production, recycling participation, travel behavior, and other factors.
The City of Edina’s participation in the Regional Indicators Initiative
https://www.regionalindicatorsmn.com/ provides access to a regularly updated data source that can help
inform the City’s decisions. Additional information sources may be linked on the City’s website as well,
as they are identified.
Recommendations and Strategies
Recommendations
The City will lead in sustainability both by example and by taking the lead role where possible.
The City will plan for resilience regarding climate change.
Future EECs will build on past experience.
The City will meet or exceed its GHG reduction goals and solid waste reduction goals.
Future EECs will continue to research and educate the community on environmental best practices.
Strategies
The following section summarizes the strategies used to implement the above goals. More details and
examples of best practices can be found in a section at the end of this chapter.
Utilize a myriad of tools available. There are different tools for the City to use and support
the community’s goals. The right tool depends on the need and targeted outcome:
• Policy – The City will focus through staff and commission to amend and approve policies and
its regulatory framework in order to support sustainable actions, meet sustainability goals, and
meet the needs of the community.
• Education – The EEC encourages the City to connect on policies and learn best practices. We
will use opportunities with city staff, EEC, organized neighborhoods, neighbor-to-neighbor, and
business organizations to promote sustainable actions.
• Alliances – Edina is a part of a larger community. It is important to build alliances across City
Commissions, with Edina School District, Chamber of Commerce, Hennepin County, and other
government entities within the region to connect on policies, learn best practices, and share
resources.
Edina Comprehensive Plan
Energy and Environment Chapter Draft 12-31-19
8-9
• Measurements – Develop and utilize existing tools for benchmarking and metrics to monitor
and reach stated goals.
Understand there are different actors and their roles and impact on sustainability varies:
• City operations and budget decisions – City facilities, capital budget, operating budget, and operating
decisions will lead by example and commit resources to achieving our sustainability goals through its
own facilities and operations.
• Commercial and industrial facilities – In addition to private businesses, this includes non-city owned
government and nonprofit entities, as well as multifamily and mixed-use development. Work with
these entities to address sustainability through design, construction, and operations.
• Single family residential – Work with single family residential communities, residents, and developers
to address sustainability.
Incorporate sustainability into land use decisions:
Decisions on land use and development are one of the main ways the City can influence
sustainability in the community. From the beginning of the process, land use and development
review should incorporate sustainability as a primary consideration when making decisions.
There are key areas to focus sustainable action:
• Energy – The City will consider energy resources and reduction and their impact on our city’s
goals. Continue to look for opportunities for renewable energy sources, including solar.
• Water – Water is governed by the water chapter (see Chapter 7 for more information).
• Solid Waste – Encourage all to think of their waste footprint, use the waste reduction pyramid
(i.e. rethink, reduce, reuse, recycle), and anti-littering to reduce waste and its impact on the
environment. As we manage waste (i.e. trash, recyclables, and organic recyclables), continue to
find ways for reduction via pick up options, hazardous waste, green demolition, sharing
economy, and the circular economy.
• Air Quality – Promote clean energy and other actions to improve air quality such as reducing
transportation emissions.
• Trees – Tree canopy has many stacked benefits (carbon sequestering, reduction in heat island
effect, storm water mitigation, supporting wildlife, etc.). Review policy and actions that support
tree canopy and benefits.
• Natural Habitat – Consider other natural resources such as soil, biodiversity, and sunlight.
• Environmental Contamination – Monitor sources of contamination of nonpoint source
contaminants like runoff, pet waste, pesticide, and fertilizer use.
Edina Comprehensive Plan
Energy and Environment Chapter Draft 12-31-19
8-10
Goals and Benchmarks
Goals are our way to prioritize actions, get resources, and measure our actions. Meeting these goals will
require trade-offs between various city priorities, though this chapter asserts that sustainability should
be a major consideration in all decisions. The need for the city to address environmental and
sustainability issues is urgent and important.
• GHG reduction: 30% or more reduction in GHG emissions by 2025, 80% emissions reduction
by 2050.
• 75% of solid waste annually diverted from landfills by 2030
• Create an integrated environmental action plan.
• Continually seek best practices, reference following resource list for ideas.
• Apply metrics, benchmarks, and reporting to environmental actions.
• Lead decision-making policies with sustainable principles.
• Coordinate and communicate technical aspects of addressing resilience.
• Ensure equitable distribution of environmental benefits.
• Seek continuous improvement in water planning for drinking water, surface water, and storm
water
Edina Comprehensive Plan
Energy and Environment Chapter Draft 12-31-19
8-11
Collection of Sustainability Ideas and Specifics
from the Energy and Environment Commission
The following is a list of tools and ideas compiled through the Energy and Environment Commission
(EEC) to inform ongoing work by the City and the EEC. The intent is to provide a flexible framework
and list of options that can apply to a wide range of circumstances and decisions. While these are
written as general guidance, they may be used to direct the development of more formal programs,
goals, benchmarks, and initiatives.
City Budget and Leading by Example
• Integrate strategy, planning, and budgetary decisions.
• Encourage city staff to embed sustainability into decision-making, budget process, capital
improvements and build alliances across city departments.
• Operations – consider development of green building policy, and approach on net new city buildings
o Operational aspects (like irrigation, tree canopy and green space).
o Share resources example (South Metro training center).
• Reporting – set baselines and report out on (e.g. energy utilization, purchasing, new buildings).
Commercial and Industrial Facilities
• Constructions and Design – encourage green buildings, energy guidelines, give to get options, and
deconstruction.
• Operations – encourage energy consumption and efficiency, minimize waste and optimize processing
of waste stream with zero waste being target goal, water quality, and water drainage.
• Capture opportunities to educate.
• Address drainage, impervious surfaces, and runoff plans.
• Consider energy efficiencies and renewable energy options.
• Support lawn and plant diversity – permeable lawn, grass (weed ordinance), tree policy.
• Explore rebate and financial options.
Single Family Residential
• Utilize policies available to support green buildings (design, materials, etc.), energy efficiency and
residential energy options, responsible demolition, pervious surface use, smart water use (e.g.
irrigation), reduction of waste, and increase in plant biodiversity (including tree canopy and green
space).
• Give to get options was mentioned as a policy form.
• Continue to reassess policies that impact drainage and impervious surfaces (i.e. construction permits
needing runoff plans) and look for ways to stack benefits (i.e. utilizing native plants that can absorb
runoff, support pollinators, and clean water versus use of a buried cistern).
• Support pollinators, tree canopy, biodiversity, and native plants.
• Beyond policy, look for opportunities to educate (see big ideas section).
Edina Comprehensive Plan
Energy and Environment Chapter Draft 12-31-19
8-12
Solid Waste
• Incorporate consideration of waste into every aspect of plan – think of the waste hierarchy: reduce,
reuse, recycle.
• Any new commercial development should incorporate three-stream waste collection.
• Consideration for organics both in production and collection – i.e. new food establishments take
packaging and waste collection into consideration.
• Keep all new technologies and innovations regarding waste on the table.
• Educate citizens on waste at every opportunity.
• Public spaces need to have three-stream waste receptacles conveniently located for citizens.
• Events should consider waste in their planning. Both packaging and waste collection should be part
of permit/expectation.
• Consider opportunities for citizens to dispose of waste materials at centralized location – i.e. a day
where there is an electronics collection at a central drop-off.
• Construction and demolition requirements or options for greener practices. This could include
reusing materials and/or more environmental considerations when building.
• Parks using a percentage of compost in turf management and in planting beds.
Energy
• Consideration of self-generation or self-sourced generation: o Look into costs for on-site generation or programs to source directly from remote sources.
o Consider long term environmental impact relative to city goals.
o Consider carbon free sources or programs giving Renewable Energy Credits to end users.
• Explore benefits of all electric sites and partnerships with utilities to offset potentially higher bills.
• For larger developments consider on-site generation, district energy systems, or district thermal
options. (Natural gas use on site will always have carbon emissions.)
• Consider the impact of community solar gardens.
• If the new home construction boom continues, consider local rebates/incentives to make homes
more efficient, resilient, and sustainable. Consider incentives for reused materials or products
sourced through in-state companies. (Discount on permit fees? Free LEDs throughout the house is
builder/owner meets a designated energy efficiency level or a percentage of recycled materials.)
Wetland
• Achieve no net loss of wetlands.
• Discourage wetland alteration.
• Administer the Wetland Conservation Act.
• Update the wetland inventory data.
• Restore previously existing wetlands.
• Buffer zones of native vegetation.
• Minimization of water level fluctuations.
• Involve the appropriate regulatory agencies (MPCA, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and the
MnDNR) in the planning of any proposed water quality or flood control facilities.
Edina Comprehensive Plan
Energy and Environment Chapter Draft 12-31-19
8-13
Natural Habitat
• Address invasive species, including ongoing coordination with Hennepin County and the Minnesota
Department of Agriculture regarding the City’s plan for emerald ash borer treatment and mitigation.
• Encourage native plants, especially pollinator-friendly plants.
• Encourage large tree preservation.
• Encourage increasing tree canopy.
• Capture education opportunities for teaching ecosystems.
• Reduce pesticide and fertilizer use.
Water
• Road salt best practices for overall reduction of chlorides to surface water receptors.
• Irrigation system best practices including upgrades and incentives for overall water use reduction.
• Incentives for potable water use reduction (business, residential).
• Long term drinking water sustainability, well redundancy, and water quality (including emerging
chemicals of concern).
• Leveraging available new technologies that optimize electricity usage and well maintenance.
• Resilient storm water management.
• Incentives to reduce the proliferation of single use plastic water bottles.
• Building / new structure enhancements that optimize water usage including options for gray water
systems.
• Continued long term water use coordination with watershed agencies, County, and adjacent
communities.
• Innovative use of rainwater run-off for activities such as watering plants (refer to U of M operations
example).
Edina Comprehensive Plan
Energy and Environment Chapter Draft 12-31-19
8-14
Solar Access Protection
One important contribution the City can make in the transition to renewable energy sources is to
protect the access that individual residents, businesses and industry have to renewable sources of
energy. Active solar rooftop collectors and passive solar technologies require maximum exposure to
sunlight, which may be challenging in a developed environment. To help ensure that sufficient exposure
is available for all homeowners and businesses, the City already has ordinances for building setbacks,
building height restrictions, and maximum lot coverage. At present, there are still very few houses with
solar energy systems, likely due to high costs and logistical considerations associated with installation.
The University of Minnesota has developed a high-resolution statewide solar resource map that allows
cities to calculate how much electricity they could potentially receive from locally installed solar energy
systems. These data (see Figure 8.3) were used to calculate Edina’s solar resource, in terms of
potential for energy generation. The solar map shows the location of the best sites solar installations
and helps identify where there may be potential land use conflicts with solar development. Table 8.1
shows the amount of solar energy reasonably available for development in Edina. The gross potential
includes the total available resource, regardless of location; rooftop capacity and generation include only
the resource available on the rooftops of commercial buildings located in the city.
Table 8.1 – Edina Gross and Rooftop Solar Generation Potential
Total Generation Potential (MWh/year) 16,700,686
Rooftop Potential (MWh/year) 2,739,861
Gross Generation Potential (MWh/year) 1,670,068
Roof Generation Potential (MWh/year) 273,986
These calculations assume a 10% conversion efficiency and current (2016/17) solar technologies. The
average home in Minnesota consumes between 9 and 10 Mwh/year (Solar Energy Industries Association;
US Energy Information Administration). Using only Edina’s rooftop generation potential, 27,000-30,000
homes could be powered by solar energy annually – more than the number of existing units in Edina.
Actions by the City of Edina that promote solar access and energy usage – such as facilitating financing
mechanisms like PACE financing and maintaining updated development regulations and incentives – can
result in wider adoption of solar energy in Edina. Another alternative is participation in community solar
gardens, which provide people an opportunity to support renewable energy through membership in a
large solar array located in a sunny open area. The Edina Community Solar Garden, located on the roof
of the Public Works and Park Maintenance Facility, is fully subscribed at the time of this writing with 68
households participating.
The City plans to meet or exceed state standards regarding solar access protection:
1. Continue to enforce setback, building height, and lot coverage ordinances that can serve as
protection to solar access
2. Become SolSmart certified to ensure policies, permitting, and inspections processes do not
inhibit solar access.
3. Consider access to solar protection when reviewing variance requests.
4. Promote the use of active and passive solar energy for heating, lighting, and other aspects in
design, construction, remodeling, and operation of City buildings.
5. Leverage the Solar and Wind Access Law to establish polices that restrict development for
the purpose of protecting solar access.
Edina Comprehensive Plan
Energy and Environment Chapter Draft 12-31-19
8-15
Figure 8.3: Gross Solar Potential in Edina
Energy and Environment Commission (EEC) History
• 2007 the EEC was established
• Started up three working groups:
• Air quality
• Water Quality
• Recycling, Solid Waste and Organics - researched single sort recycling
• 2011 joined the MPCA Green Steps Cities
• Voluntary city program requiring the implementation of 16 of possible 29 best practices
• Five “Steps”.
• Step 1: 2011
• Step 2: 2012
• Step 3: 2012
• Step 4: 2020 - Measure and report on between 7 & 15 city performance metrics
• Step 5: 2020 - Show improvement in city performance metrics. Link for details on Edina: https://greenstep.pca.state.mn.us/city-detail/11997
• 2014 - Bee and Chickens passed
• 2014 Edina became the 5th community to participate in The Partners in Energy program (PiE). Xcel Energy provides communities assistance in creating an Electricity Action Plan
• 2016 Hired first Sustainability Coordinator - big push from EEC
• 2016 Electricity Action Plan is completed. Goal: Reduce City GHG 30% by 2025
• Three focus areas; three new working groups:
• Municipal
• Residential - Windsource, Home Energy Squad
• Business - outreach and a recognition program (GBRP)
• 2016 - To-Go Packaging Report
• 2017 - Plastic Bag Report
• 2018 - Organics Report
• 2019 - Energy Benchmarking
• 2020 - Pollinator Resolution passed
• 2020 - Curbside Organics - implemented