The State of Minnesota
Sustainable Building Guidelines (MSBG) Version 2.0

E.2 Renewable and Distributed Energy Evaluation

Intent
Encourage the consideration and use of renewable energy sources and cleaner forms of hydrogen and hydrocarbon-based distributed generation systems to reduce atmospheric pollution. This can provide a stimulus to the State's economy through investments in local jobs and materials while reducing the State's expenditures on imported fuel and power.

Required Performance Criteria
A. During the Schematic Design phase, analyze at least two scenarios that include the environmental and economic impacts of supplying a percentage of the building's total energy use with on-site or off-site renewable or cleaner distributed generation systems. Enter results in Form P-4 Energy and Atmosphere Documentation. The evaluation may assess the benefits for solar, wind, or biomass energy systems as well as micro-turbines and fuel cells, if applicable. There is no required amount of renewable or distributed energy generation for State buildings at this time.

B. During the Design Development phase, update and complete the analysis of the two scenarios in Form P-4.

Note: Renewable and cleaner distributed generation percentages may be as little as 1% or as great as 100% depending on the outcome of the evaluation and may be achieved through the construction budget by paying for the design and installation of a renewable or cleaner distributed generation system or through the operating budget through a contract to purchase renewable or cleaner distributed generation. Calculations for the cost of the percentage of renewable and distributed generation for the project should be calculated after the requirement for 30% or greater energy conservation has been met.