Choosing the Right Project

5 Operations & Maintenance 1 Potential 2 Options 3 Refinement 4 Implementation

Step Zero: Make a Plan Purpose: Determine whether basic elements for a successful project are in place Tasks: Consider current reality and local resources Consider hurdles/challenges to energy projects Sets key criteria by which to choose projects Clarifies key performance indicators Documents the game plan for short- and long-term success

Reduce tribal office energy use by 15% Example Goals Reduce tribal office energy use by 15% Reduce average household energy costs by 20% Increase energy independence and resilience Create jobs and training for young people Create income for the local community

Example Criteria Project payback period is less than 5 years At least two part time local jobs are created At least one community member receives technical training Project can be completed by the community with little to no outside help needed Energy generation projects use local energy resources Project can be implemented within one building season

Step 1: Understanding Needs and Resources Purpose: Determine whether basic elements for a successful project are in place Tasks: Assess the energy load/demand using past electric bills, PCE reports, power house data, and fuel logs Where can efficiency be improved? Identify possible sites for project locations Confirm energy resources

Assess Energy Needs Document the community baseline: Determine energy use including government, residential, school, commercial Use available tools: Energy audits PCE reporting documents Powerhouse data Photo by Alex Dane, NREL 22724

Rampart Energy Baseline

Resource Assessment https://maps.nrel.gov/tribal-energy-atlas/ Maps.nrel.gov/tribal-energy-atlas http://alaskawoodheating.com/maps/hires-map.jpg https://maps.nrel.gov/tribal-energy-atlas/ http://alaskawoodheating.com

What skills are already present in the community? Community Assessment What skills are already present in the community? Utility clerks Power plant operators Laborers Tribal administrators What skills are needed for possible projects? Electricians? Energy efficiency technicians? Operations and maintenance for new projects?

5 Operations & Maintenance 2 Options Slide 11 Now lets move on to step 2 in the process: project options! 5 Operations & Maintenance 1 Potential 2 Design 3 Refinement 4 Implementation

Step 2: Options Analysis Purpose: Determine which option is best for your community Tasks: Determine the lifecycle costs of project options Fuel Operations and Maintenance Determine the lifecycle benefits of project options Jobs Offset fuel costs Stable energy costs Identify permitting needs and site use considerations (if any) Identify integration procedures with the power plant Utilize goals and criteria to weigh each potential project

Alternative Generation Hierarchy of Needs Alternative Generation Energy Efficiency Energy System Safety & Stability

Lifecycle Costs: Tools for Analysis Identify and evaluate policies and options

Lifecycle Costs: Tools for Analysis Great use of Technical Assistance! Identify and evaluate policies and options

Priorities and Decisions: Identify Financing Options Tribal funding (energy.gov/indianenergy/fedprograms) DOE Technical Assistance (TA) Program Other federal agency TA and grant programs State programs Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) Photo by Alex Dane, NREL

Best Projects Meet community energy goals and needs Best match community project criteria Are financeable / can access funding Have champions in the community

Sherry Stout Sherry.stout@nrel.gov Questions?