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Public Hearing <br />Chairperson Levine called the public hearing to order at 7:46 p.m. <br />Presentation <br />City Planner Anderson presented the staff report stating the City was recently approached by <br />Connexus Energy about a potential solar project they are considering implementing on their <br />campus. In reviewing the project, it was noted that City Code was fairly silent regarding solar <br />energy systems. As alternative /renewable energy technologies continue to improve, Staff wanted <br />to ensure that the Zoning Code itself was not a barrier to potential alternative energy projects and <br />thus has compiled a draft ordinance for consideration. Staff reviewed the proposed Ordinance <br />with the Commission and recommended adoption. <br />Citizen Input <br />Don Haller, Connexus Energy, discussed the exciting project planned noting the largest <br />community wide solar program was bring proposed for the Connexus campus in the City of <br />Ramsey. He explained the community wide solar program would include 792 ground mounted <br />panels. The community would then be allowed to purchase panels for energy purposes. The <br />panels would be approximately $950 each and would lock in solar rates for the next 20 years. <br />The proposed setup would allow the public access to solar energy without having to install the <br />panels on their home or in their yard. <br />Mr. Haller reviewed the benefits of the program and provided further information on the <br />proposed location for the community solar program. It was noted the solar panels would be fully <br />fenced for security reasons. The project schedule and construction timeline was reviewed in <br />detail. He believed there would be great interest in this program. He thanked the Planning <br />Commission for considering Connexus Energy's request. <br />Chairperson Levine questioned how many solar panels would be needed to run a house. Mr. <br />Haller explained this would vary greatly by each home. Each explained that homeowner's would <br />then receive a credit for their solar panel output. <br />Commissioner Brauer asked if customers would be allowed to transfer their panel ownership. <br />Mr. Haller stated transfers to another Connexus member would be allowed. <br />Commissioner Field inquired the longevity of the program. Mr. Haller reported the program <br />would last for 20 years and after that time, a newer, better or smaller panel may have to be <br />considered by Connexus. He commented the replacement of the panels would be the <br />responsibility of Connexus. <br />Motion by Commissioner Field, seconded by Commissioner Brauer, to close the public hearing. <br />Planning Commission/May 1, 2014 <br />Page 4 of 8 <br />