HomeMy WebLinkAboutJuneau Dimond Park Aquatic Center App
Renewable Energy Fund
Grant Application
AEA 09-004 Grant Application Page 1 of 18 9/2/2008
Application Forms and Instructions
The following forms and instructions are provided for preparing your application for a
Renewable Energy Fund Grant. An electronic version of the Request for Applications (RFA)
and the forms are available online at http://www.akenergyauthority.org/RE_Fund.html
The following application forms are required to be submitted for a grant recommendation:
Grant Application
Form
GrantApp.doc Application form in MS W ord that includes an outline of
information required to submit a complete application.
Applicants should use the form to assure all information is
provided and attach additional information as required.
Application Cost
Worksheet
Costworksheet.doc Summary of Cost information that should be addressed
by applicants in preparing their application.
Grant Budget
Form
GrantBudget.xls A detailed grant budget that includes a breakdown of
costs by task and a summary of funds available and
requested to complete the work for which funds are being
requested.
Grant Budget
Form Instructions
GrantBudgetInstr.pdf Instructions for completing the above grant budget form.
• If you are applying for grants for more than one project, provide separate application
forms for each project.
• Multiple phases for the same project may be submitted as one application.
• If you are applying for grant funding for more than one phase of a project, provide a plan
and grant budget for completion of each phase.
• If some work has already been completed on your project and you are requesting
funding for an advanced phase, submit information sufficient to demonstrate that the
preceding phases are satisfied and funding for an advanced phase is warranted.
• If you have additional information or reports you would like the Authority to consider in
reviewing your application, either provide an electronic version of the document with
your submission or reference a web link where it can be downloaded or reviewed.
REMINDER:
• Alaska Energy Authority is subject to the Public Records Act, AS 40.25 and materials
submitted to the Authority may be subject to disclosure requirements under the act if no
statutory exemptions apply.
• All applications received will be posted on the Authority web site after final
recommendations are made to the legislature.
Renewable Energy Fund
Grant Application
AEA 09-004 Grant Application Page 2 of 18 9/3/2008
SECTION 1 – APPLICANT INFORMATION
Name (Name of utility, IPP, or government entity submitting proposal)
City & Borough of Juneau
Type of Entity:
Local Government
Mailing Address
155 South Seward Street, Juneau AK 99801
Physical Address
155 South Seward Street, Juneau AK 99801
Telephone
(907) 586-5240
Fax
(907) 586-5385
Email
Rod_Swope@ci.juneau.ak.us
1.1 APPLICANT POINT OF CONTACT
Name
Rod Swope
Title
City Manager
Mailing Address
155 South Seward Street, Juneau AK 99801
Telephone
(907) 586-5240
Fax
(907) 586-5385
Email
Rod_Swope@ci.juneau.ak.us
1.2 APPLICANT MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
Please check as appropriate. If you do not to meet the minimum applicant requirements, your
application will be rejected.
1.2.1 As an Applicant, we are: (put an X in the appropriate box)
An electric utility holding a certificate of public convenience and necessity under AS
42.05, or
An independent power producer, or
X A local government, or
A governmental entity (which includes tribal councils and housing authorities);
Yes
1.2.2. Attached to this application is formal approval and endorsement for its project by
its board of directors, executive management, or other governing authority. If a
collaborative grouping, a formal approval from each participant’s governing
authority is necessary. (Indicate Yes or No in the box )
Yes
1.2.3. As an applicant, we have administrative and financial management systems and
follow procurement standards that comply with the standards set forth in the grant
agreement.
Yes
1.2.4. If awarded the grant, we can comply with all terms and conditions of the attached
grant form. (Any exceptions should be clearly noted and submitted with the
application.)
Renewable Energy Fund
Grant Application
AEA 09-004 Grant Application Page 3 of 18 9/3/2008
SECTION 2 – PROJECT SUMMARY
Provide a brief 1-2 page overview of your project.
2.1 PROJECT TYPE
Describe the type of project you are proposing, (Reconnaissance; Resource Assessment/
Feasibility Analysis/Conceptual Design; Final Design and Permitting; and/or Construction) as
well as the kind of renewable energy you intend to use. Refer to Section 1.5 of RFA.
The City & Borough of Juneau is proposing the design (Phase III) and construction (Phase IV) of
a hybrid ground source heat pump system to serve the heating needs at the City & Borough of
Juneau’s new Dimond Park Aquatic Center. The Dimond Park Aquatic Center is a new
competition, recreation, and educational swimming facility in Juneau with construction to begin
in the spring of 2009 and be completed in the fall of 2010. The hybrid system will consist of a
ground source heat pump system that will meet 81% of the facility’s heating needs and a
supplemental electric heat system to make up the difference during periods when the facility’s
heat loads exceed the capacity of the ground source heat pump system. The hybrid system was
selected over a stand alone ground source heat pump system sized for 100% of the facility’s
heating loads because:
1. The decrease in well field size and removal of a heat pump significantly reduced initial
construction cost of the hybrid system.
2. The hybrid system only increased annual energy expenditures 14.6% over a stand alone
ground source heat pump system while providing a 118% and 164% decrease in annual
energy costs when compared with an electric or oil heat system respectively.
3. The stand alone system also required electric back-up heaters; the hybrid system merely
increased their size.
4. The hybrid system has a lower life cycle cost than the stand alone ground source heat
pump system.
The Renewable Energy Fund Grant request herein is for the additional design and construction
costs for the hybrid ground source heat pump system. The grant funding requested is only for
the costs associated with the ground source heat pump system portion of the hybrid system; the
costs associated with the supplemental electric boiler and water heaters are excluded from this
request.
2.2 PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Provide a one paragraph description of your project. At a minimum include the project location,
communities to be served, and who will be involved in the grant project.
The proposed hybrid ground source heat pump system at the new Dimond Park Aquatic Center is
to be located in Juneau’s Mendenhall Valley, adjacent the new Thunder Mountain High School
and Riverbend Elementary on the Dimond Park site. The facility will primarily serve Juneau
residents, but will also serve visitors from nearby southeast Alaska communities and other
visitors to Juneau. The City & Borough of Juneau Engineering and Parks and Recreation
Departments are directly involved with the design and construction of the facility, as is the
Juneau School District. A professional design team led by local architectural firm Jensen Yorba
Lott, Inc. is responsible for the project design and construction administration. The City &
Borough of Juneau Engineering Department is responsible for design and construction
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Grant Application
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management and progress reports to grant agencies as required. The City & Borough of Juneau
Finance Department is responsible for project funding and financial reporting to grant agencies
as required. A “Pool Advisory Task Force” consisting of twelve community representatives is
also participating in the oversight of the project design. The project’s construction contractor
will be selected by competitive bid per the City & Borough of Juneau ordinances and is not
known at this time. The use of a hybrid ground source heat pump system in lieu of conventional
oil or electric heat systems at the Dimond Park Aquatic Center is supported by the Pool Advisory
Task Force, the City & Borough of Juneau Engineering and Parks Departments, the Juneau
School District, and the City & Borough of Juneau Assembly and Administration.
2.3 PROJECT BUDGET OVERVIEW
Briefly discuss the amount of funds needed, the anticipated sources of funds, and the nature and source
of other contributions to the project. Include a project cost summary that includes an estimated total cost
through construction.
On October 2, 2007, Juneau voters approved $19.8 million for the construction of a new
swimming pool in Dimond Park adjacent to the Thunder Mountain High School. The
Department of Education & Early Development approved 60% debt reimbursement of
$8,650,853, thus reducing the share of the project costs borne by Juneau residents to
$14,609,488. Both of these approvals occurred prior to the energy anal ysis during the project
design that led to the decision to use a hybrid ground source heat pump systems rather than
conventional oil or electric heat systems. While the hybrid ground source heat pump system will
reduce operation costs over the life of the facility, it is estimated to increase initial design and
construction costs by $1,950,000. The City & Borough of Juneau submitted a $500,000 grant
request to the Rasmuson Foundation to assist in covering the additional cost of the hybrid ground
source heat pump system, but the outcome of this request is not known at this time.
Design and Construction Administration by Consultant $113,447
Design and Construction Management by CBJ $61,456
Construction Cost* $1,775,097
Total Cost of Ground Source Heat Pump System $1,950,000
* Please see attached HMS construction cost estimate dated 09/24/08 for details
2.4 PROJECT BENEFIT
Briefly discuss the financial benefits that will result from this project, including an estimate of economic
benefits (such as reduced fuel costs) and a description of other benefits to the Alaskan public.
When the new Dimond Park Aquatic Center was originally proposed to Juneau voters in October
2007, it was assumed that the pool would use a conventional oil or electric heat system.
However, during schematic design a value engineering study explored the potential of a hybrid
ground source heat pump system in lieu of a conventional heat system and found that, while the
initial construction cost was higher, the h ybrid ground source heat pump system was projected to
reduce annual energy expenditures approximately $130,000 to $180,000 when compared to
electric and oil systems respectively. The operational savings will enable the City & Borough of
Juneau to reduce the entry fee to the Dimond Park Aquatic Center, making it available to more
individuals. Also, the decrease in the admission price will increase the ability of the City &
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Grant Application
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Borough of Juneau and other local organizations to provided discounted or free admission to
disadvantaged individuals.
The site specific nature of the hybrid ground source heat pump s ystem reduces the environmental
footprint of the Dimond Park Aquatic Center. When compared to a traditional oil fired heat
system, the h ybrid ground source heat pump system eliminates oil combustion exhaust fumes,
the hazards associated with transportation and storage of fuel oil, and the pollution and energy
expenditure associated with shipping of fuel oil. When compared to a traditional electrical heat
system, the h ybrid ground source heat pump system places a lighter burden on the community’s
overtaxed electrical infrastructure and capacity, thus reducing the need for new development of
the region’s hydro-electric resources.
The use of a hybrid ground source heat pump system at such an eagerly awaited public facilit y
will increase public awareness of renewable energy alternatives within the community and
possibly on a larger scale. The construction and operation of the h ybrid ground source heat
pump system will provide experience to local contractors and City & Borough of Juneau
maintenance staff that could translate to reduced construction and maintenance costs for future
ground source heat pump systems.
2.5 PROJECT COST AND BENEFIT SUMARY
Include a summary of your project’s total costs and benefits below.
2.5.1 Total Project Cost
(Including estimates through construction.)
$ 1,950,000
2.5.2 Grant Funds Requested in this application. $ 1,450,000
2.5.3 Other Funds to be provided (Project match) $ 500,000
2.5.4 Total Grant Costs (sum of 2.5.2 and 2.5.3) $ 1,950,000
2.5.5 Estimated Benefit (Savings over 25 year period)* $ 3,000,000 vs. Oil Boilers
$ 1,100,000 vs. Elec Boiler
2.5.6 Public Benefit (If you can calculate the benefit in terms of
dollars please provide that number here and explain how
you calculated that number in your application.)
$ **
*Please see attached Alaska Energy Engineering’s Energy and Life Cycle Cost Analysis Report
dated 06/17/08 for details of estimated life cycle benefits
**It is difficult to calculate the public benefit of this project in terms of dollars. Please refer to the
project benefits noted in paragraph two and three of response to question 2.4.
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Grant Application
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SECTION 3 – PROJECT MANAGEMENT PLAN
Describe who will be responsible for managing the project and provide a plan for successfully
completing the project within the scope, schedule and budget proposed in the application.
3.1 Project Manager
Tell us who will be managing the project for the Grantee and include a resume and references
for the manager(s). If the applicant does not have a project manager indicate how you intend to
solicit project management Support. If the applicant expects project management assistance
from AEA or another government entity, state that in this section.
Nathan Coffee, City & Borough of Juneau Project Manager, is overseeing the design of the
project. His resume and references are attached.
Catherine Wilkins, City & Borough of Juneau Construction Manager, will oversee the
construction of the project. Her resume and references are attached.
Helen Davies CPA, City & Borough of Juneau Accountant, is overseeing the project funding and
will provide financial reporting to grant agencies. Her resume and references are attached.
3.2 Project Schedule
Include a schedule for the proposed work that will be funded by this grant. (You may include a
chart or table attachment with a summary of dates below.)
Project design is to be completed by December 1, 2008. Project will be advertised for bid as part
of the larger Dimond Park Aquatic Center construction project January 8, 2009. Bids will be
opened for the project on February 5, 2009. Barring any unforeseen circumstances, Notice to
Proceed with construction should be issued by March 12. Construction is expected to begin as
soon as the winter weather allows with site work most likely beginning in early April. It is
anticipated that the ground source heat pump system well field will be installed in conjunction
with the building site work in the summer of 2009. Construction of the Dimond Park Aquatic
Center is anticipated to be completed in the fall of 2010.
3.3 Project Milestones
Define key tasks and decision points in your project and a schedule for achieving them.
Submit AEA Renewable Energy Fund Grant Application – October 6, 2008
Complete 95% construction documents and specifications – December 1, 2008
Submit 95% construction documents and specifications to EED for review – December 1, 2008
Submit 95% construction documents and specifications to DEC for review – December 1, 2008
Receive feedback from AEA regarding GSHP grant request – December 1, 2008
Submit 95% construction documents and specifications to AEA for review – December 5, 2008
(if necessary)
Receive feedback from Rasmuson Foundation regarding GSHP grant request – December 8,
2008
Complete review of 95% construction documents and specifications – December 15, 2008
Complete review of 95% construction cost estimate - December 18, 2008
***If necessary, based on results of grant request and cost estimate, begin redesign or
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Grant Application
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seek additional funding from different sources – December 19, 2008***
Submit signed construction documents to CBJ Permit Center – January 5, 2009
Advertise for construction bids – January 9, 2009
Open bids and issue Notice of Intent to Award construction contract - February 5, 2009
Issue Notice to Proceed with construction – March 12, 2009
Receive construction permit from CBJ Permit Center – March 12, 2009
Begin construction – April 1, 2009 or thereabouts
Substantial Completion of Construction – August 20, 2010
Final Completion of Construction – September 3, 2010
Begin Facility Commissioning – September 3, 2010
Certificate of Occupancy – September 10, 2010
Grand Opening – September 17, 2010
Please note that most of the decisions involving the use of a hybrid ground source heat pump
system rather than conventional oil or electric heat systems have already been made. The City &
Borough of Juneau is committed to the use of hybrid ground source heat pump system at the
new Dimond Park Aquatic Center due to the many benefits previously identified in this
application. The only major decision that remains is how to fund construction of the hybrid
ground source heat pump system.
3.4 Project Resources
Describe the personnel, contractors, equipment, and services you will use to accomplish the
project. Include any partnerships or commitments with other entities you have or anticipate will
be needed to complete your project. Describe any existing contracts and the selection process
you may use for major equipment purchases or contracts. Include brief resumes and references
for known, key personnel, contractors, and suppliers as an attachment to your application.
The City & Borough of Juneau Engineering Department has contracted with Jensen Yorba Lott,
Inc. for the design of the new Dimond Park Aquatic Center. Jensen Yorba Lott’s project design
team is led by Wayne Jensen, AIA, and the team is comprised of the following individuals and
firms:
Civil – R&M Engineering, Inc. – Mark Pusich, P.E.
Structural – PND Engineers, Inc. – Chris Gianotti, P.E.
Mechanical – Murray & Associates, P.C. – Doug Murray, P.E.
Electrical – Haight & Associates, Inc. – Barry Begenyi, P.E.
Energy/Commissioning – Alaska Energy Engineering – Jim Rehfeldt, P.E.
Pool Consultant – Richard Scott, AIA, NCARB
Economics – The Sports Management Group – Lauren Livingston
Cost Estimator – HMS, Inc. – Ehsan Mughal
The construction contactor and subcontractors will be selected through the competitive bid
process per the City & Borough of Juneau’s procurement regulations; therefore, information
regarding the construction contractors who will undertake the work is not available at this time.
Major equipment purchases are to be included in the construction contract.
3.5 Project Communications
Discuss how you plan to monitor the project and keep the Authority informed of the status.
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Grant Application
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Catherine Wilkins’ office will be on the construction job site. She will monitor and record
project progress for the duration of the Dimond Park Aquatic Center’s construction. She will
provide one or two page monthly status reports by email to the Authority that identify the project
progress, regulatory and compliance issues, possible delays, and pictures of the work. She will
work with Helen Davies of the City & Borough of Juneau Finance Department to include an
accounting of the monthly and overall project grant income and expenditures in the monthly
report. Quarterl y reports will also be furnished that summarize the same project information on a
quarterl y basis.
Catherine and Helen will also be responsible for providing additional submittal items as defined
in the Authority’s project agreement.
3.6 Project Risk
Discuss potential problems and how you would address them.
Lack of sufficient funding for the construction of the hybrid ground source heat pump system is a
potential problem for the project. In addition to needing to garner financial assistance from
Rasmuson Foundation and the Alaska Energy Authority, the City & Borough of Juneau needs to
have favorable construction bids for the work. Assuming funding is available, the City &
Borough of Juneau intends to bid the Dimond Park Aquatic Center in conjunction with Airport
Expansion & Renovation project in hopes that increasing the amount of drilling work will attract
more than one drilling contractor to bid on the projects. If sufficient funding is not secured
through the City & Borough of Juneau’s grant requests, the project team has considered
petitioning the CBJ Assembly for a low interest loan for the hybrid ground source heat pump
system. Given the estimated long term benefit of the hybrid ground source heat pump system, a
good case could be made that it is in the City & Borough of Juneau’s best interest to provide
additional funds for the hybrid ground source heat pump system.
Another potential problem is the drilling of the well field. Unforeseen subsurface conditions
could be encountered that could impact the depth or layout of the wells. While a test well has
not been drilled on site, test wells have been drilled at the Thunder Mountain High School site
(~one quarter mile away) and at the Juneau Airport (~one and half miles away). Design
parameters for the Dimond Park Aquatic Center well field have been based on conservative
conclusions drawn from review of the test well data for at the nearby sites to reduce the potential
for problems with subsurface well drilling. Relocation of well field or increasing number of
wells and reducing their depth are potential mitigation strategies should the well field
construction encounter subsurface problems.
Another potential problem is generating the anticipated design heat transfer rates from the
ground source heat pump system. Again, conservative estimates based on the observed
conditions at adjacent test wells were used for design of the ground source heat pump system to
reduce the potential for shortfalls in anticipated heat transfer rates. Based on the performance of
adjacent test wells, the project engineers anticipate heat generation from the system will exceed
design estimates. Ultimately, greater reliance on back-up electric boiler or increasing the size of
the well field are potential mitigation strategies should the heat transfer rates generated by the
ground source heat pump system prove to be below design expectations.
Renewable Energy Fund
Grant Application
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SECTION 4 – PROJECT DESCRIPTION AND TASKS
• Tell us what the project is and how you will meet the requirements outlined in Section 2 of
the RFA. The level of information will vary according to phase of the project you propose to
undertake with grant funds.
• If you are applying for grant funding for more than one phase of a project provide a plan and
grant budget for completion of each phase.
• If some work has already been completed on your project and you are requesting funding for
an advanced phase, submit information sufficient to demonstrate that the preceding phases
are satisfied and funding for an advanced phase is warranted.
4.1 Proposed Energy Resource
Describe the potential extent/amount of the energy resource that is available.
Discuss the pros and cons of your proposed energy resource vs. other alternatives that may be
available for the market to be served by your project.
Due to the Mendenhall Valley’s favorable soil conditions and the high water table, the amount of
potential energy that can be extracted utilizing a ground source heat pump system is virtually
limitless. However, the high initial capital investment required for a heating loop and well field
has limited the use of ground source heat pumps in the Juneau area. As energy costs have risen in
recent years, the anticipated payback period for the investment of initial construction capital for a
ground source heat pump system has decreased to the point where ground source heat pump
systems are economically viable.
The primary con of the ground source heat pump system is the high initial capital investment
required to construct the system. This factor has limited the use of ground source heat pumps in
the Juneau area. Another con of the ground source heat pump system is the higher annual
maintenance expenditures required to operate the system when compared with conventional
electric heat systems. Unfamiliarity with ground source heat pump systems could pose a bit of a
con as compared to traditional heat systems until City & Borough of Juneau maintenance staff
become accustom to the maintenance and repair activities associated with the ground source heat
pump system.
The primary pro of the hybrid ground source heat pump system is the low energy consumption of
the heat source. The hybrid ground source heat pump system is projected to reduce annual energy
expenditures approximately $130,000 to $180,000 when compared to electric and oil systems,
respectively. A reduction in energy consumption is especially important in an aquatic facility that
maintains higher ambient temperatures than most other building types. Another pro of the hybrid
ground source heat pump system at the Dimond Park Aquatic Center is the public acceptance and
recognition that will be brought to sustainable alternative energy technologies that could lead to
broader use of similar heat systems in the region. Such a trend could reduce the import of fuel oil
for heating and the exhaust associated with its combustion. A reduction in electrical consumption
would allow AEL&P to reduce the amount of diesel generated power provided to the area and
maintain the adequacy of the existing hydroelectric infrastructure.
While the attached Energy Analysis specifically compares the hybrid ground source heat pump
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Grant Application
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system with conventional oil and electric heat system, some consideration was also given to other
renewable energy technologies, in particular biomass energy. Due to the project’s site location
(in a park, between two schools, adjacent residential areas) and the winter air quality issues
present in the Mendenhall Valley area, the construction of an onsite biomass incinerator was not
practical.
4.2 Existing Energy System
4.2.1 Basic configuration of Existing Energy System
Briefly discuss the basic configuration of the existing energy system. Include information about
the number, size, age, efficiency, and type of generation.
The hybrid ground source heat pump system is a new system designed specifically to serve the
heating needs of the new Dimond Park Aquatic Center. The facility does not exist at this time
and the heat system will not serve any facilities other than the Dimond Park Aquatic Center. The
ground source heat pump system will be comprised of a well field, a closed loop piping system,
and heat pump equipment to extract heat from the circulating fluid. The well field will be
comprised of (96) 250’ deep wells spaced 10 feet apart. The well field will be divided into to two
independent segments; each of which will be connected to the building mechanical room by a
2.5” inch diameter piping loop. Heat will be extracted from the fluid in the piping loop by a
single water-to-water heat pump to heat the pool water and portions of the building; five water-to-
air heat pumps to heat the remaining portions of the building; and two water-to-water heat pumps
for the building’s domestic hot water system. The heat pump equipment will be provided with
electrical back-ups to supplement the system during high demand events, such as refilling of the
pools or cold weather, and when the ground source heat pump system is shut down for
maintenance. The combined efficiency of the heat pumps is 270% so for each purchased BTU,
2.7 BTUs will be delivered to the building. This compares to 95% efficiency for electric and 77%
efficiency for oil systems.
4.2.2 Existing Energy Resources Used
Briefly discuss your understanding of the existing energy resources. Include a brief discussion of
any impact the project may have on existing energy infrastructure and resources.
The proposed hybrid ground source heat pump system will use more electricity than an oil fired
heat system, but far less electricity than an all-electric system. Alaska Electric Light & Power
(AEL&P) is a privately owned, publicly regulated utility that provides power to Juneau.
Currently, AEL&P generates hydroelectric power at the Snettisham Dam and provides the power
to Juneau via suspended and underwater transmission lines. Diesel generators provide additional
power to Juneau in periods of outage or high demand. AEL&P is currently constructing a second
hydroelectric facility at Lake Dorothy that is anticipated to come online in the fall of 2009 and to
increase the hydroelectric power capacity of the Juneau area by 20%. Currently, AEL&P utilizes
diesel generators during the winter to supplement hydroelectric supply. This will most likely
increase in the future as the high cost of heating oil drives residents to use electrical heat in lieu of
oil. AEL&P’s hydroelectric capacity is currently overtaxed by Juneau’s demand, so the addition
of Lake Dorothy’s power will help to align the hydroelectric infrastructure capacity with that of
local demand. Since the Dimond Park Aquatic Center is not scheduled to open until fall of 2010
(a year after the completion of the Lake Dorothy project), its electrical power consumption should
not adversely impact AEL&P’s electrical power distribution throughout the community.
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4.2.3 Existing Energy Market
Discuss existing energy use and its market. Discuss impacts your project may have on energy
customers.
Alaska Electric Light & Power (AEL&P) is a privately owned, publicly regulated utility that
provides power to Juneau and some surrounding communities. AEL&P also sells electrical
power to cruise ships and Greens Creek Mine. Due to the addition of the Lake Dorothy
hydroelectric supply, the use of hybrid ground source heat pumps at the Dimond Park Aquatic
Center is projected to have little or no impact on AEL&P customer rates. The use of hybrid
ground source heat pumps at the new pool will have a positive impact on pool customers and the
City & Borough of Juneau by keeping operating costs low.
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Grant Application
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4.3 Proposed System
Include information necessary to describe the system you are intending to develop and address
potential system design, land ownership, permits, and environmental issues.
4.3.1 System Design
Provide the following information for the proposed renewable energy system:
• A description of renewable energy technology specific to project location
• Optimum installed capacity
• Anticipated capacity factor
• Anticipated annual generation
• Anticipated barriers
• Basic integration concept
• Delivery methods
This project proposes the design and construction of a hybrid ground source heat pump system to
serve the heating needs at the new Dimond Park Aquatic Center. The proposed system is a
hybrid of ground source heat pumps and electricity with electric boilers supplementing the ground
source heat pump system in times of high demand. It is anticipated that the ground source heat
pumps in the hybrid s ystem will produce 81% of the facilit y’s heating load. Thus, the electric
water heaters and boilers will only be utilized when the facility’s heating load exceeds the
maximum capacity of the ground source heat pump system, which is projected to occur onl y
during colder winter temperatures. The h ybrid system allows the capacity of the well field to be
reduced b y 44%, thus significantly reducing the initial construction cost of the system while
negligibly impacting the operational cost savings of the system. The silty, sandy, gravell y soil;
the absence of bed rock; and the high water table on the site, make the site naturally suited to the
use of ground source heat pump well field.
4.3.2 Land Ownership
Identify potential land ownership issues, including whether site owners have agreed to the
project or how you intend to approach land ownership and access issues.
The Dimond Park Aquatic Center site is located within the Dimond Community Complex in the
Mendenhall Valley which is owned by the City & Borough of Juneau. The master plan for the
complex designates this site for a mix of recreational and educational facilities to meet the needs
of the community. Although the overall Dimond Community Complex is approximately 70
acres, the actual acreage to be used for the pool facility and well field will be approximately 2
acres. There is strong public support for the construction of the new pool facility and for the use
of a renewable energy source to meet its heating needs, especially after the electrical crisis
suffered by Juneau residents with the avalanche damage to AEL&P’s Snettisham transmission
lines last spring. There are not any known land ownership or access issues that would jeopardize
the construction of the Dimond Park Aquatic Center or a hybrid ground source heat pump system
to meet its heating needs.
4.3.3 Permits
Provide the following information as it may relate to permitting and how you intend to address
outstanding permit issues.
• List of applicable permits
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• Anticipated permitting timeline
• Identify and discussion of potential barriers
Construction of the Dimond Park Aquatic Center and associated hybrid ground source heat pump
system will require the following permits:
• Conditional Use Permit from City & Borough of Juneau Community Development
Department - acquired
• Building Permit from City & Borough of Juneau Community Development Department
• Swimming Pool Permit from Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation
4.3.4 Environmental
Address whether the following environmental and land use issues apply, and if so how they will
be addressed:
• Threatened or Endangered species
• Habitat issues
• Wetlands and other protected areas
• Archaeological and historical resources
• Land development constraints
• Telecommunications interference
• Aviation considerations
• Visual, aesthetics impacts
• Identify and discuss other potential barriers
The site for the Dimond Community Complex has experienced a fair amount of development
with soccer and baseball fields, an elementary school, a high school, and a field house constructed
on the site. The Dimond Park Aquatic Center is another piece of the long range plan for the site,
which also includes a recreational facility and a library, so land development constraints are not
anticipated during the Conditional Use permitting for the new pool. Environmental or land use
conflicts with threatened or endangered species, habitat issues, archaeological and historical
resources should not arise due to the developed nature of the site. Wetlands delineation was
performed on the site and no wetlands were present. The scale of the proposed Dimond Park
Aquatic Center is in keeping with surrounding forested area and the nearby high school so
aviation conflicts and telecommunication interference are not anticipated. Since the majority of
the proposed hybrid ground source heat pump system at the Dimond Park Aquatic Center is
concealed below grade or within the pool building, no visual or aesthetic impacts are anticipated.
The proposed hybrid ground source heat pump system is a closed loop system so environmental
impacts are minimal.
4.4 Proposed New System Costs (Total Estimated Costs and proposed Revenues)
The level of cost information provided will vary according to the phase of funding requested and
any previous work the applicant may have done on the project. Applicants must reference the
source of their cost data. For example: Applicants Records or Analysis, Industry Standards,
Consultant or Manufacturer’s estimates.
4.4.1 Project Development Cost
Provide detailed project cost information based on your current knowledge and understanding of
the project. Cost information should include the following:
• Total anticipated project cost, and cost for this phase
Renewable Energy Fund
Grant Application
AEA 09-004 Grant Application Page 14 of 18 9/3/2008
• Requested grant funding
• Applicant matching funds – loans, capital contributions, in-kind
• Identification of other funding sources
• Projected capital cost of proposed renewable energy system
• Projected development cost of proposed renewable energy system
Total Anticipated Project Cost = $1,950,000
Total Project Cost Phase III Design & Permitting = $86,604
Total Project Cost Phase IV Construction, Commissioning, Operating = $1,863,396
Requested Grant Funding = $1,450,000
Applicant Matching Funds = $500,000
Other Funding Sources
Rasmuson Foundation and/or City & Borough of Juneau
Projected Capital Cost of Proposed Renewable Energy System = $1,775,097
Projected Development Cost of Proposed Renewable Energy System = $174,903
4.4.2 Project Operating and Maintenance Costs
Include anticipated O&M costs for new facilities constructed and how these would be funded by
the applicant.
• Total anticipated project cost for this phase
• Requested grant funding
The projected operating and maintenance costs for the proposed hybrid ground source heat pump
system at the Dimond Park Aquatic Center are $113,220; $110,000 for electricity and $3,220 for
routine maintenance. The hybrid ground source heat pump system is projected to decrease annual
energy costs 118% and 164% when compared with electric and oil heat systems, respectively.
Grant funding for operations and maintenance of the hybrid ground source heat pump system at
the Dimond Park Aquatic Center is not requested. Operations and maintenance of the system will
be funded from facility revenue and the City & Borough of Juneau Parks and Recreation
Department.
4.4.3 Power Purchase/Sale
The power purchase/sale information should include the following:
• Identification of potential power buyer(s)/customer(s)
• Potential power purchase/sales price - at a minimum indicate a price range
• Proposed rate of return from grant-funded project
This project does not provide the opportunity to purchase or sell electrical power.
4.4.4 Cost Worksheet
Complete the cost worksheet form which provides summary information that will be considered
in evaluating the project.
See attached cost worksheet.
Renewable Energy Fund
Grant Application
AEA 09-004 Grant Application Page 15 of 18 9/3/2008
4.4.5 Business Plan
Discuss your plan for operating the completed project so that it will be sustainable. Include at a
minimum proposed business structure(s) and concepts that may be considered.
The City & Borough of Juneau has received economic guidance regarding the operation of the
new Dimond Park Aquatic Center from The Sports Management Group, Inc. The Sports
Management Group, Inc. provided an in-depth analysis of potential operating strategies to
maximize cost recovery at the new swimming facility. The use of a hybrid ground source heat
pump system to meet the heating needs of the facility dovetails with The Sports Management
Group’s analysis by substantially reducing the energy costs associated with operation of the
facility. A copy of The Sports Management Group’s operational analysis for the Dimond Park
Aquatic Center is attached to this application.
4.4.6 Analysis and Recommendations
Provide information about the economic analysis and the proposed project. Discuss your
recommendation for additional project development work.
The operations of the completed Dimond Park Aquatic Center will be handled by the City &
Borough of Juneau Parks and Recreation Department. The maintenance of the facility will be
handled City & Borough of Juneau Building Maintenance Division. It is anticipated that the
facility will be managed in a similar manner to that suggested by the Sports Management Group’s
operational analysis. Key decisions regarding marketing, staffing, and admission pricing will be
critical to determining the success of the facility’s cost recovery efforts.
Monitoring of the facility’s user revenue from season pass sales and daily admission is
recommended to provide insight into Juneau’s market characteristics that may not be fully
represented in the Sports Management Group’s economic analysis. The City & Borough of
Juneau Parks and Recreation Department should adjust pricing as required to create the
appropriate balance between revenue generation and public use. Monitoring of the facility
staffing is recommended to identify times of overstaffing. Streamlining the facility’s staffing
based on observed use patterns is recommended.
Commissioning of the hybrid ground source heat pump system and other building mechanical,
electrical, and control systems has been included in the professional services agreement for the
project. The commissioning of all integrated building systems is essential for the building
systems to interact as designed and function in their most efficient manner. Commissioning is not
just recommended, it is mandatory.
Monitoring of the facility’s energy consumption and costs is also recommended to determine the
effectiveness of the hybrid ground source system and as a means to gage the potential of ground
source heat pumps at other City & Borough of Juneau facilities. Also, monitoring and reporting
of ground source heat pump system operations to AEA as required by the grant agreement will be
provided. Further energy conservation measures should be considered if the facility is exceeding
its projected energy consumption.
Renewable Energy Fund
Grant Application
AEA 09-004 Grant Application Page 16 of 18 9/3/2008
SECTION 5– PROJECT BENEFIT
Explain the economic and public benefits of your project. Include direct cost savings,
and how the people of Alaska will benefit from the project.
The benefits information should include the following:
• Potential annual fuel displacement (gal and $) over the lifetime of the evaluated
renewable energy project
• Anticipated annual revenue (based on i.e. a Proposed Power Purchase Agreement price,
RCA tariff, or avoided cost of ownership)
• Potential additional annual incentives (i.e. tax credits)
• Potential additional annual revenue streams (i.e. green tag sales or other renewable
energy subsidies or programs that might be available)
• Discuss the non-economic public benefits to Alaskans over the lifetime of the project
The proposed hybrid ground source heat pump system is projected to save $2,800,000 and
$4,700,000 in energy costs when compared with conventional electric and oil heat systems over a
25 year period. It is projected that a conventional oil heat system will require 63,200 gallons of
fuel oil to meet the Dimond Park Aquatic Center’s annual heating load. Over a 25 year period the
proposed hybrid ground source heat pump system will eliminate the consumption of 1,580,000
gallons of fuel oil.
The proposed hybrid ground source heat pump system is projected to reduce annual energy
expenditures approximately $130,000 to $180,000 when compared to conventional electric and
oil heat systems, respectively. While the project does not generate revenue through the
generation of electrical power, the ability of the ground source heat pump system to meet the
heating needs of the Dimond Park Aquatic Center utilizing an inexpensive renewable energy
resource will save the City & Borough of Juneau and local residents plenty.
The City & Borough of Juneau is not aware of additional annual incentives or revenue streams
that might be available due to the use of the proposed ground source heat pump system, but with
the increasing focus on energy independence such additional benefits may soon become available.
As manager of the Dimond Park Aquatic Center, the City & Borough of Juneau Parks and
Recreation Department will continue to monitor these opportunities in an effort to enhance the
facility’s cost recovery efforts.
This project provides an opportunity for the City & Borough of Juneau staff and public to learn a
great deal about the economic sustainability and viability of ground source heat pumps. This
project could help change the way the City & Borough of Juneau and the private sector address
the heating needs of future facilities. The renewable nature of this plentiful energy resource is
especially attractive to Juneau residents who recently experienced, albeit temporarily, the
economic hardship due to the loss of inexpensive hydroelectric power. Just as those hardships
brought greater awareness among all ages as to the importance of energy conservation, the use of
ground source heat pumps at the Dimond Park Aquatic Center could bring greater enlightenment
regarding alternative renewable energy sources. The lessons learned from the construction and
operation of the proposed hybrid ground source heat pump system will invariably increase local
familiarity with the technology and should reduce construction costs of future projects.
In addition to the great educational benefit to be derived from the proposed project, the
environmental benefit of eliminating the consumption of 1,580,000 gallons of fuel oil over 25
years of facility operation is staggering. From the elimination of environmental hazards
Renewable Energy Fund
Grant Application
AEA 09-004 Grant Application Page 17 of 18 9/3/2008
associated with oil extraction, to elimination of the environmental hazards associated with
transporting crude oil, transporting refined product and then storing it on site, to the elimination
of the air pollution associated with its combustion, it makes the project seem worthwhile even if
the ground source heat pump system wasn’t providing an economic benefit.
SECTION 6 – GRANT BUDGET
Tell us how much your total project costs. Include any investments to date and funding sources,
how much is requested in grant funds, and additional investments you will make as an
applicant.
Include an estimate of budget costs by tasks using the form - GrantBudget.xls
On October 2, 2007, Juneau voters approved $19.8 million for the construction of a new
swimming pool in Dimond Park adjacent to the Thunder Mountain High School. The
Department of Education & Early Development approved 60% debt reimbursement of
$8,650,853, thus reducing the share of the project costs borne by Juneau residents to
$14,609,488. Both of these approvals occurred prior to the energy anal ysis during the project
design that led to the decision to use a hybrid ground source heat pump systems rather than
conventional oil or electric heat systems. While the hybrid ground source heat pump system will
reduce operation costs over the life of the facility, it is estimated to increase initial design and
construction costs by $1,950,000. The City & Borough of Juneau submitted a $500,000 grant
request to the Rasmuson Foundation to assist in covering the additional cost of the hybrid ground
source heat pump system, but the outcome of this request is not known at this time. It is
estimated that $40,000 has been invested in consultant analysis of heating options, soil
conditions, and City & Borough of Juneau staff time while researching the potential of a ground
source heat pump system for the Dimond Park Aquatic Center. The Cit y & Borough of Juneau
considers this work Phase I Reconnaissance and Phase II Feasibility Analysis and has not
included these costs in the grant request, but would appreciate an y consideration due these
preliminary expenditures in the review of this grant request.
Design and Construction Administration by Consultant $113,447
Design and Construction Management by CBJ $61,456
Construction Cost* $1,775,097
Total Cost of Hybrid Ground Source Heat Pump System $1,950,000
Total Amount of AEA Renewable Energy Grant Request $1,450,000
Amount to be provided from other funding sources (either
Rasmuson Foundation or City & Borough of Juneau) $ 500,000
* Please see attached HMS construction cost estimate dated 09/24/08 for details
Renewable Energy Fund
Grant Application
AEA 09-004 Grant Application Page 18 of 18 9/3/2008
SECTION 7 – ADDITIONAL DOCUMENTATION AND CERTIFICATION
SUBMIT THE FOLLOWING DOCUMENTS WITH YOUR APPLICATION:
A. Resumes of Applicant’s Project Manager, key staff, partners, consultants, and
suppliers per application form Section 3.1 and 3.4
B. Cost Worksheet per application form Section 4.4.4
C. Grant Budget Form per application form Section 6.
D. An electronic version of the entire application per RFA Section 1.6
E. Governing Body Resolution per RFA Section 1.4
Enclose a copy of the resolution or other formal action taken by the applicant’s
governing body or management that:
- authorizes this application for project funding at the match amounts indicated in
the application
- authorizes the individual named as point of contact to represent the applicant for
purposes of this application
- states the applicant is in compliance with all federal state, and local, laws
including existing credit and federal tax obligations.
F. CERTIFICATION
The undersigned certifies that this application for a renewable energy grant is truthful
and correct, and that the applicant is in compliance with, and will continue to comply
with, all federal and state laws including existing credit and federal tax obligations.
Print Name Rod Swope
Signature
Title City Manager
Date
Please note that the following attachments are provided in support of the grant application:
1. Ground Source Heat Pump Construction Cost Estimate by HMS, Inc.
2. Energy and Life Cycle Cost Analysis by Alaska Energy Engineering LLC
3. Operational Analysis by The Sports Management Group, Inc.
4. Design Development Drawings by Jensen Yorba Lott, Inc.