Microgrids for Community Resilience (MCR) Grant Program

Microgrids for Community Resilience (MCR) Grant Program is sponsored by Colorado Division of Local Government (expanded with U.S. Department of Energy formula funding 40101d). This opportunity supports mission-aligned projects and measurable outcomes.

Microgrids for Community Resilience Construction: Storage and Controller (Round 4) Local Government/Organization: Routt County Status: Partially Complete Filed On: 2024-09-06T09:35:01 The Microgrids for Community Resilience (MCR) Grant Program (as stated in C. R. S.

40-9. 8-104 and as created by HB22-1013 ) is intended to support cooperative electric associations and municipally owned utilities in establishing microgrid resources for rural communities. Colorado received U.S. Department of Energy formula funding (40101d) which expanded the funding for this program.

Funding under this NOFA can go towards microgrid assets, excluding new generation. For this funding cycle, $ 4,279,430 available to all utilities, local governments, and community-based anchor institutions in Colorado. The microgrids funded through this opportunity will support community-level resilience to reduce impacts during electric grid disruptions.

Submission Deadline: December 4th, 2024 at 4:30 PM MT For any program inquiries, project eligibility inquiries, or portal questions please contact the MCR Program Manager A. APPLICANT/CONTACT INFORMATION 1. Local Government/Organization: Routt County In the case of a multi-jurisdictional application, select the other participating eligible organizations: 2.

Principal Representative: (In the case of a multi-jurisdictional application, principal representative of the lead organization.) Role: Program Manager/Primary Contact Mailing Address: 522 Lincoln Ave Email Address: mbricker@co. routt.

co. us 3. Responsible Administrator (will receive all mailings) for the Application: > 11/22/24, 11:15 AM Application Viewer > https://dola.

colorado. gov/grants_portal/portalApplicationResponseView. jsf?

id=13800&jfwid=xmuYufBj2cm2rZ41jiH5nQN8klOoW4srAS6lpI-I:0 1/13 Role: Program Manager/Primary Contact Mailing Address: 522 Lincoln Ave Email Address: mbricker@co. routt. co.

us Enter Name/Title of Project Official Authority A municipally-owned utility or local government must list a Chief Elected Official (i.e., Mayor, Chair/President of the Town/City A rural electric cooperative or investor-owned utility list their Board Chair. A community anchor institution must list their Board Chair or Executive Director.

Melina Bricker, Routt County Assistant County Manager > 11/22/24, 11:15 AM Application Viewer > https://dola. colorado. gov/grants_portal/portalApplicationResponseView.

jsf? id=13800&jfwid=xmuYufBj2cm2rZ41jiH5nQN8klOoW4srAS6lpI-I:0 2/13 a. What type of entity is applying?

Municipal Utility | Local Government b. Location and Population a. What is the city/town/unincorporated area the project is located in?

b. What county is the project located in? What is the population of the location of your project and/or the population of the area served by this project?

For more details on DOLA's definition of rural, please refer to the NOFA. a. What type of construction/implementation project is this?

b. What type of microgrid asset(s) are you proposing for construction/implementation? energy storage that enhances adaptive capacity c.

Describe the microgrid project(s) that the construction/implementation grant will support. What is the problem, opportunity, or challenge that resulted in the need for a microgrid project? How does this project enhance energy resiliency for the community?

The Hayden Solar project includes a 15-acre solar array outside the Town of Hayden's Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP). We are requesting funding to construct a Battery Energy Storage System that will provide critical continued power to the pumps of the WWTP to provide resiliency back up power during short utility outages. This reduces the need to turn on and rely upon diesel generators to keep the pumps functioning.

The array itself is a 2MW-AC/2. 5MW-DC system, with a proposed 4,498,741. 0 kWh production and estimated PV yield of 1,767.

3 kWh/kWp. Hayden is listed as an area of climate and social risk and vulnerabilities, and experiences outages that impact the Town's ability to maintain power-based infrastructure such as the WWTP pumps. A single generator at the WWTP running on diesel provides backup power during these times.

The Town of Hayden has within their master plan goals to improve energy resilience and find pathways toward renewable energy resources as they transition from coal and other non-renewable resources.

This array and BESS, creating a microgrid, will also support Routt County and the City of Steamboat Springs (all partners on this solar energy project) in their Climate Action Plan goals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and work toward 100% renewable energy in the County and Municipalities. The Problem: Harsh weather is a major cause of power outages, especially in rural areas like Hayden.

High winds can damage power lines and poles, while heavy snow and ice build-up can weigh down and snap lines, delaying repairs. Lightning strikes and wildfires risk damaging transformers and grid equipment, sometimes requiring preemptive shutdowns. Extreme cold increases energy demand, straining the grid and leading to equipment failure.

The Battery Energy Solar System (BESS) offers resilience by supplying backup power during outages, ensuring continuity for critical facilities, and reducing grid strain during peak loads. This project enhances energy resilience for the community by providing a reliable backup power source for the Town of Hayden's critical infrastructure, specifically the Waste Water Treatment Plant (WWTP).

The Battery Energy Solar System (BESS) reduces dependency on fossil fuels and supports continuity during power outages caused by harsh weather. By bridging the gap until backup generators activate, the BESS prevents service disruptions, lowers energy costs, and ensures clean energy availability. This resilient setup safeguards public health, protects local water resources, and offers a scalable model for rural communities.

d. If proposing battery storage, what technology is being proposed? > 11/22/24, 11:15 AM Application Viewer > https://dola.

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id=13800&jfwid=xmuYufBj2cm2rZ41jiH5nQN8klOoW4srAS6lpI-I:0 3/13 e. What is the annual kWh of energy storage being proposed? The proposed BESS technology is sized at 175kW/500kWh, designed to ensure essential operations continue during outages or generator malfunctions.

The annual kWh of energy storage being proposed is 175kW/500kWh. Please provide a description of the existing generation technology that will be tied to the project Existing generation technology for the Town of Hayden does include a small solar array just down the road, producing approximately 358,078 kWh of energy. The new construction of the 15-acre array at the WWTP is a 2MW-AC/2.

5MW-DC system projected to produce 4,48,741. 0 kWh per year. The project will integrate a photovoltaic (PV) solar array with the Battery Energy Solar System (BESS) to support the Town of Hayden's Waste Water Treatment Plant (WWTP).

The proposed PV system, sized at 2MW-AC/2. 5MW-DC, will generate approximately 1,767. 3 kWh per kWp, ensuring substantial clean energy production.

The BESS, rated at 175kW/500kWh, will store this solar energy for reliable use during grid outages and peak demand times. Together, the solar array and BESS will support continuous WWTP operations, reducing the need for diesel backup and bridging power gaps until backup generators engage.

This setup minimizes reliance on fossil fuels, lowers long-term operational costs, and enables seamless power continuity during outages, enhancing both resilience and sustainability for critical infrastructure in g. How does this project address multiple community benefits? There are many benefits to the community with this project.

1. This will provide critical resilience for the WWTP in times of outage, providing clean energy for maintaining pumps rather than immediate reliance upon a diesel generator. 2.

This array and energy storage system will offset the Town of Hayden's energy costs, and provide a template for other community-based microgrids in other vulnerable areas throughout the county. 3.

This microgrid will move the Town of Hayden, the City of Steamboat Springs, and Routt County at large closer to their goals of 100% renewable energy, decreased GHG emissions, decreased reliance upon fossil fuels, and resilient infrastructure in utility power provision. 4. A microgrid will provide dispatchable energy and offset energy costs for the community.

This project brings multiple benefits to the Hayden community by providing a reliable, clean energy source that supports essential services and reduces costs. The Battery Energy Solar System (BESS) and solar array combination will supply backup power to the Waste Water Treatment Plant (WWTP), safeguarding local water resources and public health during outages.

By decreasing reliance on fossil fuels, the project promotes long-term sustainability and cleaner air, while the expected energy cost savings can free up municipal funds for other community needs. Additionally, this project serves as a replicable model for other small, rural towns aiming to become more energy independent, fostering resilience in Colorado's coal transition communities.

The BESS infrastructure also opens the door for future microgrid expansions, positioning Hayden to adapt to evolving energy demands and environmental challenges while creating a stable, resilient energy system. h. Describe the project scope of work The Routt County Solar Project comprises two key locations, one of which spans 15 acres adjacent to the Hayden Waste Water Treatment Plant (WWTP).

This site will house a photovoltaic (PV) array system, sized at 2MW-AC/2. 5MW-DC, to generate renewable solar power. The PV system is expected to produce approximately 1,767.

3 kWh per kWp annually, offsetting 100% of the town's electrical costs. This energy generation will directly support the WWTP, ensuring uninterrupted operations even during grid outages, thus protecting the local water supply. The Battery Energy Solar System (BESS), with a 175kW/500kWh capacity, will be integrated into the PV system to provide enhanced energy resilience.

The BESS will serve as a bridge during power interruptions, covering immediate energy needs until backup generators engage, or if the generators fail. This ensures the WWTP remains operational, reducing the risk of sewage overflows and safeguarding local water resources. The project scope of work includes the following: 1.

Securing of the 15 acres in the Town of Hayden (complete). 2. Helioscope build design of the array, BESS, and and projected energy production and storage (complete).

3. Permitting and subcontractor procurement (Q2 2025). 4.

Construction of the microgrid (Q3 2025). 5. Commissioning and closeout (Q1-2 2026).

This grant application specifically requests $1,394,400 million to fund the BESS component, which is essential for sustaining resilience. This funding request is specifically for the BESS and separate from the PV project itself, despite their concurrent development. We strongly believe that the inclusion of a BESS, despite the added cost, is imperative to meeting climate and community resilience goals.

Without energy storage, outages and reliance upon fossil fuels for dispatchable energy continues to be a vulnerability for our community. The BESS design and construction provides the Town of Hayden with immediate, emergent, and clean energy production in a model that can be replicated throughout out rural areas. We are actively pursuing further financial support from local partners and federal i.

Ownership of equipment If the applicant is not owning or maintaining the equipment, please submit a LOS or MOU that formalizes the partnership with the owner/maintainer. Upload documents here > 11/22/24, 11:15 AM Application Viewer > https://dola. colorado.

gov/grants_portal/portalApplicationResponseView. jsf? id=13800&jfwid=xmuYufBj2cm2rZ41jiH5nQN8klOoW4srAS6lpI-I:0 4/13 j.

Please upload any demonstrations/letters of support. Please include any demonstrations/letters of support from external stakeholders: community-led groups, anchor institutions, local governments (only applicable if applicant is rural electric cooperative or IOU) or organizations representing socially Energy Project LOS Combined. pdf a.

What steps has the applicant taken in advance of applying for this construction grant? To prepare for this construction grant and ensure project readiness, Routt County has partnered with NV5, a project team specializing in photovoltaic (PV) arrays, microgrids, and energy storage systems, since early 2024.

This partnership has facilitated significant progress in planning, design, and site preparation for the solar array and Battery Energy Solar System (BESS) installation. The county secured a 15-acre parcel near the Hayden Waste Water Treatment Plant (WWTP) for the solar array site, chosen to optimize PV production.

The location was evaluated for project suitability, confirming it is free from floodplain risks and meets orientation criteria for maximum solar exposure. NV5 completed a conceptual design, approved by all project stakeholders, which is prepared for development into construction-ready engineering plans.

Key preparatory actions include detailed due diligence efforts, such as topographic surveys, underground utility locates, geotechnical testing, and title reviews to confirm property boundaries and address easements. This foundational work supports efficient site preparation and construction processes, reducing potential delays. Additionally, a comprehensive financial strategy has been developed to ensure smooth match funds.

In alignment with an anticipated summer 2025 start, a project timeline was developed to ensure all permitting and subcontractor selection through an RFP process is complete by spring. The readiness and timing of this work allow for optimal construction conditions and resource availability.

By undertaking these extensive preparations, Routt County has positioned the Hayden Solar Project and BESS system for efficient construction, long-term resilience, and immediate community impact. b. How does this potential project align with other local and/or regional plans?

Please explain and cite specific risk mitigation and community plans as relevant. The Hayden Solar Project and Battery Energy Solar System (BESS) align closely with Routt County's Climate Action Plan (CAP) and the Town of Hayden's Master Plan, both of which emphasize transitioning to renewable energy, increasing resilience, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

The project addresses multiple community goals, including advancing clean energy and reducing fossil fuel dependency, as outlined in the CAP. Specifically, the CAP targets a 74% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, and this project directly supports that goal by offsetting 100% of the electrical needs at the Hayden Waste Water Treatment Plant (WWTP), a critical local infrastructure.

The project also supports Colorado's Greenhouse Gas Pollution Reduction Roadmap, which aims for a 100% renewable energy transition by 2040. By implementing the solar array and BESS, Routt County contributes to the state's climate resilience and sustainability targets, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and decreasing the community's overall carbon footprint.

In terms of risk mitigation, the BESS improves resilience to extreme weather events, which are anticipated to increase with climate change. This aligns with regional emergency response strategies, as the BESS provides reliable backup power to maintain WWTP operations during outages, preventing potential environmental hazards from wastewater overflow and ensuring continuous service to residents.

The BESS also supports grid stability, an essential component in a region affected by power outages due to natural hazards. As a model for other rural communities transitioning from coal-based energy, this project demonstrates a scalable, replicable approach to clean energy deployment, further supporting statewide resilience initiatives and encouraging broader regional adoption.

Through these contributions to state and local objectives, the Hayden Solar Project and BESS help advance Routt County's long-term sustainability, grid reliability, and energy independence, solidifying its role in achieving community and regional climate goals. c. Has the applicant utilized and/or promoted energy efficiency and demand-side management programs?

Please answer as applicable to your organization. Routt County has actively engaged in promoting energy efficiency and supporting programs aimed at reducing energy demand. Although Yampa Valley Electric Association (YVEA), the local utility, does not currently offer demand-side management programs directly accessible to the county or its residents, Routt County has participated in alternative initiatives to encourage energy savings.

For instance, the county has joined the Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy (CPACE) program, which facilitates financing for energy efficiency upgrades in commercial properties, helping businesses reduce energy costs and environmental impact.

Additionally, Routt County supports the Yampa Valley Solar Co-op, a community initiative that enables residents to adopt solar power more affordably through group purchasing, contributing to a reduction in community-wide electricity demand. These efforts underscore the county's commitment to energy efficiency and renewable energy adoption, aligning with broader goals in Download > 11/22/24, 11:15 AM Application Viewer > https://dola.

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id=13800&jfwid=xmuYufBj2cm2rZ41jiH5nQN8klOoW4srAS6lpI-I:0 5/13 Routt County's Climate Action Plan to promote sustainability and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. By participating in these programs, Routt County encourages community-wide adoption of energy-saving practices, even in the absence of formal demand- side management options from the utility provider.

Is the project on a State or National registered historic building, structure, site, or in a State Historic District? If the project is on the State or National registry, please provide the registry number. DOLA may need to seek a determination of effect from History Colorado and the State Office of Archaeology and Historic Preservation.

f. Project Operations Plan Post Construction Describe the project operations plan post construction that demonstrates the project will operate as represented for at least five years and for the life of the project. This should include how the project will be operated, the estimated costs, how maintenance and operations will be funded, and that there will be sufficiently experienced personnel to operate the project.

The Hayden Solar Project and Battery Energy Solar System (BESS) have a comprehensive operations plan to ensure they function effectively for at least five years and throughout their operational lifespan. After construction, a qualified Operations and Maintenance (O&M) contractor will manage the system, selected through a competitive Request for Proposal (RFP) process.

This contractor will have demonstrated experience with both the selected BESS manufacturer and the PV system, ensuring technical proficiency in system maintenance, troubleshooting, and performance optimization. Operations and Estimated Costs - Post- construction, the system operational costs will primarily include routine maintenance, performance monitoring, software updates, and potential component replacements.

The estimated annual O&M costs will be covered by savings generated from reduced energy expenses for the Town of Hayden, as the solar array offsets 100% of the electrical costs for the Waste Water Treatment Plant (WWTP). These savings, combined with state and federal tax incentives for renewable energy systems, help secure funds to support ongoing operations.

Maintenance and Funding - Maintenance activities will include regular inspection of the PV array and BESS components, cleaning of solar panels, and replacement of any degraded components to maintain peak performance. The BESS manufacturer will provide a service agreement covering hardware and microgrid control software, ensuring updates and technical support.

Any major repairs or battery replacements will be scheduled according to the system's expected lifecycle, supported by reserve funds set aside annually from the project's energy savings. Funding for maintenance will come from the County's budget, leveraging the cost savings achieved through the project.

Additionally, the County will pursue any available Experienced personnel from the selected O&M contractor will be responsible for day-to-day system management. These contractors are required to have expertise in handling PV and BESS systems and will work closely with the BESS and PV manufacturers to ensure seamless operations.

Additionally, County personnel will be trained on basic monitoring and reporting procedures, allowing the county to stay informed on system performance and address minor issues efficiently. Training will include system monitoring, data analysis, safety protocols, and emergency response procedures in case of system faults.

Monitoring and Performance Assurance - The project will include an advanced monitoring system integrated with the BESS to track performance metrics, energy output, and system health. Real-time monitoring will allow for immediate identification and resolution of any technical issues, optimizing energy production and ensuring the system operates as intended.

The O&M contractor will also conduct annual performance assessments to evaluate the system's efficiency, identifying opportunities for further cost-saving or performance-enhancing adjustments. Long-Term Sustainability - The design and operational planning for the Hayden Solar Project emphasize sustainability and resilience.

With proper maintenance, the BESS is expected to provide reliable service for over a decade, while the PV system has a lifespan of 20 to 25 years. By utilizing qualified personnel, setting aside reserves, and leveraging energy savings, Routt County will ensure the system's continued operation and effectiveness in supporting the WWTP's energy needs, enhancing community resilience, and contributing to the county's climate action goals. F.

MEASURES OF RISK AND VULNERABILITY As specific as you can be for your service territory or proposed microgrid plan or project(s) location, please refer to the MCR Climate & Social Risk and Vulnerabilities Mapping Tool to highlight risks and vulnerabilities including: A. SOCIOECONOMIC RISKS & VULNERABILITIES Does your proposed potential project(s) location meet the threshold for Colorado Environmental Justice Flag?

> 11/22/24, 11:15 AM Application Viewer > https://dola. colorado. gov/grants_portal/portalApplicationResponseView.

jsf? id=13800&jfwid=xmuYufBj2cm2rZ41jiH5nQN8klOoW4srAS6lpI-I:0 6/13 Please include any supporting narrative explaining the vulnerable populations served by this proposed potential project(s), if applicable. You may refer to any of the data indicators within or outside the mapping tool and/or relevant qualitative Socioeconomic Risks & Vulnerabilities supporting narrative attachment.

pdf B. CLIMATE/EXTREME WEATHER RISKS & VULNERABILITIES Does your proposed potential project(s) location meet the threshold for Colorado Climate Vulnerabilities Flag? Please include any supporting narrative explanation of exposure to severe weather and natural disasters.

You may refer to any of the data indicators within or outside the mapping tool and/or relevant qualitative information. Hayden and the broader Routt County region are increasingly vulnerable to severe weather and natural disasters, which can disrupt energy systems and negatively impact public safety and infrastructure.

The MCR Climate & Social Risk and Vulnerabilities Mapping Tool highlights several significant risks that this project aims to address, particularly in terms of climate impacts that disproportionately affect vulnerable populations, such as low-income households, elderly residents, and those impacted by the coal transition.

Exposure to Extreme Weather and Climate Events - Severe Storms and High Winds: Routt County, including the Town of Hayden, is exposed to high wind events, which can cause significant damage to power lines, transformers, and other grid infrastructure. High winds can snap power lines and knock over utility poles, causing immediate power outages.

In rural areas like Hayden, power restoration can be slow due to the sparse infrastructure and long distances between repair teams. These outages can last for hours or days, depending on the severity of the damage, impacting residents' access to electricity for basic needs, especially during winter months when heating is essential.

The Mapping Tool identifies areas prone to wind-related disruptions, underscoring the need for backup power solutions like the Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) that can keep essential services running during such events. Heavy Snow and Ice Storms - The region is also prone to heavy snow and ice storms, which can weigh down and snap power lines, causing widespread outages.

Snow and ice accumulation on power infrastructure increases the risk of system failures, while icy roads impede repair crews ability to access affected areas. These events exacerbate the challenges faced by rural communities, where long travel times and limited resources make quick repairs difficult.

Hayden, like much of the Yampa Valley, is exposed to these weather extremes during the winter months, with increased energy demand due to heating needs. The solar array and BESS will provide a reliable local energy source, reducing dependence on the grid and ensuring continued operation of critical infrastructure, such as the Waste Water Treatment Plant (WWTP), during these winter storms.

Wildfires - Wildfires are a growing concern across Colorado, including in Routt County. The threat of wildfires is increasing due to hotter, drier conditions, which have led to higher burn probabilities. The Mapping Tool indicates areas of elevated wildfire risk, particularly in the summer months when dry conditions prevail.

Wildfires pose both direct and indirect risks to the energy infrastructure. Not only can wildfires damage power lines and transformers, but utilities may also preemptively shut off power to high-risk areas to prevent sparks from starting new fires, further exacerbating power outages.

The BESS can act as a backup energy source during such outages, ensuring that Hayden critical infrastructure remains operational even if the grid is disconnected to prevent fire risks. The proposed Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) will serve as a critical buffer during such events.

By storing excess solar energy generated by the array, the BESS will provide backup power to essential services, such as the Waste Water Treatment Plant (WWTP), during outages. In the event of a power disruption, the BESS will supply power immediately, ensuring that vital infrastructure remains operational until the grid is restored or backup generators can engage.

This will prevent environmental hazards, such as wastewater overflows, and help maintain the community's resilience against the increasing frequency and severity of weather-related power disruptions. b. Is the proposed microgrid in an environmentally sensitive area?

c. Threats to microgrid assets from hazards What steps have been taken/will be taken to ensure these microgrid assets are projected from threats of climate impacts?

To protect the microgrid assets from climate impacts, several proactive steps have been taken in the planning and design phases of the Hayden Solar Project and Battery Energy Storage System (BESS): Site Selection: The 15-acre site for the solar array is located outside FEMA-designated flood zones, minimizing flood risk.

Comprehensive topographic and geotechnical surveys were conducted to assess soil stability, erosion potential, and drainage to avoid water damage. Resilient Design: The solar array is designed to withstand extreme weather conditions, including high winds typical in Routt County. The panels will be securely mounted with weather-resistant materials to endure storm conditions.

The BESS will be housed in fire-resistant, weatherproof enclosures to protect it from wildfires, extreme snow, and ice accumulation. Elevated Installations: Critical > 11/22/24, 11:15 AM Application Viewer > https://dola. colorado.

gov/grants_portal/portalApplicationResponseView. jsf? id=13800&jfwid=xmuYufBj2cm2rZ41jiH5nQN8klOoW4srAS6lpI-I:0 7/13 components, such as transformers and battery storage units, will be elevated above ground to protect them from potential flooding and snow accumulation, ensuring functionality during extreme weather.

Wildfire and Extreme Heat Protection: The system is designed to minimize exposure to wildfire risk, with fire-resistant materials used in BESS enclosures. Additionally, thermal management systems will prevent overheating during heatwaves. Monitoring and Maintenance: Real-time monitoring systems will track the health of the microgrid components, allowing for quick detection of vulnerabilities or damage caused by extreme weather.

Regular inspections and maintenance, including cleaning and battery health checks, will be conducted to ensure the system remains operational. Long-Term Resilience: The microgridÿ¢ÿ¿ÿ¿s design allows for future expansion, adapting to increasing climate risks. Future integration of additional renewable energy sources or storage will further enhance its resilience to climate impacts.

These steps ensure the Hayden Solar Project and BESS remain resilient and operational, even under extreme climate conditions. The following questions speak directly to impacts of climate threats on the project location. Please utilize the MCR Climate & Social Risk and Vulnerabilities Mapping Tool for specific data inputs and answer as d.

What is the flood hazard risk of the project location? 0 . % The project is outside of the FEMA flood hazard zone.

https://hazards- fema. maps. arcgis.

com/apps/webappviewer/index. html? id=8b0adb51996444d4879338b5529aa9cd e.

What is the probability of wildfire at the project location? Note: There are multiple indicators to choose from: burn probability, risk to potential structures, wildfire exposure type. The proposed Hayden Solar Project site is located in an area with a moderate burn probability.

According to the Colorado Wildfire Risk Assessment (CO-WRA), this region falls into the moderate risk category for wildfire occurrence. The site's proximity to existing structures and vegetation types further influences its exposure to potential wildfires. To mitigate these risks, the project will implement fire-resistant materials and design features, ensuring the system's resilience against wildfire threats.

Do you have any dedicated funding streams, ongoing investments, or financial reserves to mitigate, respond to, and recover from natural disasters and/or extreme weather risks?

Routt County has developed a variety of dedicated funding streams, ongoing investments, and financial reserves to mitigate, respond to, and recover from natural disasters and extreme weather risks, ensuring the Hayden Solar Project and Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) remain resilient.

Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) Tax Credits: The Investment Tax Credit (ITC) available through the IRA provides a 30% federal tax credit for the solar array and BESS, reducing the upfront costs of the project. These credits allow for significant financial savings, improving the project's financial feasibility.

Additionally, under IRA provisions, direct pay allows local governments to receive tax benefits as direct reimbursements, enhancing cash flow and further supporting the project's financial stability. Local Funding and Reserves: Routt County has allocated financial reserves for ongoing maintenance and operational needs of the solar array and BESS.

The savings generated from reduced energy costs at the Waste Water Treatment Plant (WWTP) will offset 100% of its electricity needs and provide funds that will be reinvested into the system's upkeep. These reserves will cover routine maintenance, repairs, and upgrades to keep the project operational, even in the event of severe weather disruptions.

State and Federal Grants: Routt County is actively Resilience (MCR) program and Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) are two key sources of funding for projects that enhance energy resilience and mitigate the impacts of climate change.

These grants will help support the project's implementation, including the expansion of microgrid technology and efforts to safeguard critical infrastructure during extreme weather events. The $1 million requested from DOLA will fund the BESS component, ensuring continuous power during grid outages caused by extreme weather.

Insurance Coverage: Routt County has secured insurance to protect the solar and BESS infrastructure from natural disasters such as wildfires, flooding, and extreme storms. This coverage ensures that the systems can be quickly repaired or replaced if damaged, minimizing service disruptions and maintaining critical operations like the WWTP.

Insurance acts as a financial safeguard, providing funds for recovery without burdening the county's budget. Community and Corporate Partnerships: Routt County is exploring partnerships with local businesses and corporations to secure additional financial support. These partnerships will provide resources for future system expansions, such as the integration of additional renewable energy sources or storage capacity.

They also help foster community involvement in sustainability efforts, increasing the project's long-term viability and impact. Long-Term Financial Planning: Through a combination of energy savings, tax incentives, insurance, grants, and partnerships, Routt County has established a solid financial foundation for the Hayden Solar Project and BESS.

These efforts ensure that the project can mitigate and recover from extreme weather events while continuing to provide reliable, clean energy for critical infrastructure. This comprehensive financial strategy guarantees that the project remains resilient and sustainable in the long term, adapting to the increasing challenges posed by climate change. > 11/22/24, 11:15 AM Application Viewer > https://dola.

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id=13800&jfwid=xmuYufBj2cm2rZ41jiH5nQN8klOoW4srAS6lpI-I:0 8/13 C. INFRASTRUCTURE RISKS & VULNERABILITIES These questions are most relevant to utility applicants, but please answer to the best of your ability. a.

How many blackouts did your grid experience in 2019, 2020, 2021 and 2022? According to Yampa Valley Electric Association, individual meters suffer blackouts but are not tracked in the same way as grid blackouts. The meter at the WWTP experiences around one blackout per year.

Generally, there are numerous areas that experience drops in electricity, primarily due to inclement weather, accidental line or pole destruction, extreme high winds, seasonal flooding, and snow load issues. Outages last anywhere from a few minutes to several hours throughout Routt b. How many brownouts did your grid experience in 2019, 2020, 2021, and 2022?

Brownouts, or flickering or dimming of electricity, are not tracked by YVEA. c. How many customers will be served by project?

Please also note any communities (disadvantaged, tribal, and rural communities served) The Hayden Solar Project and Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) will primarily serve the Town of Hayden and its critical infrastructure, including the Waste