Sustainability Action Plan 2022

A prerequisite for installing renewable energy systems is to maximize energy efficiency at facilities and reduce peak loads to prevent oversizing generation equipment and the resulting unnecessary costs. Section 4.3 of the Sustainability Action Plan addresses the energy efficiency component of this equation. Reducing peak electricity loads and utility demand charges can be accomplished by participating in utility demand response programs. In addition, battery energy storage (BES) technologies charged by solar generation can supply loads in the afternoon and evening peak periods (4 p.m. to 9 p.m.). Thermal energy storage systems can provide chilled and hot water during the same period to offset electric usage.

Another way to increase renewable or carbon-free energy at district facilities is through utility-purchased offsite green grid energy. The Sunnyvale Center already receives 100% renewable electricity through Silicon Valley Clean Energy. Both Foothill and De Anza colleges purchase grid electricity through Constellation New Energy, delivered through PG&E transmission and distribution networks, with a renewable power content of 27%.

The district should explore opportunities to improve the renewable content of purchased electricity for Foothill and De Anza through PG&E or third-party programs. In addition, the district should evaluate the feasibility and potential benefits of investing in offsite renewable generation through project ownership or power purchase agreements (PPAs) with a goal of 100% renewable energy at the campuses. The district will not pursue renewable energy by purchasing renewable energy credits.

The district has already installed significant solar PV systems at the Foothill and De Anza campuses. Additional solar capability will likely need to be installed to achieve the district carbon reduction goals. A feasibility study should be prepared to determine if additional solar power can be installed at the campuses and determine the optimal sizing of these systems. This study would be incorporated into the proposed Electrification Feasibility Study (described in Section 4.2.2) to determine if campus loads will accommodate additional solar PV installations. Solar thermal hot water heating should also be evaluated for pool heating loads