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[)RAFT nRAI`7' 1~RAf~ T Passive solar energy design is also suitable for Pleasanton. Passive solar energy techniques do not employ mechanical means to utilize heat or light from the sun, but instead employ strategic building and landscaping placement as well as building design to naturally heat and cool buildings. Distributed Generation A distributed generation system involves small amounts of energy generation for the purpose of meeting local loads and/or displacing the need to build (or upgrade) local distribution lines or large central power plants. The City's Generator Siting Ordinance encourages the development of distributed generation facilities by permitting photovoltaic facilities throughout the City. Other types of distributed generation facilities, such as wind energy facilities, small fuel cell facilities, and small natural gas co-generation facilities, are allowed in selected areas of the City, typically away from residential areas where they may generate noise or air quality impacts. One small natural gas co-generation facility is in operation at the Roche Molecular System's facility in Hacienda Business Park. CONSERVATION EFFORTS When an individual or organization takes steps to cause less energy to be used than would otherwise be the case, this is called conservation. The steps taken may involve improved efficiency, avoidance of waste, and reduced consumption. In July of 2001, the City Council adopted a pledge endorsing the Governor's "Energy Conservation Pledge" and committed Pleasanton to pursue a 15 percent reduction in energy use. To conserve energy, in 2000 and 2001 the City updated its traffic signal lighting by replacing standard incandescent bulbs with light emitting diode (LED) bulbs. In addition to the traffic signal upgrades, in 2001 the City enrolled in an Energy Star building performance improvement program. As part of the program, City facilities are currently being upgraded based on energy audits. Although difficult to quantify, staff believes that the energy usage of facilities existing in 2001 has been reduced by approximately 15%. The City has played a role in conservation outreach to the general public, largely through the distribution ofconservation-related reading materials. Conserving energy now and in the future will leave more resources for future generations. Water and Energy Conservation Water and energy conservation are linked. A tremendous amount of energy is required to pump water. The California State Water Project consumes approximately 2-3% of the State's energy to pump water.' In addition to pumping water, it also takes energy to treat wastewater. Thus, if water is conserved, so is Page 4 April 19, 2005