For EA Credit 1, an energy model was prepared for our dedicated, stand alone data center. The design case was based on a fully loaded facility, with 7.5 megawatts of server load and associated MEP systems sized to support this final build out, scheduled for 2014. The results of the energy model predicted an amount of $ 10,769,027 in annual energy costs for this project at the 2014 final buildout timeframe. According to EA Credit 6 NCv2.2 , 35% of the EA Credit 1 value is $3,769,159 and would be the amount required to be purchased from Green-e certified providers as green power. However, a fully loaded state will not be realized for many years. The server load currently planned for the first three years is 3.5 megawatts for the first year, 5.1 megawatts the second year, and 6.9 megawatts the third year. The projected energy costs for the first year are $1,634,196 the first year, $3,731,486 the second year and $5,122,136 the third year. We will be happy to furnish back up calculations and assumptions upon request. Using the calculation procedure required by the NC 2.2 reference guide, in order to get the EA Credit 6 Green Power point, in the first year, we will be required spend two and a half times our actual energy cost for Green Power. Since EA Credit 6 anticipates an initial two year Green Power commitment, we request a determination regarding purchasing 35% of the projected yearly energy costs for the first two years as outlined above instead of the calculated full load design case.
The applicant\'s methodology for calculating the amount of Green-e Renewable Energy Credits (RECs) that need to be purchased to meet the intent of EAc6 is incorrect. The EAc6 calculations are based on quantity of green energy purchased, not the dollar value. The correct method to calculate the required REC purchase is to take the estimated annual electrical consumption value (kWh) from the EAc1 documentation, and engage in a two year contract with a Green-e certified REC provider for the purchase of 35% of this electricity usage annually. Alternately a one-year contract for 70% of the annual kWh usage could be utilized.