Sustainability is a key organizing principle of the South Loop District Plan.
A major component of sustainability is energy production and its efficient use. Future development will be dependent on energy that provides both environmental and economical benefits to future users. Energy efficiency and conservation strategies implemented on-site and off-site will be a basis in attaining the South Loop District Plan vision.
District Energy systems supply efficiently produced energy to multiple users. An example of a modern district energy system is one that burns renewable fuels (such as wood or biomass) to heat water, which is then distributed to buildings for space heating. This is a proven technology that is in use in the United States and internationally.
A District Energy system is an alternative that can meet the following objectives:
- increase the efficient use of energy,
- result in the reduction of greenhouse gas emission,
- allow for fuel flexibility including renewable sources such as biomass, and
- stabilize and reduce fuel and equipment costs for business owners.
These potential benefits are important in meeting environmental goals, providing a reliable and efficient source of energy, and can be a stimulus for urban growth and development.
The City estimates that an additional 15 million square feet of development will occur in the South Loop District over the next 40 years. This accounts for two-thirds of City's future development potential. The development densities anticipated in the South Loop District will approach those of a typical downtown. Development density is a major requisite in District Energy feasibility.
