Spotlight on Cities With 100% Renewable Commitments

Last year, building on the success of cities already powered by 100 percent renewable energy, more cities made the commitment to get all of their energy from clean sources.

We know we can have healthier communities right now and a livable future for kids growing up today. But to get there, we must transform the way we produce and consume energy. That’s got to start with a commitment to 100 percent clean, renewable energy.

Last year, building on the success of cities already powered by 100 percent renewable energy, more United States cities made the commitment to get all of their energy from clean sources.

In December, San Diego, California – America’s eight largest city – committed to 100 percent renewable energy by 2035 after a unanimous city council vote. San Diego is the first American city of its size to make a legally-binding commitment to making a complete clean energy transition.

San Diego’s Mayor, Kevin Faulconer, said of his city’s commitment to 100% renewable energy, “It’s not a partisan issue, it’s the right thing to do.”

Cities from California to Texas to Minnesota have also joined the ranks. Rochester, Minnesota set a goal of 100 percent renewable energy by 2031, stressing the importance of active citizen engagement in the process. The proclamation signed by Mayor Ardele Brede stressed that “At the heart of a successful 100% renewables strategy, it is fundamental to allow open participation in the development and financing of energy infrastructure.”

Georgetown, a central Texas city with 50,000 residents, announced in March that they intend to eliminate natural gas as a source of electricity and rely solely on wind and solar. City officials cited the benefits of reducing pollution and saving water. But, according to city spokesperson Keith Hutchinson, “it was really primarily a price decision.”  

San Francisco, California has also set a target of 100 percent renewables by 2021.

This is just the beginning.  We’re sure many more cities will line up behind 100 percent renewable energy goals. 

Stay tuned!

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