Climate and energy
Vision
A city that meets carbon reduction goals by transitioning to a clean energy economy which creates good jobs, keeps energy dollars in the local economy, lowers energy costs, and creates a healthier environment.
Questions
A poor city like Cleveland has lots of challenges. How can we keep focused on our climate goals (such as obtaining 100% of electricity from clean, renewable sources by 2050) and do our part to address global climate change, the most serious threat facing civilization?
How can the city take advantage of the historic shift to a clean energy economy and built new industries?
How can the city help develop financing programs that make it easy for residents and businesses to install rooftop solar?
How can Cleveland Public Power live up to its potential as a municipal utility?
Recommendations
The city’s Office of Sustainability has developed climate action plans for city operations and the larger community. Their implementation should be a top priority for all city officials.
Support development of Cleveland’s Clean and Equitable Energy Future plan, which will arm Cleveland residents, stakeholders, and decision makers with the information to transition to 100% clean electricity in an achievable and equitable manner.
Reform and rebuild Cleveland Public Power. Other municipal utilities are tremendous assets for their cities.
Continue the electricity aggregation program which allows the city’s First Energy customers a simple way to get 100% clean energy.
Work with NOACA to promote transportation alternatives and reduce carbon emissions from the transportation system.
Implement the Cleveland Tree Plan to increase the city’s tree canopy.
Support the Icebreaker Project to test the feasibility of wind turbines on Lake Erie and develop an off-shore wind industry in Ohio.
Support the Go Green Energy Fund, a nonprofit green bank designed to help finance renewable energy projects in Cuyahoga County.
Work with residents to create a Clean Energy Community Benefits Fund, such as the one in Portland, OR, which provides dedicated funding for climate action that advances racial and social justice.
Advocate for a national Green New Deal to tackle the interrelated crises of climate change and economic inequality.
Resources
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