The city is hosting three virtual information sessions this summer, each with the goal of deepening the community’s familiarity with city climate work and inspiring collective action. The first session focused on energy. Here are five takeaways from the conversation.
1. Climate work is a citywide priority.
City Manager Nuria Rivera-Vandermyde kicked off the meeting to emphasize that every city department is tackling climate change, not just the Climate Initiatives Department. “From Water Utilities capturing methane from our water resources recovery facility to Open Space working to restore the health of our soils, this is a citywide responsibility,” she said.
2. The transition to a clean energy economy must be equitable.
While the average household spends about 2% of their income on energy, 30% of Colorado households spend much more. Here in Boulder, more than 200 households spend at least 14% of their incomes on energy. We need to keep these challenges in mind as we work to transition to renewable energy sources like solar and wind. It’s also critical that we maintain housing affordability while making homes more efficient, safe and healthy.
Two city projects are addressing energy affordability head-on.
Ponderosa Solar Garden: subscriptions to the garden, funded by the city, bring down energy costs and save residents about $400 annually.
Valmont Solar Garden Credits: this program has helped participating community members with low incomes reduce their energy burden – the percentage of income that goes to pay for energy costs – from 31% to 18%.
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