State and local governments have an excellent opportunity to help steer America toward clean, renewable energy by applying for purchasing assistance through the Responsible Purchasing Network. This initiative, launched by the non-profit Center for a New American Dream, has teamed up with Think Energy, Inc, to provide three jurisdictions with professional advice and assistance in making a large purchase of clean, renewable energy.
Shifting to clean power reduces dependence on fossil fuels, provides a solution to America’s energy crisis, and helps curb climate change. Committing to clean energy can also help jurisdictions reach greenhouse gas emission goals, and help fulfill Ambient Air Quality requirements.
“By establishing programs that reduce the use of energy generated with fossil fuels, jurisdictions are leading by example to influence larger markets and other institutions. We’re looking for a few governments willing to take the lead by shifting 25% of their portfolio to clean, renewable energy supplies. New technologies and existing incentives now make this practical,” says Chris O’Brien, Director of the Responsible Purchasing Network.
Selected state and local governments will receive a detailed evaluation of clean energy products available, including a review of costs and benefits, a look at case studies from other jurisdictions, and a practical timeline for concluding a purchase. Participating jurisdictions will also engage in direct consultations with the Responsible Purchasing Network and Think Energy.
Jurisdictions can apply by visiting the following link. To qualify, applicants must be a state or local government and represent a minimum of 1,000,000 kilowatt-hours of electrical energy use annually. Furthermore, they must have political support and an appropriate level of funding for purchasing clean energy. Qualified candidates will be chosen that represent a diversity of geographic locations, jurisdiction sizes, scales of purchase (total MWh), and desired types of renewable energy products.
