Energy

Energy management is critical for local and state government agencies, focusing on sustainable practices, efficient resource utilization, and the transition to renewable energy sources. Governments play a crucial role in developing and implementing energy policies that reduce carbon emissions, lower costs, and ensure a reliable energy supply for their communities. This directory provides articles on energy, including discussions on related topics like SafeGov, which explores broader strategies for protecting communities from today’s threats.

Ever since the full extent of the water crisis in the city of Flint, Michigan, emerged, one question has persisted: Would this have happened in a wealthier, whiter community?
The nation’s capital and its largest city both got walloped by the same near-record blizzard this weekend. But while Washington struggled to recover, New York City was mostly up and running on Monday
Santa Monica was the first city in the nation to convert its operations to renewable power and in the coming years it has plans to expand its renewable energy purchasing to benefit all electric utility customers in Santa Monica
By 2030, Vaxjo, Sweden, aims to be completely free of fossil fuel use and dependency. It all started in 1996 with a plan to convert biomass to energy. Learn how Vaxjo navigated the politics and successfully partnered with the private sector
Creating energy from waste is the latest technology that municipalities are investing in, and Glendale, AZ, is considering a $110M facility that will convert 180,000 tons of garbage into 15 megawatts of electricity annually. To learn more about this facility and why Oslo, Norway has run out of garbage, read inside
In an effort to cut costs of maintaining and powering its street lights, a RI regional planning council is seeking state legislative help to acquire the assets. Inside we provide details on the legislation, cost savings and other similar efficiency activities
Long-term sustainability plans in NYC are aiming to cut carbon emissions by 30 percent by 2017. A public-private partnership has solar arrays being added to multiple city building rooftops. The entire program has no upfront cost for the city. Read inside for details of this and the Carbon Challenge issued to private businesses
Looking for a successful sustainability plan? Five years into a new Green Priority Initiative, Reno is saving more than $1.5M annually in energy costs. Likewise, Madison, WI, has created a public/private quality of life plan to reduce energy while simultaneously improving the health of its citizens. We give you access to their 80-page plan
A new technology that allows for electric buses to be charged while on route is being tested in Germany. The year long trial will demonstrate the viability of keeping low emission, low energy buses on the road for more operational hours
After just one month of testing new power management software, Spokane, WA, estimates annual savings of $15k by lowering computer energy use. We provide details on this effort, as well as how other cities are approaching energy efficiency
Baltimore, MD, is set to receive almost $53 million to reduce residential energy consumption. The funds are spread across multiple agencies and programs providing outreach to all residents. We provide details on these specific programs as well as similar efforts in other cities
Technology enables Portland, Oregon, to create electricity from the water flowing within its city’s pipes. Find out how the system works.
In an effort to provide lower rates and more options for its citizens, local governments in Santa Cruz County are teaming up to create a joint powers authority. Learn how this new Community Choice Aggregation plan is being implemented and how others are already saving
Working with a local utility, the Sheboygan, WI, wastewater treatment plant is now saving more than $80k annually vs. 10 years ago and has become 90% energy self-sufficient. Links to the ACEEE’s case study, specifics on success and new efficient technologies in this sector
By adding three CNG fuel terminals, El Paso, TX, expects to not only cut fuel costs, but also take a major step forward in its Livable City Sustainability Plan. Learn the details of the plan, where to find cost calculators for fleet fuel conversion and more inside.
As electricity costs rise, cities are finding lower cost solutions for operating water and sewer treatment services through solar power. We take a look at a few cities in CA who are focused on these projects. Read inside for details
With its first biodiesel fueling station, Smyrna, GA, will begin fueling and converting its municipal fleet with cooking oil that has been converted to diesel. Read the details on reduced emissions, savings, vendors and the City’s plan inside
A comprehensive energy efficiency plan is saving the Athens, OH, school district more than expected, with a recent audit finding $284k in savings last year. Read inside for components of the program, implementation and how other cities and towns are instituting energy efficiency programs.
The residents of Urbana, IL, are seeing significant savings on energy bills thanks to an energy aggregation program initiated by the city. For details on how to implement, expected savings and how your citizens will benefit, read inside.