Over 100 American cities and several states have passed resolutions committing to reach 100 percent renewable energy by 2030-2050.
Consider the current moment in American history. Just recently, Americans were divided about climate change, but now 72 percent of Americans say it’s important to them.
And everyone wants cheaper rates. That explains the growing wave of communities pressing their leaders for 100 percent commitments.
Granted, a resolution does not represent success in switching to next-generation methods. Indeed, it’s not even a set of tools, a blueprint or even a sketch.
It’s simply – but significantly – a shared statement of commitment to work together to realize a common goal: cheaper, cleaner energy.
But the groundswell of committed cities tells us several things about today’s energy market:
Renewable energy is widely recognized as here to stay.Eventually, all roads lead to renewable energy – the ultimate, limitless source.Renewable prices are undercutting fossil prices so quickly that many groups are shifting their city planning focus from incorporating renewables to centering on it asap.Because technological progress has outpaced expectations and renewables are cheaper than fossils, the number of communities recognizing the viability of renewable energy is accelerating.Five cities – Burlington, Vermont; Greensburg, Kansas; Rock Port, Missouri; Georgetown, Texas; and Aspen – have already achieved 100 percent clean energy, and not out of virtue, but in recognition of the cheaper rates awaiting them. Georgetown’s Republican mayor, Dale Ross, is a CPA; he says the numbers don’t lie.
Kirby MacLaurin
Durango