About 5 months ago, San Diego outlined an ambitious blueprint for making the city cleaner and more sustainable. Officially announced by Mayor Kevin Faulconer, the San Diego Climate Action Plan represents a bold step in the fight against global warming and pollution.
The actual plan is still under development. But what we know so far sounds very promising. More important, it is also very doable – especially given solar’s role in the overall strategy.
What’s in the Climate Action Plan?
Spread over the next 2 decades, the Climate Action Plan will revolutionize how we power our city.
Below are just some of the goals related to commuting:
- Boosting public transport use from 10% to 25%
- Increasing the number of bikers from 1% to 18%
- Increasing the number of “walking” commuters from 1% to 7%
San Diego also plans on installing 30,000 electric vehicle (EV) charging stations throughout the city over the next 20 years. This will have a huge impact on the amount of vehicular exhaust that we pump out into the streets on an annual basis.
But what we’re most excited about is the role that renewable energy will play – especially solar.
According to the Climate Action Plan, San Diego will generate 100% of its electricity from solar, wind, and water. However, given California’s frequent droughts, we don’t have much hope for hydroelectric power. And although wind energy is impressive, the startup costs are prohibitive – unless you have a big budget.
But solar won’t be a problem – at all.
When it comes to harnessing free sunshine, our city leads the state – and our state leads the country.
Solar power can even be used to charge EVs – something that 40% of electric vehicle drivers in California already do on a regular basis.
Is the Climate Action Plan Realistic?
Obviously, there are skeptics. Big change is always scary. And certain industries will get hurt (namely oil, gas, and coal).
But the plan is achievable. And far from hurting the economy, this greening of San Diego will actually create more jobs than it destroys.
According to Mayor Faulconer,
It’s important and I know we can achieve those goals. I know it won’t be easy, but at the same time when we look at the world-class leadership we’re doing already on solar… We can build upon that.
And he’s absolutely right.
If you’d like to join us in making San Diego greener, contact us for a free consultation. You’ll also end up saving a ton of money in the process. Going solar is one of the most effective ways to reduce your electricity bill.
