While many outcomes of the last election were disastrous, in Gainesville we had a tremendous victory for renewable and equitable energy. Along with several other local organizations (ACLC, Florida For All, NAACP, LWV, and Solar United Neighbors) the Energy and Climate Action Team (ECAT) of the Sierra Club, organized a public education campaign to restore local control of Gainesville Regional Utility (GRU). This was a huge win, with over 73% voting in favor of local control. The mandate was a direct result of sustained efforts to engage diverse constituencies and highlight the dangers of the state takeover.

The coalition worked to raise awareness about the harmful impacts of decisions made by the Governor-appointed authority, including eliminating net metering, dismissing a climate-conscious General Manager, and reappointing a former General Manager previously removed by the City. Through extensive community education and collaboration, the coalition mobilized voters to a historic victory. 

ECAT focused on engaging traditionally underrepresented communities and those most affected by high energy burdens. By facilitating community conversations, forums, and targeted presentations, the coalition broadened its reach and further expanded its impact through radio ads, social media campaigns, billboards, and print media. Messaging emphasized the real-life consequences of the state takeover, resonating particularly with UF college students, religious groups, ethnic minority communities, and centrist and conservative parent groups.

This historic victory would not have been possible without the dedication of our volunteers, partner organizations, and the generous support of supporters and funders. Their investment of time and resources enabled us to reach communities that are often left out of the conversation, hear their concerns, and amplify their voices. We are now in an effort to center and address their concerns about disparities in energy burdens as we reach for renewable, and equitable energy for all. 

There is a lawsuit pending to dismiss our electoral victory which will be decided in the next month or two. Regardless of the outcome in court, we have built trust and strong partnerships in our community which we will leverage to address environmental injustice and with the continued support of our community, we will continue to advance our goal to achieve 100 percent renewable energy by 2045. 

- Jyoti Parmar, Clean Energy Organizing Representative for the Sierra Club of Florida