The transition away from dirty fuels to 100% clean, renewable energy is underway. Carbon emissions are at their lowest levels since 1991, at the same time that clean and renewable energy like wind and solar has surpassed coal to become the largest source of newly installed electricity in the world.
In Idaho, 2016 has been a landmark year for clean energy development. Successful solarize programs ushered in more than one million dollars of private investment in distributed energy resources, multiple utility scale solar projects installed in Idaho Power service territory represent hundreds of millions in clean energy assets, and Idaho Power’s new community solar pilot project will help meet customer demand by expanding access with new clean energy options.
While federal policies and state leadership are driving the transition around the country, cities must be an essential part of the solution as we transition to 100% renewable energy. To get there in Idaho, we need strong leadership from local officials to set the course for 100% clean, renewable energy right here in Boise.
The good news is that Boise has already started thinking about renewable energy and will fund a study looking at citywide renewable energy plans.
The benefits of this transition are clear. Clean, renewable energy like wind and solar is affordable, reliable, and increasingly accessible for cities and communities across the country. The price for solar has fallen 80% in recent years, and the price for wind power has fallen 60%. Clean energy is now more affordable than coal and gas in many places. Idaho is already home to almost 400 clean energy jobs in fields like manufacturing and installation.
Today 19 cities from San Diego and Salt Lake City to smaller towns like Georgetown, Texas, and Greensburg, Kansas, have committed to 100% clean energy. And we believe Boise should be next.
Clean energy works for everyone and communities like Boise are banding together to demand more from our civic leaders. By committing to 100% clean, renewable energy in Boise, we can pave the way for a more livable community with cleaner air, more control over energy choices for families, and more jobs for our workers.
The transition away from fossil fuels to 100% clean, renewable energy is happening. The only question is whether Mayor Bieter and Boise will help get ahead of this transition and lead our community to a brighter future. I’m ready for 100% clean energy and it’s time for Boise to say they’re ready too.