A resolution to transition to clean energy is a good first step for Winston-Salem's city council, which now must follow up that pledge with an action plan.
The resolution passed unanimously on Monday, Nov. 16, by the City Council advocates for 50% clean and renewable energy for buildings and fleet vehicles where feasible by 2030, with a complete transition to 100% clean and renewable energy in all operations by 2050. The resolution also calls for equity to be considered in energy efficiency efforts and green job creation.
"Winston-Salem leaders are showing the same foresight as other North Carolina local governments in pledging action to combat climate change," said N.C. Sierra Club volunteer Gus Preschle, who helped lead the organization's support of the resolution. "The next move should be to investigate and implement strategies that increase energy efficiency, take advantage of programs in North Carolina that promote renewable energy, and empower community engagement."
According to Rajesh Kapileshwari, who serves on the city's Community Sustainability Program Committee and helped shepherd this resolution to a vote, “The first step will be to implement energy efficiency programs, followed by electrifying fleets, and strategically adding solar panels on buildings. Participating in available renewable energy programs will begin a steady market transformation to decarbonize our economy.”
Winston-Salem joins 27 other communities in the state who have already committed to a clean energy future. “The leadership has pledged to reduce greenhouse gas emissions of its buildings and fleets, and to promote green jobs, green job training, and to develop plans to improve the environmental quality of life of its residents,” Kapileshwari said.