This Wisconsin City Just Committed To 100% Renewable Energy

This Wisconsin City Just Committed To 100% Renewable Energy



By Amanda Froelich  
Posted on March 26, 2017


This is the largest city in the Midwest to commit to 100% clean energy.

Credit: TDS Business Blog

Because certain elected officials maintain that climate change is a “hoax” and, therefore, are dissolving the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) by the end of 2018, it is now up to every individual – particularly those politicians who work at local levels – to pass initiatives which aim to preserve the environment for wildlife and future generations. One Midwestern city that is striving to accomplish this feat is Madison, Wisconsin.
Recently, Madison became the first city in Wisconsin and the largest city in the Midwest to declare its commitment to 100% clean energy. The Sierra Club reports that the city council voted to allocate $250,000 to develop a plan by January 18, 2018, for city operations to achieve its goal of running entirely on clean energy and net-zero greenhouse gas emissions. Such is to take place across all sectors, including heating, electricity, and transportation.
Council member Alder Zach Wood stated in a press release:

“Madison’s historic commitment to 100 percent clean energy shows that we are determined to lead the way in moving beyond fossil fuels that threaten our health and environment. The benefits of a transition to 100 percent clean energy are many. These goals will drive a clean energy economy that creates local jobs, provides affordable and sustainable electricity, and results in cleaner air and water. I am proud to be a part of this council that has made the historic commitment that will lead our community to a more sustainable future.”

Alder Denise DeMarb shared similar sentiments, commenting:

“Tonight’s vote for 100% clean energy shows a commitment to the future. This vote is for our children and grandchildren. The work ahead will take many willing hands, decisions and some sacrifice, but the result is so worth it. The future became brighter tonight because of the vote for clean energy. Madison residents can look forward to a stronger, cleaner and healthier place for all to live.”

As Inhabitat points out, Madison is not the first U.S. state to commit to 100% green energy. Other cities that have taken the pledge include Burlington, Vermont; Aspen, Colorado; the California cities of San Diego, San Francisco and San Jose; Rochester, Minnesota; St. Petersburg, Florida; Grand Rapids, Michigan; East Hampton, New York; Greensburg, Kansas; and Georgetown, Texas.

Last Tuesday, Abita Springs, Louisiana, also voted to transition to 100% clean, renewable energy. According to The Sierra Club, the commitment from both cities is a clear sign there is bipartisan support across the country for a renewable energy future. Now, this desire just needs to be acknowledged by the White House. What are our thoughts? Please comment below and share this news!