Sprinting Toward 100% Clean Energy
Newsletter August 2022
Those of us in California have the incredible privilege to be living in a state that has set clear targets for transitioning to 100% clean, renewable electricity by 2045. As the fifth largest economy in the world, California’s leadership matters, and has helped set the pace for other states.
On the Central Coast, we’re even more fortunate. Thanks to the Community Environmental Council, most residents in Santa Barbara and Ventura Counties – about 1.4 million people – are set to receive 100% renewable electricity a full decade sooner, transitioning away from investor-owned utilities using a powerful tool called Community Choice Energy.
But goals are one thing; reaching them is another. In this issue, we share how homeowners, apartment managers, and activists are ensuring that the big ideas you hear about on the news are actually implemented on the ground, right here in our communities.
Inflation Reduction Act Is a Win for the Planet
Community Environmental Council CEO/Executive Director Sigrid Wright shares her reaction to President Joe Biden's signing into law the single largest investment in combating climate change EVER. Read more.
Carpinteria Couple Is All-In to Build Smart
When Hunter and Casey Turpin couldn't find their dream home, they decided to build it – starting with core principles centered in sustainability. The Turpins open their doors to share how they flipped the switch to build an all-electric home that gets greener as California adds more renewables to the grid. Read more.
CEC Brings Clean Energy to Affordable Multifamily Housing
Affordable housing managers and owners, did you miss our Save Money & Go Green webinar? It's not too late to get real-world tips on how energy efficiency, electrification, and on-site renewable energy can reduce utility and maintenance costs, improve the comfort and retention of tenants, and increase property value. Watch the webinar recording. Co-hosted by CEC, 3C-REN, and SOMAH.
Changing the World, One City Council Meeting at a Time
Commercial and residential buildings are one of the largest energy users in our region. To quickly transition to 100% clean energy, we need to ensure that all new buildings are built all-electric and solar-ready. CEC's Climate Policy Associate Alexis Rizo is leading the charge in Ventura County. Listen to a recent interview with Alexis on KPPQ 104.1 and sign up to receive alerts about opportunities to engage.
Ventura County Energy Needs Assessment Survey
Do you, or someone you know, manage or operate a business or a commercial, multifamily, or industrial facility in or near the cities of Ventura or Oxnard? If yes, complete our energy needs assessment survey and you could receive up to $40 for sharing your input.
Save the Date
Mark your calendars for National Drive Electric Week and prepare to learn everything you need to know to make the switch to driving electric. In addition to nationally sponsored events, plan to join CEC for our Electric Vehicle 101 webinar on October 4, 2022 from 12:00 – 1:00 p.m. PST that will get you started on your electric vehicle journey. Stay tuned for more details. In the meantime, read more about how CEC is working to bring California's transportation emissions down to zero.
Join Us in Taking Bold Climate Action
UC Climate Stewards Certification Course
Starts Wednesday, September 14, 2022
6:30 – 8:30 p.m. PST
This program is designed for anyone looking to create and implement climate solutions in their homes, workplaces, and communities. Graduates of CEC's UC Climate Stewards certification program are equipped to play an active role in the statewide effort to advance rapid and equitable solutions to the climate crisis in their community – and make a positive impact throughout the Central Coast. Participants meet weekly on Zoom for nine weeks with some weekend in-person field trips. Learn more and apply by September 9, 2022.