In a significant stride towards sustainability, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson, alongside the city's Department of Environment and Department of Fleet and Facility Management, has proclaimed a milestone achievement in renewable energy. As of Wednesday, Chicago’s municipal operations have officially switched to 100% renewable energy sources, setting a new standard for large cities across the United States. This transition falls in line with the Sierra Club's 'Ready for 100' campaign and multiple years of determination from local organizations advocating for cleaner energy solutions.
Elevate, a nonprofit partner, the retail electricity supplier Constellation, and energy company Swift Current Energy all played key roles in this development, with the majority, 70%, of this renewable energy stemming from the new Double Black Diamond solar installation in Illinois. The remainder of the city's renewable mix will be supplemented by purchased renewable energy credits, in pursuit of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 62% come 2040.
Mayor Johnson highlighted the city's commitment to climate action, saying, “With this transition to renewable energy, we are achieving a goal that the City has been working towards for years and fulfilling a promise to Chicagoans via the creation of clean jobs and meaningful progress toward a sustainable future,” as reported by the City of Chicago's official press release.
In her remarks, Angela Tovar, Chicago's Chief Sustainability Officer, emphasized the environmental and equity milestones, "As one of the nation’s largest cities, we have a responsibility to lead through climate action that benefits the people and the planet." The incorporation of renewable energy into city operations is seen as a key step toward meeting the city's ambitious target of 100% renewable energy consumption by 2035, encompassing all of Chicago's needs.
Alongside the environmental benefits, this renewably powered move is said to foster job creation and training opportunities, particularly through the construction of the Double Black Diamond project. Chicago Women in Trades, an organization focused on equipping women with skills in construction and welding, stands as one of the beneficiaries, through integration in these green energy projects.
“Making Chicago greener and more livable is a process that requires collaboration and a shared vision,” noted Julie Hernandez-Tomlin, 2FM Commissioner. The collaborative process combined efforts from various city departments and partners, underlining the importance of united visions toward greener city operations.
The initiative also merits praise for its focus on equitable climate action. "We are proud to have supported the City of Chicago in accomplishing this feat," Delmar Gillus, Chief Operating Officer at Elevate, commented, reinforcing the impact cooperative governmental and community efforts can have on the larger scale. Elevate's involvement underscores the potential for such partnerships to serve as a prototype for other cities aiming to achieve similar renewable energy access for their residents.
