Author: Denise

DC Has More Climate Work to do Than You Think

Written by Nicole Schroyer

Washington, DC is a national icon when it comes to climate action. We don’t always get as much recognition as states but hey… we’re used to that. In December 2018 we officially became one of the strongest national climate action leaders. After years of intense advocacy, coming from actors such as CCAN, DC Climate Coalition, and DC residents, the DC Council unanimously passed the Nation’s most ambitious clean energy law.

The DC Climate Coalition fights for clean energy, 2018.
  • 100% renewable (NOT nuclear) energy by 2032.
  • Emissions free public transportation and privately-owned fleet vehicles by 2045.
  • Strong new energy efficiency standards for new and existing buildings larger than 50,000 sqft (which make up 74% of DC’s electricity driven emissions).

This. Is. Climate. Leadership.

DC’s climate leadership doesn’t stop there. In July 2019, the US Green Building Council released a report ranking the country’s greenest states by LEED square footage per capita. DC didn’t make the top ten list… but not because it isn’t the greenest, but because it isn’t a state. Actually, DC boasts more square feet of LEED certified construction per capita than any state in the US.

AND, this year, the American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy ranked DC 5th on the city scorecard, which compares emissions reducing initiatives in 75 of the largest cities around the country. 

AND, the District’s median Energy Star efficiency score is 74 while the national average is only 50.

We are setting a top tier example for other cities and states, and for the world. Go us! 

Proposed 2-megawatt solar array, shown in this rendering, that will consist of more than 5,000 solar panels and be located on land owned by the Washington Archdiocese in northeast Washington D.C. (Catholic Energies).

AND, the Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Washington, along with others, recently announced a plan to create DC’s largest solar array of about 5,000 panels.

AND, In August, PEPCO, the largest distributor of electricity in the District, reported that 5.4% of the energy they supply to DC is coming from renewable sources. According to the new law, 17.5% of DC’s energy needs to come from renewables by December 2019. This is where RECs (Renewable Energy Credits) come in. Pepco will make up for the 12.1% difference with these credits. When we reached out to Pepco they said they are “on track” to meet the 2020 RPS. 

Sidebar: [However, as Tyrion Lannister once said, “nothing someone says before the word ‘but’ really counts”]

BUT there is more work to be done.

You probably remember that the IPCC has said we have 12 years to make unprecedented changes to our current system. The headline was everywhere. The IPCC was basically repeating what scientists and environmentalists like me (and maybe you) had already known for years. Climate change is a real AND time-sensitive issue. 

Headlines after the 2018 Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) 1.5°C Special Report was released.

That’s why DC’s climate legislation is so important. It sets a legally binding timeline for DC to cut greenhouse gas emissions in half by 2032, and sets us on the path to a carbon neutral economy in the District.  Although it’s one of the most ambitious climate laws in the country, it may not be ambitious enough. The climate crisis, which we are already experiencing in DC, calls for something as tough as – if not tougher than – what we enacted.

Twelve years from 2018 (when the IPCC 1.5°C special report was released) is 2030. The District won’t even be running on 100% renewable energy by then, let alone be carbon neutral. 

Michael Marshall, in an opinion piece for Forbes, explains what the IPCC’s warning really means, stating “the reality is that there is no such cut-off: just a problem that gets worse and worse the later we leave it.”

What Climate Change Means for the District:

On July 8th the District received a month’s worth of rain in an hour. Let me say that again… a MONTH’S WORTH IN AN HOUR. It’s predicted that in DC, a 1-in-100 year storm will become a 1-in-25 year storm by 2050, and a 1-in-15 year storm by 2080. We must act now before this becomes our reality.

During the deadly heat wave in late July, DC’s Heat Emergency Plan was implemented. Six lives were lost due to the heatwave. Not normal. Not okay. This is climate change. No. These are signs of a climate emergency.

What’s worse? Despite the climate emergency being felt locally, the important timeline that the climate law mandates is perhaps in jeopardy. 

The District’s public transportation system is supposed to be emissions free by 2045, yet WMATA doesn’t even have a plan in place to transition to electric buses. 

Vehicles are the second highest emitters in the District, comprising 23% of all emissions. The Clean Energy Act requires the DC Department of Motor Vehicles to create a vehicle excise tax incentivizing fuel efficient vehicles by January 1, 2020, yet there are no public reports on current steps being taken by these agencies.

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In July, MOMS Clean Air Force, a grassroots organization of over a million moms and dads hosted the play-in for climate action. Children from all over the country came to the Capitol to tell the hill to act now. CCAN, MOMS and others lobbied DC Council to implement the provisions of our new law before it’s too late.

In DC, low-income residents spend as much as 12% of their income on energy utility bills. The Clean Energy Act requires that in 2020, the Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE) and the DC Sustainable Energy Utility (DCSEU)  will allocate at least 30% of the funds from the sustainable trust fund increases to low income residents for programs including energy bill assistance and workforce training. To date, no progress has been reported on these initiatives. Accountability and transparency are critical to making sure we achieve the change we need for a livable future.

Our new law funded the DC Green Finance Authority, effectively establishing one of the nation’s first Green Banks. It’s expected to attract $5 private dollars to every $1 public dollar to help fund clean 

energy projects in places such as low-income communities around the District. However, corruption is already a concern for the DC Climate Coalition. Denise Robbins, Communications Director at CCAN, wrote an op-ed featured in the Washington Post, illuminating issues with the newly confirmed nominees to the DCGB board. Conflicts of interest tamper with the effectiveness of an organization that has the ability to have a positive effect of this magnitude.

Stories like these put a bad taste in DC residents’ mouths. When we lose hope, we lose this battle.

The DC government isn’t doing a great job at generating trust. And this is a government-heavy law. DC residents need transparency and clarification as to how the law is going to be implemented. There is danger in resting now. The government must be held accountable through the implementation process. We have the opportunity to solidify our role as leaders in a global transition away from carbon.

We want our law to set an example of what is possible when people work together to solve complex and seemingly insurmountable problems at a local level.

Here’s what needs to be done:

  • The DC Council should request updates from the DMV and DOEE regarding their plans to create the excise tax by the established deadline of January 1, 2020.
  • The DC Council should ask the DOEE and the DCSEU to report on their progress in establishing plans, including community outreach and engagement, for meeting funding goals for low income residents by 2020.
  • WMATA should develop and implement an electrification plan immediately.
  • The D.C. Council should pass an amendment that requires the Green Bank to establish strong oversight policies as law.

Please join us in this fight. Sign up to volunteer, stay updated through our email list, donate — one or all of the above. Anything helps. Together, we can keep moving DC forward. 


DC Council Passes Strongest Climate Policy in the Nation

DC Council Passes Strongest Climate Policy in the Nation

“Clean Energy DC Act” mandates 100% clean electricity by 2032, groundbreaking efficiency standards, and more

Law will bring 100% renewable energy to the White House while Trump Administration denies climate change

WASHINGTON, DC — Today, DC Council legislators took the historic and dramatic step of passing the “Clean Energy DC Omnibus Act of 2018,” which mandates that 100 percent of the city’s electricity come from renewable power by the year 2032. This represents the strongest legislative mandate of its kind of any state in America. It will take effect in the nation’s capital — including the White House — even as the Trump Administration moves backwards on climate policy.

Click here for a summary of the bill’s main features.

The Clean Energy DC Act is seen as a key response to the recent national and international reports that paint an alarming picture of of current and future economic and humanitarian harm to Americans unless the US and nations worldwide transition off of fossil fuels very quickly. By passing this bill, DC’s local legislators will take the lead nationally on climate change, shortly after Trump Administration officials atrociously promoted the benefits of coal at the United Nations’ annual global climate summit.

“We are on the threshold of passing legislation that will put us at the forefront of the nation in the effort to combat climate change,” said Councilmember Mary Cheh (Ward 3). “Even though by ourselves we are a small jurisdiction, we can serve and have served as a model for other jurisdictions. More importantly, we are in a loose association with other local and state jurisdictions so that even though the federal government is in default of international climate accords, we will meet them.”

“This victory shows the true power of determined grassroots advocacy,” said Camila Thorndike, DC Campaign Director at the CCAN Action Fund, sister organization of the Chesapeake Climate Action Network. “With the passage of this bill, we’re taking the power back from President Trump and taking control of our energy future. The majority of the country is with us — concern about climate change has never been greater. Now we know we can fight the odds if we organize. This is a new day for a new District of Columbia, and for grassroots organizing across the country.”

“This legislation reduces emissions at the rate demanded by the science, and it passed unanimously,” said Jamie DeMarco with the Citizens Climate Lobby. “There is now a clear consensus to act on climate, and we see that reflected in the bipartisan climate legislation that was recently introduced in Congress.”

“The nation’s capital is a model for the rest of the nation on climate action, leading the way to reducing greenhouse emissions through smart investments in renewable energy and energy efficiency,” said Mark Rodeffer of the Sierra Club DC Chapter. “We have spent incalculable time and energy working on this bill and we could not be more gratified by its passage today. D.C. is not on track to meet our current carbon reduction and climate targets. But we’ll be on the path to substantial reductions of climate pollution once Mayor Bowser signs this bill.”

“For years, DC’s faith communities have been responding to the climate crisis by shifting to cleaner power and speaking out to the Council for our neighbors and all creation,” said Joelle Novey of Interfaith Power & Light. “In fact, over forty of the District’s congregations are already lighting their sanctuaries with solar power. Today, we’re so encouraged to see our city following our lead, and hope—as the nation’s capital—DC will serve as a hopeful beacon to the rest of the United States that our future is 100% renewable.”

“Man-made climate change is the most serious threat human-kind has ever faced. Science is telling us that we have only a few years to act, or there is no turning back,” Rev Lennox Yearwood Jr., President & CEO, Hip Hop Caucus. “Our communities are already seeing the dire consequences from the continued use of fossil fuels through stronger storms, polluted air and water, and more droughts and wildfires. The historic passing of the Clean Energy Act today shows that local leaders in D.C. are committed to addressing the seriousness of the threat of climate change with solutions that can work for all. As the Trump Administration and some leaders in Congress take us backwards on climate action, D.C. and other local governments across the country should be commended for stepping up on behalf of our communities now and the planet for future generations.”

“Climate change is a national emergency that for too many years District leaders have refused to address with concrete legislation,” said Justin McCarthy of the DC Statehood Green Party. “Make no mistake, we are still a long way away from solving the climate crisis, and additional action will be required down the road, but passage of this ambitious climate bill is a major step forward. We commend DC Council on its passage.”

“Communities that have done the least to cause climate change —the poor, people of color, coastal townspeople, displaced immigrants – disproportionately bearing the burden of climate change,” said Judith Howell, a member of 32BJ SEIU. “We cannot assume that humans can simply adapt to any change that we face and working people in the U.S. and around the world will be extremely vulnerable to those changes,” added Howell. “Unions can play a big role in fighting climate change. 32BJ SEIU has proudly signed on the New Green Deal in Congress and we strongly support the Clean Energy DC Omnibus Act.”

“Today, moms and dads in DC and across the country are celebrating the passage of an extraordinary climate bill—one of the strongest in the nation. Today’s vote is a real victory for our children’s health and future. Our Councilmembers have unanimously embraced clean energy and a safe future. Our families thank the Council for their bold climate leadership, and we stand ready to throw our full support around the implementation of this remarkable bill,” said Molly Rauch, Public Health Policy Director for Moms Clean Air Force.

The United Nations’ Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) released a report finding that the world has 12 years to cut global carbon emissions in half in order to prevent catastrophe. And the Fourth National Climate Assessment, released by the Trump Administration the day after Thanksgiving in an apparent effort to reduce news coverage, paints an alarming picture of current and future economic and humanitarian harm to Americans unless the US and nations worldwide transition off of fossil fuels very quickly. The “Clean Energy DC Omnibus Act of 2018,” or “Clean Energy DC Act,” is seen as the District’s answer to these reports. It takes a comprehensive approach to reducing carbon emissions, cutting greenhouse gas emissions nearly in half  by 2032.

The “Clean Energy DC Act” strengthens the District’s renewable electricity requirement to 100 percent by 2032 through the Renewable Portfolio Standard. This would put DC on the fastest timeline to 100 percent clean electricity among states in the country — California recently passed a bill for 100 percent carbon-free electricity by 2045.

It also creates groundbreaking efficiency standards for existing buildings, and funds local programs to assist low-income residents as the city transitions to more sustainable clean energy systems.

In addition, this legislation takes aim at emissions from home heating and transportation. It would scale up an existing utility fee called the Sustainable Energy Trust Fund (SETF), which would raise tens of millions of dollars to finance renewable energy and energy efficiency projects and provide assistance to low-income DC residents.  It would also adjust the vehicle excise tax to incentivize clean cars and make owning dirty vehicles more expensive. The legislation also authorizes the District to put a price on transportation fuels if Virginia and Maryland commit to the same.

This bill is supported by the “DC Climate Coalition,” which is comprised of more than 110 environmental and justice advocacy organizations, faith groups, unions, consumer advocacy organizations, D.C. businesses, and more.

 

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Tuesday, December 18: DC Council to Pass Strongest Climate Bill in the Nation

Tuesday, December 18: DC Council to Pass Strongest Climate Bill in the Nation

“Clean Energy DC Act” mandates 100% clean electricity by 2032, groundbreaking efficiency standards, and more, bringing renewable energy to the White House while Trump Administration denies climate change

Press conference on Freedom Plaza to follow Council vote

WASHINGTON, DC — On Tuesday, December 18, the DC Council is expected to pass the country’s strongest bill to address climate change. The “Clean Energy DC Omnibus Amendment Act of 2018” passed its first vote unanimously on November 29, all but assuring its passage on December 18.  This bill would secure 100 percent renewable electricity by 2032, create groundbreaking energy efficiency standards, raise money to weatherize low-income homes, provide major incentives for electric cars, and much more.

By passing this bill, DC’s local legislators will take the lead nationally on climate change, as the federal administration backtracks. The vote will take place one week after officials with the Trump Administration promoted the benefits of coal at the United Nations’ climate conference in Poland in a panel that was shut down by protesters.

WHAT: Final vote for “Clean Energy DC Act” and Press Conference to Follow
WHERE:
  – Vote to take place in Wilson Building, 1350 Pennsylvania Ave NW
  – Press Conference on Freedom Plaza, 1339 Pennsylvania Ave     NW
WHEN: Tuesday, December 18, immediately after Council vote (sometime between noon and 4:00pm. Will provide updated timing on Tuesday morning.)
SPEAKERS:
  – Camila Thorndike, CCAN Action Fund
  – Reverend Lennox Yearwood, Hip Hop Caucus
  – Jamie DeMarco, Citizens Climate Lobby
  – Mary Anne Hitt, Sierra Club
  – Nikhil Balakumar, Coalition for a Resilient DC
 – Molly Rauch, Moms Clean Air Force
  – Joelle Novey, Interfaith Power & Light – DMV Region

The climate crisis has reached a new level of urgency as recent federal and international reports paint an alarming picture of current and future economic and humanitarian harm to Americans unless the US and nations worldwide transition off of fossil fuels very quickly. The United Nations’ Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change found that the world has 12 years to cut global carbon emissions in half in order to prevent catastrophe. The “Clean Energy DC Omnibus Act of 2018,” or “Clean Energy DC Act,” is seen as the District’s answer to these reports. It takes  a comprehensive approach to reducing carbon emissions, cutting greenhouse gas emissions nearly in half by 2032.

The “Clean Energy DC Act” strengthens the District’s renewable electricity requirement to 100 percent by 2032 through the Renewable Portfolio Standard. This would put DC on the fastest timeline to 100 percent clean electricity in the country — California recently passed a bill for 100 percent carbon-free electricity by 2045. This requirement would apply to the White House.

It also creates groundbreaking efficiency standards for new and existing buildings, and funds local programs to assist low-income residents as the city transitions to more sustainable clean energy systems.

In addition, this legislation takes aim at emissions from home heating and transportation. It would scale up an existing heating fee called the Sustainable Energy Trust Fund (SETF), which would raise up to $70 million to finance renewable energy and efficiency projects and provide assistance to low-income DC residents.  It would also adjust the vehicle excise tax to incentivize clean cars and make owning dirty vehicles more expensive. The legislation also authorizes the District to put a price on transportation fuels if Virginia and Maryland commit to the same.

This bill is supported by the “DC Climate Coalition,” which is comprised of more than 110 environmental and justice advocacy organizations, faith groups, unions, consumer advocacy organizations, D.C. businesses, and more.

CONTACT:
Denise Robbins, Communications Director, CCAN Action Fund, denise@chesapeakeclimate.org, 608-620-8819
Barbara Briggs, 350 DC, barbarahbriggs@gmail.com
Justin McCarthy, DC Climate Coalition, jlawrencemccarthy@gmail.com, 540-312-3797

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DC Climate Advocates Hold Beach Volleyball “Flash Mob” Before Key Council Hearing on Historic Climate Bill

DC Climate Advocates Hold Beach Volleyball “Flash Mob” Before Key Council Hearing on Historic Climate Bill

Event Signifies “Endless Summer” to Come Without Serious Climate Action like the Groundbreaking “Clean Energy DC Act”

WASHINGTON, DC — Today, dozens of climate advocates in beach gear played volleyball on Freedom Plaza before the DC Council held its final hearing on the country’s strongest bill to address climate change. The action signifies the harmful “endless summer” that would come without swift, immediate climate action from the DC Council like the “Clean Energy DC Act.”

In the spirited event, more than 30 activists — dressed with pool noodles, beach floaties, lifeguard t-shirts, and a shark costume, played with a giant inflatable Earth in front of the Wilson Building before the key climate hearing. “Despite the lighthearted nature of this event, we are terrified of the year-round August temperatures we face without climate action,” said Camila Thorndike, DC Campaign Director at the CCAN Action Fund. “Deadly heat waves, infectious mosquitos, and disastrous flooding are the nightmare of an endless summer. We are tired of politicians playing games with our lives and futures. We are grateful that the DC Council is approaching this existential crisis with the urgency and seriousness it demands with the Clean Energy DC Act.”

Initial photos available via Twitter hereand Facebook Live video available here.

The event preceded a hearing in the Committee of Business and Economic Development, where more than 80 advocates have signed up to testify in support of the bill (out of 109 total). Councilmember Kenyan McDuffie (Ward 5) chairs that committee, and activists are looking to him to bring the bill out of his committee to a full floor vote.

“By passing this bill, DC will become nation’s undisputed leader in battle against climate change, taking the first of many significant steps in paving a sustainable future for humanity for generations to come,” said Nikhil Balakumar, founder of the Greentel Group.

The climate crisis has reached a new level of urgency since the United Nations’ Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) released a report finding that the world has 12 years to take drastic action and prevent catastrophe. The report calls for global carbon emissions to be cut in half by 2030 and for fossil fuels to be almost entirely phased out by 2050. The “Clean Energy DC Omnibus Act of 2018,” or “Clean Energy DC Act,” is seen as the District’s answer to the IPCC. It takes a comprehensive approach to reducing carbon emissions, cutting greenhouse gas emissions by 49.4 percent by 2032 according to an initial analysis from the Department of Energy and Environment.

“We hope that passing strong climate legislation in the nation’s capital that meets the goals of the IPCC report will set an example of smart energy policy that works and inspire Congress to act,” said Stephanie Doyle, National Outreach and Partnership Coordinator at Citizens Climate Lobby.

Advocates in favor of the Clean Energy DC Act represent faith communities, justice advocacy groups, small businesses, environmental groups, and more. “For dozens of faith groups throughout the District, climate change and clean energy is a moral issue that deeply affects our communities,” said Avery Davis Lamb, Director of Faithful Advocacy at Interfaith Power and Light (DC.MD.NoVA). “That’s why representatives from diverse DC religious communities are coming together today to speak out in faith to support the Clean Energy DC Act.”

The bill is formally supported by eight of the 13 members of the DC Council, with Councilmembers Mary Cheh (Ward 3), Charles Allen (Ward 6), Trayon White (Ward 8), Brianne Nadeau (Ward 1), and Chairman Phil Mendelson co-introducing the bill, and Councilmembers Vincent Gray (Ward 7), Robert White Jr. (At-Large), and David Grosso (At-Large) co-sponsoring it. Councilmember Brandon Todd (Ward 4) has tweeted his support for it as well.

This bill had its first hearing on October 9 in the Committee of Transportation and the Environment on October 9, which is chaired by Councilmember Mary Cheh (Ward 3), who introduced the bill. About 90 people signed up to testify, and nearly all of them testified in strong support. That hearing was covered in the Washington Post, NPR, and many other outlets.

The “Clean Energy DC Act” would strengthen the District’s renewable electricity requirement to 100 percent by 2032 through the Renewable Portfolio Standard. This would put DC on the fastest timeline to 100 percent clean electricity in the country — California recently passed a bill for 100 percent carbon-free electricity by 2045.

It also would create groundbreaking efficiency standards for new and existing buildings and would fund local programs to assist low-income residents as the city transitions to more sustainable clean energy systems.

In addition, this legislation takes aim at emissions from home heating and transportation. It would scale up an existing heating fee called the Sustainable Energy Trust Fund (SETF), which would raise up to $70 million to finance renewable energy projects and provide assistance to low-income DC residents. It would also adjust the vehicle excise tax to incentivize clean cars and make owning dirty vehicles more expensive. The legislation also authorizes the District to put a price on transportation fuels if Virginia and Maryland commit to the same.

This bill is supported by the “DC Climate Coalition,” which is comprised of more than 110 environmental and justice advocacy organizations, faith groups, unions, consumer advocacy organizations, D.C. businesses, and more.

CONTACT:
Denise Robbins, Communications Director, CCAN Action Fund, denise@chesapeakeclimate.org, 608-620-8819
Barbara Briggs, 350 DC, barbarahbriggs@gmail.com, 412-417-9384
Justin McCarthy, DC Climate Coalition, jlawrencemccarthy@gmail.com, 540-312-3797

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DC can’t wait, and the planet can’t either. Recap from the kickoff

DC can’t wait, and the planet can’t either. Recap from the kickoff

By Ashlai Murray

On Monday, the DC Climate Coalition and dozens of DC residents gathered at the D.C. Council building with Councilmember Mary Cheh to urge councilmembers to strive for climate leadership by passing the Clean Energy DC Act.

Cheh’s presence was strengthened by voices from the community who supported the Act. An installer for New Columbia Solar and resident of Ward 8, Tyshaun expressed how cleaner energy can provide an opportunity for more jobs for people in the community.

Tiffany Aziz, an organizer for the “Not in My Community” coalition, shared excitement for alternative forms of energy such as solar panels pushed to make D.C greater. She was joined by her coalition partner Will Jones — and his adorable baby girl!

A Service Employees International Union 32BJ officer, Judith Howell expressed that the Clean Energy DC Act would invest in energy efficiency, clean energy, jobs for DC workers and help low-income residents pay their bills.

Residents of DC agreed they can’t wait and planet earth can’t wait either. Urge your Councilmember to support the Clean Energy DC Act and #ActOnClimateDC! www.carbonpricedc.org/take-action/

DC Councilmember Mary Cheh to Announce Strongest Climate Bill in the Country

DC Councilmember Mary Cheh to Announce Strongest Climate Bill in the Country

After Mayor Bowser commits to strong carbon reduction goals at Global Climate Action Summit, Councilmember and coalition announce new momentum behind nation-leading bill to meet DC’s climate goals

Bill includes the strongest renewable electricity requirement in the country and comprehensive, economy-wide approach to reducing emissions

WASHINGTON, DC — Today, DC Councilmember Mary Cheh (Ward 3) announced the details of a nation-leading new bill that takes a comprehensive approach to reducing carbon emissions. The newly introduced bill, known as the “Clean Energy DC Act,” would implement the strongest renewable electricity standard in the country, create groundbreaking building efficiency standards, and increase an existing fee on dirty energy that would create revenue for clean electricity projects and low-income ratepayer assistance.

Today’s press conference comes on the heels of superstorm Florence, which brought intense floods that devastated North and South Carolina, killing at least 42 people. Experts say the flooding was worsened by global warming and sea level rise.

It also took place shortly after Mayor Muriel Bowser committed to bold new climate goals at a global summit in San Francisco, including carbon neutrality by 2050. Councilmember Cheh explained how the “Clean Energy DC Act” positions DC to achieve the ambitious climate goals to which Mayor Muriel Bowser recently pledged.

“The Clean Energy DC Act is an important step forward to meeting our cutting edge, progressive goals for greenhouse gas reductions,” said DC Councilmember Mary Cheh (Ward 3). “This legislation puts the District of Columbia at the forefront of the nation in responding to climate change and also directly aligns us with the Mayor’s even more aggressive goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.”

“After mobilizing thousands of concerned residents over the last three years, the DC Climate Coalition applauds Councilmember Cheh’s leadership, Mayor Bowser’s vision, and Chairman Mendelson’s precedent in building real climate leadership here in the nation’s capital,” said Camila Thorndike, DC Campaign Director of the CCAN Action Fund. “For the District to reach its climate goals, Council must swiftly pass the Clean Energy DC Act. We stand with voters, businesses and residents who are counting on the Council to pass this critical Clean Energy DC bill before the close of the 2018 session.”

Previous to the global climate action summit, Bowser has committed to reducing DC’s fossil fuel emissions 50 percent by 2032. DC is currently not on track to meet these ambitious climate goals. The “Clean Energy DC Act” would put the District on track to achieve them. A recent analysis from the Department of Energy and Environment shows that by 2032, the “Clean Energy DC Act” would reduce DC’s annual greenhouse gas emissions 49.4 percent from 2006 levels.

“Right now we face the choice between staying where we are or choosing an economy that protects our planet and responds to needs of working people,” said Judith Howell, SEIU 32BJ Member and security officer. “Our communities deserve clean energy and the jobs it brings—not the fossil fuel pollution stealing air from our lungs, safety from our homes, and dollars from our pocketbooks. DC Council must pass this bill quickly.”

“Nurses are on the front-lines seeing patients whose health is negatively impacted by climate change,” said Katie Huffling, Executive Director of the Alliance of Nurses for Healthy Environments and a nurse. “We strongly support the Clean Energy Act of 2018 as it helps DC lead the way in protecting the health of its citizens from effects of climate change by developing the strongest plan possible, with the greatest reductions in carbon pollution of any city in the US.”

The “Clean Energy DC Act” would strengthen the District’s renewable electricity requirement to 100 percent by 2032 through the Renewable Portfolio Standard. This would put DC on the fastest timeline to 100 percent clean electricity in the country — California recently passed a bill for 100 percent carbon-free electricity by 2045.

Tyshaun Turner, a solar installer in DC, stated: “After completing several internships like Solar Works DC, I knew I wanted to be in the solar industry. Afterward, New Columbia Solar provided me a job with several growth opportunities and reliability.”

It also creates groundbreaking efficiency standards for new and existing buildings and funds local programs to assist low-income residents as the city transitions to more sustainable clean energy systems.

In addition, this legislation takes aim at emissions from home heating and transportation. It would scale up an existing heating fee called the Sustainable Energy Trust Fund (SETF), which would raise up to $70 million to finance renewable energy projects and provide assistance to low-income DC residents. It would also adjust the vehicle excise tax to incentivize clean cars and make owning dirty vehicles more expensive. The legislation also authorizes the District to put a price on transportation fuels if Virginia and Maryland commit to the same.

This bill is supported by the “DC Climate Coalition,” which is comprised of more than 100 environmental and justice advocacy organizations, faith groups, unions, consumer advocacy organizations, D.C. businesses, and more.

CONTACT:

Denise Robbins, Communications Director, CCAN Action Fund, denise@chesapeakeclimate.org, 608-620-8819
Rebekah Whilden, Sierra Club DC Chapter, Rebekah.whilden@sierraclub.org, 828-242-6174
Justin McCarthy,  DC Climate Coalition, jlawrencemccarthy@gmail.com, 540-312-3797

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About the name change

About the name change

This coalition formed around the goal of putting a price on carbon in the District , which is why we were called the “Put A Price On It, DC” coalition.

What was eventually introduced by Councilmember Mary Cheh, the Clean Energy DC Omnibus Amendment Act (“Clean Energy DC Act”),  is different than the carbon price we called for. However, Councilmember Cheh and the rest of our Councilmembers heard loud and clear that DC residents want strong action to reduce carbon emissions. They heard our demand for a transition to renewable energy sources to avoid the worst impacts of global warming, to protect our health and the health of our planet.

The Clean Energy DC Act was introduced on July 10 and is currently co-sponsored by seven members of DC Council. If passed, the bill will take important steps to reduce DC’s reliance on fossil fuels. It will significantly cut emissions and place DC among the frontrunners of states and cities fighting climate change. It also reflects our campaign’s hard-won principles of strong, economy-wide emission reductions with a focus on equity

As such, this is a true victory that would not be happening without this coalition’s tireless advocacy.

That’s why we will fight for its passage, and why we are rebranding as the “DC Climate Coalition.”

We have two main goals: to make sure this bill is as strong as possible while protecting low-income residents, and to pass the bill THIS YEAR.

One thing is certain: Every day we fail to take action makes the climate crisis worse. It means more people will die in hurricanes intensified by warmer waters or get sick from extreme heat. There is no time to wait. We need serious climate action now, and that means passing the “Clean Energy DC Act” as soon as possible.

Our Coalition still believes that a carbon fee-and-rebate policy — with a carbon price strong enough to reflect the devastating costs of burning fossil fuels, and a rebate to enfranchise all of us in the transition — is the best way to address climate change. But we also believe that the Clean Energy DC Act is a nation-leading policy that will serve a similar purpose. The funds raised by increasing the Sustainable Energy Trust Fund, for example, can be used to help us begin to pay for the needed transition to clean energy, and for special programs to assist low- to middle- income residents. They can also be used to help DC businesses invest in the clean energy economy. (Read more about the bill here.)

So, the “DC Climate Coalition” will continue to ask:

– What price would we be willing to pay for a healthy planet?

– What value would we give healthy children and grandchildren?

Most DC residents would agree on the answer: Priceless.

We’re all working together for a better future in DC. Let’s get it done!

Howard University students are ready for 100% clean energy in DC!

Howard University students are ready for 100% clean energy in DC!

Written by Chelsea Hodgkins 

Last Friday, August 17, 2018, more than a thousand Howard University students engaged in community service with organizations across DC for the university’s annual service day. CCAN partnered with a large group of students to build momentum for the Clean Energy DC Act of 2018.

As the Field Manager for CCAN, I was thrilled for the opportunity to engage youth — our next generation of leaders — in advocacy generally and in building support for clean energy in the District specifically. After I taught students about the bill, they spent the day hanging fliers to educate the public, tweeting the bill to the Council, and petitioning to collect signatures of support.

In just two hours, Howard students and volunteers hung more than 1,300 fliers across the District and gathered signed petitions of more than 250 residents backing clean energy! Organizations like Neighborhood Sun, NAACP’s Environmental and Climate Justice Program, and more also joined students in tweeting to the Council.

This is only the beginning of actions and activities by CCAN and the DC Climate Coalition to advance advocacy for the Clean Energy DC Act. If passed, this bill will , reduce emissions from buildings and vehicles, increase funding for local sustainability programs, and transition DC to 100% renewable energy by 2032, making the District a nationwide leader in clean energy policy.

The Clean Energy DC Act of 2018 was introduced by Councilmember Mary Cheh on July 10, 2018. The bill is backed by seven Councilmembers and the 98 organizations in the DC Climate Coalition, representing faith groups; economic, environmental, and social justice organizations; businesses; and more. A Council testimonial hearing has been tentatively scheduled for September 24th.

We are building the movement to get this bill passed. Join us. Sign up to testify in favor of the Clean Energy DC Act here. Share this with your friends by clicking here

Contact DC organizer, Chelsea Hodgkins, chelseah@chesapeakeclimate.org for more information and to get involved.

 

WEBINAR: All about DC’s new climate bill

This fall, we plan to act with incredible force and focus here in the nation’s capital, by mastering the details of Councilmember Mary Cheh’s recently introduced Clean Energy DC Act.

The DC Council reconvenes in September, just over one month away. We need to push a strong and equitable Clean Energy DC Act across the finish line before the session ends this year! That will take all of us, passionate and determined as ever to save the places and people we love.

There’s a lot of new details in this bill, and a lot to learn — and now YOU have a chance to get up to speed.

Last week, key organizers for this campaign held a webinar explaining everything you need to know about DC’s new climate bill. Watch, then email Camila if you have any questions!

Hundreds of Howard University Students to Advocate for DC Climate Action as Part of Annual “Day of Service”

Hundreds of Howard University Students to Advocate for DC Climate Action as Part of Annual “Day of Service”

‘Clean Energy DC Act’ gaining steam as 500 students to advocate the community during the sixth annual Howard University Day of Service

WASHINGTON, DC — On Friday, August 17, up to 500 Howard University students will descend upon DC to spread the word about a local DC climate policy called the “Clean Energy DC Act.” This is happening as part of the sixth annual Howard University Day of Service (HUDOS), which builds upon the University’s legacy of service to humanity.

This is the first time that Howard University will participate in an initiative for the advancement of local DC climate policy. The students will go through a training about the “Clean Energy DC Act,” as well as a training in petitioning and other advocacy tools. Then, they will spread out throughout all eight wards to poster DC neighborhoods and spread the word about the policy through petitioning.

The Clean Energy DC Omnibus Amendment Act of 2018, or “Clean Energy DC Act,” was introduced by D.C. Councilmember Mary Cheh (Ward 3) on July 10 with a majority support in the Council. If enacted, this bill would transition the District to 100% clean electricity by 2032 — the strongest renewable energy law in the country — while investing in energy efficiency, creating groundbreaking building standards, and funding local programs to help low-income residents and make the city a sustainable place to live.

Clara Ekezie, Site Coordinator at Howard University, stated: “We are excited to partner with the Chesapeake Climate Action Network as they educate the community about the ‘Clean Energy DC Act.’ As students at Howard University, we will live through the impacts of climate change if nothing is done to lower greenhouse gas emissions, so our peers know how important it is to take action and get involved in this initiative. It’s very encouraging to see hundreds of organizations and students coming together on an issue as important as this.”

“It’s incredible to know that hundreds students are actively engaged and supportive of clean energy in DC,” said Chelsea Hodgkins, DC Campaign Coordinator at the CCAN Action Fund. “We are thrilled to engage students in advocacy for clean energy specifically and the democratic process more broadly. It’s particularly exciting to partner with Howard students knowing that this is the beginning of their journey as the next generation of rising leaders in this movement and others.”

While the bill does not include a “price on carbon pollution” as has been requested by a 100-group coalition of environmental and justice groups over the past two years, it embodies the coalition’s principles of equity and strong carbon reductions, and would make DC a world leader on climate change.

The Howard University Day of Service (HUDOS) provides an opportunity for incoming students to embrace the University’s motto, “Truth and Service.” The Howard University Day of Service will continue to build upon the legacy of service to humanity. It is modeled after Howard University’s nationally recognized Alternative Spring Break program and will provide service-learning opportunities as a part of the students’ introductory experience to the University. Current Howard University students, faculty, staff, administrators and alumni will volunteer across the Washington DC metropolitan area.

Howard University Day of Service 2018 will focus on five service-learning initiatives: education, environmental services, health, homelessness and poverty, and violence. This service learning experience will allow Howard University students to discover the power of lending a hand while engaging with the DC community.

A copy of the legislation is available here: Clean Energy DC Act.

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