The Renewable Energy Alliance for Louisville, (which often refers to themselves as 100% REAL) drafted the Resolution For 100% Clean Energy for Louisville Metro Operations.” A number of All Peoples members have been involved in REAL and in the effort to show that this is good policy for addressing the climate crisis.

During the “Rise for Climate, Jobs, and Justice” September rally in Louisville, the Resolution was presented to Louisville’s Metro Council President David James. President James has formally introduced the resolution as its sponsor. It was then sent to hearing at Metro Council’s Parks and Sustainability Committee.

The resolution specifically urges Louisville to transition city operations to 100 percent renewable electricity by 2030, to 100 percent clean energy by 2035 — including both electricity and natural gas — and to attain 100 percent clean energy throughout the community by 2040.

The resolution also says the council will support public participation in climate decision making, and support energy efficiency standards. It cites expected public health benefits, and the potential for job creation from installing renewables and energy efficiency measures.

Our speaker, Nancy Givens, offers an excellent presentation at the November 2018 hearing which is both factual and persuasive.

You can see the video in its entirety at the Louisville Metro Government Agenda & Meeting Portal.

Below you can see the slide presentation from the video.

On February 6th, 2020, The Metro Council passed the Resolution to reach 100 percent renewable energy. The gathered climate advocates gave the Council sustained, strong applause when, after vigorous debate, they passed the resolution by a 15-4 vote.

This is a major step forward for Louisville in addressing climate change. Louisville now joins more than 160 cities around the country that have committed to achieving 100 percent renewable energy.

The next steps on the horizon are for the Metro Council to fund an energy audit, to hire a specialist in energy management, and for the City administration to form a citizens’ advisory body to assist in formulating useful action steps.

Please feel free to encourage your Metro Council Members to support these steps and other forms of climate action in the forthcoming budget deliberations. And for a few weeks, we can cheer about achieving a major milestone in Louisville’s climate work.

For more information about REAL, the 100% Resolution, or our other environmental justice projects you can contact greensanctuary@tjuc.org.