Power A Clean Future Ohio News

April 30, 2020

Campaign Update: Going Forward, Together

I hope this newsletter finds you all doing well and staying healthy. Everyone has been facing different challenges through the COVID-19 crisis, and our work has been impacted in a wide variety of ways. Those of us here at the Power a Clean Future Ohio initiative also had to take a step back, processing what the disruption of the pandemic means for our mission, our communities, and our daily lives.

Through conversations with our partners, supporters, and elected officials, we have determined that the need is more urgent than ever to act now to build more resilient, sustainable communities. We will come out of our current situation more united around the need to bolster solutions to grow our economy, reduce emissions, and protect those most vulnerable to the climate crisis.

Often, the remedy for uncertainty is action. The Power a Clean Future Ohio initiative has been moving forward to develop a modified strategy and identify creative approaches to achieving our mission. We are still conducting meetings with local elected officials from across Ohio to discuss opportunities for them to embrace clean energy investment, but the conversations are happening over video conference. We are engaging our supporters and partners with news about clean energy victories still happening in Ohio communities, but we are accomplishing this over social media platforms. In the coming weeks, we will be expanding our outreach to the public through engaging short videos focusing on policy options and homegrown success stories.

We cannot know for sure what tomorrow will look like for our work or our world. But we can be sure we will need to deepen our focus on public health and equitable economic growth here at home. By increasing our investment in clean energy development, energy efficiency measures, and advanced transportation initiatives, we will achieve both of those goals and offer a more certain path forward into the future.

Please stay safe and healthy during this challenging time. Power a Clean Future Ohio’s work with local communities has only just begun and we could not be more excited for the year ahead. We’re in this together! Thank you for your continued support.

-- Joe Flarida, Executive Director

Visit our Website

PCFO City Spotlight: Lancaster

City: Lancaster

Mayor: David Scheffler

Population: 40,000 (approx.)

Taking climate action one step at a time. The city of Lancaster has worked to implement a step-by-step approach to address climate change in an efficient and economical way. From changing out its holiday light decorations to LED lights to methodically switching street lamps to LED over time, Mayor Scheffler understands that every effort that helps conserve energy helps. Last year, the city opened its first EV charging station in the heart of its revitalized downtown and also created a compost facility that can be accessed for gardening by any city resident free of charge. Green space is a source of pride for the city. The city parks boast 65 acres dedicated to preserving nature for the community, and Lancaster has been designated as a Tree City USA for 38 years.

A historical downtown with a vibrant future. The city’s downtown businesses operate in buildings that are centuries old, including the birthplace of Civil War general William T. Sherman, and the city has a unique opportunity to partner with business organizations to educate business owners and operators about steps they can take to make their buildings more energy efficient - a win-win for everyone! The mayor, who is an active participant in the Mayor’s Alliance, has expressed interest in bringing together businesses and community leaders to facilitate these educational opportunities. The city fully appreciates that it takes everyone - business, government and community - coming together to make an impact and power a clean future.

PCFO Partner Spotlight: Solar United Neighbors

Who is Solar United Neighbors?

Solar United Neighbors is a national organization dedicated to representing the needs and interests of solar owners and supporters. They envision a clean, equitable energy system that directs control and benefits back to local communities, with solar on every roof and money in every pocket. They are accomplishing this by helping people go solar, join together, and fighting for their energy rights.

Why is it important for Solar United Neighbors to be involved in PCFO?

They are already seeing some of the fruits of the PCFO work. The buzz generated by this effort is already opening doors and seeding discussions with cities and communities around the state about the benefits and feasibility of rooftop solar.

Our Mission: Power A Clean Future Ohio is building momentum now for a clean, prosperous future by equipping local leaders for community-driven carbon reductions in Ohio.