Florida’s capital sets 100 percent renewable energy target

Environment Florida

Tallahassee, Fla. — On Wednesday, the Tallahassee City Commission voted unanimously to commit to powering the city with 100 percent renewable energy by 2050. Florida’s capital joins a rapidly growing movement of cities and states across the country recognizing the urgency of climate change and making bold commitments to clean, renewable energy.

The resolution includes a goal of powering 100 percent of municipal operations with renewable energy and electrifying the city’s vehicle fleet by 2035. Commissioners cited protecting clean air, clean water and public health as key factors in its decision to transition away from polluting fossil fuel energy sources.

Jennifer Rubiello, state director of Environment Florida, issued the following statement:

“Floridians need ambitious goals that match the scale of the environmental challenges our state faces. With this commitment, our state’s capital joins six other Florida cities and over 100 nationwide in setting bold commitments to clean, renewable energy.

“The bottom line is that we can and must transform the ways we produce and consume energy. That transformation starts with a commitment to leaving dirty energy behind, and instead powering every aspect of our lives with clean, renewable energy. We know that these goals are within reach, but will require leadership from governments and institutions at every level.

“Environment Florida, alongside the local Tally35 coalition that spearheaded the effort, has supported Tallahassee’s vision for 100 percent renewable energy from the start. To maintain this momentum, we are also urging Florida State University, Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University, and Tallahassee Community College — the top energy users in Tallahassee — to make campus-wide commitments to 100 percent renewable energy. Through our 100% Renewable Campus campaign, we have gathered thousands of student petitions calling on these Tallahassee campuses to do just that.

“Tallahassee’s bold commitment sets a strong example for the Sunshine state to take advantage of the plentiful renewable energy shining on our communities every day. Communities across Florida and America are ready for a swift and steady shift to clean, renewable energy.”