Many regarded COP26 as not going far enough to address climate change. The watering down of the fossil fuel commitments were seen as disappointing as many want the move to solar energy and other sources of alternative energy to be speeded up.
Some local initiatives have taken it upon themselves to do more. In October 2021 leaders within the city of Orlando launched a new plan to help the environment as a part of what they call their 2030 solar pledge. It calls for businesses to transition by 2030, to using 100% solar energy at their facilities.
The campaign was launched at the Orlando Utilities Commission and focuses on sustainability and investing in the future.
The 6 local organizations that signed up initially have made a big commitment. they are:
- the city of Saint Cloud
- the University of Central Florida’s downtown campus,
- Orlando city soccer club,
- Orlando pride in orange campus,
- Orlando city soccer club,
- Orange County government.
The pledge asks those participants to immediately invest at least 10% in solar energy and requires them to be using 100% solar energy at their facilities by 2030.
It recognizes that their dedication to sustainability and renewable energy is vital to reaching net zero carbon emissions.
City officials say 52 facilities so far are powered in part by solar energy.
Advantages of Solar Energy
- Solar energy is good for the economy.
- It’s a green job creator.
- It’s good for public health
- and it helps address climate change
The Orlando Utilities Commission says it has allocated $420 million to solar investments and hopes this commitment will serve as an inspiration for others to join the pledge.
Not only do they hope that other businesses will sign up but they also hope it encourages everyone to commit to seek out alternative energy options.
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