Chicago Public Buildings To Be Powered With 100 Percent Renewable Energy

Chicago will be the largest city in the country to power its public buildings with 100 percent renewable energy, according to a new plan proposed by Mayor Rahm Emanuel.

The plan is to use renewable sources for the approximately 1.8 billion kilowatt-hours (2016 total), about 8 percent of the city’s total public and private energy use, required by public buildings by 2025.

“As the Trump administration pulls back on building a clean energy economy, Chicago is doubling down,” Emanuel said. “By committing the energy used to power our public buildings to wind and solar energy, we are sending a clear signal that we remain committed to building a 21st century economy here in Chicago.”

The city eliminated coal-generated power from its energy profile in 2013 and has installed solar panels on more than a dozen Chicago Public Schools buildings since 2009. Adding to its list of environmental accolades, Chicago also recently was named the EPA’s 2017 Energy Star Partner of the Year.

This Quick Read was submitted by Greg Zimmerman, Editor of Building Operating Management, greg.zimmerman@tradepressmedia.com. Read his cover story about GSA's sustainable success in five key areas.

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