Mayor Smiley to Sign Law Requiring All City-Owned Buildings to Become Carbon Neutral by 2040
PROVIDENCE, RI – Mayor Brett P. Smiley will join Councilor Sue AnderBois, Director of Sustainability Priscilla De La Cruz, Secretary-Treasurer of Rhode Island AFL-CLO Patrick Crowley and Executive Director of Climate Jobs Rhode Island Mike Roles tomorrow to officially sign the Energy Efficiency and Carbon Neutral Goals for Municipal Buildings ordinance. This ordinance marks Providence’s commitment to fostering a healthier environment and enhancing the quality of life for its residents by pledging to achieve carbon neutrality in all city-owned buildings by 2040.
“Providence continues to be ahead of the curve in addressing the impacts of climate change on our city and residents. I am proud to sign this critically important ordinance into law,” said Mayor Brett Smiley. “By committing to carbon neutrality in all city-owned buildings by 2040, we are paving the way for a healthier, more sustainable future for generations to come by leading the charge towards a greener, more resilient future.”
The ordinance sets forth comprehensive guidelines for capital improvements and maintenance across our municipal infrastructure, with the ultimate goal of eliminating the use of fossil fuels and on-site combustion by 2040.
“Carbon Neutral municipal buildings by 2040 a tangible way that the City is doing its part to address climate change – and implementing the Climate Justice Plan and our commitment to be a Climate Jobs City,” said Councilor Sue AnderBois (Ward 3). “And even better – implementing this ordinance will improve the health and safety of our buildings and support good jobs and apprenticeship programs for workers. I am grateful for the support of excellent staff in the Administration – and especially the team in the Sustainability Department – for their work on this legislation.”
This new law mandates a comprehensive shift towards electrification and energy efficiency upgrades, encompassing the adoption of electric heating and cooling systems, electric hot water heating and the promotion of 100% renewable energy consumption.
“This historic initiative marks a significant step forward in building a more sustainable, resilient future for generations to come,” said Director of Sustainability, Priscilla De La Cruz. “Together we are propelling Providence forward and making a Providence a national example for what can be achieved when we collaborate to address the impacts of climate change on our communities.”
Additionally, the ordinance encourages the installation of renewable energy infrastructure within municipal buildings to maximize on-site generation, including exploring thermal energy networks and utilizing biofuel or battery electric emergency backup facilities.
“This ordinance demonstrates the City of Providence is committed to a justice-centered transition to a carbon-free economy. “said Secretary-Treasurer Patrick Crowley, “Mayor Smiley and his administration, along with the City Council, are proving that you can work across city government to do big things that make a difference in the lives of everyday people. Climate Jobs Rhode Island and the Rhode Island AFL-CIO are committed to working with the Mayor and the Council to keep pushing forward in the county’s first Climate Jobs city.”
