By 2035, San Diego Will Run Completely on Renewable Energy

Taking Action

By 2035, San Diego will run completely on renewable energy. At least, that's the ambitious goal outlined in the city's 74-page Climate Action Plan.  

“San Diego is a leader in innovation and sustainability,” the Climate Action Plan reads. “By striking a sensible balance between protecting our environment and growing our economy, San Diego can support clean technology, renewable energy, and economic growth.”

Specifically, the plan outlines "five bold strategies to reduce GHG emissions" including:

• Energy and water efficient buildings
• Clean and renewable energy
• Bicycling, walking, transit, and land use
• Zero waste (gas and waste management)
• Climate resiliency.

The city cautions that, if the plan isn't implemented, the negative effects on the climate could be deadly. From increased size and frequency of wildfires, to a possible introduction of Malaria to the community from growing mosquito populations, San Diego is offering citizens a bold wake-up call.

The city also plans to reduce 50% of the greenhouse gas emission by 2035. Another target of the plan is to create "green jobs" through manufacturing and the installation of solar panels.

A Greener World

San Diego is not the only city, trying to go 100% renewable. San Francisco, Sydney, and Vancouver have already joined the growing list of cities committed to run completely on renewable energy.

Which gives hope to those looking toward a greener future.

It seems likely that San Diego's goals will be met. San Diego already produced the second largest electrical output from solar energy in the U.S. In addition, the plan is pretty flexible. The document notes that,  a host of new technologies and innovative programs developed in the future will further enhance the plan, or even replace some of the proposed strategies.

Whatever those may be, we're excited to see.