Utah Clean Energy recently received a grant from the Utah Clean Air Partnership (UCAIR), a statewide clean air partnership created to improve Utah’s air, to assist in maximizing energy efficiency and expanding electric vehicles along the Wasatch Front.
“Utah has incredible, untapped potential to dramatically reduce emissions through means like making our homes ultra-energy efficient and by expanding the use of electric vehicles,” said Thom Carter, executive director at UCAIR.
With support from UCAIR, Utah Clean Energy will assist a select group of local governments in Salt Lake and Utah Counties to identify ways they can accelerate low- and zero-emission construction practices, improve energy code enforcement, and expand electric vehicle charging infrastructure in their communities. The project will include training sessions designed for a variety of city representatives including city managers, mayors and council members; facilities management staff; building code enforcement staff; and city planning and zoning officials.
The Wasatch Front’s geography poses a unique air quality challenge. And Utah’s urban communities are facing record population growth, leading to increased transportation demands and a resurgence of new construction in residential and commercial areas. While Utah has made strides to reduce air emissions, energy-wise planning strategies adopted by local governments can help curb “mobile source” emissions from vehicles and “area source” emissions, which include homes and buildings. Local governments are poised to play a larger role in clean air leadership going forward.
“We’re seeing record growth in population, so now is the time to look at our building stock to not only manage energy demand, but also curb emissions from our homes and buildings. This initiative is an exciting step to help Utah grow responsibly with the best building practices possible,” states Kevin Emerson, Utah Clean Energy’s Energy Efficiency Program Director.
To learn more about Utah Clean Energy and their plans to lower emissions in Utah, visit utahcleanenergy.org/.
