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Fremont’s sustainability journey: cultivating happiness and affordable clean energy

Posted on by darion

Fremont, California, is on an extraordinary journey toward community sustainability and resilience, particularly in pursuit of Sustainable Development Goal 7—Affordable, Clean Energy (SDG 7). Fremont represents hope and innovation, inspiring cities around the world by pioneering local clean energy initiatives and fostering community happiness.

At the heart of Fremont’s sustainability journey is a multi-faceted approach to affordable, clean energy. The city is accelerating the transition to renewable energy while fostering regional collaboration and collective action through active participation in the Community Choice Aggregation program, Ava Community Energy (Ava). Ava, Fremont’s nonprofit local electricity provider, has awarded grant funds to several East Bay community organizations to support programs tailored to help low-income customers avoid debt and disconnections.

In addition to switching to renewable energy sources, the city has decided to integrate zero-emission vehicles. As of 2021/2022, the Fremont Police Department had a fleet of over 40 hybrid or electric vehicles. By prioritizing energy efficiency measures and implementing zero-emission vehicles, Fremont aims to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions at 2005 levels by 55% by 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2045 .These goals are outlined in the city’s updated climate action plan, Climate Ready Fremont.

In the photo: An image of an electric police car for the city of Fremont. Photo credit: City of Fremont, California.

Funding initiatives to protect vulnerable communities

Amid the city’s remarkable clean energy progress, challenges have emerged, especially financial constraints and concerns about vulnerable community members. Mayor Lily Mei’s leadership has been instrumental in addressing these challenges, using grants and programs to support residents with home improvements and drought-resistant landscaping.

For example, Fremont received $350,000 from the Energy Efficiency and Environmental Protection Block Grant (EECBG) program to support climate initiatives. Specifically, the city will use the funds to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 25 percent compared to 2005 levels, reduce vehicle miles driven, and reduce energy use in non-city buildings by 25 percent compared to 2005 levels.

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Fremont intends to achieve its goals through a number of initiatives, including, but not limited to, building improvements, outdoor lighting upgrades, hybrid vehicle procurement and community energy. Additionally, the city is working with Habitat for Humanity East Bay/Silicon Valley and California communities through the ICLEI USA Action Fund to integrate climate and public health measures into social housing programs while developing a data model to track emissions reductions and benefits. Active involvement with regional associations, non-profit organizations and energy partnerships is crucial to achieving goals.

Pictured: Image of the urban canopy in the city of Fremont. Photo credit: City of Fremont, California.

Building a resilient and happy community

Fremont’s path to sustainability goes beyond technological innovation, emphasizing the importance of community engagement and holistic well-being. Mayor Mei’s commitment to promoting happiness and mental health is evident in Fremont being recognized as the “happiest city” in the U.S. for the fifth year in a row.

The City prioritizes the holistic health and happiness of its residents, recognizing the inherent link between environmental sustainability and well-being. Fremont works with community members, community organizations, and businesses through initiatives such as the Fremont Green Challenge and partnerships with Urban Forestry Friends. Through these efforts, the City advocates for affordable, clean energy policies to move toward a more sustainable and equitable future.

“Building a happier, greener city isn’t just about infrastructure; it’s about community. From supporting our youth in promoting clean energy to fostering partnerships with local businesses, our sustainability journey is a collaborative effort that resonates with every generation,” said Fremont Mayor Lily Mei.

Climate rewards and future progress

Fremont has a distinguished history of climate leadership, most notably receiving top honors for climate action achievements at the League of California Cities annual conference in Sacramento on September 23, 2021. Additionally, on February 7, 2024, Fremont became the first recipient of the SolSmart Platinum designation in recognition of its outstanding leadership at the local level, particularly its commitment to fair and equitable solar energy.

Moving forward, Fremont has committed to meeting the goals outlined in Climate Ready Fremont. This plan, updated in October 2023, highlights key measures focused on transportation, energy and waste, including promoting clean energy, expanding electric vehicle infrastructure, enforcing green building standards, reducing plastic waste and more.

In the picture: Visualization of the climate of Fremont. Photo source: City of Fremont, California.

Mayor Mei’s leadership exemplifies the transformative power of community engagement and local collective action to address the impacts of climate change. As Fremont continues to innovate and inspire, it is a shining example of what is possible when cities prioritize the sustainability, happiness, and well-being of their residents.

Editor’s Note: The opinions expressed here by Impakter.com columnists are their own and not the opinions of Impakter.com. — In the cover photo: Image of Vargas Plateau Regional Park, Morrison Canyon Road, Fremont, California, USA. Cover photo source: City of Fremont.