Excerpted from the Institute for Local Government release:
The Institute for Local Government and the Statewide Energy Efficiency Collaborative have designated Sierra Business Council (SBC) a “Beacon Program Champion” for its work in supporting energy and climate action initiatives in the Sierra Nevada region.
Sierra Business Council becomes the first organization of its kind to receive the designation, and joins a list of ten champions that support the Beacon Program, a statewide program that provides support and recognition to California cities and counties that are working to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, save energy and adopt policies and programs that promote sustainability.
Sierra Business Council’s Climate Planning Program has greatly increased the capacity of local governments seeking to measure and demonstrate their commitment to combating climate change. SBC has completed municipal and community greenhouse gas inventories for 26 local governments and Energy Action Plans for seven of its local government partners. Additionally, SBC’s Sierra Nevada Energy Watch has provided energy efficiency services that have helped area businesses and governments save over 25 million kilowatts hours of electricity since 2010.
“We are proud to be able help foster thriving communities that amplify the area’s social, environmental and economic capital,” said Steve Frisch, President of Sierra Business Council. “We believe our designation as a Beacon Program Champion will allow us to help recognize the sustainability leadership of the local governments in the Sierra Nevada Region and provide models for success in rural regions.”
“Sierra Business Council is a leader in promoting and supporting energy efficiency and sustainability activities among its local government partners,” said Martin Gonzalez, Director of the Institute for Local Government, “We are excited that they will be serving as a Beacon Program Champion.”
The Beacon Program not only recognizes local leadership, it provides a framework for local governments to share best practices that create healthier, more efficient vibrant communities. The Program is funded by California utility ratepayers and administered by Southern California Gas Company, San Diego Gas & Electric Company, Pacific Gas and Electric Company and Southern California Edison, under the auspices of the California Public Utilities Commission.
To learn more about the Beacon Program, please visit: www.ca-ilg.org/beaconprogram.
To learn more about Sierra Business Council, please visit: www.sierrabusiness.org
To learn more about the Institute for Local Government, please visit: www.ca-ilg.org.
To learn more about SEEC, please visit: www.californiaseec.org.