Climate and Energy Action Plan (CEAP)

Mi AdM Solar Pioneer I and II From 2000 to 2002, the City of Ashland, in collaboration with the Bonneville Environmental Foundation, implemented the Solar Pioneer I project, involving installing photovoltaic arrays totaling 30 kilowatts (kW) at the Civic Center, Oregon Shakespeare Festival, and Southern Oregon University. The project was funded in part by voluntary contributions from more than 260 ratepayers, who paid small surcharges on their utility bills to support the project. In addition to bringing renewable energy to the city, the program aimed to inform Ashland residents about solar energy. Building on the success of the first round of the program, Ashland launched Solar Pioneer II in 2007, which used the same community funding mechanism to finance a 63.4-kW photovoltaic system on the City service center.BE-1-4. Enhance production of on-site solar energy from City facilities. Enhancement of solar energy production capacity at City facilities and City-owned parking lots would reduce electricity demand from the grid, set an example for the Ashland community, and provide reliable power for both the City operations and broader community. OTHER ACTIONS • Establish a solar recognition program for neighborhoods or populations who support renewables, such as for those who meet a certain percentage of electricity needs through renewable energy. • Coordinate with Oregon cities to promote and reinforce standards around renewable energy, such as higher renewable portfolio standards and requirements for new construction. • Develop promotional materials that encourage solar investments. 53 ASHLAND CLIMATE & ENERGY ACTION PLANBUILDINGS & ENERGY53