Climate Change & Sustainability

Sustainability means meeting the needs of current generations without impairing the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. Sustainability is an important strategy for the long-term health of the people, economy, and environment of Healdsburg. 

Healdsburg’s Sustainability Targets:

• Reduce dependence on fossil-based energy supplies
• Develop and increase the use of renewable energy resources
• Engage and educate our customers to take a more active role in assessing their own energy and water use, and adopting personal sustainability habits
• Monitor, measure, and continually improve our sustainability practices
• Develop and increase the use of reclaimed water and preserve local water supply
• Promote and enhance sustainable transportation methods and reduce number of miles driven

Climate Actions Taken

• Installed a floating solar array at the City’s Wastewater Treatment facility to produce about 8% of the City's electricity needs.
• Created an e-bike rebate program to encourage residents to bike around Healdsburg instead of driving a car to reduce GHG emissions and vehicle miles travelled. 
• Implemented an Energy Reach Code to reduce fossil fuel combustion in new construction.
• Converted all municipal electric accounts to Healdsburg’s Green Rate (100% renewable energy).
• Retrofitted all City’s street and pathway lights to LED lighting.
• Provided low income direct install energy efficiency program in 340 single family and multifamily homes at no cost to residents. This saved approximately 287,000 kWh per year.
• Purchased a hybrid electric bucket truck, electric parking enforcement vehicle, and a plug-in hybrid to reduce the City vehicle fleet’s GHG emissions.
• Installed 12 electric vehicle (EV) charging stations at City Hall. Provide free charging at nights and weekends. 
• Continuously provide energy efficiency and water conservation programs including rebates and incentives, educational workshops, and in-person audits.

New Programs and Initiatives

• Pursuing the procurement of low and no-carbon energy resources in order to lower the City’s overall energy carbon content to less than 200 pounds per megawatt-hour.