WHY THIS MATTERS
Energy, Climate, & Our Health
Cary and its citizens use large amounts of energy to power homes, schools, businesses, and municipal operations. When that energy is generated by burning fossil fuels such as natural gas, greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions are released into the atmosphere. This harmful air pollution can contribute to respiratory problems like asthma and increase the risk of heart disease and cancer. In working to reduce emissions, Cary can help improve human health and reduce negative impacts associated with burning fossil fuels.
By using energy efficient solutions and clean energy sources, we can improve local air quality and human health while also reducing Cary's impact on the natural environment.
BETTER BUILDINGS
Energy Efficient Buildings
There are many ways to make our homes and businesses more energy efficient, comfortable, and resilient to the impacts of climate change. Energy efficiency solutions include sealing air leaks and drafts, upgrading lighting, enhancing insulation, using smart thermostats, and upgrading to more efficient appliances and HVAC equipment.
Building electrification means replacing equipment that uses on-site combustion of fossils fuels (natural gas, oil, etc.), such as traditional furnaces and hot water heaters, with high-efficiency equipment that runs on electricity, such as heat pumps or heat pump water heaters. In addition to the potential for lower energy bills and greater occupant comfort, building electrification can significantly reduce Cary's GHG emissions.
RENEWABLE ENERGY
Rooftop Solar on the Up
Property owners in Cary are already seizing the chance to install rooftop solar on their homes and businesses; since 2015, the number of solar permits issued per year in Cary has steadily increased to 354 permits in 2023. Powering new and existing buildings with onsite renewable energy is an important step towards transitioning Cary's energy supply away from fossil fuels.
Plus, did you know that Cary has been designated as a Gold Level Community by the Department of Energy's SolSmart program? This designation recognizes Cary's streamlined processes that make it faster, easier, and more affordable for residents to access solar installation.
LEADING BY EXAMPLE
Energy Efficiency in Cary Facilities
Cary is committed to using energy thoughtfully and efficiently. In 2012, Cary created its first Strategic Energy Action Plan to reduce municipal energy use related to water management, vehicle fleet and operations, buildings, and streetlights. Since then, Cary has achieved its goal of reducing municipal building energy use by 30% from a 2010 baseline and continues to implement retrofits and efficient technologies to reduce fleet energy use and operational energy consumption. Cary is now working to implement the recommendations on its Municipal Greenhouse Gas Inventory and Pathways Analysis Report.
WHAT YOU CAN DO
Help Drive the Transition to Renewable Energy & Efficient Buildings
Utilize these resources and programs to install renewable energy and make your home or business more efficient.