Cities across the U.S. and internationally have aggressive renewable energy, climate, and decarbonization targets. The greater Boston area cities are amongst the leaders - Boston: Carbon Neutral by 2050; Cambridge: 80% Emissions Reductions by 2050; Somerville: Carbon Neutral by 2050. Boston, Cambridge, and Somerville also have agreed to meet the targets set forth by the Paris Accord Climate Targets (26% - 28% emissions reductions by 2025). These cities have already taken several actions to create a low-carbon future, however, much work remains to meet both near and long terms goals. What changes are needed in the electricity sector to reach these targets? What steps are needed for these and other cities to meet their goals? Are 100% renewable energy targets necessary and feasible? This panel will explore these questions, as well as the roles, actions, and available pathways cities can pursue to meet their climate and energy goals.
Panelists:
John Crowe – Meister Consulting Group – Moderator
Oliver Sellers-Garcia – Director of Sustainability and Environment – City of Somerville
Cammy Peterson – Director of Clean Energy – Metropolitan Area Planning Council
Benjamin Silverman - Climate and Buildings Program Manager - City of Boston
