In this country 48.9% of electricity is generated by burning coal which is a main contributor to toxic pollutants causing global warming and acid rain among other noxious effects such as mountain top removal mining.  Only 2.4% of our electricity is generated from renewable sources other than hydroelectric.  California is often the trend setter, leading the nation toward positive solutions to its complex dilemmas.  In this case it’s very clear in order to sustain a future for our children we must develop and use our remarkable renewable energy capacity and sources in this country.  In order to do so we must create and participate in a renewable energy market.  Marin County has a unique opportunity to do so and is currently working to finalize its adoption of Marin Clean Energy (MCE).    

MCE is an opportunity for Marin County to make a real, substantial and positive impact. It will reduce Marin's greenhouse gas emissions by initially providing twice as much renewable power as Marin receives now. MCE also promises to increase price stability over the long term by decreasing reliance on imported fossil fuels to generate power. MCE will also fuel small, locally based green businesses. In addition, MCE would enable local decision-making over what kinds of power Marin utilizes.  According to the Marin Energy Authority, the projected CO2 emissions reduction is "over 50 times greater with MCE than by using all other programs combined including all other locally based energy efficiency and renewable energy initiatives." Keep in mind IT IS THE ONLY such program with a revenue stream! As a result, it saves participating cities millions. 

Marin Clean Energy is currently being in the process of becoming a reality.  Public meetings are being held and you are welcome to attend the public meetings and to participate in the public dialogue about the MCE choice. Following this public education period, each city and town council which is a member of the Marin Energy Authority will vote on whether to launch the Marin Clean Energy program. Any resident whose city or town is a member of the Marin Energy Authority may opt out of Marin Clean Energy and choose to remain a customer of PG&E, but if their city or town votes to drop out of the Marin Energy Authority, they will not be able to receive their power under MCE.

Marin Clean Energy is in an especially big squeeze January 4th through January 13th. The City Councils are now voting on the energy contract. Monday January 4th at 7pm in Mill Valley is the first crucial meeting---can you think of someone/yourself/anyone you can turn out to this? Also crucial is San Anselmo on Wednesday January 5th at 5pm, 525 San Anselmo Ave. 

Sustainable Fairfax invites you to come out to the meetings in support of Marin Clean Energy.  We have worked long hard to bring a viable and effective clean renewable energy program to Marin.  Your support during these final days is crucial to Marins' clean energy future. 

Resources

Energy Information Administration