Bend Council: Electrify Bend with a Just Transition
We the undersigned ask:
In 2016, with foresight and leadership, and in recognition that climate change posed a significant present and future danger, Bend passed a Climate Resolution and later a Climate plan. While these actions represent a positive step, unless much bolder steps are taken, we will inevitably fall significantly short of the latest emission reductions needed to avoid catastrophic consequences. Scientists say, in their latest IPCC report, that a doubling or tripling of effort is needed. More than ever, we must protect against these present dangers: intolerable heat waves, severe mega-droughts, dying fish stock, and wildfires raging with unprecedented gale winds.
The UN Secretary General reaffirmed this position in 2021 when he called the latest climate report a “Red Alert, and stated that humans are in the “fight for our lives. “ We know that climate change will affect all of us, but particularly black and brown people, and low income individuals. These vulnerable populations often live in substandard housing using dirty fossil fuels that are both more expensive and toxic to health. Fortunately, we have solutions, we have only to implement them.
Requiring building electrification is a vital first step. Continuing the new installation of toxic, planet destroying, fossil gas will obligate us to at least another 20 years of their use. Moreover, research from Rocky Mountain Institute indicates that not only do electrified building occupants benefit from more positive health and reduced energy bills, but builders benefit from lower costs when they build 100% electric homes.
Incentives and new rules for clean power in buildings will also clean up toxic pollution and improve air quality. In view of these findings, we ask: that the City of Bend require the following:
By 2025, to require that all NEW buildings, whether industrial, commercial, or residential, be 100% Electric.
By 2040, 90% of all existing commercial, industrial, and residential buildings have electric space and water heating.
To create a Just Transition Fund to foster equity and encourage access to clean energy and efficiency.
Sign the Petition to Electrify Bend
Business Petition to Electrify Bend
Bend Council: Electrify Buildings and Foster a Just Transition
We the undersigned businesses ask:
In 2016, with foresight and leadership, and in recognition that climate change posed a significant present and future danger, Bend passed a Climate Resolution and later a Climate plan. While these actions represent positive steps, unless much bolder steps are taken by the City of Bend, we will inevitably fall significantly short of the latest emission reductions needed to avoid catastrophic consequences. Scientists say, in their latest IPCC report, that a doubling or tripling of effort is needed. More than ever, business owners must be protected against ongoing threats to our economy:
intolerable heat waves, severe droughts, and wildfires that result in business closures due to toxic air. Additionally, our outdoor, leisure, and tourism industries are coping with severe impacts from diminished snowpack and water supplies.
The UN Secretary General reaffirmed these dangers in 2021 when he called the latest climate report a “Red Alert, and stated that humans are in the “fight for our lives.” Fortunately, we have solutions, we have only to implement them.
Requiring building electrification is a vital first step. If we continue the new installation of toxic, planet destroying, fossil gas, it will obligate us to at least another 20 years of their use. Moreover, research from Rocky Mountain Institute indicates that not only do electrified building occupants benefit from more positive health and reduced energy bills, but builders benefit from lower costs when they build 100% electric buildings. Many building owners have also demonstrated cost savings from beneficial electrification. Moreover, businesses often find benefits when on a path to sustainability.
Incentives and new rules for clean power in buildings will also clean up toxic pollution and improve air quality. In view of these findings, we ask: that the City of Bend require the following:
By 2025, to require that all NEW buildings, whether industrial, commercial, or residential, be 100% Electric.
By 2040, 90% of all existing commercial and residential buildings have electric space and water heating.
To create a Just Transition Fund to foster equity and encourage access to clean energy and efficiency.
