Madison Is First Wisconsin City To Make 100 Percent Renewable Energy Promise

Madison’s Common Council has unanimously approved a city-wide goal of reaching 100 percent renewable energy.

The move makes Madison the first Wisconsin city to make a commitment of getting all its energy from renewable sources and have net-zero greenhouse gas emissions.

NBC 15 reports the resolution instructs city staff to develop a plan that sets out target dates for reaching the goal. The city is also allocating $250,000 to hire a consultant to help with create the plan by Jan. 18, according to a joint press release between the Sierra Club, alderwoman Denise DeMarb and alderman Zach Wood.

The renewable energy will affect all sectors, including electricity, transportation and more, the release states.

Advocates for the initiative say Madison would be a leader to and model for other cities in the United States. Madison is the biggest city in the Midwest to make such a community-wide goal, according to the Sierra Club.

In a written statement, DeMarb said the vote shows a commitment to future generations and that “the future became brighter” with the vote.

“In a time of inaction at the state and federal levels, cities need to lead. Cities need to continue to move towards a sustainable future, creating good jobs and a future we are proud to hand over to our kids,” DeMarb said. “… Because of the vote for clean energy, Madison residents can look forward to a stronger, cleaner and healthier place for all to live.”

The next step for the city is to issue a request for proposal for the consultant need to help prepare the plan.