The energy landscape is shifting in California. Renewable energy is now price-competitive with fossil fuels. Local and State targets mandate a shift to sources of power that do not pollute.
Can Santa Barbara continue its legacy of leadership on environmental issues by creating a local energy system powered by 100% renewable energy? Can this shift create jobs and new business activity?
On May 21, 2015 approximately 175 community members gathered to hear what local leaders in business, politics, and the nonprofit sector think about the issue of energy in Santa Barbara as they discussed the best way of achieving a reliable and resilient energy system powered by renewable energy.
Panelists:
Matt Renner – Executive Director, World Business Academy
Jefferson Litten – Program Coordinator, Community Environmental Council
Hal Conklin – Former Mayor of Santa Barbara
Gregg Hart – Santa Barbara City Councilmember
Maggie Campbell – Executive Director, Downtown Organization
Ken Oplinger – President, Santa Barbara Chamber of Commerce
Introductions: Judi Weisbart – VP Community Relations, World Business Academy
Moderator: Becca Claassen – Outreach Consultant, World Business Academy
Topics included Community Choice Energy, local renewable microgrids, electricity reliability, California’s energy goals, and the opportunity for business and local communities to flourish.
