Durham Strategic Plan Dashboard
Prosperity
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Initiative: 5.12 Expand onsite and offsite solar power generation (CNRE)
Thriving & Vibrant Environment
Description
This initiative will build the on-site and off-site solar photovoltaic and other renewable energy systems that are critical to achieving the goals of the City’s adopted Carbon Neutrality and Renewable Energy Action Plan. This plan commits the City to powering City facilities and operations with 80% renewable energy sources by 2030 and 100% by 2050.
Key Measures & Data Analysis
This measure captures renewable energy from the Duke Energy grid, biogas produced from the South Durham Water Reclamation Facility and the closed Durham landfill, solar generated both on- and off-site, and biodiesel used in fleet and transit vehicles.
In the graph below, the light blue section represents planned and funded projects, including the City's participation in Green Source Advantage which will source 20 MW of clean, green solar energy starting in FY2026. Additional renewable energy projects will be identified to meet the City's goal to power City facilities and operations with 80% renewable energy sources by 2030.
Energy generated by renewables
Why is it important?
Expanding onsite and offsite solar power generation allows the City to reduce its carbon footprint by limiting emission of greenhouse gas emissions. It allows the City to decrease dependence on fossil fuels and save on electricity bills, creating more predictable energy costs. Combined with battery storage, this initiative will make our city buildings more resilient to prolonged power outages.
What have we been doing?
- A 470kW DC solar array was installed on the roof of Water Management’s Administration Building at Mist Lake.
- Applied for IRA direct pay rebates for two solar arrays. Both are eligible for a 30% rebate.
- Awarded a Dept. of Energy grant to add solar and battery storage to W.D. Hill Recreation Center.
What's next?
- The FY 2025 budget includes funding for four solar arrays.
- Continue to advance Biosolids and Renewable Energy Plan.
City Website Home Page: Durham, NC | Official Website (durhamnc.gov)
Budget Website Page: Budget & Management Services Department | Durham, NC (durhamnc.gov)
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