Imagine knowing that the energy for your fridge, lights and computer comes from clean energy sources versus fossil fuels. Fortunately, it’s soon to be a choice in Summit County and beyond. The new Community Clean Energy program has been in the works since 2019 under House Bill 411 and diligence from many civil servants dedicated to clean energy. 

Currently, Utah generates electricity mostly from fossil fuels, almost 60%. Once the switch occurs in four years, roughly 25% of Utah’s Rocky Mountain Power’s customers will receive clean energy through our grid, which will vastly improve the percentage. In total, 19 Utah communities have signed on to the program, including Moab, Springdale, Logan, Coalville, Oakley and Francis. June 2 is the final vote from local councillors, so contact your local representatives today to help secure their commitment. Summit County voted 5-0 on April 15 to support the program. 

Residents will be charged an additional $4/month on our power bill, which is an investment in our state’s energy future – solar farms, wind installations, battery storage and more. Businesses will be charged a rate proportional to their energy usage. This transition to clean energy could ensure new energy built to meet demand comes from non-polluting sources, avoiding emissions – much needed as we experience declining snow pack, drought and wildfires. And let’s not forget about our health and air! 

Utah is a leader, as this program is the only large-scale community-based program of its kind in our nation. The 7-8 years of creativity and dedication working with our electric utility requires applause for many behind the scenes. How can we support it? Reach out to local council members before June 2nd who haven’t yet confirmed their commitment, and also praise those who have. Lastly, transition home appliances to electric from natural gas as much as possible. 

By Mary Closser