Naperville advisory group to host program on the city's use of coal power
The Naperville Environment and Sustainability Task Force invites the community to a program on the city's use of coal power.
Learn what residents can do to advocate for more sustainable forms of energy at 7 p.m. Monday, Sept. 25, in the Naperville Municipal Center's city council chambers, 400 S. Eagle St.
"We expect this to be one of our biggest meetings of the year, because it's one of the biggest challenges facing Naperville," said NEST co-chair Cathy Clarkin. "We invite all Naperville residents, whether you're an expert on this subject or just hearing about it for the first time. Come and learn about where Naperville homes get their energy and how we can be more sustainable."
The program includes keynote remarks from Scott Allen, Environmental Outreach Coordinator for the Citizens Utility Board.
Allen, an expert on Illinois' transition from coal to clean energy, will share information on the progress of the clean energy transition at the state level. He will help attendees understand Naperville's important role in that process.
NEST facilitators also will provide updates on the City of Naperville's electricity contract renewal process and give attendees specific action items to urge the city council to adopt decarbonization best practices in future contracts.
"Attendance at the meeting on the 25th is important to learn the options available for Naperville in reducing its dependence on coal and greenhouse gases," said Roger Iliff, a retired physician and Naperville resident. "Naperville needs to support and lead in Illinois' transition to clean energy."
The program is not a rally or a protest, but is meant to inform Naperville residents and city leaders.
NEST believes that the next electricity supply contract can put the city on the trajectory to 100% clean energy while protecting ratepayers if Naperville's elected officials, city staff, and residents work together.
State Sen. Laura Ellman, state Rep. Janet Yang Rohr, and other local elected officials will be in attendance and provide additional remarks.
This event is co-sponsored by the League of Women Voters of Naperville and the Greater Naperville Citizens' Climate Lobby chapter. Support has also been provided by Citizens Utility Board, Sierra Club, Naperville Area AAUW, DuPage Clean Energy Coalition, and Fox Valley Citizens for Peace and Justice.
The Naperville Environment and Sustainability Task Force began as a small group of Naperville residents working together for clean energy. Over time, the group expanded their scope and, in 2019, became an official task force for the City of Naperville.
It is an all-volunteer organization with a mandate to advise city government, residents, and businesses on actions to reduce carbon pollution and protect the environment. For more information about NEST, contact info@sustainnaperville.org or visit sustainnaperville.org.