While perhaps being more famous for its beachlife and "Baywatch", the city of Santa Monica is in the process of becoming the nation's first net-zero city, through increased energy efficiency, relying completely on solar and other renewable energy. The city, with over 86,000 residents has currently over 60 buildings equipped with solar panels, while numerous other buildings, both residential and commercial are in the process of installing solar roofing.
"Solar Santa Monica launched a two year program on January 1, 2007. The voluntary program starts with 50 residential and commercial buildings. With the benefit of what is learned from these 50 projects, the program will be made available to all. The 50 buildings will include 30 to 35 residences, 5 to10 business and 5 municipal buildings."
With a total cost of $1.4 billion, spent over a span of 20 years, Santa Monica will achieve its net-zero status. The city has invested in an array of "greener" municipal cars, with over 80% of the city’s 519 vehicles being either alternate fuel (alt-fuel) or electric. Also, 100 of Santa Monica’s Big Bus fleet is liquid natural gas (LNG), which is according to the city of Santa Monica, 77% cleaner than diesel.
Good incentive Santa Monica, let's hope other follows suit.
Read more at http://www.cleanfleetreport.com/cities/solar-santa-monica/ or http://www.smgov.net/departments/ose/
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