As the new year begins, we’re reflecting on the first year achievements of our Wattsmart Communities program and Energy Action Plan. In partnership with Rocky Mountain Power (RMP), South Jordan brought together elected officials, staff, and key community stakeholders to develop a shared energy vision. We committed to carrying out our Wattsmart plan during 2022 and 2023 with the idea of promoting clean and efficient energy use to help build a healthy and sustainable community. Based on resident and stakeholder feedback, the City identified the following three key values: keep utility costs affordable, improve air quality, and support sustainable economic development.
Achievements
During 2022, the City completed a recommissioning of City Hall. Recommissioning involves doing an engineering study to identify low- and no-cost actions to improve a facility’s energy use, such as readjusting HVAC controls. Working with RMP, the City facilities staff lowered City Hall’s annual electricity costs by an estimated $8,521. The City also received an incentive payment from RMP for $3,451.
The City has also added its first plug-in hybrid vehicles to its fleet, along with charging stations. These three vehicles are used by City building inspectors who make frequent, short trips around the City, making this type of vehicle a wise investment. The City is always evaluating the best type of vehicle for the work that will be done—and the most cost-effective way to do it. The City has already been using hybrid fleet vehicles for about a decade. With every vehicle, the City’s fleet manager uses several metrics to determine the return-on-investment. The City fleet will keep moving forward using this strategic, data-driven process to make sure our fleet and equipment plan advances our energy values.
Next Steps
What’s next for the City’s Wattsmart Program? More energy savings! In 2023, we’ll be providing residents and business owners with more ways they can save. Look for tips and information on rebate programs in the eNewsletter, social media, and right here in the Focus. You can get started by checking out wattsmarthomes.com to find savings on appliances and devices that keep you comfortable and your energy bills low. Also check out Rocky Mountain Power’s Blue Sky program that lets you purchase renewable energy credits for as low as $1.95 a month and turns those funds into community projects that reduce emissions. It will take all of us to build a healthy and sustainable community.