Press Release: Councilmember Robert White Introduces Legislation to Help Combat Climate Change Using DC’s Own Properties

News Release — At-large DC Council member Robert White

For Immediate Release: October 8, 2019

Contact: Rita D. Lewis, Communications Director

Washington, DC – Today, At-Large Councilmember Robert White introduced the Renewable Energy Future Amendment Act of 2019 to start planning for the expansion of renewable energy generation at District government facilities across the city. In recent days, we have seen our residents and people across the country take action to combat the catastrophic threat of global climate changes, by taking to the streets to advocate for reform. On the world stage, we have seen young people, including Greta Thunberg and Rhiana Gunn-Wright, courageously demand action from world leaders to confront this imminent crisis. When introducing the bill, Councilmember White shared, “When I think of my two daughters, I know I can’t simply bury my head in the sand, leaving them to face the consequences of climate change.”

The bill would require the Department of General Services to evaluate all District government properties to determine whether it would be viable and cost-effective to generate renewable energy at each location through solar panels, small-scale wind turbines, or other means.  This will help the District government be a leader in generating green, renewable energy. 

The Renewable Energy Future Amendment Act builds on other climate-focused legislation recently passed by the Council by moving us further away from our dependence on large smokestack power-plants for our energy generation.

In advocating for his bill, Councilmember White reminded his colleagues that, “Climate change is real, it is happening now, and it is disproportionately impacting low-income communities and people of color around the world…The District of Columbia will not be immune from these effects as a coastal city on a tidal river.” 

Facing this challenge requires immediate action. As Chair of the Committee on Facilities and Procurement, with oversight over the Department of General Services, Councilmember White is dedicated to ensuring that the District considers its impact on climate change as the city determines the future of all its properties.  

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