Biggest city in Florida, Orlando, commits to 100% renewables

US city Orlando has approved on Tuesday the new target of reaching 100 per cent clean and renewable energy by 2050.

Orlando is 40th US city to make the commitment, and the largest city in Florida to join the movement.

Carol Davis, Co-President of the League of Women Voters of Orange County (LWVOC) – which leads the First 50 Coalition – said: “Today, Orlando takes its place on the regional, state and national stage as a forward-thinking city committed to a healthier, sustainable future. This is a first, important step, and we plan to continue to support and encourage the city to follow with concrete measures that solidify this commitment.”

Buddy Dyer, Mayor of Orlando, had already signed the Mayors National Climate Action Agenda a few months ago, and has been involved in various green energy initiatives, including the Sierra Club’s Mayors for 100% Clean Energy campaign.

​Beverlye Colson Neal, President of the NAACP’s local branch – a key member of the First 50 Coalition – said: “We stand in support with the Orlando city commission in realizing the importance of renewable energy to it residents by taking the necessary actions to begin the transformation. We look forward to working with the city to educate the residents of the importance and advantages of renewable energy as we move into the future.”

Phil Compton, Senior Organizing Representative with the Sierra Club’s Ready for 100 Campaign in Florida, and a member of the First 50 Coalition, also said: “All across our state and our nation, cities are committing to a future powered by 100 percent clean and renewable energy for all. Today, Orlando joins this growing movement of cities that are ready for 100 percent clean, renewable energy.

It is hoped that Orlando’s commitment will encourage other cities to do the same.