Rose Daily, Sustainability Coordinator, City of Sun Prairie, Wisconsin
Why did you join the EECBG Program Blueprint Cohorts?
The City of Sun Prairie joined the EECBG Program Blueprint Cohorts to gain expert guidance in developing a greenhouse gas (GHG) inventory and a comprehensive Climate Action Plan (CAP). As this was our first time creating a CAP, we were eager to learn from other municipalities that had already gone through the process and to follow a detailed, step-by-step approach to make the best use of our grant funds.
Why did you choose your cohort, specifically?
We specifically chose Blueprint #1, Energy Planning, because it aligned closely with our long-term vision of creating a city-wide climate action roadmap with the ultimate goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. In addition, we are currently referencing a handful of other blueprints related to electric vehicles and charging infrastructure (Blueprint #4A Electric Vehicles & Fleet Electrification and Blueprint #4B EV Charging Infrastructure for the Community) to support and guide other city projects.
What impact has participating in an EECBG Blueprint Cohort had on your EECBG Program project or other local clean energy and efficiency work?
Participating in the Blueprint Cohort has had a profound impact on our local clean energy and efficiency efforts. We were introduced to invaluable online tools such as SLOPE, LEAD, and EJScreen, which have not only supported our EECBG grant project but have also been useful in other state and federal grant applications.
What have you learned, and how has it helped your government?
The cohort emphasized the need to integrate equity and climate justice considerations into our CAP. Thanks to the cohort, we’re now moving forward with a CAP engagement process that prioritizes the needs of frontline communities.
What has been your favorite part of participating in the Blueprint Cohorts, so far?
The peer-to-peer learning opportunities have been one of our favorite aspects of the cohort experience. It’s been incredibly beneficial to connect with other municipalities leading climate action planning. This network has given us the chance to exchange ideas, collaborate, and support one another as we work toward a more sustainable future.
