Local Government Efforts

In March 2007, the City of Charlottesville joined the International Council for Environmental Initiatives (ICLEI) and their Cities for Climate Protection Program. This 5-step program allows cities and counties to calculate – or inventory – their emissions for a baseline year using specific software supplied by ICLEI. The City then has the ability to set quantifiable and realistic targets for future reductions, before embarking on the challenge of producing a community climate action plan to address climate and air quality issues.

While Charlottesville has just begun to address its community climate action plan, there are already a number of exciting actions being taken by local government.

Currently the City is offering two rebates

1. Water Heater Rebate: The City offers a $100 rebate to any gas customer who is not currently heating water with natural gas once they upgrade to a new, energy saver natural gas water heater.
2. Programmable Thermostat Rebate: This rebate (up to $100) can be used to cover the cost of a new programmable thermostat or any expenses incurred installing it. The amount can either be credited to your account or mailed out as a check. It’s up to you. (Only one rebate will be given per utility account.)

NEW CITY TAX INCENTIVE FOR ENERGY EFFICIENT BUILDINGS
In May 2008 Charlottesville City Council passed a resolution enabling homeowners in the City who can demonstrate that their homes are at least 30% more energy efficient than required by the Virginia building code to take a one time 50% property tax deduction. The evaluation must be completed by a third party professional such as an energy auditor or home energy rater. Visit the City’s Neighborhood Development Services website to learn more about this incentive program or download an application.

The City has implemented the following actions to reduce its own energy use:

• installed energy saving lighting
• computer controls for more efficient HVAC system operations
• use of hybrid vehicles
• no idling policy
• replacement of old boilers with more efficient ones
• traffic signal replacement with energy efficient bulbs
• use of bio diesel fuels
• checking buildings for efficient insulation and air leaks
• window replacement to more energy efficient models

Learn more about Charlottesville’s Green City Initiative.

Find out about the City’s CFL giveaway campaign.

Read about Albemarle County’s green roof project.

Coming soon

• Free energy audits for low income homes