When California passed community choice aggregation legislation in 2002, Marin saw an opportunity to substantially accelerate movement toward its renewable energy and emission goals. Though the project faced considerable opposition, key planning and analysis enabled Marin to turn a vision into reality.
The passage of Assembly Bill 117, the legislation enabling community choice aggregation in California, set the stage for Marin County to start down a path towards energy transition. The County faced opposition from the incumbent utility, Pacific Gas and Electric, who used a variety of tactics to undermine the scope and capacity of the CCA. Several key factors enabled Marin to overcome obstacles to implementation and reach many of its targets with Marin Clean Energy.
Grassroots Support. The planning process benefited from a strong network of grassroots organizations who helped amplify the reach of communications and build trust in local communities. Mutual support between leaders of grassroots groups and County staff was important for maintaining communication around the region.
Technical Support.The County engaged in several analytical studies to help base decisions for the CCA project. The opportunity to gain reliable technical information for decision-making and communication to the public was crucial for the program's success.
Transparency. Marin utilized several means for communicating information to city managers, and local communities around the County. The preference for public meetings, as well as an openness to involvement from the public, was important for building confidence in the program and strengthening the outcome.
For more information about Marin Clean Energy and its relevance to energy planning in Boulder, download the case study below.
Grassroots Support. The planning process benefited from a strong network of grassroots organizations who helped amplify the reach of communications and build trust in local communities. Mutual support between leaders of grassroots groups and County staff was important for maintaining communication around the region.
Technical Support.The County engaged in several analytical studies to help base decisions for the CCA project. The opportunity to gain reliable technical information for decision-making and communication to the public was crucial for the program's success.
Transparency. Marin utilized several means for communicating information to city managers, and local communities around the County. The preference for public meetings, as well as an openness to involvement from the public, was important for building confidence in the program and strengthening the outcome.
For more information about Marin Clean Energy and its relevance to energy planning in Boulder, download the case study below.
| marin_clean_energy_case_study_web.pdf |
