Running on renewables: Building local support for 100% net-renewable electricity resolutions at the municipal scale in the United States

Abstract

In the absence of national leadership on climate policy in the United States, municipalities are adopting resolutions to reduce their carbon footprint and transition to clean energy. However, what leads to successful adoption of these ambitious resolutions needs further exploration. Using a qualitative, exploratory case study approach, this paper examines the resolutions adopted in Salt Lake City, Park City, and Moab, Utah to transition to 100% renewable electricity by 2030. We conducted in-depth document analyses and semi-structured interviews with government officials, city staff, and community members involved with the resolution process. We used time series and thematic analyses to determine causal events and identify fundamental themes within the data. The data that emerged from the interviews and document analyses were then cross compared to the social-ecological transformations framework and community coalition building theory to inform and organize our findings of how renewable electricity resolutions were developed and adopted in these communities. Our findings deliver a transferable five-step framework: 1) using trigger events for inspiration; 2) envisioning change; 3) identifying challenges and potential solutions; 4) building support; 5) taking it to a vote. The purpose of this framework is to assist other cities in adopting similar resolutions, furthering a national transition to renewable electricity.