DGS works to decarbonize its energy supply, primarily through wind and solar power purchase agreements (PPA). DGS sources approximately 25 percent of its energy supply through a wind PPA in South Chestnut, Pennsylvania. The electricity supply is further offset with the installation of solar photovoltaics (PV) at more than 60 District government properties and growing. For more than a decade, 100 percent of the DGS portfolio’s electricity consumption has been matched with Renewable Energy Credits (RECs). The District has consistently ranked among the top three local governments on the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Top 30 Local Government list, which recognizes the nation’s largest municipal green power users participating in the Green Power Partnership.
Wind
Energy:
In 2015, DGS finalized the largest wind power purchase agreement of its kind ever entered into by an American city, setting a new benchmark for municipal renewable energy procurement. The wind power purchase agreement (PPA) provides 25-30% of the DGS portfolio’s electricity needs each year. Over its 20-year term, the PPA is projected to save District taxpayers $45 million, reduce GHG emissions by the amount equivalent to taking 18,000 cars off the road, and hedge against energy price increases and market volatility. Read more about this PPA here.
In recognition of DGS' groundbreaking wind PPA, the District received the prestigious C40 Cities Award for Global Leadership on Climate Change at the 2015 United Nations Climate Change Conference in Paris (COP21).
Related Information:
Washington, DC – District of Columbia Wind Power Purchase Agreement (PPA)
Solar Energy