Green Bay initiates group buy solar program to lower residential energy costs

The Sustainability Commission meeting held on February 19, 2025, in Green Bay, Wisconsin, focused on several key initiatives aimed at advancing the city’s clean energy and sustainability goals. The meeting began with a discussion on the progress of the Clean Energy Work Group, which is actively tracking the city’s decarbonization efforts. The group has been meeting quarterly, with the next session scheduled for early June.

A motion was made to receive and place on file the Clean Energy Work Group report, which was unanimously approved. Following this, staff reports were presented, highlighting various community engagement efforts and partnerships aimed at promoting clean energy.

Alyssa, a staff member, reported on the Energized Green Bay initiative, which has been hosting neighborhood clean energy information sessions. Although attendance has been lower than expected, efforts are being made to encourage community participation. The initiative has conducted four sessions so far, with more planned for March.

Additionally, the city has partnered with the Midwest Renewable Energy Association (MREA) to launch a group buy program for solar energy. This program aims to reduce costs for residents interested in installing solar panels by leveraging collective purchasing power. The request for proposals has been issued, and the city anticipates significant interest from contractors.

Updates were also provided on the resilience and sustainability hub, which is still in development, and on two parks—East River Emily Park and East River Van Beaver Park. Approximately $400,000 in grant funding has been secured for these projects, with designs progressing towards completion. The Van Beaver Park project includes plans for flood resiliency and wetland restoration, with community input being actively sought.

The meeting concluded with discussions about potential funding opportunities, including a grant program from the Department of Natural Resources for urban non-point source and stormwater management projects. The commission is looking for ways to supplement existing projects with additional planning grants.

Overall, the meeting underscored the city’s commitment to sustainability and community engagement, with several initiatives underway to promote clean energy and environmental resilience. The commission plans to continue its efforts and will reconvene in June for further updates.