Bozeman staff review 2025 Climate Plan impact report, highlight energy savings and organics program grant

City sustainability staff presented the 2025 impact report for the Bozeman Climate Plan on Dec. 16, detailing progress across buildings, transportation, waste, water and natural systems. The presentation highlighted measurable facility savings and community programs.

Natalie Meyer summarized the plan’s position and goals—26% emissions reduction (relative to 2008) by 2025, 100% net clean electricity by 2030 and carbon neutrality by 2050—while noting that population growth complicates per-capita emissions reductions. The city’s library retrofit produced a 36% reduction in electricity use and an 18% reduction in natural gas at that facility; city rooftop solar additions (municipal public safety center, Fire Station 2, library, and City Hall) were noted along with estimated annual savings of about $21,000 for some arrays.

Meyer reported the curbside organics program launched in spring supported by a $1.6 million EPA grant and about 1,700 customers, yielding an estimated 433 metric tons of CO2e avoided. The water conservation team reported an estimated 7.5 million gallons saved this year via a water-use assessment program for commercial, industrial and institutional properties. Meyer and staff framed the UDC updates as one tool among many to help advance climate goals through efficient land use, EV readiness, and support for district energy and community solar definitions.

Commissioners thanked staff for the update; no public comments or questions were taken during the presentation.