Utah's 16 cities have officially opted-in to the Utah Renewable Communities (URC) program, marking a major milestone in the state's transition to clean energy. The program aims to bring affordable, net-100% renewable energy to the grid, empowering thousands of Rocky Mountain Power customers to choose where their electricity comes from.
The first-of-its-kind program has sparked national attention and demonstrates Utah's commitment to sustainability. By adopting this program, these cities are not only reducing their carbon footprint but also supporting local economies and creating good-paying jobs.
Residents have been actively advocating for a choice in their energy future, with many speaking out at local city council and county commission meetings. This grassroots effort has paid off, with 16 communities now participating in the URC program.
The program's cost is relatively low, with a flat $4.00 per month fee for residential customers and no additional cost for qualifying low-income customers. This makes it easy for residents to participate and opt-out if desired.
Rocky Mountain Power will notify customers near the end of 2026 about the option to opt-out of the program. Customers can choose to stick with the program or switch to a different energy provider.
The URC program is supported by a united front of organizations, volunteers, and organizers, including Utah Clean Energy, Climate Utah, and Utah Physicians for a Healthy Environment. This coalition has been instrumental in promoting the program and educating residents about its benefits.
This achievement marks a significant step towards reducing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating climate change. As more cities adopt clean energy programs like URC, we can expect to see a decrease in air pollution and an increase in sustainable energy sources.
The adoption of 100% clean energy programs is becoming increasingly popular across the US. With Utah's URC program leading the way, other states may follow suit, demonstrating a growing commitment to sustainability and renewable energy.
As the demand for clean energy continues to grow, it will be essential to ensure that this transition is equitable and accessible to all. The URC program's inclusion of low-income customers and its affordable cost make it an excellent model for future clean energy initiatives.
The adoption of 100% clean energy programs like URC is a significant step towards reducing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating climate change.
