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Chicago keeps its New Year’s resolution: All city buildings now use 100% clean power

Summary

Chicago’s municipal buildings, including airports and water treatment plants, now run entirely on renewable energy, powered by the new Double Black Diamond Solar Farm in Illinois. This initiative reduces the city’s carbon footprint by 290,000 metric tons annually and reflects its broader goal to source all citywide energy from renewables by 2035. The solar farm, the largest east of the Mississippi, was financed through a $422 million deal with Swift Current Energy, also generating $100 million in tax revenue for nearby counties. Additionally, Chicago secured funds for clean energy workforce training, emphasizing economic and environmental benefits. The project demonstrates how cities can leverage their purchasing power to lead in decarbonization.

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