Climate coalition begins solar power campaign in NE Ohio

CLEVELAND — A climate-focused coalition has announced they are beginning a campaign to increase the use of solar power in Cleveland and Akron, according to a press release.

The campaign was announced by America Is All In, which describes itself as “the most expansive coalition of leaders ever assembled in support of climate action.” The release notes that they will be seeking to bring attention to the benefits solar power when it comes to cost, specifically citing the Biden administration’s Inflation Reduction Act.

“We’re helping Ohio go all in on solar. The clean energy revolution is here,” said Gina McCarthy, managing co-chair of America Is All In, in the release. “Working with teams on the ground, we’ll be talking directly to communities about how they can take advantage of the historic opportunities available through the Inflation Reduction Act to ditch fossil fuels once and for all and enjoy clean, affordable, and reliable solar power. Investing in solar means good-paying jobs right here in Ohio and cleaner air for generations to come.”

The release notes the importance of utilizing solar in historically disadvantaged communities.

“Air pollution is responsible for increased rates of asthma, heart disease, strokes, cancers and other health issues, predominantly in low-income, Black and Brown communities,” the release reads.

The Industrial Heartland Solar Coalition was given a $156 million grant in April for the installation of solar in homes throughout eight different states. According to the release, it’s expected to save Ohioans $19 million in energy costs. That’s in addition to cutting 160,000 tons of carbon emissions per year and adding 1,000 jobs in the solar field.

“Cleveland is proud to be at the forefront of climate action. We were the first city in Ohio to commit to 100 percent clean and renewable energy by 2050, a community-driven target, and this campaign by America Is All In will go a long way in helping us deliver on that target,” said Justin Bibb, Cleveland mayor and chair of Climate Mayors. “We are going to make sure that everyone in Cleveland, especially our historically disadvantaged communities and neighborhoods, are able to enjoy the benefits of solar energy, from lower energy bills to cleaner air.”

Akron’s Mayor Shammas Malik called it a pivotal time for climate action and said this allows them to see the benefit of the Inflation Reduction Act.

“Akron was thrilled to join Power a Clean Future Ohio earlier this year to reduce our emissions and improve sustainability, and we’re committed to bringing the benefits, reliability, and affordability of solar power to our communities,” he said.

For more information, visit the America Is All In website.