8 December 2009: The International Energy Agency (IEA) has published a report titled “Cities, Towns and Renewable Energy: Yes In My Front Yard,” which aims to illustrate to local level stakeholders the benefits and opportunities renewables can offer local businesses and citizens, and to assist national governments to better understand the role municipalities can play in national renewables programmes.
Noting that over half the world’s population live in cities, which today produce over 70% of global carbon dioxide emissions, this report is based on the recognition that local governments have the ability to influence the energy choices of their citizens. The report includes a list of key recommendations, including that: there is no one-size-fits-all solution for municipalities and that careful evaluation of policy options is required; cities should incorporate energy efficiency measures into their renewable energy programmes; renewables policies should be linked to other policy areas, such as energy security, health, employment, etc.; and mobilizing local support is key to the success of such policies. [IEA Press Release][Report Website][Executive Summary]