Our energy system may experience increased stress from climate change. It is also a sector where we can reduce our contribution to climate change while simultaneously adapting to its effects.
Low-income residents and those living in substandard housing are most at risk to shocks to the energy system.
What can we do to prepare and build resiliency?
Our community identified several strategies to address Missoula County's energy vulnerabilities given climate change. They are presented below, and you can find strategy-specific implementation details by clicking on its "status." Additionally, relevant resources are included throughout the page.
Implementation Highlights
The Inflation Reduction Act will bring a wealth of resources to implementing our strategies in the Energy sector. From increasing access to rooftop solar to building electrification to making large renewable energy installations more affordable, we can't wait to put these new resources to good use!
While the strategies are presented individually, we have prioritized a holistic approach that advances many goals and strategies at once. A few highlights are:
- On April 3, 2019, the Missoula County Commissioners and the Missoula City Council adopted a joint resolution that establishes a goal of 100% clean electricity for the Missoula urban area by 2030. The City, County, and Climate Smart Missoula are now working to develop a Roadmap to 100% Clean Electricity, which will include both projects/programs to be pursued jointly with NorthWestern Energy as well as independent initiatives.
- Building(s) for the Future is a joint City-County-Climate Smart effort to decarbonize our building sector, from design to deconstruction.
- Electrify Missoula is a campaign to transition buildings to a healthier, more affordable clean energy future.
Ensure a clean, reliable, affordable energy system in the context of increased heat, drought, extreme weather, wildfire, and population growth.
Strategy |
Status (click for more information on implementation progress) |
Collaborate statewide to facilitate and advocate for legislative, regulatory, and utility program change that accelerates development of renewable energy, energy storage, energy efficiency, and load flexibility, and reduces our reliance on fossil fuels. |
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Develop local energy savings programs to reduce energy cost burden and exposure to energy price volatility. |
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Accelerate adoption of distributed renewable energy systems, electrification and microgrids. |
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Manage vegetation near utility infrastructure to reduce the risk of igniting fires in very hot/dry periods. |
UNDERWAY - DETAILED PROGRESS REPORT COMING SOON! |
Bury overhead power lines. |
UNDERWAY - DETAILED PROGRESS REPORT COMING SOON! |
Eliminate fossil fuels from your home or business - electrify!
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It's easy to go solar - learn more by clicking on the photo below!
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