Californians are becoming increasingly aware of the critical need for proactive responses to climate change. Based on the recent United Nation’s Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change report, the western United States is already experiencing weather and water cycle impacts associated with climate change. To help limit the impacts of climate change, the State has already committed the California economy to achieve carbon neutrality by 2045.
With pumping and treatment of drinking water being the single largest use of energy in California, California Water Districts will play a critical role in meeting climate action targets. The Board of Directors and staff of Diablo Water District continue to remain committed to sustainable water management and environmentally proactive practices in its daily operations.
In June 2021, Diablo Water District’s Board of Directors adopted a new regulation committing the District to achieve carbon neutrality by the end of 2027, a full 18 years ahead of the State target. Then, on August 25, 2021, the District took its first steps toward achieving this industry-leading initiative by awarding a local solar installation and battery backup project that fully offsets the energy demands for its office building.
Net zero carbon emissions will remain the focus for current and future District operations. New local solar and an electric fleet will play a large role in the District’s ability to maintain momentum and lead the water industry in sustainable practices, while remaining committed to providing high-quality and affordable potable water to its ever-growing customer base of 43,000+ people.
“We are excited that Diablo Water District will be the first Carbon Neutral Water District in California that will be achieved through local job-creating solar installations, as opposed to buying into remote solar and wind farms," Dan Muelrath, General Manager.