The Project
We were fortunate to collaborate with the City of Savannah on the implementation of the '100% Savannah' initiative, which was ratified in 2021. This forward-thinking initiative aims to shift towards secure, sustainable, and renewable energy sources. Its overarching objectives are to bolster economic opportunities, enhance community well-being, and safeguard the natural environment. The target is to transition all electrical energy requirements to clean, renewable sources by 2035, and extend this transition to all energy needs by 2050. Our mission was to actively involve small businesses in this endeavor by formulating a municipal outreach strategy for the City of Savannah.
research insight
To achieve meaningful impact, we recognized from our research that several critical actions, including the development of a municipal outreach strategy for the City of Savannah, must precede our engagement with small businesses for a successful transition to renewable, efficient energy. This underscores a common challenge our city correspondents face in navigating bureaucratic processes. Moving forward, strategic prioritization and targeted action in key areas will be essential for driving effective change in the initiative.
Opportunity
In the pursuit of achieving 100% renewable energy, there lies a significant opportunity in cultivating robust and collaborative relationships with key stakeholders. By fostering open dialogues and strategic partnerships with entities such as the Public Service Commission, Historic Preservation Department, Georgia Power, and the Health Department, we can propel the discourse on renewable energy to new heights. This endeavor not only amplifies our collective capacity for positive change but also ensures a comprehensive and inclusive approach towards sustainable energy solutions.
Solution
In response to the familiar 'Town Hall' format, we sought to introduce a fresh perspective tailored to our unique circumstances. This led to the creation of 'Switch Up Savannah,' an innovative open house series aimed at integrating energy-conscious practices into local small businesses. By infusing flexibility and openness into our approach, we empowered ourselves to design a more creative and effective framework. This ensured that our initiatives not only met their objectives but also delivered tangible value to all stakeholders, moving beyond bureaucratic formalities.
Open House Goals
EDUCATE small business owners about renewable energy initiatives in Savannah, specifically 100% Savannah.
GATHER INFORMATION about the concerns, assumptions, and biases small business owners in Savannah have when it comes to renewable energy initiatives.
PROVIDE GUIDANCE to skeptical small business owners about how they can help make 100% Savannah a reality.
SET A PRECEDENT for the next steps both small business owners and 100% Savannah can make to ease the process of going fully renewable.
