Welcome Back to the AIRE Newsletter
The Arlington Initiative to Rethink Energy (AIRE) newsletter empowers subscribers with energy tips and informational events aimed to make Arlington a more sustainable community. This is the first edition of the revamped monthly newsletter.
Recent Events: LEED Platinum Certification
Arlington has achieved LEED® Platinum Cities certification! The County first received Platinum recognition in 2017 when the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) launched the program. Standards and requirements for Platinum have increased significantly in the last six years of the Program's continuing evolution and leadership. Arlington County was among 54 American and international jurisdictions certified in the latest LEED version to date, and one of only four applicants certified at the Platinum level. Arlington remains the only such recognized community in Northern Virginia and among just 7% worldwide that have attained Platinum status. Read the full press release.
Upcoming Events
Think BIG! EV Road Trip Virtual Series
Join us for a three-part expert-led virtual series all about electric vehicles (EVs) beginning in October, which is National Energy Awareness Month. See below for topics. Register here.
Webinar topics - Dates and Times
At Home: Residential EVs - Monday, Oct. 16 from 6:00pm - 7:00pm
On the Town: Commercial EV Charging - Monday, Oct. 30 from 12:00pm - 1:00pm
Into the Future: Innovative EV Technology - Tuesday, Nov. 14 from 12:00pm - 1:00pm
Arlington Committee of 100 Virtual Climate Panel
On October 11 from 7:00 - 8:15 pm, expert panelists will address the community's key vulnerabilities: heat, floods and storms. The panel will discuss projections, Arlington's strategies, and ways to get involved. Panelists include:
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Marianne Lavelle, journalist (Polk Award), Inside Climate News, National Geographic and US News & World Report;
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Evan McWalter, Legislative Assistant for the Environment (Climate), U.S. Senator Tim Kaine's Office;
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Elenor Hodges, Executive Director of Eco-Action since 2000; previously developed environmental education programs for Wal-Mart and the National Wildlife Federation; and
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Demetra J. McBride, Bureau Chief, Arlington County Office of Sustainability and Environmental Management, recognized nationally and internationally for her work on climate, energy, resilience and extreme heat.
Interested attendees can learn more and register here.
Energy Report: Accelerate
Have you seen our recent progress? The Accelerate Report highlights Arlington’s completed core work pertaining to energy, climate and the environment. The first edition of the annual Accelerate Report was published in the spring and covers projects, programs and policies. Each report will contain fresh new stories to maintain viability, transparency and features Arlington’s key successes.
Energy Tip
Did you know that you can claim a Federal tax credit of 30% for the purchase and installation costs of solar panels, solar water heaters and other high efficiency electric equipment? Federal tax credits of up to $7,500 are also available for a new electric vehicle purchased in 2023!
Read more information on incentives, credits and rebates.
For More Information
The AIRE website offers a variety of information related to the County's energy, climate and environmental projects, programs and policies. Visit the AIRE Website for more information.
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