01-04-2024
This month’s issue includes updates to the Climate Action Dashboard; information on an energy project at the Pender Office Building; communities selected for the Charge Up Fairfax pilot phase; participating in the EQAC public comment meeting; new Leaders in the Green Business Partners program; a solar project at the I-95 Landfill; being salt smart this winter; and much more.
Happy New Year from OEEC!
As we bid farewell to 2023 and embark on a new year, it’s important to take a moment to reflect on the successes of the past year — and the opportunities that lie ahead.
In 2023 Fairfax County created its Climate Action Dashboard to track progress on its emissions reduction and climate resiliency plans, as well as new videos, fact sheets and other resources to help people take action.
We launched a Charge Up Fairfax pilot program and the revitalized Green Business Partners and Energy Conservation Assistance programs to incentivize climate-friendly practices in the community.
We completed solar projects at 5 county buildings and energy upgrades to 2 others.
We celebrated the addition of new electric trash trucks and battery-powered Fairfax Connector buses to our county fleet – some of the first in the region.
We partnered with organizations like the Faith Alliance for Climate Solutions to support places of worship on their sustainability efforts.
Looking ahead, we’re excited for the future as we move forward with our countywide climate goals to guide us towards even greater success.
We hope you find this e-newsletter helpful in keeping you informed, and we look forward to delivering more environmental, climate and energy news to your inbox in 2024!
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CLIMATE PLANS AND PROGRAM UPDATES
Updated Climate Action Dashboard Tracks Fairfax County’s Progress in Reducing Emissions, Building Resilience
OEEC has updated the public-facing Climate Action Dashboard to show the progress made toward the county’s climate action goals.
The dashboard tracks progress in implementing the county’s three climate and energy plans – the Community-wide Energy and Climate Action Plan (CECAP), the Operational Energy Strategy (OES), and Resilient Fairfax.
Updates to the dashboard include:
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Overall metrics for emissions reductions, which highlight the progress made as a result of improved energy efficiency and the increased use of clean energy supplies.
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Overall metrics for resilience to changing climate conditions like extreme heat, severe storms and intense flooding.
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A new Climate Action Map viewer, an interactive tool that shows the locations of green buildings, solar installations, electric vehicle charging stations, recycling centers and the tree canopy in the county.
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Additional metrics for outcomes in six key sectors: Buildings, Energy Supply, Transportation, Natural Resources, Waste, and Community Services.
Links to topic pages that provide additional information and resources for individuals, businesses, and other organizations ready to take climate action.
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Green Business Partners Program Welcomes New Leaders
Fairfax County’s Green Business Partners program recognizes and supports businesses actively engaging in or interested in sustainable business practices that advance climate action and help create a carbon neutral economy. The program has two different levels of participation: Leaders and Members.
The program is free to join and includes a variety of networking, educational and promotional benefits.
Recently, the program welcomed 2 new Leaders:
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Pons & Associates, LLC, Chantilly, Leader
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Comstock Holding Companies, Inc. Reston, Leader
Visit the Green Business Partners page to learn more and the program.
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Podcast Highlights Green Business Partners, Energy Conservation Assistance Program
ICYMI: Consumer Connection Program Spotlights Energy Conservation Assistance
The Energy Conservation Assistance Program offers incentives to organizations looking to make energy efficiency upgrades and is one of the many ways the county empowers the community to take climate action.
OEEC’s Neely Law recently appeared on the Consumer Connection program to share more information about the program and how to apply. You can view the show on-demand.
BUILDINGS AND ENERGY
Pender Office Project Will Conserve Energy, Save Money
The Fairfax County Redevelopment and Housing Authority (FCRHA), in partnership with the Office of Environmental and Energy Coordination, celebrated the completion of a rooftop solar array and other energy improvements at the Pender Office Building that will save money and lower greenhouse gas emissions.
The project is another step in meeting the county’s goals for carbon neutrality in its facilities, fleet vehicles and operations, including 50% of county electricity from renewable sources by 2040, as outlined in the Operational Energy Strategy.
"It’s important we recognize the progress we are making in our efforts to be leaner and greener in our energy use,” said Fairfax County Board of Supervisors Chairman Jeff McKay. “Projects like this not only save the county money in lower energy bills but reinforce the commitment we’ve made to the community to make climate action a priority.”
Go Solar this Holiday Season with Solar Switch
Are you considering going solar at your home or small business? If so, Solar Switch can help. This program from Solar United Neighbors (SUN) makes it more affordable for homeowners to install solar panels and battery storage systems.
By signing up for the program, you can access a group discount that will help you save on a turnkey solar and battery installation. Registering comes at no cost, and you're under no obligation to buy solar panels.
Fairfax County residents can still take advantage of this opportunity by registering at SolarSwitch.com/WashingtonDC by February 13, 2024. Have questions but not ready to take action? SUN also offers a Solar Help Desk, a free resource that supports people who are considering rooftop solar.
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County Working with Dominion to Develop Solar Project at I-95 Landfill
The I-95 Landfill Complex will be the future site of a large ground-mount solar photovoltaic system. The solar panels won’t impede existing recycling and waste collection services but will generate clean energy that will help save the county money and reduce its carbon footprint.
Sun Tribe Solar, LLC is contracted under a solar power purchase agreement to design, install and operate the system, which is expected to start generating power in late 2024. Once the system is operational, Sun Tribe will invoice the county monthly for the solar electricity generated at the landfill and sent to the energy grid.
County staff are negotiating with Dominion on the terms by which Dominion would credit the county on its monthly utility bills for the electricity generated by the solar installation. Stay tuned for updates on this project in 2024.
TRANSPORTATION
OEEC Announces Charge Up Fairfax Pilot Communities
OEEC recently announced the five additional communities selected for the Charge Up Fairfax pilot program, an initiative designed to help homeowners and condominium owners associations (HOAs) with installing shared electric vehicle charging stations for residents and their guests.
The selected communities are:
- Colonies at McLean
- Strathmeade Square Community
- Villa Ridge Condominium
- Washington Plaza Cluster Association
- Waterford Square Condominium Unit Owners Association
“We’re pleased that these communities are pursuing a clean energy future with electric vehicle infrastructure,” said OEEC Acting Director John Morrill. “With today’s announcement, we encourage other community associations to make plans to apply to Charge Up Fairfax when the application period opens again in spring 2024
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New Mobility & Transportation Data Dashboard Highlights Infrastructure and Safety Enhancements
A new Mobility & Transportation data dashboard is now available as part of the Countywide Strategic Plan to present information about four key indicators in our community:
- Efficient and Varied Transportation Options
- Infrastructure Condition, Sustainability and Environmental Impact
- Traveler Safety
- Increased Accessibility, Affordability and Equity
The dashboard offers a big-picture look at countywide trends related to commuting patterns, pedestrian networks, traffic accidents, road lane conditions, and employer transit subsidies. This tool is designed to keep community members informed and guide data-driven decisions towards a more walkable and safe transportation system.
Fairfax County Capital Bikeshare Tops 25,000 Trips in 2023
What a year for Capital Bikeshare in Fairfax County! The Department of Transportation completed installation of 22 new stations and the relocation of 3 others. In Fairfax County, new electric bicycles, or e-bikes, were also put in circulation around stations in Merrifield, Reston and Tysons, resulting in 1,640 e-bike trips alone. And there's more to come in 2024 as new bike stations will be added near the Innovation Metro and Huntington Metro.
Check out their Facebook video for more highlights and stay tuned for updates in the new year.
NATURAL RESOURCES
Save the Date for 2024 Landscaping Conference for Spanish-Speaking Professionals
Spanish-speaking landscaping professionals can learn more about the benefits of native plants and tips for managing invasive species at an upcoming event on March 8. Sponsored by Plant NOVA Natives, Audubon Society of Northern Virginia and the Fairfax County Park Authority, the conference will take place at the Fairfax County Government Center.
Questions about this event can be directed to plantnovanatives@gmail.com.
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Stay in the Know about NOVA Trails with E-Newsletter
The Northern Virginia Regional Commission has also launched a quarterly e-newsletter to provide news and updates on Northern Virginia's regional trails programming, including new projects, trail funding opportunities, and other events taking place across the region.
If you have any content that you wish to share in future newsletters, please email rmurphy@novaregion.org.
WASTE
The Most Wonderful Time to Recycle
It's always a wonderful time to recycle, especially during and after the holidays when there are usually more items to consider!
Items such as paper holiday cards, gift bags/boxes and electronics are more abundant. There may be more food scraps following large holiday dinners, as well as single-use items like red cups (not recyclable), paper plates and plastic utensils.
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TAKE ACTION
Don’t Forget to Take the Two Degree Challenge this Winter
By turning your thermostat back just a couple of degrees this winter, you’re helping save energy and money!
Read our recent article on why it’s worth challenging yourself to turn your thermostat back by a couple degrees (or more, if you please) until warmer weather returns.
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Residents Invited to Share Input with EQAC on Environmental Issues
Our environment is worth protecting – so make your voice heard! Fairfax County residents are encouraged to share their view on the state of the environment with the Environmental Quality Advisory Council (EQAC) on or before January 10.
EQAC is appointed by the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors to advise them on environmental matters. Each year the council invites the public to submit comments on environmental issues of concern. There are multiple ways for residents to provide input: in-person, virtual, written, and video testimony.
The Crisis Assistance Program Can Help with Heating Emergencies
Do you know someone facing a “no heat” situation? The Crisis Assistance Program helps households overcome energy emergencies that cannot be met by other resources. An energy emergency is determined when a household has no heat or is in imminent danger of being without heat. The open application period for the Crisis Assistance Program closes on March 15, 2024. Learn more and apply for the Crisis Assistance Program at CommonHelp.Virginia.gov or by calling 855-635-4370.
“One Water” Art Contest Entries Due January 31
Calling all high school artists: The Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments (COG) is having their annual regional art contest and this year’s theme — "One Water” — focuses on how stormwater, wastewater and drinking water are all connected. Local student artists, grades 9 – 12, can submit their art or short video which captures the importance of protecting our local water sources for a chance to win a prize. The deadline to submit is January 31 at 11:59 p.m. To learn more, go to www.mwcog.org/onewater.
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Participate in Air Quality Advisory Group for DC Region
Interested in getting involved in climate, energy, and air quality planning in the D.C. region? Community leaders and interested citizens from across the metropolitan Washington region are invited to apply for membership on the Air and Climate Public Advisory Committee (ACPAC).
ACPAC, formerly known as the Air Quality Public Advisory Committee or AQPAC, was established in 1993 and advises the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments on air quality planning and climate and energy issues and initiatives.
To apply, submit the online interest form. Interest forms will be accepted until January 15, 2024.
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Be Salt Smart this Winter to Protect the Environment and Your Pets
The Northern Virginia Regional Commission (NVRC) is reminding residents and property managers about safely applying road salts this winter.
While road salts can make roadways safer during the wintertime, they must be used with caution as they can eventually enter our waterways and cause other unwanted environmental impacts. Certain salts can also cause injuries and irritation to pets when they walk on them, so use pet-friendly versions where possible. Community members can do their part to be #WinterSaltSmart by following these tips for snow and ice maintenance:
- Reduce the need for road salts by manually removing snow early and often when possible.
- Use the least amount of salt possible and give it time to work. The colder it is, the longer it will take for the salt to melt what snow or ice remains after shoveling. Ensure that the salt is evenly spaced out.
- Consider sweeping up extra salt after a storm to use again next time winter weather hits.
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