Business Praise for DC Clean Energy Bill

Washington, DC – Today, the Washington, DC City Council passed the DC Clean Energy Omnibus Act of 2018. In response, the American Sustainable Business Council (ASBC) released a statement praising the move. The statement may be attributed to CEO Hammad Atassi.

“This bill will solidify DC’s role as a global leader in combating the harmful effects of climate change. We believe that government and business have equally important roles to play when it comes to addressing climate change. This bill carefully balances regulation and market incentives to achieve both carbon reductions and job growth.

“One thing is clear: climate change threatens the bottom-line of all DC businesses. This bill fulfills Mayor Bowser and the DC Council’s shared commitment to reducing carbon while fostering innovation to help build up the city’s vibrant business community and promote job creation. ASBC knows that this is a big step in the right direction and is fully committed to working with our members and allies to promote similar legislation at all levels of government.” 

Four key provisions included within this bill will help DC reduce its carbon footprint and transition fully to clean energy sources by 2032. First, it expands the Renewable Portfolio Standard to incentivize clean energy job creation. Second, it increases funding to the DC Green Bank and keeps energy costs low for low-income Washingtonians. Third, it requires commercial real estate developers to adhere to stricter energy efficiency regulations. And last, it provides tax incentives for the purchase of more fuel-efficient vehicles.