Fort Lauderdale Net Zero Plan 2025

BACKGROUND  23

Additionally, Fort Lauderdale has implemented energy efficiency measures in public buildings, including retrofitting lighting systems; upgrading heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems; and installing programmable thermostats, reducing energy consumption and operational costs. The City’s partnership with the Broward Solar Co-op further exemplifies its commitment to energy efficiency and the adoption of renewable energy. The Co-op, coordinated by Solar United Neighbors (SUN), empowers residents to install rooftop solar systems by offering education, advocacy, and the opportunity to leverage group purchasing power for competitive pricing. By supporting this initiative, the City helps residents transition to clean energy, reduce their utility bills, and contribute to the City’s net zero goal. In addition, the City has also committed its core facilities to the Better Buildings Challenge, aiming to reduce portfolio-wide source energy use intensity by 20% by 2020. By 2024, Fort Lauderdale surpassed this target, achieving a 31% energy savings compared to its 2010 baseline. The City seeks opportunities to install renewable energy sources, with two solar panel installations on municipal buildings planned for 2025 to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and support its net zero goals. The City has made substantial investments in stormwater infrastructure solutions, incorporating green solutions, such as a stormwater preserve and bioswales to help manage stormwater runoff, mitigate flooding, improve water quality, and reduce the urban heat island effect. The City has also demonstrated a strong commitment to water conservation through the Conservation Pays Program. This initiative, in partnership with the

Broward Water Partnership, has enabled residents to install an estimated 2,444 high efficiency toilets, saving over 95 million gallons of water. Alongside rebates for toilets, residents and businesses can access incentives for free water-efficient showerheads, faucet aerators, and commercial pre-rinse spray valve, which helps save water, save money, and ultimately, protect the environment. The City of Fort Lauderdale is committed to enhancing its urban forest, with a goal of achieving a 33% tree canopy by 2040 through the Fast Forward Comprehensive Plan. The Urban Forestry Program supports this effort, building on the City’s recognition as a certified Tree City USA for over 45 years, a Tree City of the World for 1 year, a National Wildlife Federation-Certified Community Wildlife Habitat, and a participant in the Mayor's Monarch Pledge. The City has also recently revised its Landscaping and Tree Preservation ordinance to increase protections for and expand its tree population while promoting sustainable development. The City continues to enhance its waste management practices, including promoting the TAKE5 recycling program, offering multiple opportunities to safely dispose of household hazardous waste, reducing landfill e-waste through its curbside electronics recycling program, and collaborating with the Broward Solid Waste Authority (SWA). Fort Lauderdale has adopted smart growth principles to create walkable, bicycle-friendly neighborhoods, reducing the need for automobile travel and lowering transportation related emissions. The City has also dedicated funding to expand installations of electric

FORT LAUDERDALE NET ZERO PLAN