June 2023
Connecting at the California Climate and Energy Forum
Power in Statewide Partnership
Regional Energy Networks (RENs) from all of California convened a day prior to the conference to launch the California REN, a knowledge and resource sharing association for RENs! We were thrilled to reconnect with former colleagues and forge new friendships. With RENs already playing a crucial role in the energy landscape, coordinated efforts will only enhance our collective success.
Cheers to 14 Years!
The 14th annual California Climate and Energy Conference (CCEC) started on June 14. The theme for the 2023 forum was: Investment, Innovation, and Inclusion to create a clean energy, climate-stable future for all. Over half of the BayREN team traveled from all over the Bay Area to present, participate, and engage!
Equitable Electrification for Multifamily Properties
As California seeks to decarbonize buildings, the challenge of retrofitting existing multifamily buildings without displacing residents looms large. Ben Cooper, BayREN's Multifamily Program Lead participated in this forum to share lessons learned on collaboration between programs, the future of incentive programs, and more.
Showcasing Sonoma's Outreach Work
Sonoma County's Dori Estrella and Christine Condon presented their outreach work on decarbonizing homes and improving energy efficiency, including a homeowner's handbook in English and Spanish!
Solutions for Complicated Permitting
Emily Alvarez (Green Labeling Lead) and Karen Kristiansson (Codes Lead) presented on the permitting process for heat pump water heaters and offered knowledge and resources to improving local government approaches!
The Resilient Libraries Network Team Shares their Pilot Approach
As extreme weather events become increasingly prevalent, Community Resilience Centers have emerged as crucial solutions. Libraries can serve as key components of this solution. Aleka Seville and Karen Kristiansson shared insights into BayREN's Resilient Libraries Network, which launched in November 2022, as a model for creating CRCs.
Inclusive Outreach Beyond Translation
We all know inclusive outreach takes dedication and time. Jennifer West (StopWaste) facilitated a panel of the Single Family team, Jeffery Liang, Tonya Veitch, and Yeymi Rivas Reyes who shared successes and challenges in reaching communities they aim to connect and engage with. Strategies ranged from brainstorming sessions with their mothers to working with local celebrity chefs.
Sharing Nostalgic Moments
Local governments can be incredible drivers of change. Contra Costa County's Jody London shared the story of the collective work that guided the creation of the RENs in 2012 during a Local Government Sustainable Energy Coalition happy hour!
Celebrating Jenny Berg
At CCEC, we proudly honored Jenny Berg as she embarks on a well-deserved retirement. Jenny's exceptional leadership propelled BayREN to success, making her not only a guiding force but also a dedicated collaborator and influential spokesperson for vital energy and climate initiatives. We will deeply miss her bright presence!
