6 Montana Mayors Call for Use of Solar Power

Media Contacts
Skye Borden

Missoula, MT – A bipartisan group of 180 U.S. mayors, representing 42 states including Montana, are speaking out in support of solar energy. In a letter released today by Environment Montana, the mayors resolve to make solar power a key element of their communities’ energy plans and call on others to embrace clean energy from the sun.

“Cities across Montana should take steps to switch to solar energy,” said Skye Borden with Environment Montana. “By tapping into the power of the sun, cities can benefit from cleaner air and improved public health, while simultaneously tackling climate change.”

Included in the letter are Mayors of Red Lodge, Bozeman, Choteau, Great Falls, and Missoula, as well as the Chief Executive of Butte-Silver Bow. Many of these Montana communities are eager to switch to solar to maintain their reputation for natural beauty and a high quality of life. 

“Bozeman recognizes that clean solar energy helps to preserve our outdoor recreation economy, quality of life, and community resiliency,” said Mayor Cindy Andrus. “We are committed to expanding solar energy opportunities at the utility-scale and the local-level. We are streamlining our solar permitting processes, offering small grants to businesses for energy efficiency and renewable energy, and working alongside our utility to advance community solar.”

At a time when federal support of clean energy seems unlikely, local governments have an important role in transitioning the United States toward renewable energy for the future. Earlier this month, Environment America released a new guide for local officials: Ten Ways Your City Can Go Solar.

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Environment Montana is a statewide, citizen-funded advocacy group that works to protect the air, water, and open spaces in America’s last best place. Our Missoula-based staff focuses on timely, targeted action that wins tangible improvements in the quality of our environment and our lives.