16 Utah Cities Choose to Opt-in to Groundbreaking Clean Energy Program to Bring 100% Clean Energy to Grid

Sixteen cities and counties across Utah have officially adopted the Utah Renewable Communities (URC) program, a pioneering initiative designed to deliver 100% clean, renewable energy to the state’s electricity grid. The program, which concluded its 90-day ordinance adoption period on June 2 with Midvale’s unanimous approval, allows Rocky Mountain Power customers to choose renewable energy sources for their electricity. This move marks a significant step in Utah’s clean energy transition, positioning the state as a national leader in community-driven renewable energy solutions. The participating municipalities include a diverse range of urban and rural areas such as Salt Lake City, Park City, Ogden, and several unincorporated counties, reflecting broad support for the initiative. The program will be implemented by default for residential customers at a flat rate of $4 per month, with no charge for qualifying low-income households, and customers will retain the option to opt out. Advocates emphasise that the initiative not only reduces reliance on fossil fuels but also supports local economies by creating jobs and generating tax revenue, all while addressing the urgent climate crisis. Community engagement has been a critical factor in the program’s success, with residents actively voicing their support during city council and county commission meetings. Organised groups such as Utah Clean Energy, Climate Utah, and the Sierra Club have played instrumental roles in advocating for the program, highlighting years of grassroots efforts dating back to 2016. Luis Miranda of the Sierra Club praised the collaborative effort, noting that the programme represents a long-awaited opportunity for Utahns to invest in clean energy for the coming decades. The adoption of the URC program carries significant implications for Utah’s energy landscape, signalling a shift towards sustainable and locally controlled power generation. Stakeholders see this as a model that could inspire other states to pursue similar community-based renewable energy initiatives. As the program rolls out towards the end of 2026, it promises to enhance energy resilience, reduce pollution, and provide tangible economic benefits, reinforcing Utah’s commitment to a cleaner and more sustainable future.