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Event schedule: April 6th - June 28th 2020
Duration: 12 weeks, three hours per module (approximately)
The global transition from fossil fuels to renewable and clean energy is gaining momentum, and cities and urban areas are at the forefront of this movement. Local governments around the world have set ambitious 100% renewable energy targets and significant progress has been made towards these goals in leading jurisdictions. However, a full transition to clean and renewable energy is no easy task. It requires moving forward collaboratively with senior governments, utilities, other local governments, the private sector, and the public. City leaders need to be equipped with practical knowledge to work effectively in partnerships across sectors and different levels of decision-making.
By highlighting foundational first actions, this 30-hour online course will help provide the knowledge and perspective needed to confidently embark upon a city-level renewable energy transition. Drawing on the rich planning and policymaking experiences of cities in North America and Europe who are on leading pathways to 100% renewable energy, this interdisciplinary course conjoins case study learning with extensive academic and professional research literature review.
A range of interrelated topics are covered in the course, including the global context for renewable energy transitions, energy system literacy, energy efficiency in buildings, sustainable transportation, target setting, policymaking best practices, communicating with and engaging stakeholders, funding opportunities, and resources for continued learning.
This course is primarily aimed at those in local government, including staff and elected officials. However, individuals from senior levels of government, civil society organizations, utility companies, and the private sector will also find the course useful if their work concerns urban decarbonization.