The City of Walnut Creek’s Climate Action Plan was adopted in 2012 and sets a goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions 15% from 2005 levels by the year 2020.

In 2014, the City Council affirmed its support for sustainability by directing almost $500,000 in one-time funds towards implementation of the Climate Action Plan. These funds allowed residential energy and water efficiency programs like Walnut Creek Saves and the California Youth Energy Services program to be offered at no cost to residents. More than 35 small and medium sized businesses were able to take advantage of an additional incentive from the city for energy efficiency retrofits. In 2016, the city joined MCE’s community choice energy program to offer greater amounts of renewable energy and more local control to residents and businesses.

The city has also implemented sustainability practices at its facilities. In addition to City Hall, two additional facilities are having solar installed in 2017. Much of the city’s fleet uses renewable diesel, and city garages have electric vehicle charging stations for the public and for fleet use.

About Walnut Creek

• Incorporated: 1914
• Population: 64,173 (2010) 
• Location: located in Contra Costa County
• Area: 19.77 square miles
• Elevation: 131 feet

Climate Action Activities

• Adopted a Climate Action Plan (2012)
• Developed a LEED-Certified Downtown Library
• City Gall Rooftop Solar

Climate Action Resources

• Water Conservation Rebates
• Resources for Zero Net Energy Buildings
• Recycle Smart Website

Awards

Agency Energy Savings

• Silver Level, 9% (2018)

Agency Natural Gas Savings

Agency Greenhouse Gas Reductions

Community Greenhouse Gas Reductions

• Gold Level, 14% (2018)

Sustainability Best Practices

• Gold Level (2018)