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Agenda 11-02-23; 6-a - Orange County Climate Action Plan and Greenhouse Gas Inventory – Final Report
1 ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS ACTION AGENDA ITEM ABSTRACT Meeting Date: November 2, 2023 Action Agenda Item No. 6-a SUBJECT: Orange County Climate Action Plan with Greenhouse Gas Inventory — Final Report DEPARTMENT: County Manager ATTACHMENT(S): INFORMATION CONTACT: Orange County Climate Action Plan with Amy Eckberg, Sustainability Programs Greenhouse Gas Inventory Manager, 919-245-2626 PURPOSE: To receive the final Climate Action Plan (CAP) containing the Greenhouse Gas (GHG) inventory report from Bluestrike Environmental Consulting and approve the Climate Action Plan. BACKGROUND: The next few years are critical in limiting global temperature to a 1.5° C increase and mitigating the most severe impacts of climate change. To do so, global emissions need to be halved by 2030, and net zero emissions must be achieved by 2050. Investments now will reduce long-term operation costs, reduce recovery costs from climate-related disasters, and promote growth in local jobs and the economy. The climate action plan addresses the specific strategies that will help the County meet the climate change mitigation goals set by the Board in recent years including: • To proportionally uphold the Paris Climate Agreement to reduce greenhouse gas emissions between 26-28 percent by 2025 from 2005 levels. • Transition to a 100% renewable energy-based economy by 2050. • Signatory to the Global Covenant of Mayors pledging to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, enhance resilience to climate change, and track progress transparently. As part of the County's on-going efforts to accelerate the mitigation of climate change, the County began a climate action planning process in November 2022 utilizing the professional services of Bluestrike Environmental Consulting to synthesize the work the County is already doing, to build upon the collaborative efforts and progress made with regional partners and the Towns, and to develop a suite of strategies, or "roadmap" for the County to follow to achieve its climate goals. Key elements of the CAP include an updated GHG inventory. The GHG inventory describes which sectors contribute the most GHG emissions in Orange County and helps gauge progress towards reducing these emissions compared to previous GHG inventories completed in 2005 and 2017. The results of the GHG inventory have helped prioritize Climate Action Plan strategies based on which measures will have the most impact on reducing GHG emissions. 2 Other key components of the plan include a robust community/stakeholder engagement process that has helped shape specific climate action strategies. The plan also includes methodology for implementation, evaluation and updating. In addition, Bluestrike has prepared a comprehensive funding plan linked to climate action plan strategies, and designed a climate action plan dashboard that will display progress related to the plan's implementation on the County's website. The draft Climate Action Plan was presented to the Board of County Commissioners at the September 5, 2023 Business meeting. Comments were received from Board members and incorporated into the final Climate Action Plan. The draft Climate Action Plan was also presented at a community symposium event in early September and a month-long public comment period was established to receive feedback through an on-line forum. Based on community feedback received, adjustments were made to several action items in the draft Climate Action Plan that was presented to the Board on September 5, 2023. Some key updates include: • Added the newly announced American Climate Corps program in the CAP as a way to involve more youth directly with CAP actions; • Moved up the study date for curbside composting due to strong community support. This action was seen as a "gateway" action that can drive community interest and understanding in climate action; • Included several new actions prioritizing conservation of green spaces, preventing urban sprawl, and promoting sustainable land use; • Added action to develop a mechanism for the community to donate to the Community Climate Action Grant Program to expand capacity to fund community climate action projects; • Added action to promote safety and purposeful connection of existing and future bike trails and bike lanes that promote sustainable travel and connectivity. The Commission for the Environment also reviewed the draft CAP and provided extensive feedback to improve actions, graphs, and made refinements to wording which has been incorporated into the final CAP. FINANCIAL IMPACT: There is no specific financial impact associated with approval of this item. SOCIAL JUSTICE IMPACT: The following Orange County Social Justice Goals are applicable to this item: • GOAL: ENSURE ECONOMIC SELF-SUFFICIENCY The creation and preservation of infrastructure, policies, programs and funding necessary for residents to provide shelter, food, clothing and medical care for themselves and their dependents. Local investments in energy efficiency and renewable energy in Orange County provides direct reduction of monthly energy bills and supports jobs and investments in clean energy technologies. • GOAL: ESTABLISH SUSTAINABLE AND EQUITABLE LAND-USE AND ENVIRONMENTAL POLICIES The fair treatment and meaningful involvement of people of all races, cultures, incomes and 3 educational levels with respect to the development and enforcement of environmental laws, regulations, policies, and decisions. Fair treatment means that no group of people should bear a disproportionate share of the negative environmental consequences resulting from industrial, governmental and commercial operations or policies. Reducing energy usage from the electric grid improves air quality impacts. Improving local air quality helps to protect the health of vulnerable populations in Orange County whose health is disproportionately affected by ground-level ozone and other emissions. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT: The following Orange County Environmental Responsibility Goal impacts are applicable to this item: • ENERGY EFFICIENCY AND WASTE REDUCTION Initiate policies and programs that: 1) conserve energy; 2) reduce resource consumption; 3) increase the use of recycled and renewable resources, and 4) minimize waste stream impacts on the environment. Investing in local climate change mitigation actions will conserve energy, reduce resource consumption, and increase the use of renewable resources. • RESULTANT IMPACT ON NATURAL RESOURCES AND AIR QUALITY Assess and where possible mitigate adverse impacts created to the natural resources of the site and adjoining area. Minimize production of greenhouse gases. The climate action plan identifies and supports high-impact projects which will improve local air quality and minimize the local production of greenhouse gases, reducing Orange County's contribution to the adverse impacts of climate change on human and natural resources both inside and outside of the County. RECOMMENDATION(S): The Manager recommends that the Board accept and approve the final Climate Action Plan and GHG Inventory report prepared by Bluestrike Environmental Consulting. T y� lY i Moll �. � ��I,� I � �� �. � YIDS � Y I• �t t:• Ali�'� VI �8��.� ,� �,PI,`1 YI ORANGE • NORTH CAROLINA r � ' Fpom5 ►+ Vision 3 ' Mission 4 Acknowledgements 5 ► Letter from Board of County Commissioners 7 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 8 �* ,_4x►� Call to Action 9 ` Equity 11 Purpose 12 Stakeholder Engagement 16 Cost and Implementation Timeline 17 * Conclusion 17 Background 19 Approach 19 State Planning 20 Regional Planning 21 Local Planning 22 ' Our Progress 24 Things You Can Do Yourself 26 Our Impact 27 Emissions Forecast 31 Development and Methodology 33 Goals and Strategies 38 Transportation 39 Built Environment and Energy 46 Resource Conservation 54 Green Community 61 Resilient Community 70 IMPLEMENTATION AND REPORTING 80 Overview 81 Reporting Tool 82 -- Budget 83 • Funding Plan 83 APPENDICES 87 Appendix A:2019 Greenhouse Gas Emission 88 Inventory Report Appendix B: Methodology of 109 Emission Forecast Appendix C: Stakeholder Report 118 +` Appendix D: Funding Mechanisms 136 f - �- Appendix E: Funding Sources 137 Appendix F:Comprehensive Funding Plan 142 Acronyms 159 Definitions 160 • ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA f At _ ;... • • 1 i `.r 'T°,R 4�' f "� rte"_ e - --90 ... - - �,�« ice. 5w iYi' . • Wpm— rY R Z +. t� '•�♦ ,� !yam.{ 0 a ✓�'r � a r � Together, our •mmunity, we commit to taking urgent actionon • - by creating and implementing an innovative, equitable, • just transitionto carbon • climate ACTION2023 CLIMATE ORANGE COUNTY, NORTHCAROLINA i X WW $�g�� "• r�}�'�{�"K�, �y �} � mss.."• 4� Z - O pp- LU Z Q _ O - m -- p w _ p O a W (7 Our battle against climate change is a moral imperative, an environmental emergency, and an economic opportunity. Orange County is determined to rise to the occasion with a Climate Action Plan that will lead the way toward a low carbon, green-energy, and equitable future that improves community health and well-being, protects our precious natural resources, and creates sustainable economic growth for all Orange County residents. 4 2023 CLIMATE Q ACTIONORANGE COUNTY, • - CAROLINA 8 \ DICI =1 ► / I =1 \ ORANGE COUNTY LEADERSHIP: ORANGE COUNTY CLIMATE ACTION TEAM: Board of County Commissioners: Amy Eckberg Hannah Tuckman Jamezetta Bedford, Chair Robert Williams Steve Brantley Earl McKee,Vice-Chair Nancy Coston David Stancil Amy Fowler Libbie Hough Jonathon Smith Sally Greene Quintana Stewart Mike Ortosky Jean Hamilton Cy Stober Steven Arndt Phyllis Portie-Ascott Gary Donaldson Travis Myren Anna Richards Kirk Vaughn Patrick Florence County Manager: Kelly Guadalupe Courtney McLaughlin Bonnie Hammersley Kirby Saunders Kristin Prelipp County Deputy Manager: Sarah Pickhardt Nishith Trivedi Travis Myren MANY THANKS to all of the Orange County business, farm, nonprofit, social justice, and educational community groups and partners who attended ourfocus group sessions,to the community at large forfilling out our climate action plan survey, and to all those individuals who provided data requests and took the time for phone calls to lend us your insights, expertise, and support for the development of the climate action plan. 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA 5 IMF \ DICI1 / \ COMMISSION ORGANIZATIONS: Audubon Society FOR THE ENVIRONMENT Duke Energy Orange County Staff ADVISORY BOARD: Veronica Penn Beattie, Chair Dominion Energy Soil &Water Conservation District Jessie Birckhead,Vice-Chair North Carolina Piedmont NC Cooperative Extension Ian Morse Electric Cooperative Duke University Kristie Mather OWASA Climate Action Coalition Regina Baratta Town of Chapel Hill of Orange Co. Andrea Zimmerman Town of Carrboro Orange County Business Kim Pirraci Town of Hillsborough Owner Advisory Team Kim Livingston UNC-Chapel Hill Clarion Associates Jane Harris UNC Institute for the Environment Roc Records Reade Oakley The Sierra Club Chapel Hill-Carrboro Mark RandallEI Centro Hispano Chamber of Commerce Wilson Greene Hillsborough/Orange County Rogers Road Community Center Chamber of Commerce COMMISSION FOR THE Efland Cheeks Community Center ENVIRONMENT STAFF Cedar Grove Community Center CONSULTANT TEAM REPRESENTATIVES: Christian Hirni Duke Nicholas School •• blue strike for the Environment Wesley Poole Klani Allen Eno River Association PHOTO CREDITS EVS for Orange Images provided by Amy Eckberg Orange County, NC, Triangle Land Conservancy UNC CHAPEL HILL Rand stock image sites. ECOSTUDIO INTERNS: ed Eye Cover Image: Max Feldman Garland Truffles Sunrise at Blackwood Farm Park Bladen Currier Orange Community Housing by Jennifer Gallina. Angie Delgado and Land Trust Chloe Sherer 6 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA 10 9° Orange County Board of Commissioners Post Office Box 8181 300 West Tryon Street e"o„�> Hillsborough, North Carolina 27278 .� November 2,2023 It is our honor to present the Orange County Climate Action Plan (CAP). This plan was built in partnership with the community f and serves as a roadmap for our County operations and community to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and build resilience to the impacts of climate change. As the Board of County Commissioners of Orange County, we are committed to protecting our community. We recognize that climate change poses a real and urgent threat to our public health, safety, local f$, economy, natural environments and overall quality of life which is why we must build upon the actions we have already taken to address climate change with new strategies and urgency. Orange County has made remarkable progress in addressing climate change and promoting sustainability. Through our active participation in regional resilience assessments, our innovative Community Climate Action Grant Program, our Lands Legacy _i program,EVvehicle and charger implementation,and participation ' in the multi-jurisdictional Solarize the Triangle campaigns, we have demonstrated our commitment to reducing emissions, x promoting resilience, and fostering environmental stewardship. These accomplishments highlight our intent to work together through regional collaborations, alongside our local jurisdictions, and through community based public private partnerships to create a sustainable future. Throughoutthe planning process of the CAP,we actively engaged with members of the community from various sectors, seeking their expertise and incorporating their valuable input into our strategies. The Orange County community has come together to shape its vision for the future. While the county government can take the lead on certain initiatives, the success of many endeavors relies on the actions taken by individual residents. It is only through the collaborative efforts of both government and residents that we can accomplish the objectives outlined in this CAP. Orange County has shown its capacity to achieve the collective aspirations of our community. Each of us has a role to play in building a vibrant,environmentally sustainable community that promotes well-being for all. We extend our gratitude to all those who have contributed to the developmentofthis plan and expressour unwavering commitment to its implementation. Together, let us create a brighter future - one that prioritizes the well-being, prosperity of our community, and the preservation of the beautiful natural resources that all help make Orange County a great place to live. Jamezetta Bedford, Chair, Board of Orange County Commissioners "• = •' • ORANGE COUNTY,NORTH CAROLINA 7 W T f U W Z o ' a � w C7 SUMMARY 8 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA SUMMARY CALL TO ACTION Climate change is a pressing global challenge that requires collective action and sustainable solutions to safeguard our planet's future. Greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions which are emitted from the cars we drive, the energy we consume, the way we develop the built environment, and the products we buy are having a harmful effect on our environment and are increasing temperatures to dangerous levels which can threaten our way of life, our food systems, and our safety. The next few years are critical in limiting global temperature to a 1.5°C increase and mitigating the most severe impacts of climate change. To do so, global emissions need to be halved by 2030,and net zero emissions must be achieved before 2050. According to the most recent report from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC),the Earth has warmed 1.09°C since 1850 and many changes such as sea-level rise and glacier and arctic ice melt are now irreversible. Global temperature rise is likely to reach 1.5°C by the mid-2040s which will further stress our environmental systems and, at a local level, will result in more frequent and intense heat waves, floods, drought, wildfire, and air pollution.As a global community,we are rushing to find ways to mitigate the worst of what is to come. As a local community, we are seeking ways to thrive despite the disruptions to our lives and well-being. THE GREENHOUSE EFFECT :: I Earth also emits heat Some solar back toward space. radiation is + absorbed by I the clouds and atmosphere. ?ome of this heat passes directly through the atmosphere. Solar radiation penetrates the Earth's coZ Greenhouse Gases c02atmosphere. 2 • 2)absorb The Earth's surface and trap the most absorbs most solar heat,enhancing the radiation,warming the warming effect. 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA 9 SUMMARY CALLTO Orange County is already facing periods of severe drought, intense storms, ACTION heat waves, and poor air quality with more and more frequency. While some CONTINUED responses will need to be coordinated regionally, it is important for Orange County to take swift and effective action locally to maintain our quality of life. In 2022, North Carolina's Governor, Roy Cooper, issued Executive Order (EO) No. 246 committing North Carolina to a clean energy economy and directing next steps in the state's plan to achieve net-zero GHG emissions and create new economic opportunities for North Carolinians across the state. The EO strengthens North Carolina's commitment to reducing GHG emissions, increasing the statewide goal to a 50% reduction from 2005 levels by 2030 and achieving net-zero GHG emissions no laterthan 2050. EO 246 includes a target specific to the transportation industry which makes up a majority of the state's emissions. It specifies a target of 1.25 million zero-emission vehicles registered at the state level and 50%of all new cars sold as electric by 2030. In line with a climate focus,the state is creating a diverse workforce to help buildout climate change infrastructure and ensure underserved communities are engaged in the process. This follows a historical trend of previous commitments which have positioned North Carolina as a leader in climate. NO OUR GHG EMISSIONS REDUCTION GOALS 50% & 100% BY 2030 BY 2050 Orange County aims to comply with the state and adopt similar climate goals. On June 6, 2017, the Board of Orange County Commissioners passed a resolution to proportionally uphold the Paris Climate Agreement to reduce GHG emissions between 26 and 28 percent by 2025 from 2005 levels. By 2019, the County had reduced 40%of its emissions.On September 5, 2017,the Board of Orange County Commissioners adopted a resolution to transition to a 100% renewable energy based economy by 2050. By 2019, the County had achieved a 13% renewable energy portfolio. The County also signed the Global Covenant of Mayors in 2018 which is the largest global alliance for city climate leadership. These three commitments have played a foundational role in propelling Orange County to write this inaugural Climate Action Plan (CAP). The CAP is more than a testament to Orange County's commitment to climate action. It signifies an intentional move to align with wider regional planning processes. In this vein, the CAP echoes the goals and strategies of regional initiatives.This harmonized approach intends not only to create synergies with neighboring localities but also to contribute to a unified regional response to climate change. Details on specific partnerships can be found in the "Introduction Section". 10 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA SUMMARY EQUITY The impacts of climate change cannot be separated from the broader social, economic, and political systems that shape our world. Equity refers to fairness and justice in the distribution of resources, opportunities, and benefits. Orange County is committed to integrating an equity lens into all aspects of our climate action efforts, from decision-making to community engagement to the allocation of resources. On September 2,2010,the Board of Orange County Commissioners unanimously adopted the social justice goals outlined in the Orange County Social Justice Goals resolution. Climate change impacts individuals differently based on their socio-economic status, race, geographic location, and a host of other factors. Therefore, it is with intention that all the strategies within this CAP have been developed using the equitable lens found in the following resolution. FOSTER A COMMUNITY CULTURE - ESTABLISH SUSTAINABLE THAT REJECTS OPPRESSION AND EQUITABLE LAND-USE AND INEQUITY AND ENVIRONMENTAL POLICIES The fair treatment and meaningful The fair treatment and meaningful involvement of all people regardless of involvement of people of all race or color; religious or philosophical races,cultures, incomes and beliefs;sex,gender or sexual orientation; educational levels with respect national origin or ethnic background; to the development and age; military service;disability; and enforcement of environmental familial, residential or economic status. laws, regulations, policies, and decisions. Fair treatment means that no group of people should ENSURE ECONOMIC bear a disproportionate share SELF-SUFFICIENCY of the negative environmental The creation and preservation of consequences resulting from industrial,governmental and infrastructure, policies, programs commercial operations or policies. and funding necessary for residents to provide shelter,food, clothing, and medical care for themselves and their dependents. ENABLE FULL CIVIC PARTICIPATION Ensure that Orange County CREATE A SAFE COMMUNITY residents are able to engage The reduction of risks from vehicle/ government through voting _ traffic accidents, childhood and senior and volunteering by eliminating disparities in participation and injuries, gang activity, substance abuse and domestic violence. barriers to participation. IMAGES SOURCES:ORANGE COUNTY,NC 2030 PARKS&RECREATION MASTER PLAN. 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA 11 SUMMARY PURPOSE Orange County's 2023 CAP is meant to serve as a guiding document towards GHG reductions,both in County operations and community-wide.It is designed as a comprehensive strategy to reduce emissions in a manner consistent with state guidelines and regulations, and to identify cost-effective opportunities to existing and future residents, businesses, and development projects for a more sustainable community.At the same time,the CAP provides a framework for environmental leadership and an educational resource to the community. The CAP is intentionally a living document that can be revised as needed with clear and transparent metrics by which progress can be both assessed and measured. Although the County will be flexible, it will remain steadfast to the objectives ahead. There are 70 strategies with 187 associated actions outlined within the CAP. Certain commitments within the CAP have risen to the top as the most impactful climate action targets for both community and County operations that should be prioritized above the rest. They are listed as the "Top 10 Things the County Should Do''. TOP 10 THINGS THE COUNTY SHOULD DC et 3. 4. Expand Countynek Identify and Be prepared funding to include y as prioritize actions for climate climate expenditures andithin targeted to vulnerable emergencies additional full time unty's populations within sustainability and grantcess the County administrator staff Strateaiies 1-4 are not specific to GHG emission reduction. Instead, these strategies serve as a qualitative framework that will become the guiding principles of the County's planning process. The priority for the County is to expand funding to support this CAP. Funding will not only emerge from internal department budgets, but the expansion of funding will rely heavily on current and future grant opportunities. All planning decisions will weigh environmental impacts along with the social and economic impacts that these CAP projects and programs will present. This consideration will become a formal way to conduct business. #3 The County will maintain course to provide equitable solutions for underserved communities within the County and Ensure that the County is prepared for climate emergencies. It should also be mentioned that ensuring future development is concentrated near existing services and other buildings is critical to reducing GHG emissions. This will lessen the amount of VMT and create greater conservation of connected forest and green space. 12 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA W4*61 SUMMARY TOP 10 THINGS THE COUNTY SHOULD DO- FOUNDATIONAL REDUCTION STRATEGIES m 7- S. Decrease Increase Achieve 50% Achieve 100% vehicle miles traveled community emission reduction renewable electricity (VMT)30%from a EV adoption to target of all Scope 1 and 2 by 2050 in municipal 2019 baseline 50%by 2035 and emissions'by 2030 and operation and by 2050 100%by 2050 100%by 2050 using a community-wide (T1,T2,T3) (T4) 2005 baseline (BE 2.1,BE 2.2,BE 2.3) (BE 1) 1 J. J. 1 BASF FLINIF BASELINE BASELINE BASIF__LINE Establish annual Currently 9%of Scope 1 and 2 Currently-13% reduction of 1.3 million all vehicles emissions have dropped of all electricity miles using in Orange County by 40.7%between is coming from US Community Protocol are electric 2005 and 2019 renewable sources2 10. Increase Complete an community-wide electrification study capacity by and establish a long-term 25%by 2035 implementation plan(Phase 1 to 33.66 MW and Phase 2)by 2025 (solar E 2.4,BE 2.5,BE 2.6) (BE 3) BASELINE BASELINE Current solar capacity Natural gas usage within Orange County is currently at is 26.93 MW3 156,670 MT CO2e Scope 1:Carbon emissions resulting directly from fuel use; Scope 2:Carbon emissions associated with energy purchased by Orange County and generated elsewhere z https://www.duke-energy.com/Home/Products/Renewable-Advantage/Product-Content-Label?jur=NC01#::text=For%20 comparison%2C%20the%20current%20average,%5BDuke%20Energy%202021%20data%5D. 3 https://energync.org/maps/ 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA 13 SUMMARY PURPOSE The project team analyzed the long term GHG emissions reduction potential CONTINUED of strategies 5- 10 (foundational six) and adjusted the percentages (i.e. 50% reduction in GHG emissions by 2030) to ensure that the County could reach net zero by 2050 if they achieve these six targets. The subsequent coding in parenthesis refers to the goals and strategies identified which will help the County reach these targets. The County will consider carbon sequestration if any residual emissions remain in 2050. Please refer to Figure A. The methodology demonstrates the amount of GHG produced annually if business is continued as usual and then adjusts for expected changes from other entities. Note that GHG emissions will decrease over time because of utility commitments and expected state level regulation, but not at a fast enough rate to reach net-zero by 2050, which is required to keep global warming to 1.5 C and prevent the worst effects of a warming planet. Our methodology included running the County's 2019 GHG emissions inventory through the Local Governments for Sustainability's model, ICLEI ClearPath, and then forecast those emissions out to 2050 using escalation factors for projected population growth, national transportation emission requirements, and the utility commitments towards net zero carbon emissions. The ICLEI Clearpath model bases the emission reductions on the unique usage data and emission factors specific to Orange County.The model has the capability of running different emission reduction scenarios based on the percentage of expected emissions reduced. 14 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA SUMMARY PURPOSE Figure A depicts emissions reduced as a result of the foundational b strategies. CONTINUED Please see Appendix B for more information on the methodology. ORANGE COUNTY TOP 6 EMISSION REDUCTIONS 1,800,000 1,631,671 1,600,000 1,400,000 _ 1,320,172 d � - V 1,200,000 '` 1,028,184 947,191 1,000,000 - - --- '-- -- - - -- - - - -- - 800,000 993,646 600,000 454,033 400,000 56,991 200,000 M -T to O N 00 T O r N M 4 K1 10 P CO O� O r N N N N N N N N N N M M M M M M M M M M a a a a a a a a a a b O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N --ADJUSTED BUSINESS AS USUAL(ABAU) —CAP SCENARIO PROCESS&FUGITIVE EMISSIONS WATER&WASTEWATER SOLID WASTE INDUSTRIAL ENERGY COMMERCIAL ENERGY RESIDENTIAL ENERGY TRANSPORTATION&MOBILE SOURCES Figure A:Orange County Top b GHG Emission Reduction Strategies In addition to the Top 10, goals, strategies, and actions are further developed throughout the CAP in the following sectors:Transportation, Built Environment and Energy, Resource Conservation, Green Community and Resilient Community.These sectors clearly map a qualitative and quantitative approach to actionable solutions at the County level. 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY,NORTH CAROLINA 15 SUMMARY STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT Community engagement was a critical component of Orange County's CAP planning process. Community ,€ members are the ones that experience the effects of its plan, projects and policies. In the process of creating � the CAP Count Orange and will continue to Y worked � collaborate) with universities, organizations, small f businesses, and public and private stakeholders in and around Orange County. Orange County's stakeholder engagement events have included survey reports, - - focus group discussions, workshops, and participation in the annual Orange County Agricultural Summit. Participants' comments and suggestions have been - integrated into the CAP to the best of the project team's abilities. As this CAP is implemented, collaboration . between the County and these stakeholders will remain essential because they are, as members of the community, best equipped to inform the CAP team of challenges the community faces. j Ag Summit community engagement session, February 2023. 16 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA SUMMARY COST & IMPLEMENTATION TIMELINE Efficiently allocating resources and funds is a cornerstone of the CAP for Orange County. Structured by year and specific focus area,the budget section presents a clear trajectory of expenditures and investments to facilitate the County's vision of a sustainable future. An overview of the funding plan is provided in the core body of the CAP, providing a breakdown of the estimated costs associated with each core goal. The implementation year for each strategy was selected based on its priority score and alignment with the top 10 things the County should do. Strategies set for immediate rollout have a higher priority score, whereas those with a later implementation year indicate a lower priority score. To further clarify our financial commitments and implementation timeline, the appendices serve as a detailed resource. Within them, there is a table delineating possible internal funding mechanisms, a table detailing potential funding sources from federal,state, regional,and local levels, a comprehensive funding plan that itemizes each strategy's estimated cost, the proposed implementation year, and possible funding source(s) and a detailed implementation plan specifies each strategy's projected rollout timeline, primary implementation lead(s) and potential partners. More details on funding and implementation schedule can be found in Appendices D-F. The implementation of this CAP will not rely solely on internal budgets but, instead, be supported by current and future grant funding opportunities. Therefore,it is imperativethattheCountycommittohiring agrant administrator to support the grant writing process. As grants are received, the County will need to prioritize where internal funding should be spent. CONCLUSION While the proposed CAP actions can be daunting,the cost of inaction is much higher. Investments now will substantially reduce long-term operation costs, reduce recovery costs from climate-related disasters, and promote growth in local jobs and the economy. The goals are ambitious, but ones that we believe we can achieve.There will undoubtedly be twists and turns on this path, and we will need to stay flexible and adapt along the way. But if we can achieve these goals, we believe that we can build a community that is healthy, connected, and vibrant. We encourage everyone to embrace and fully participate in implementing this CAP. 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY,NORTH CAROLINA 17 r b .. J.. 9�"%•aiH M�� vNF ���� �is - � . 21 now A a ACTION2023 CLIMATE ORANGE COUNTY, • - CAROLINA 22 Nestled in the hills of the North Carolina Piedmont, Orange County is located between the Research Triangle Park and the Triad cities of Greensboro, Winston-Salem and High Point. There are an estimated 153,166 residents with a growth rate of 0.9% in the past year according to the most recent United States census data. Orange County includes historic Hillsborough, the county seat; Chapel Hill, home of the University of North Carolina; and Carrboro and Mebane, former railroad and mill towns.The County encompasses 400 square miles of rolling farms and forest, vital urban centers and small towns. Orange County combines the best of cosmopolitan and rural values with an abundance of historical, social and cultural resources. Recognizing the need for urgent and ambitious climate action based on public concern and scientific evidence, Orange County saw the imperative to systematize and accelerate efforts. This 2023 CAP represents the next step, unifying existing climate work under one strategic umbrella to equitably transition Orange County to a low-carbon, climate-resilient community. In response to the need for a formal CAP, a Climate Action Team sub committee assembled to lead the planning process. This sub committee has representatives from 17 county-wide departments including Asset Management Services, the Budget office, Emergency Services and the Health department to name a few.The group is led by a full time Sustainability Manager who keeps the County's Board of Commissioners updated on progress. APPROACH Climate actions are not isolated events. They require collaboration and cross- cutting strategies across multi-jurisdictions, public agencies, nonprofits, commercial businesses and residential communities. This CAP emerged as a result of an extensive review of both environmental state mandates, the commitments of local and regional jurisdictions, and existing public private partnership structures. The County leveraged existing planning commitments wherefeasible and integrated new strategy elements totailorthisplan uniquely to the County. The County has committed to working with state, regional and local partners to maximize our impact through collective planning and implementation of climate initiatives. Some of the ways Orange County engages are: •STATE PLANNING • REGIONAL PLANNING •LOCAL PLANNING 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA 19 23 North Carolina Clean Energy Plan sets a net zero GHG emissions target by 2050 and has established goals to support this target by fostering long-term energy affordability and accelerating clean energy innovation,development, and deployment to better serve business and residential communities. To support these goals,the plan states a commitment to develop carbon reduction policies and the tools needed to support these policies as well as to modernize the grid to support clean energy resource adoption. The Cities Initiative, led by the Environmental Defense Fund, is a collaborative effort among North Carolina local governments to address GHG emission reductions to evaluate barriers, business needs, and partnership opportunities. During Phase 1, the Initiative identified 12 core goals around clean energy, transportation, and the built environment that the collaborative will focus on in the coming months. A large part of the analysis process is to uncover funding approaches to support these areas. Phase 2 will unfold in 2024. During this phase, specific strategies and actions will be determined to lay out a roadmap for implementation. Triangle Clean Cities Coalition leverages resources from the Department of Energy's Vehicle Technology office to promote alternative fuels and electric vehicle adoption. The coalition provides collaboration, multi-jurisdiction grant opportunities, workshop education and technical assistance to municipalities who are committed to finding sustainable transportation solutions. 20 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA 24 Mao, Orange County, the University of North Carolina (UNC) at Chapel Hill, and the towns of Carrboro, Chapel Hill, and Hillsborough are collaborating on a climate action initiative to identify areas within the County that are well suited for new public electric vehicle charging stations. The Triangle Climate Resilience Partnership is a cooperative partnership among the Town of Cary, the Town of Chapel Hill, the City of Durham, the City of Raleigh, Durham County, and Orange County. The Steering Committee is composed of the partners' Sustainability Managers, Sustainability Directors, and Resilience Officers. This partnership—along with UNC Asheville's National Environmental Modeling and Analysis Center and the Central Pines Regional Council—performed a quantified assessment to help regional decision makers understand which assets are most vulnerable to specific threats and provide guidance on potential solutions. Triangle Sustainability Partnership has successfully initiated the "Solarize the Triangle" program which, in the first year of the partnership (2022), hit its top goal of reaching Tier 8 pricing, lowering the cost of solar for all participants by thirty-seven cents per kilowatt(kW),achieving $300,500 in annual utility bill savings, generating $5.98 million in new clean energy development, creating 1,731 kW of new clean energy capacity, and avoiding 3.5 million pounds of carbon dioxide annually. Year 2 of the partnership (2023) hit Tier 8 pricing as well demonstrating the strong demand for solar in our community. This is a crowd source funding campaign that bundles solar projects togetherto attract wholesale pricing from developers. This program will be expanded in 2024 to focus on electrification with a new program entitled "Electrify the Triangle". Central Pines Regional Council(formerly Triangle J Council of Governments) is a resource and support hub for local governments, community members, and partners across Chatham, Durham, Johnston, Lee, Moore, Orange, and Wake counties. This public private partnership focuses on building networks to address gaps, barriers, and funding opportunities in five key areas, including Environment & Resilience and Mobility&Transportation. The Southeast Sustainability Directors Network is another consortium that Orange County is involved with to help facilitate and advocate for regional climate initiatives. This network offers peer learning opportunities, equity resources, and information on regional funding. 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA 21 25 MO. An umber of agencies work together to provide public transportation in Orange County and are all partners in planning transit and developing the Orange County Transit Plan. In November 2012, Orange County voters approved a transit-dedicated half-cent sales tax investment to expand and better connect the public transit network in Orange County and throughout the Triangle region. The Orange County 2030 Comprehensive Plan serves as a "blueprint" document to guide future policy decisions for the County through the year 2030. Chapter One indicates a formal commitment to sustainability which has laid the foundation for this CAP planning process. The County is currently updating the 2030 Comprehensive Plan and will take into consideration the goals and strategies outlined in this document and integrate the two planning documents as much as possible. Orange County Solid Waste Management Plan implements recommendations to set the vision for an integrated solid waste management program leading to Zero Waste by 2045. This Plan was developed, in collaboration with the Solid Waste Management Department, SWAG members, and feedback from County residents,to determine the path forward to achieve Zero Waste by 2045. The 2023 Orange County Five-Year Strategic Plan is underway which will lay out priorities to guide policies and budget decisions from 2024 through 2028. The plan will have underpinning themes of sustainability and equity and will prioritize actions that support and defend vulnerable populations. Parks and Recreation Master Plan offers a robust overview of park facilities and services. The plan's intent is to examine the lessons and experiences of the past, identify current issues and challenges, and project community needs and desires into a vision for the future-a future that ensures a legacy of parks and public open spaces for current and future generations. 22 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA 26 I'LATIPODUCTIOIV- LOCAL PLANNING CONTINUED In addition to the agency collaborations underway, the County has taken into account the alignment of regional commitments. Following state guidance, the County will work with its neighboring cities and university to share funding resources and best practices and maintain a dedicated focus to work collectively to ensure that these commitments stay on course.Table A portrays a snapshot of current state and regional commitments. SECTOR ORANGE COUNTY STATE CHAPEL HILL _.-. Electrify fleet passenger Z vehicles,light and medium duty O EO 246:Establishing targets Reduce 2010 levels of Increase community EV trucks by 2040,and all heavy p adoption to 50%by 2035 of 1.25 million zero-emission duty vehicles by 2050 GHG emissions from c and 100%b 2050 vehicles registered and 50%of motor vehicle use by 80% Q y sales by 2030 Replace diesel buses and by 2030 LU support vehicles with all-electric options over the next 20 years EO 246.The order requires Create walkable,bikeable, Decrease vehicle miles Reduce GHG Emissions NC DOT to develop actionable transit-served neighborhoods, � traveled(VMT)30%from a from Motor Vehicle Use by > strategies for Vehicle Miles Increase walking,biking and 2019 baseline by 2050 Traveled(VMT) transit use(mode-shift) 80%by 2030 Municipal goal updated in 2020 to reduce 2010 EO 246.Reduce statewide levels of municipal Z N Achieve 50%emission Halfway to net zero by 2030: p N LU reduction target by 2030 GHG emissions to at least 50% 15%of commercial,30%of emissions 80%by 2030 below 2005 levels by 2030 and 2 0: and 100%by 2050 using a residential,100%of Town Community goal updated w 2005 baseline achieve net zero emissions by s buildin 2050 g in 2020 to reduce 2010 levels of community emissions 80%by 2030 Achieve 100%clean HB 951.Reduce electric Projects on Town > O renewable energy by power sector greenhouse gas 80%clean renewable energy by buildings,includingsolar leasing;dedicate z2050 in municipal and emissions by 70%below 2005 2030;100%by 2050 adequate funding to these LU community sectors levels by 2030 projects LU J Q There are 31 community solar wIncrease the%of projects that operate in 93 of Pursue Community Solar Z community wide solar by 100 counties in North Carolina Green the Grid;Participating in Projects;Participate in a: 25%by 2035 providing electricity to 25%of Solarize the Triangle Solarize the Triangle North Carolina residents Z Complete an electrification O study and establish a a All-electric new construction Facilitate Low Cost Q long-term implementation et-zero emissions for new N standards;All newly sold Financing for Energy plan(Phase 1 and Phase appliances are high-efficiency construction;Energy audit Efficiency and Renewable r 2)for both municipal and models requirement at time of sale Energy Projects M community infrastructure LU by 2025 Table A: Current State and Regional Commitments 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA 23 ftmi-i SECTOR :• -• COUNTY Z Develop and adopt electric Encourage the use of plug-in Encourage private vehicle O vehicle requirements electric vehicles in Durham owners to use electric vehicles; a for developments;Offer Increase fuel efficiency as a substitute for petroleum develop charging stations O of campus fleet based on powered vehicles to help for electric vehicles and p incentives for electric vehicle a charging infrastructure in CAFE standards achieve community-wide air encourage apartmentartment owners > quality and GHG emissions and homeowners to install �++ developments reduction goals charging stations The Comprehensive Increase use of F Sustainability Plan identifies Expand Vehicle telematics; environmentally preferred Expanded public transit is a > ways Hillsborough can convert Establish a Commuter transportation options stated goal of the CAP vehicle trips into walking, Alternative Program biking,or transit trips. Pledged to be carbon _O� Reducing U.S.GHG emissions neutral by 2050 and Commitment to reducing W Focus on energy efficiency and N a 50%to 52%below 2005 levels established 15 near-term emissions to net zero in the N� community EV adoption a by 2030. strategies to reach electricity sector W this goal. 80%renewable energy by 80%renewable energy by 100%clean energy by 2050; Lu 2030;100%by 2050 2030;100%by 2050 Install rooftop solar panels Z where feasible W W Commit to onsite solar m and RECs Identify potential sites or Participating in Solarize the Participating in Solarize the areas for the location of W Triangle Triangle renewable energy facilities, Z including solar farms and wind W M plantations Z Investigate opportunities and O a incorporate sustainability Continue Building Reducing total energy use Encourage energy audits for v and climate initiatives Optimization Program; is a keytenant of Durham private and public buildings with in facility development Continue Energy County's abilityto reach its incentives for follow-up retrofits F including geothermal,solar, Conservation Measures v renewable energy goals. on existing buildings weatherization,and green Program W W infrastructure Table A:Current State and Regional Commitments(continued from page 23) OUR PROGRESS In 2008, sustainability was threaded throughout Orange County's 2030 Comprehensive Plan. The integration and collective impact of environmental, social and economic elements was recognized as a contributing factor to ensuring a healthy and vibrant community. Since then, Orange County has demonstrated a long-term commitment to pursuing initiatives that support this vision, as listed in the following sectors. The County will continue to incentivize and acknowledge those making efforts as this CAP is implemented over time. 24 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA 28 BUILT ENVIRONMENT AND ENERGY 2 Set a goal of using 100% renewable energy by 2050 2 Ordinances in place to preserve 33%of 2 Set goal of a 3%yearly reduction in energy use in acreage from new developments County operations 2 Rainwater collection systems built at 2 Efficient lighting and HVAC (heating,ventilation & County facilities air conditioning) policies in place 12135%of County land area has designated 2 On-site solar on several County buildings,with more green stormwater infrastructure under way RESILIENT COMMUNITY 2 5 County buildings served by geothermal ground- source heat pumps 2 The County participated in the Triangle Regional Resilience Assessment(completed in 2018) 2 Received LEED for Cities and Communities(Gold certification) 2 Updating the FEMA Hazard Mitigation Plan now 2 All major County facilities served by energy-saving 2 Updated the County's State of the Environment HVAC control systems Report in 2019 2 Updating County lighting to LED using County's 2 Offers Orange County Mobility on Demand Sustainability Fund and Duke Energy's Small rideshare services to Cooling Centers during Business Energy Saver Program extreme heat days 2 Policy of installing solar on all new County capital 2 Continues to pursue hazard mitigation action projects,where feasible items including acquiring structures in floodplains and returning the land to green space. TRANSPORTATION 2 Adopted the Eno Haw Regional Hazard Mitigation 2 Updated Orange County Transit Plan in 2022 Plan in 2020 and continued to participate in five 2 Operates a network of 23 free electric vehicle year update cycles charging stations GOVERNANCE 2 Employee commute reduction programs in place 2 The Board of County Commissioners voted 2 Operates County Commuter Options program to uphold the Paris Agreement offering alternatives to single-occupancy vehicle 2 Conducted greenhouse gas inventories in 2005 travel for the community and 2017 2 Transitioned 7 county vehicles to all electric; 2 Providing staff support for the Commission for 10 more on order the Environment Advisory Board RESOURCE CONSERVATION FINANCE 2 Installed aerators on all bathroom and breakroom 2 The Community Climate Action grant program, fixtures at County facilities to conserve water financed from a 1/4 cent property tax, has 2 Created a dedicated Recycling Education & provided funding for a variety of climate Outreach Coordinator position action projects including weatherization, 2 Achieved an approximately 60% increase in waste solar installations,tree plantings, EV charger diversion compared to 1990 levels installations, LED lights, heat pump water heater replacements, compost monitors at farmer's 2 Developed Lands Legacy Program in 2000 markets, and more. 2 Diverted over 1,200 surplus county computers for re- 2 The County has provided low-to-moderate use by an Orange County student training program income(LMI)funding through the Solarize the 2 Established a Waste Wise Event Program to reduce Triangle program to fund solar installations for trash at County staff events LMI households. 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA 25 N 1011 oriel pill" THINGS YOU CAN DO YOURSELF While governments and corporations can make significant mitigation impacts in the way they operate, individuals can make a difference in the way we live our daily lives. Our decisions give us the power to set a course for change by taking small actions that cause rippling effects across communities and can build dialogues that lead to broad behavior change. Join Orange County as it sets a course for community-wide climate change. "IMAGE ovIDED8Yo1 ` cECOUNTv,NC. ENERGY PLEDUL 10 , i-vm%,iAASING PLEDGE TO: Q Turn off the lights when you leave if your home or Q Prioritize local and minority owned farms office does not have occupancy sensors and businesses and support those with a • Skip the elevator and take the stairs for exercise climate mission and energy savings p Purchase products with reduced packaging [0 Unplug or use a power strip p Make your next vehicle purchase an electric one • Obtain an energy audit for your home instead of gas p Take advantage of your energy provider's incentives for reducing your energy consumption TRANSPORTATION PLEDGE TO: R] Ride your bike or carpool to work WATEk PLLDGL l O: p Take public transportation as often as possible P Bring a reusable water bottle to work each day p Telecommute when possible W Reduce meat consumption (biggest water user) W Reduce water use at home and work WASTE PLEDGE TC W Plant native plants that require less water than D Reduce/eliminate use of single use plastic bags non natives p Reduce food waste 2 Start composting FOOD PI FD(-,F TO p Purchase second-hand clothing W Say no to plastic by bringing a reusable to go whenever possible container to work and for restaurant leftovers p Reduce paper copies and print double sided P Not ask for a straw p Fix first before buying new W Only take what you can eat Z Donate usable clothing,furniture, housewares, p Eat a more plant-based diet and electronics GREEN SPACES PLEDGE TO r-N GACGt PLEDGE TO: P Bea good steward to the earth by planting a tree p Talk and share ideas with others W Convert some or all of your lawn space about climate change to native plants p Volunteer for a community climate action project 0 Use an electric mower or battery operated mower p Stay informed and involved with what the County and region are doing to tackle climate change 2 Participate in community engagement efforts around climate change 26 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA 30 Ma. An updated GHG Emission Inventory was conducted as part of this CAP planning process in order to understand the present state of environmental impacts and to establish a baseline for the forecasting of future emissions. The methodology was built using the US Community Protocol provided by the ICLEI ClearPath tool coupled with United States Environmental Protection Agency GHG emission factors which serve as the benchmark for GHG emission inventory analysis nationwide. Emissions were estimated based on best practices drawn from these resources. The year 2019 was selected for the GHG Emission Inventory to offer a more typical representation of GHG emissions against the year 2022,given that the COVID-19 pandemic significantly reduced travel emissions and markedly impacted emissions from other sectors as well. Notably,the years 2020,2021, and 2022 recorded significantly lower emissions compared to current levels. A full understanding of the inventory can be found in Appendix A: 2019 GHG Emissions Inventory. The GHG Emission Inventory considers two distinct greenhouse gas accounting tracks: community and government sectors. The two tracks are considered on the following pages as distinct inventories. 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA 27 31 COMMUNITY GREENHOUSE GAS INVENTORY In 2019, the Orange County community produced a total of 1,631,671 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent emissions(MT CO2e). As illustrated in Figure B, the greatest percentage of emissions was from transportation and mobile service at 43%, or 702,701 MT CO2e. Energy use in commercial buildings represents the next largest emission source at 34% followed by residential building and commercial building energy use at 19% and 2%, respectively. Building energy use was categorized into Commercial (business, university, and medical buildings), Residential (single and multi-family residences), and Industrial (agricultural and factory buildings) sectors to assist in determining reduction strategies. Commercial energy produced 556,800 MT CO2e, Residential energy resulted in 299,216 MT CO2e, and Industrial energy contributed 33,626 MT CO2e. The remainder of the community inventory includes solid waste with 21,350 MT CO2e, water and wastewater with 12,585 MT CO2e, and fugitive emissions with 5,393 MT CO2e. ORANGE COUNTY COMMUNITY INVENTORY PROCESS& TRANSPORTATION& FUGITIVE EMISSIONS MOBILE SOURCES 0% 43% SOLID WASTE RESIDENTIAL ENERGY 1% WATER&WASTEWATER 1% INDUSTRIAL ENERGY COMMERCIAL ENERGY 34% Figure B:Orange County Community Inventory 28 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA 32 COUNTY OPERATIONS GREENHOUSE GAS INVENTORY As shown in Figure C, County operations GHG emissions were also analyzed. Orange County local government operations (LGO)were responsible for 21,124 MT CO2e. The largest emission sources were Employee Commuting at 33% (6,329 MT CO2e), followed by the Buildings & Facilities sector with 32% (6,185 MT CO2e).Water&Wastewater electricity emissions accounted for 23%(4,479 MT CO2e) which the local ICLEI advisor recommended including emissions in the County operation inventory. Vehicle Fleet emissions contributed 11% (2,106 MT CO2e) and Transit Fleet accounted for the remaining 1% (251 MT CO2e). Fugitive emissions produced 9 MT CO2e. ORANGE COUNTY GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS INVENTORY PROCESS& BUILDING&FACILITIES FUGITIVE EMISSIONS 0% VEHICLE FLEET 11% WATER&WASTEWATER TRANSIT FLEET USAGE 23% EMPLOYEE COMMUTE 33% Figure C: Orange County Government Operations Inventory 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA 29 w Is - f �.'f y, ii1, •f ,fi r f�F,' yi 1♦ 1 p X33+� • F ' ' 'C J;r ^ E4} -/� ��� � k ,�-,'�iC � T �1 y�♦�.y '���`Fiw+�{:♦lw.�l INL •� �f�"/ - t r ""• � ,� 3c _� ,�}, .� .1�� tg�-rMo,M1�yi� `"a i't fi._ P .� v R i �_.�`y Or Ole Ilk qqww jL • � �t. A.° �'�Y. - ���pt�b�,�'���.. ,yam.,! I 1�.. m a W U Q - 1 Y JEW,r - To determine what the County's emissions might look like in 2050, a series of GHG emissions forecasts were developed.As illustrated in Figure D,a Business- As-Usual (BAU) forecast was developed to forecast the County's emissions without any additional action from federal, state, or local governments. A series of growth factors such as population and household growth were applied to the County's baseline emissions. Without any additional action, the County's emissions are expected to increase from 1,631,671 metric tons in 2019 to 1,813,315 metric tons in 2050. To project the County's emissions in 2050 including the expected impacts of state and local actions, an Adjusted Business-As-Usual (ABAU) forecast was developed. This forecast, shown in Figure E, includes expected increases in fuel economy and building energy efficiency in North Carolina, as well as the local utility companies'commitments to 50%emissions reduction in 2030 and net zero emissions by 2050. Further methodology on the emission forecast can be found in Appendix B. The ABAU shows the emissions in Orange County dropping from 1,631,671 MT CO2e per year to 947,191 MT CO2e per year. 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA 31 MW 77"77F7777 35 IMAGE PROVIDED BY ORANGE COUNTY,NC. EMISSIONS FORECAST CONTINUED ORANGE COUNTY BUSINESS AS USUAL rn 2 Z 1.8 J 1.6 - - 1.4 1.2 1 d 0 0.8 V 0.6 H 0.4 0.2 0 ,3h,3b ,b'1 r30 3Q op p'. a 0Ab op, N1b Nb NA Db 0a1 yp ,LO,LO tip,LO,LO,LO,LO,LO,LO,LO,LO,LO 11p,LO,LO,LO,y0,y0,LO,LO,LO,LO 1p,y0,y0 ,LO ,y0 ,LO ,LO,LO ,LO ,LO PROCESS&FUGITIVE EMISSIONS E SOLID WASTE RESIDENTIAL ENERGY WATER&WASTEWATER INDUSTRIAL ENERGY TRANSPORTATION COMMERCIAL ENERGY &MOBILE SOURCES Figure D:Orange County Business as Usual ORANGE COUNTY ADJUSTED BUSINESS AS USUAL z 1.8 O -J 1.6 1.4 1.2 1 0.8 N O 0.6 0.4 0.2 0 ,`A ,y0 ry'�r�`L,y3,yR tih,yb,y'1 rL�,tiA ,bO r3'�n�`b 33, ,bD ,3h ,fib ,b1 ,b� ,3A a0 A^ 0� a9 NNNh ab NA R4b 0Q y0 ,y0,LO ry0,10,LO,y0 rL0 r10,y0,y0 r10 r10 ry0,LO r10 r10 r10 rL0 ,10 rl0 rL0,y0 ,y0,LO r10 ,1p 'p ,LO tip,y0 ,LO ,y0 PROCESS&FUGITIVE EMISSIONS ® SOLID WASTE RESIDENTIAL ENERGY WATER&WASTEWATER INDUSTRIAL ENERGY TRANSPORTATION W6 COMMERCIAL ENERGY &MOBILE SOURCES Figure E:Orange County Adjusted Business as Usual 32 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA _ n is . BY-ORANOE COUNTY,NC,—. LOOKING TO 2050 DEVELOPMENT AND METHODOLOGY Through quantitative and qualitative analysis, goals, strategies, and actions were identified to enable the Countyto forma clear path toward implementation. Some of the strategies were derived from existing programs and policies within local and regional planning documents,while others emerged as new strategies drawn from the ongoing stakeholder process and the Climate Action Team subcommittee. DEVELOPMENT PROCESS: ► Preliminary quantitative and qualitative strategies identified and agreed upon ► Development of"Long List"of CAP actions to implement each strategy ► Community and stakeholder feedback ► Further refine into a "Short List"of CAP actions ► Quantify emission reductions from actions There are two development tools that are being used to track annual progress of the CAP. ICLEI tracks the success of GHG emission reductions over time and the Climate Action Tracker acts as an internal tracking system for staff roles and responsibilities,timelines and funding approaches. Local Governments for Sustainability is the first and largest global network of local governments devoted to solving the world's most intractable sustainability challenges.They have produced an online software platform,ICLEI,which tracks GHG emissions and forecasts models for strategy implementation. ICLEI also has a monitoring component, Clearpath, which can be used to report ongoing implementation of the CAP. In ICLEI ClearPath each strategy developed can be inputted and updated with real time progress of emission reductions achieved. Reports can then be exported to provide data visualizations on the progress of strategy implementation. 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA 33 3 t i✓' ti. F 40 IMAGE PROVIDED: ORANGE COUNTY, LOOKING TO 2050 DEVELOPMENT AND METHODOLOGY CONTINUED The Climate Action Tracker combines stakeholder feedback with strategy development to determine and clearly identify what additional gaps in data or funding is needed. The Tracker functions like a workbook and serves as the single point for planning, reporting and ongoing performance monitoring. The Tracker: (1) establishes a "starting point" for future comparisons; (2) tracks strategies and actions identified in the CAP; (3) ensures contributions and actions of multiple County leaders; and (4)summarizes results and impacts.The Climate Action Tracker can be used to assign various action and reporting items to key departments responsible for reporting. Action Steps Milestones&Tracking Emissions Implementation Timeline Lead Potential Partners Cost Estimate Impact Year Ill Department (NO INFLATION FACTOR HERE) T 1.1.1 Hire a Transportation Demand Comp lete Low Orange County Public Management Coordinator utilizing grant funding Transportation,GoTriangle, T 1.1.2 Implement changes to address service Complete Low Durham-Chapel Hill Metropolitan gaps in Northern and Southern OC p 2028 Mid term Transportation Planning Organization(DCHC- $320,000 MPO),Chapel Hill Transit,UNC- T 1.1.3 Extend service hours by 3%and locations %of Service Extensions Medium Chapel Hill and the towns of by 6%by 2030 Chapel Hill,Carrboro and Hillsborough T 1.2.1 Expand County fleet and transition to all Complete High electric vehicles T 1.2.2 Expand peak schedules to ensure efficient %improvement in off- 2024 Near term Transportation Orange County Transportation $500,000 and reliable services in response to measured peak service reliability Low demand. and frequency T 1.3.1 Conduct a comprehensive study on successful micro mobility programs in other regions for reference and insight;(i.e.Shared Complete Medium bike/car/scooter programs)Could be applied within each town or county-wide TDM Coordinator,Orange T 1.3.2 Carry out stakeholder engagement to County Transportation;EVS for understand local commuting needs and identify 2024 Near term Transportation Orange;"TransLoc."rideshare $170,000 key locations that would benefit from micro- Complete Low app features transit. T 1.3.3 Expand Orange County fixed routes, demand response and Mobility on Demand Complete Low services across the Count T 2.1.1 Partner with Health Department on TDM Coordinator,Orange messaging campaigns to emphasize health Partnerships Established Low County Transportation;PIO benefits of commuting(cleaner air) office to come up with a"Just 2024 Near term Transportation $20,000 T 2.1.2 Increase Orange County Commuter the Bus"or similar campaign(s), Options program participation by 5%annually %Participation Increase Medium distribute through 2025 to 2030 communication networks T 2.2.1 Collaborate with chamber networks to Hillsborough-Orange County host one Orange County Commuter Options Number of Seminars Medium 2024 Near term Transportation Chamber of Commerce,Chapel $10,000 program seminar annually. Hosted Hill-Carborro Chamber of Commerce T 3.1.1 Cross promote rides and educational DEAPR,Climate Action Coalition programs with Parks and Recreation and Health of Orange Co.;local bike shops, Department to emphasize the health benefits of Number of impressions Low 2027 Mid term Transportation Carolina Tarwheels;BikeWalkNC; $10,000 active transportation(walking,biking,micro- Chapel Hill Cycling;Bicycle mobility,etc.) Alliance of Chapel Hill Climate Action Tracker sample. 34 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA a Piz - �( i _ -� - 15 1,5 IMAGE PROVIDED BY ORANGE COUNTY,NC. • s CO-BENEFITS LOOKINGTO2050 KEY DEVELOPMENT AND METHODOLOGY CONTINUED Greenhouse Gas PRIORITIZATION Reduction potential 0 (High, medium, and low) The Climate Action Tracker provides initial priority GHG rankings and timelines for each CAP strategy. REDUCTION As a primary step, each strategy is ranked by its potential impact on GHG emission reductions: Cost-Effectiveness Tier 1 Foundational, Tier 2 Supportive, and Tier (Net present value, impact 3 Complementary. Foundational strategies will 0 versus dollar spent) be key to reducing the environmental impacts of COST- climate change and are drawn out as immediate EFFECTIVENESS priorities. Orange County will need to make difficult decisions to ensure these strategies Community Benefits (Clean air, livable community, are prioritized. Supportive strategies are ranked resiliency, etc.) next in line and indicate strategies that have COMMUNITY less of a GHG reduction potential but are still BENEFITS critical elements in reducing the environmental impacts. Complementary strategies are focused Effects on the Economy on educational strategies that are a cornerstone to (Impacts on workforce, broad the CAP's ability to succeed. economy) EFFECTS ON A second step is to assign co-benefits which help THE ECONOMY us understand the feasibility and effectiveness of each strategy. Four of the co-benefits are given Alignment with State a numerical score of 1 and ranked based on the0 and Local Policies high/medium/low impacts that each brings. The (EO 246, HB951, 100% greenhouse gas reduction and equity and climate ALIGNMENT renewable energy resolution) justice co-benefits are weighted higher, at 1.25%,to WITH STATE/LOCAL indicate further emphasis on these environmental POLICIES and social impacts. The numerical scores are combined into a Priority Score which is highlighted after each strategy. � Incorporates Equity and Climate Justice (Fair distribution of resources) EQUITY& CLIMATE JUSTICE 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA 35 ' }. 39 i I i LOOKING TO 2050 DEVELOPMENT AND METHODOLOGY CONTINUED COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT Orange County hosted a series of focus groups and workshops and embarked on a public education campaign to disseminate a public Climate Action Survey. At the 2023 Orange County Agricultural Summit, the project team presented a baseline assessment of existing actions and potential best practices that the County could consider. Feedback centered around the need to strengthen support for young farmers and the need to increase local food networks. Breeze Farm was highlighted as a showcase property for teaching farmers sustainable agricultural practices including agro voltaics. In addition to an internal County staff focus group,the County initiated outreach to key community stakeholders throughout the year. The County presented two focus groups: a Business and Vendor Perspectives and a Community and Environmental Priorities focus group. The County heard critical feedback from businesses, non profits, and public agencies on how the CAP could best support the broad community in terms of resources, education and additional programming needed. A Student Voices workshop was held at UNC to learn about potential research that is happening on campus and determine if there were opportunities to leverage that research to pilot new technologies within County facilities. Finally, the final draft of the CAP was presented at a Community Symposium in the Fall. The public was invited to learn about the County's priorities and roadmap for implementation. 500 people participated in the County's Climate Action Survey which was distributed as a QR code at local farmer's markets and similar outreach events in the County. Outreach examples include all three farmer's markets in Hillsborough, Chapel Hill and Carrboro, Climate Action Day at UNC, events through EI Centro Hispano, Orange County Juneteenth event, and Orange County, Chapel Hill, and Carrboro City Schools. In addition, the survey was sent to all Orange County churches, community groups, and targeted local businesses with physical flyers with the QR code posted at libraries, grocery stores, parks, etc. The survey was translated in Spanish, Karen, Burmese and Mandarin. 36 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA I: ti , . LOOKING TO 2050 DEVELOF Viiii AND METHODOLOGY CONTINUED An example of the survey results is shown in Figure F. A full Stakeholder Report, outlining specific feedback received, can be found as Appendix C. ORANGE COUNTY CLIMATE ACTION PLAN SURVEY Q1 How worried are you about climate change? Answered: 493 skipped: 0 Very worried Somewhat worried Not worried at all 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES Very worried 73.02% 360 Somewhat worried 18.66% 92 Not worried at all 8.32% 41 TOTAL 493 Figure F:An example of survey results 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA 37 ND STR c� RESILIENTCOMMUNITY s IF , • , • ENVIRONMENTBUILT GREEN COMMUNITY ENERGY RESOURCE CONSERVATION • LOOKINGTO205C As part of this process, the County reviewed current policies and programs and produced a comprehensive, annotated list of high-impact strategies that could be analyzed and prioritized based on feasibility, financial considerations, health benefits,and equity. In addition, many opportunities and barriers were considered as part of this process. 38 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA T 2 L, 'Ll S P 0 V, T4.-T4-&1J Transportation is the Iargestsourceofemissions within Orange County, with 43% of all community emissions �- coming from vehicle miles traveled (VMT) and 33% of County operations emissions coming from employee _l commutes;therefore,reducing fossil fuel vehicle travel is imperative. By increasing active transit like walking and biking and helping create a walkable and bikeable - : I 1 County, public health and social connectivity will be /�, np increased. The strategies and actions in this section j1l�a■■'��O�A.,Y v PUBLI(ifl ANil? 919zas-zoos are designed to make alternatives to single-occupant, fossil fuel trips easy, convenient, and attractive to - residents and visitors. It is also critical to understand w the impact of careful land use planning and its effect on sprawl and subsequent VMTs. One of the Top 10 things the County should do is to transition all community-wide vehicles away from fossil fuel. This follows North Carolina's Executive Order 246 which calls for an increase in registered zero-emission vehicles to at least 1,250,000 by 2030 and for 50% of sales of new vehicles in North Carolina to be zero-emission by 2030. The County expects this guidance to continue its trajectory of 100%of sales of new vehicles by 2050. The County will need to ramp up education and charging infrastructure to support this transition. CO-BENEFITS KEY00 @Go GHG COST COMMUNITY EFFECTS ON ALIGNMENT WITH EQUITY& REDUCTION EFFECTIVENESS BENEFITS THE ECONOMY STATE/LOCAL CLIMATE JUSTICE POLICIES 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA 39 LOOKING TO 2050 GOAL 1 TARGET ••• FROM DIVERSIFY PUBLIC A • • BASELINE BY 2050 occo TRANSPORTATION ORANGE COUNTY COMMUTER OPTIONS STRATEGY ACTION T 1.1 T 1.1.1 Continue updating and executing Hire a Transportation Demand Management Coordinator utilizing the Orange County Transit Plan, grant funding addressing service gaps in Northern T 1.1.2 OC and scheduling issues Implement changes to address service gaps in Northern and TIER: FOUNDATIONAL Southern OC by 2030 PRIORITY SCORE:4.38 T 1.1.3 CO-BENEFITS: Extend service hours by 3% and locations by 6% by 2030 0000 STRATEGY ACTION T 1.2 T 1.2.1 Transition to smaller,energy- Expand County fleet and transition to all electric vehicles efficient buses or vans during T 1.2.2 peak hours, providing efficient Expand peak schedules to ensure efficient and reliable services and reliable services in response to measured demand TIER: FOUNDATIONAL PRIORITY SCORE:3.88 CO-BENEFITS: 0000 STRATEGY ACTION T 1.3 T 1.3.1 Explore innovative public Conduct a comprehensive study on successful micro mobility programs transportation options in other regions for reference and insight;(i.g.Shared bike/car/scooter programs)which could be applied within each town or county-wide TIER: FOUNDATIONAL T 1.3.2 PRIORITY SCORE: 3.88 Carry out stakeholder engagement to understand local commuting needs CO-BENEFITS: and identify key locations that would benefit from micro-transit 00T O* O 1.3.3 Expand Orange County fixed routes,demand response and Mobility on Demand services across the County 40 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA LOOKING TO 2050 GOAL 2 TARGET T21MPROVEORANGE DECREASE VIVIT 30% FROM COUNTY COMMUTER A 2019 BASELINE BY 2050 • ' • • • PROGRAM STRATEGY ACTION T 2.1 T 2.1.1 Initiate pilot marketing campaigns Partner with Health Department on messaging campaigns that use innovative means/ to emphasize health benefits of commuting (cleaner air)and methods to inform community walkability using active transportation practices(walking, about public transportation biking, micro-mobility, etc.) options/programs/incentives TIER: FOUNDATIONAL PRIORITY SCORE:3.25 CO-BENEFITS: Goo STRATEGY ACTION T 2.2 T 2.2.1 Partner with chamber networks Collaborate with chamber networks to host one Orange County and the Regional Transportation Commuter Options program seminar annually Alliance to develop education T 2.2.2 programs around the Orange County Expand Regional Transportation Alliance outreach within the Commuter Options program and similar multimodal transportation private sector solutions for private businesses TIER: FOUNDATIONAL PRIORITY SCORE:4.88 CO-BENEFITS: ® 0 ® ° ® 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA 41 LOOKING TO 2050 0 GOAL TARGET 'R• • •'. WALKING AS SUSTAINABLE FROM • BASELINE TRANSPORTATION OPTIONS BY2050 f - IMAGO • • STRATEGY ACTION T 3.1 T 3.1.1 Publicize and promote greenway trails and Develop greenways and other trails between towns for recreation and multi-modal transit lanes as an alternative commuting - promoting connectivity,safety and a sustainable mode means of transportation through Parks of travel and Recreation educational programs, T 3.1.2 special events,promotions,outreach and Cross promote rides and educational programs with Parks and marketing efforts Recreation and Health Department to emphasize the health benefits TIER: FOUNDATIONAL of active transportation (walking, biking, micro-mobility, etc.) PRIORITY SCORE:3.88 T 3.1.3 CO-BENEFITS: Partner with local bike shops and bike clubs to provide programs on 0000 bike safety and coordination around community-wide bike ride events STRATEGY ACTION T 3.2 T 3.2.1 Create a micro-mobility subsidy program Develop a Micro-Mobility Subsidy Allocation Plan: In collaboration that provides higher subsidies for low income with local stakeholders and transportation experts,develop a plan residents town and county-wide. Similar to that outlines the structure of the micro-mobility subsidy program what City of Raleigh and Denver have done T 3.2.2 with e-bikes Implement a Subsidy Application and Distribution Process: Create TIER: FOUNDATIONAL a clear and accessible application process for residents to apply PRIORITY SCORE: 4.38 for the micro-mobility subsidy CO-BENEFITS: 0000 ® 42 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA LOOKING TO 2050 GOAL TARGET TRANSITION THE COUNTY'S EV INFRASTRUCTURE TO ALL ELECTRIC AND ADOPTIONBY2035 • STRATEGY ACTION T 4.1 T 4.1.1 Continue efforts to introduce more Implement"EV-first"vehicle purchasing policy to ensure that EVs are EVs into the County's fleet considered as the primary replacement option for every vehicle T 4.1.2 TIER: FOUNDATIONAL Develop an EV maintenance training program and training on how to PRIORITY SCORE:3.13 address and provide EV road assistance CO-BENEFITS: T 4.1.3 0000 Conduct a review of charging infrastructure deployment,with an emphasis on rural connectivity, by 2025 T 4.1.4 Develop a policy to reimburse County staff who charge County vehicles at their personal residence 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA 43 LOOKING TO 2050 INCREASEGOAL TARGET 1 INFRASTRUCTURE ADOPTION TO 50% BY 2035 AND ADOPTION (CONT.) AND 100% BY 2050 STRATEGY ACTION T 4.2 T 4.2.1 Accelerate the transition to EVs in Increase number of EV charging stations community-wide the community through advocacy, T 4.2.2 education and awareness Apply for grants for EV infrastructure expansion TIER: FOUNDATIONAL T 4.2.3 PRIORITY SCORE: 5.00 Create an EV playbook for businesses detailing different levels of CO-BENEFITS: chargers,electrical capacity, and the process for installing EV chargers T 4.2.4 Q (9h, *' O Partner with Triangle Clean Cities and/or NC State Clean Technology Center to host an annual EV webinar/workshop for residents and commercial businesses T 4.2.5 Add screening/landscaping/shade standards for County EV charging stations T 4.2.6 Prepare and improve County capabilities to respond to EV-related emergencies T 4.2.7 Support the transition to EV buses at schools county-wide STRATEGY ACTION T 4.3 T 4.3.1 Explore the idea of providing rental EVs Conduct feasibility study for a rental EV program as an additional transportation option T 4.3.2 TIER: FOUNDATIONAL Pilot a rental EV program at a strategic location PRIORITY SCORE:3.88 T 4.3.3 CO-BENEFITS: Develop an EV ambassador program: For example, current EV drivers who can show off their vehicles at farmer's markets and participate 0600 in events like National Drive Electric Week to provide education/ answer questions 44 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA LOOKI NG TO 2050 GOAL TARGET T5CONTINUEAND INCREASE NUMBER OF a ANTI-IDLINGEXPAND ANTI-IDLING SCHOOLS PARTICIPATING IN INITIATIVES • SCHOOLS FROM 2031 • 2035 _ STRATEGY ACTION T 5.1 T 5.1.1 Expand the"Driving is Exhausting" Continue to partner with local schools to incorporate anti-idling signage at public education campaign school drop-off/pick-up zones T 5.1.2 TIER:COMPLEMENTARY Expand anti-idling program to County fleet operations to include an anti- PRIORITY SCORE:3.13 idling policy and education campaigns CO-BENEFITS: © 0 ® * ® 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA 45 GOALS AND STRATEGIES ft, �, B U I LT E , \ • , 1I Following transportation, commercial buildings contribute the second highest emission percentage at 34%. The next greatest contributor is residential energy which emits 19%of the total. Buildings offer a unique opportunity to transition to a low carbon future. Buildings can reduce emissions in two ways. First, the energy efficiency of buildings can be improved. This reduces the need for carbon emitting energy from both electricity and natural gas. Second, gas-use equipment can be switched to electrical in both commercial and residential buildings. As utilities transition to 100% carbon-free renewable energy sources, building energy use will gradually become carbon free as a result. To effectively manage the transition from gas to electric, electricity demand considerations should be kept in mind. As natural gas powered equipment is transitioned to electric equipment, the community will face changing electricity load patterns. These should be monitored, and planned for. Another consideration relates transportation strategies to electricity demand. For example, as the County and community transition their vehicles from internal combustion to all electric (EVs), EV charging C stations may create spikes in energy usage for commercial and residential buildings. A concerted effort will need to be made on both the supply and demand side to ensure the transition to renewables is happening in a balanced way. CO-BENEFITS KEY00 @Go GHG COST COMMUNITY EFFECTS ON ALIGNMENT WITH EQUITY& REDUCTION EFFECTIVENESS BENEFITS THE ECONOMY STATE/LOCAL CLIMATE JUSTICE POLICIES 46 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA GOALS AND STRATEGIES ft, , 1MWVMTrVT7r, TVSV, GY-- LOOKINGTO2050 GOAL TARGET STRENGTHENBE 1 ••• EMISSION REDUCTIONENERGY EFFICIENCY AND AROF CONSERVATION SCOPEAND 2 EMISSIONS BY 2030 AND 100% BY 2050 USING A 2005 BASELINE STRATEGY ACTION BE 1.1 BE 1.1.1 Continue to strengthen policies for Achieve a 20%energy usage reduction in energy consumption by yearly reductions in energy use in 2035 using a 2019 baseline County operations BE 1.1.2 TIER: FOUNDATIONAL Install energy-efficient technologies in two County facilities each year from 2024-2029, prioritizing those facilities that have the highest PRIORITY SCORE:6.50 energy use CO-BENEFITS: 000000 STRATEGY ACTION BE 1.2 BE 1.2.1 Continue the transition to efficient Replace traditional lighting with LEDs in all county facilities by 2030 lighting and green infrastructure BE 1.2.2 across all County facilities Evaluate high energy use in two County buildings for deployment of green infrastructure measures,vertical gardens,and tree plantings,to TIER: FOUNDATIONAL reduce energy used to cool these buildings by 2030 PRIORITY SCORE:5.25 BE 1.2.3 CO-BENEFITS: Transition to motion sensor lights that automatically turn off during 00090 evening hours 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA 47 GOALS AND STRATEGIES ft, , 1MWVMTrVT7r, TVSV, 050 STRATEGY ACTION BE 1.3 BE 1.3.1 Advocate for policy-driven measures Provide an exhaustive list of all possible commercial and residential for energy efficiency in new rebate programs on the County's website(BE4.1) construction for County facilities BE 1.3.2 by recognizing green developers Advocate for energy efficient building codes with the North Carolina through newsletters and similar Building Code Council County communication networks TIER: FOUNDATIONAL PRIORITY SCORE:5.25 CO-BENEFITS: 00000 STRATEGY ACTION BE 1.4 BE 1.4.1 Promote energy-saving behaviors Launch annual energy-saving education program to encourage through comprehensive education actions such as turning off lights, powering down computers, and and incentive programs conducting energy audits TIER:SUPPORTIVE PRIORITY SCORE:5.38 CO-BENEFITS: 000000 48 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA GOALS AND STRATEGIES GY-- LOOKINGTO2050 GOAL TARGET EXPANDACHIEVE 100% ENERGYUSAGE RENEWABLEENERGYBY • • IN MUNICIPAL COMMUNITY • ' STRATEGY ACTION BE 2.1 BE 2.1.1 Proactively adopt and expand the use Complete a solar siting survey for County facilities of clean energy solutions within County BE 2.1.2 facilities and the community Consider adding electric battery storage to critical facilities and TIER: FOUNDATIONAL resilience hubs identified in CR 1.4.1 PRIORITY SCORE:5.50 BE 2.1.3 CO-BENEFITS: Regularly monitor, review, and comment on utility programs and legislative proposals impacting the adoption of clean energy in the 001900 County to ensure they align with the County's climate action goals BE 2.1.4 Provide training to staff on maintenance of renewable energy systems BE 2.1.5 Allocate funding to maintain municipal renewable energy systems STRATEGY ACTION BE 2.2 BE 2.2.1 Explore partnerships and funding Participate in Duke Energy's"Green Source Advantage Choice" opportunities to address barriers to program to secure renewable energy from projects connected to renewable energy adoption,tapping into the Duke Energy grid Inflation Reduction Act(IRA)funding BE 2.2.2 TIER: FOUNDATIONAL Incorporate the 10-year avoided cost bill credit option that Duke PRIORITY SCORE:6.50 Energy is offering to receive a rebate for the cost of avoided utility infrastructure expenses CO-BENEFITS: e 2.2.3 006000 S Secure IRA funding for four renewable energy projects by 2035 STRATEGY ACTION BE 2.3 BE 2.3.1 Leverage parking lots to apply solar canopies Include analysis on locations as part of the Solar Siting Survey (BE 2.1.1) to increase renewable energy generation and to combat urban heat island effects TIER: FOUNDATIONAL PRIORITY SCORE:6.00 CO-BENEFITS: 006AMAwo 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA 49 00000001.1--,_ GOALS AND STRATEGIES GOB U I LT E 4LS VVVCVrTEVT7V.TVr LOOKING TO 2050 GOAL TARGET BE 2 EXPAND RENEWABLE . . . . • • ba • 1SOLAR BY • B 2035 STRATEGY ACTION BE 2.4 BE 2.4.1 Continue to release rounds of the"Solarize Release rounds of"Solarize the Triangle"as frequently as possible the Triangle"program which would work to BE 2.4.2 install solar on residences, businesses and Pursue Sol Smart designation at the Gold or Platinum level nonprofits in Orange County BE 2.4.3 TIER: FOUNDATIONAL Expand funding for"Solarize the Triangle"to low and moderate PRIORITY SCORE:6.50 income households CO-BENEFITS: © 0 ® ® ° ® STRATEGY ACTION BE 2.5 BE 2.5.1 Implement an expedited permitting Work with Planning Department to expedite permitting process for process for all new solar projects all new solar projects across the County TIER: FOUNDATIONAL PRIORITY SCORE:6.50 CO-BENEFITS: 000 "- 00 STRATEGY ACTION BE 2.6 BE 2.6.1 Convene stakeholders to attend Focus Establish a Working Group as part of the annual Ag Summit Group/design charette to discuss capacity, BE 2.6.2 implementation and design of agro voltaics Utilize the seed funding for County's Cooperative Extension and and community solar projects Sustainability to launch this discussion TIER: FOUNDATIONAL PRIORITY SCORE:6.50 CO-BENEFITS: 66900 50 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA GOALS AND STRATEGIES ft, , 1MWVMTrVT7r, TVSV, GY-- LOOKINGTO2050 GOAL TARGET • - • PROMOTESTUDY AND • : • , ELECTRIFICATIONLONG-TERMIMPLEMENTATION -LAN (PHASE 1 AND - •., !150kW . BOTH MUNICIPAL AND COMMUNIT\7- I:p INFRASTRUCTURE BY 2025 G 2� Jr ACTION BE 3.1 BE 3.1.1 Facilitate the transition from Support energy efficiency programs and partners that provide natural gas to electricity, energy efficiency services and education that reduce emissions, providing support in terms of improve standards of living, support the local economy and funding, resources, and branding bolster workforce development in historically-disadvantaged communities TIER: FOUNDATIONAL BE 3.1.2 PRIORITY SCORE:6.50 Release rounds of the"Electrify the Triangle"program which would CO-BENEFITS: work to install EV chargers, induction ovens,electric heat pumps,etc 004D@00 in the community BE 3.1.3 Write Phase 1 and Phase 2 plans incorporating BE 3.1.1&BE 3.1.2 actions and the health benefits of electrification 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA 51 GOALS AND STRATEGIES ft, , 1MWVMTrVT7r, TVSV, GY-- LOOKINGTO2050 GOAL TARGET COUNTY'SBE4 ENHANCE PUBLIC STRENGTHEN THE EDUCATIONROLE AS AN ACTIVE h F ACCESSIBILITY OF • TO THE LOCAL RESOURCES COMMUNITY IMP* 0' , STRATEGY ACTION BE 4.1 BE 4.1.1 Re-design sustainability website for Launch the website by December 31,2024 "one-stop-shop"information that BE 4.1.2 educates public on the County's Compile a list of funding sources that local residents, businesses,or Climate Action Plan and sustainability the County could potentially access to fund energy audits and energy practices,offering a centralized efficiency improvements platform for information and resources BE 4.1.3 TIER:COMPLEMENTARY Develop and provide educational kits through the library and community PRIORITY SCORE:2.50 groups to help with home energy audits and energy improvement CO-BENEFITS: education,summarizing information from the"one-stop-shop"website to create accessible resources 0111800 STRATEGY ACTION BE 4.2 BE 4.2.1 Develop a program to support businesses Launch a sustainable business toolkit for businesses by 2026 in adopting sustainable practices BE 4.2.2 TIER:SUPPORTIVE Develop an EV"playbook"for businesses/homes that provides guidance on EV charger installations and incentives PRIORITY SCORE:5.25 CO-BENEFITS: © 0 ® 0 STRATEGY ACTION BE 4.3 BE 4.3.1 Develop a volunteer energy Staff tables at outreach events; Energy ambassadors staff ambassador program. Use informational tables at local events,engaging attendees with ambassadors to provide education energy-saving tips and resources about energy saving tips and resources BE 4.3.2 TIER:COMPLEMENTARY Host a community-wide event showcasing energy conservation, featuring workshops,exhibits,and expert speakers PRIORITY SCORE:5.38 CO-BENEFITS: 000000 52 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA GOALS AND STRATEGIES ft, , 1MWVMTrVT7r, TVSV, GY-- LOOKINGTO2050 GOAL TARGET IMPROVE SUSTAINABLE BUILDING PERFORMANCE WITH ALL PRACTICES RETROFITTING PROJECTS - STRATEGY ACTION BE 5.1 BE 5.1.1 Formalize and enhance the Comply with LEED standards for all new construction of County facilities commitment to achieving LEED standards for County facilities TIER:SUPPORTIVE PRIORITY SCORE:3.13 CO-BENEFITS: 0000 STRATEGY ACTION BE 5.2 BE 5.2.1 Encourage the use of geothermal Evaluate for geothermal heat pumps in County buildings ground-source heat pumps in more BE 5.2.2 County buildings(where appropriate), Leverage the commitment of US Climate Alliance to fund heat based on the success of current implementations pump projects BE 5.2.3 TIER:SUPPORTIVE Identify low income households and educate them on Inflation PRIORITY SCORE:3.13 Reduction Act funding available for geothermal ground-source CO-BENEFITS: heat pumps 0000 STRATEGY ACTION BE 5.3 BE 5.3.1 Encourage County staff to research Set up a Train-the-Trainer model to share research County-wide green building materials/methods in order to conduct engineering work in-house to lower cost TIER:SUPPORTIVE PRIORITY SCORE:3.00 CO-BENEFITS: 6660 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA 53 LOOKING TO 2050 Waste disposal, water use and product consumption all contribute to overall GHG emissions. The effects of these activities can be reduced by making mindful choices to conserve the resources we use. Orange County has access to many resources to better support a circular economy. The overarching approach to resource conservation is to create a consistent framework of outreach resources and developing public private partnerships to disseminate those resources. Conservation measures are about changing community habits and connecting residents with the right solutions. CO-BENEFITS KEY 00 Goo GHG COST- COMMUNITY EFFECTS ON ALIGNMENT WITH EQUITY& REDUCTION EFFECTIVENESS BENEFITS THE ECONOMY STATE/LOCAL CLIMATE JUSTICE POLICIES 54 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA LOOKING TO 2050 GOAL TARGET RC1 IMPLEMENTTHE ACHIEVE ZERO WASTE 2023-2045 SOLID WASTE BY 04 MASTER PLAN STRATEGY ACTION RC 1.1 RC 1.1.1 Expand the existing reuse network with Focus on expanding the reuse network of participating organizations;add partner organizations, improving the resources to the website. Examples include North Carolina's Waste Trader, ability to divert waste and increase the Austin's reuse marketplace,and Tennessee's reuse marketplace reuse of items within the County;as RC 1.1.2 outlined in the 2023-2045 Solid Waste Identify and increase accepted reuse items and report tonnage each year in Master Plan(in support of BE 4.1) overall diversion;add resource to website TIER:SUPPORTIVE RC 1.1.3 Promote local organizations that sell new and used furniture, building PRIORITY SCORE:3.25 materials, appliances and household goods at discounted prices; add CO-BENEFITS: resource to website Goo RC 1.1.4 Distribute information about electric appliance rebates as community members drop off old gas appliances at the County Solid Waste Convenience Centers;add resource to website RC 1.1.5 Make a list of organizations who accept reuse items and promote buying less STRATEGY ACTION RC 1.2 RC 1.2.1 Partner with local businesses and Regularly track and report the program's impact on waste reduction; add nonprofit organizations to build a resource to website(BE4.1) comprehensive reuse program for items RC 1.2.2 such as pallets,takeout containers, Consider expanding Repair Cafe North Carolina events in Orange County at electronics and school supplies libraries where residents can go to get help repairing common household TIER:COMPLEMENTARY items and electronics to keep them in circulation longer PRIORITY SCORE:3.25 CO-BENEFITS: 000 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA 55 LOOKING TO 2050 STRATEGY ACTION RC 1.3 RC 1.3.1 Promote policies and incentives Promote a"Don't Waste Orange County"program,similar to to eliminate non-essential Durham's Green to Go program single-use plastics and prioritize RC 1.3.2 reusable food ware and utensils Create a policy prioritizing compostable options over single- TIER:SUPPORTIVE use plastics in County operations PRIORITY SCORE:2.00 CO-BENEFITS: 00 STRATEGY ACTION RC 1.4 RC 1.4.1 Identify future programs, initiatives, Launch annual community Zero Waste workshop in partnership facilities, and infrastructure to with the Solid Waste Department achieve the Zero Waste goal, as RC 1.4.2 defined the County,while ensuring Add Extended Producer Responsibility(EPR) language to the Solid Waste the long-term financial stability Ordinance to require product manufacturers to take back hard to recycle re the County's solid waste and items(e.g. carpet, paint, and mattresses) recycling program RC 1.4.3 TIER:COMPLEMENTARY Create innovation Partnerships with UNC& UNC Health System PRIORITY SCORE:3.25 RC 1.4.4 CO-BENEFITS: Create County-level commercial and multifamily recycling requirements ® ® O RC 1.4.5 Offer multiple cart sizes RC 1.4.6 Implement deconstruction ordinance updates STRATEGY ACTION RC 1.5 RC 1.5.1 Evaluate the potential of a curbside Complete a feasibility study for a curbside composting program by 2028 composting program, backed by a as part of the County's updated waste hauler agreement County-led educational campaign RC 1.5.2 on the importance and benefits Work with the Solid Waste Department to launch an educational of composting campaign on composting benefits, in accordance with the 2023-2045 Solid Waste Master Plan TIER:SUPPORTIVE PRIORITY SCORE:3.13 CO-BENEFITS: 00000 56 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA LOOKING TO 2050 STRATEGY ACTION RC 1.6 RC 1.6.1 Examine the implementation of Work with Cooperative Extension and other partners to expand an edible food recovery program, funding to build out the food recovery program potentially in partnership with local restaurants and food pantries TIER:SUPPORTIVE PRIORITY SCORE:4.38 CO-BENEFITS: 0019 * 0 STRATEGY ACTION RC 1.7 RC 1.7.1 Work with the Solid Waste Department Select one dumpster from County facilities that would be emptied to conduct a post consumer waste and sorted into material type audit of County facilities RC 1.7.2 TIER:SUPPORTIVE Make a list of items that are not recyclable PRIORITY SCORE:2.00 RC 1.7.3 From this list, pinpoint where these non recyclable items are being CO-BENEFITS: generated and determine how to eliminate them completely 000 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA 57 LOOKING TO 2050 GOAL TARGET RC 2 . .• •TE WATER ACHIEVE 35% REDUCTION IN • CONSERVATION MUNIC 'ACOMMUNITY WATER USAGE BY 2035 FROM • • • BASELINE STRATEGY ACTION RC 2.1 RC 2.1.1 Continue to install water-saving Install water-saving devices in at least two additional County facilities devices such as aerators and dual annually. (i.e low flow) handles in County facilities and RC 2.1.2 broaden these efforts to include Regularly review and upgrade to newer water-saving technologies other water-saving technologies in partnership with all water providers TIER:SUPPORTIVE PRIORITY SCORE:2.50 CO-BENEFITS: 00 STRATEGY ACTION RC 2.2 RC 2.2.1 Collaborate with educational Utilize parks and other County owned facilities as demonstration areas institutions and the wider that also include interpretive educational signage on sustainable water community to increase awareness saving practices about water-saving practices RC 2.2.2 TIER:COMPLEMENTARY Distribute water-saving practice stickers in County facilities and residential properties and add "These use trees"stickers on all paper PRIORITY SCORE:2.00 towel dispensers CO-BENEFITS: RC 2.2.3 0 ® Provide water conservation kits in partnership with all water providers 58 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA T02050 STRATEGY ACTION RC 2.3 RC 2.3.1 Analyze facility design and usage Conduct annual audits of County facilities to identify water-saving and to pinpoint opportunities for energy-saving opportunities water conservation, including RC 2.3.2 restrooms and optimized heating Implement identified savings measures in at least four facilities by 2030 and cooling systems TIER:SUPPORTIVE PRIORITY SCORE:1.50 CO-BENEFITS: 0® STRATEGY ACTION RC 2.4 RC 2.4.1 Transition 20%of the community Consider implementing a Rainwater Rewards program similar to the water supply to recycled water City of Raleigh to help businesses and residences capture stormwater by 2035 runoff, reduce flood impacts, and help prevent water pollutants from entering storm drains and streams TIER:SUPPORTIVE RC 2.4.2 PRIORITY SCORE:3.61 Transition landscaping irrigation for all County facilities to greywater CO-BENEFITS: systems ®0 ® ® ° 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY,NORTH CAROLINA 59 LOOKING TO 2050 GOAL TARGET RC 3 PROMOTE 1 STRATEGIZE AND ESTABLISH1 SUSTAINABLE COUNTY-WIDE SUSTAINABLE • CHAIN PROCUREMENTPOLICY STRATEGY ACTION RC 3.1 RC 3.1.1 Transition at least one procurement Identify item(s) using the list from the waste audit as outlined in item annually to a recyclable, Action RC 1.7.1 compostable, non landfill option through 2030 TIER:SUPPORTIVE PRIORITY SCORE:2.00 CO-BENEFITS: (9 STRATEGY ACTION RC 3.2 RC 3.2.1 Eliminate purchasing of disposable or Implement policy of only using reuse items for break rooms and single-use plastics for nonessential meetings/events uses for County operations RC 3.2.2 TIER:SUPPORTIVE Buy bulk when available PRIORITY SCORE:3.13 RC 3.2.3 CO-BENEFITS: Develop a sustainable purchasing guide 00000 STRATEGY ACTION RC 3.3 RC 3.3.1 Establish Sustainable Materials Add specific language to the RFP process to provide additional criteria Purchasing Guidelines with a list points in the selection process of construction materials with low RC 3.3.2 embodied GHG emissions Develop a Sustainable Construction Materials Purchasing Guidelines TIER:SUPPORTIVE document by 2026 PRIORITY SCORE:3.63 CO-BENEFITS: 00000 60 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA GOALS • _ \ E E , • ,/ 1i U ki I T Y LOOKI NG TO 2050 Living in a green community contributes to an improved quality of life by providing a range of benefits for residents, including improved health and wellbeing, increased morale, and cleaner air. aTi ' There is a mental health aspect to walking the streets lined with old growth trees and having 7 access to a connectivity of open space. Additional t community benefits include sheltering us from the intense rays of the sun, cooling temperatures, providing resilience to flooding, and using °" the carbon sequestration benefits that trees ; provide. Students also learn better when they are }? a surrounded by shade trees. Climate change has refocused our attention on providing a way of living that places people's long term needs as a core value. These projects also directly and indirectly reduce GHG emissions. a A critical focus should remain on proper zoning to • prevent sprawl and encourage high density within the County. Planning efforts will have long term 'R} . impacts towards directly reducing GHG emissions, preserving the rural nature of the County and protecting regional wildlife corridors. This needs to remain a focus and a priority within the Climate Action Plan (CAP). CO-BENEFITS KEY 00 000 GHG COST• COMMUNITY EFFECTS ON ALIGNMENT WITH EQUITY& REDUCTION EFFECTIVENESS BENEFITS THE ECONOMY STATE/LOCAL CLIMATE JUSTICE POLICIES 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA 61 LOOKING TO 2050 INFRASTRUCTUREGOAL TARGET GClENHANCEGREEN PRIORITIZE AND . IMPLEMENT NATURE SUSTAINABLE 1 BASED THE COMMUNITY STRATEGY ACTION GC 1.1 GC 1.1.1 Prioritize the conservation of green spaces Monitor and report annually on the progress of the"Orange County- in the County to serve as rural buffers Chapel Hill-Carrboro Joint Planning Agreement and Land Use Plan"to against climate impacts,continuing the goal the Board of County Commissioners of conserving a significant portion of total GC 1.1.2 County land area Develop a long term conservation plan in the Comprehensive Land Use Plan(currently under development)that prioritizes rural buffers and anti- TIER: FOUNDATIONAL sprawl zoning PRIORITY SCORE:5.50 GC 1.1.3 CO-BENEFITS: Develop rural buffer standards across the County,with carve outs for 000000 municipalities and grandfathering in existing structures GC 1.1.4 Examine current development within the rural buffer; rewrite the regulations to prevent further suburban developments GC 1.2 GC 1.2.1 Continue and enforce policies that preserve Focus on connectivity of open space as outlined in the a significant percentage of acreage from Eno New Hope Plan new developments,with an emphasis on GC 1.2.2 natural landscapes and native plants Support DEAPR Department to prioritize natural areas with highest TIER:SUPPORTIVE natural value for preservation from development PRIORITY SCORE: 5.38 GC 1.2.3 CO-BENEFITS: Maintain a Rural Buffer planning zone to limit urban sprawl for over 00000 30 years GC 1.3 GC 1.3.1 Reduce/eliminate amount of mowed/manicured Transition landscaping at a minimum of two County buildings per year lawns on County properties;replace with beginning in 2027 pollinator gardens and native grasses GC 1.3.2 TIER:SUPPORTIVE Organize an event showcasing the County's green infrastructure and PRIORITY SCORE: 4.75 offer a "How to"for implementing at residential and commercial spaces CO-BENEFITS: © 0 ® ® ® 62 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA 00 GO4LS G 2, E E \ • 1/ 1/ U k] I T Y LOOKI NG TO 2050 INCREASEGOAL TARGET • ••• TREE CANOPYTHE TREE • YEARS • ••• GC 2.1 GC 2.1.1 Create a Tree Master Plan, Develop a Tree Master Plan by 2029 to design an integrated system quantifying the value of trees for irrigating and maintaining trees; incorporate the Commission for to preserve and increase tree Environment's No Net Loss policy for County-owned properties cover across the County GC 2.1.2 Utilize"community scientists", residents that support tree inventory TIER: FOUNDATIONAL efforts; partner with Trees for the Triangle PRIORITY SCORE:4.00 GC 2.1.3 CO-BENEFITS: Organize a bi-annual tree giveaway program and a native plant sale/ 01900 seed giveaway. Maintain and make available a list of local native plant growers GC 2.1.4 Research planting strategies and resources such as SilvaCell systems 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA 63 000 GO4LS G 2, E E W • 1/ 1/ U k] I T Y LOOKING TO 2050 GOAL TARGET PROMOTEGC 3 REPORT ON SUSTAINABLE SUSTAINABLE � , AGRICULTURE PRACTICES EACH YEAR 4 STRATEGY ACTION GC 3.1 GC 3.1.1 Expand and promote Launch two new initiatives or collaborations with local farms each initiatives within the year; prioritize carbon sequestration projects,crop rotation,the use of agricultural space such as organic fertilizers, cover crops,etc. carbon sequestration and GC 3.1.2 agro voltaics Direct the public to sustainable agriculture from research-based organizations such as Cooperative Extension and other land-grant TIER:COMPLEMENTARY institutional programs PRIORITY SCORE: 4.38 GC 3.1.3 CO-BENEFITS: Attend the focus group as part of BE 2.6 00000 64 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA oo " 2, E EGO4LS 'I \ • 1/ 1/ U \ I T Y LOOKI NG TO 2050 G,. • � � � �TS. `i�l.$O�G:. 1 n" 'Ihl )H F ACTION GC 4.1 GC 4.1.1 Strengthen the branding and promotion Enhance branding of locally sourced food and focus on building a of locally sourced food, linking together stronger ag tourism network; incorporate farmer's markets existing farmers'markets and creating GC 4.1.2 a unified front to support an Orange Host gardening workshops utilizing community center gardens; County foods movement promote staff/volunteer led gardens on County properties/parks that TIER:COMPLEMENTARY have space and especially in areas that may be considered food deserts PRIORITY SCORE: 5.38 GC 4.1.3 Assess County facilities that would be good candidates for installation 000 00 CO-BENEFITS: of edible gardens 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA 65 00 GO4LS G 2, E E \ • 1/ 1/ U k] I T Y LOOKING TO 2050 GOAL TARGET GC 5 BROADEN OUTREACH INCREASE SUSTAINABLE SUPPORTAND RESOURCES TO FARMING ACRES BY 5% BETTER A. BEGINNING THE SUSTAINABLE IN 2025 AGRICULTURAL STR.A ACTION GC 5.1 GC 5.1.1 Encourage the use of County Define sustainable farming practices and then promote through land for sustainable farming education and outreach practices and education, GC 5.1.2 leveraging Breeze Farms as a Provide a clearinghouse of information for farmers and funding model for sustainable farming opportunities available for implementation of sustainable farm practices through County Extension office TIER:SUPPORTIVE GC 5.1.3 PRIORITY SCORE:5.38 Promote the County's Community Garden Grant Program CO-BENEFITS: 00000 66 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA 00 0 GO4LS G 2, E E W • 1/ 1/ U k] I TY LOOKING TO 2050 GOAL TARGET GC 6 BROADEN OUTREACH IDENTIFY PARTNERSHIPS AND RESOURCES TO AND INTERNAL FUNDING BETTER SUPPORTSUPPORT" • BUILD A MORE COMMUNITYTHE 'ACOMMUNITY STRATEGY ACTION GC 6.1 GC 6.1.1 Develop programs and Organize community workshops on the importance of native educational resources to landscaping and pollinators promote native landscaping and GC 6.1.2 support pollinators, leveraging Partner with existing recognition programs for households and partnerships with organizations businesses that adopt native landscaping like the Audubon Society and Master Gardeners GC 6.1.3 Develop and promote sustainable landscaping campaigns such TIER:COMPLEMENTARY as"Leave the Leaves", "Leave the Lawn", "No Mow May",etc. PRIORITY SCORE:3.25 CO-BENEFITS: 000 STRATEGY ACTION GC 6.2 GC 6.2.1 Expand workshops and resources Organize a workshop on rainwater capture each year beginning in 2024; for rainwater capture, learning focusing on new audiences from successful programs in GC 6.2.2 other regions and leveraging tools Distribute free rainwater capture kits at each workshop like the EPA's EnviroAtlas GC 6.2.3 TIER:COMPLEMENTARY Showcase rainwater capture infrastructure at the Bonnie B. Davis Center and replicate at other park facilities PRIORITY SCORE:3.75 GC 6.2.4 CO-BENEFITS: Consider ways to incorporate Audubon's Bird-Friendly Habitat certification 0000 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA 67 00 GO4LS G 2, E E \ • 1/ 1/ U k] I T Y LOOKI NG TO 2050 STRATEGY ACTION GC 6.3 GC 6.3.1 Utilize the County's existing Establish partnerships with new initiatives each year to Lands Legacy Program to improve protection of lands and streams beginning in 2030 conserve important natural and such as the new American Climate Corps, Scout Troops, cultural resources,working with Garden Clubs,Audubon,etc. the Eno-New Hope Landscape GC 6.3.2 Conservation Plan and other Develop educational resources on land and stream protection initiatives to improve the natural environment through protection GC 6.3.3 and linkage of lands and Implement a volunteer restoration program for natural stream protection environment protection TIER:COMPLEMENTARY PRIORITY SCORE:3.75 CO-BENEFITS: 0000 STRATEGY ACTION GC 6.4 GC 6.4.1 Convert anticipated future Provide staff support for the implementation of the Chapel Hill-Carrboro abandoned railroad corridors Freight Train Trail Feasibility Study initiative and integrate into bike/hike trail GC 6.4.2 networks bringing about positive Ensure that public transit pick up/drop off locations are located along impacts on mental health, these networks(Action T1.1) transportation emissions, and the economy GC 6.4.3 Promote the Train Trail initiative through the Parks and Recreation TIER:SUPPORTIVE Department PRIORITY SCORE:4.50 CO-BENEFITS: 0000 ® 68 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA 00 GO4LS G 2, E E \ • 1/ 1/ U k] I T Y LOOKI NG TO 2050 STRATEGY ACTION GC 6.5 GC 6.5.1 Expand Community Climate Action Receive Board of Commissioner approval Grant program to provide more GC 6.5.2 funding to community projects that Develop a donation fund for residents to donate towards the support the strategies in this CAP Community Climate Action Grant fund TIER: FOUNDATIONAL PRIORITY SCORE:6.50 CO-BENEFITS: 000000 STRATEGY ACTION GC 6.6 GC 6.6.1 Transition municipal off-road Coordinate a swap out program for gas powered landscaping fossil fuel engines(landscaping equipment with all electric equipment,construction GC 6.6.2 equipment,recreational vehicles)to Apply for grants that could offer subsidies for swapping out gas to all electric options and request County electric landscaping equipment contractors use electric options GC 6.6.3 TIER:SUPPORTIVE Transition all County landscaping equipment to all electric by 2035 PRIORITY SORE: 5.25 CO-BENEFITS: 00000 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA 69 • _ E S1 L , • „ 1I U IJ I T Y From a climate change perspective, natural variability in the climate and weather produce extreme events like droughts, wildfires, and floods over long time periods. While natural, living systems respond to and even rely on these phenomena, our dense settlement and production of greenhouse gas emissions have greatly changed climate hazards and their impacts. From a resilient community perspective, climate impacts will not be felt equally. Some populations are more vulnerable to climate events because there is a lack of the physical or mental ability to adapt to changing conditions. Isolated individuals have a more difficult time receiving warnings and emergency services and may depend on sources of food, water, and energy that are more subject to interruption. As part of the Top 10 things the County should do, County operations need to be prepared for climate change. The County should identify ahead of time and prioritize considerations around vulnerable populations and ensure that all decisions made moving forward Integrate sustainability and resilience as a framework within the overall County's planning process. CO-BENEFITS KEY00 @Go GHG COST COMMUNITY EFFECTS ON ALIGNMENT WITH EQUITY& REDUCTION EFFECTIVENESS BENEFITS THE ECONOMY STATE/LOCAL CLIMATE JUSTICE POLICIES 70 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA GOALS AND STRATEGIES • _ \ E S I L I E , • „ 1I U iJ I T Y INTEGRATEGOAL TARGET IMPLEMENT MEASURES RISK SOLUTIONS IN ALL TO REDUCE HEAT AND COUNTY PLANNING DROUGHT IMPACT EFFORTS STRATEGY ACTION CR 1.1 CR 1.1.1 Conduct a Heat Island Mapping Study Once heat island mapping study complete, implement the usage of reflective paint and plant trees in areas that the study identifies as TIER:SUPPORTIVE needing relief from urban heat island effects PRIORITY SCORE:2.75 CR 1.1.2 CO-BENEFITS: Identify populations most vulnerable to the effects of extreme heat; prioritize tree plantings in these areas(in support of GC2.1) r 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA 71 GOALS AND STRATEGIES A R E S I L I E rT-1,=,��IJJJ. J I T-Y , r GOAL TARGET PREPAREDCR 2 BE EMERGENCIESCLIMATE EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS RESPONSE ••-ry, 4 r. STRATEGY ACTION CR 2.1 CR 2.1.1 Continue updating the FEMA Hazard Track mitigation performance metrics of the Eno-Haw Regional Hazard Mitigation Plan and ensure effective Mitigation Plan implementation of the Eno-Haw CR 2.1.2 Regional Hazard Mitigation Plan Organize quarterly meetings with stakeholders to assess the implementation of the Eno-Haw Regional Hazard Mitigation Plan TIER:SUPPORTIVE CR 2.1.3 PRIORITY SCORE:3.75 Seek funding through FEMA hazard mitigation grants to support CO-BENEFITS: mitigation efforts 04DOO STRATEGY ACTION CR 2.2 CR 2.2.1 Develop and promote a clear Develop a comprehensive communication plan for climate threats by communication plan for underserved 2026 communities during climate threats, CR 2.2.2 leveraging social media, community Partner with at least four community leaders, nonprofits and schools leaders, non-profits, and churches annually to disseminate the communication TIER:FOUNDATIONAL CR 2.2.3 PRIORITY SCORE: 3.25 Conduct new County employee training sessions on the use of social media for climate threat communication CO-BENEFITS: 0190 72 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA ft, , 9, , • „ 1I U iJ I T Y STRATEGY ACTION CR 2.3 CR 2.3.1 Implement a program for discounted Develop and implement a program offering discounted generators to battery-powered generators for lower- residents beginning in 2027 income residents with health issues CR 2.3.2 who may be affected by power outages Organize an annual information campaign about the battery-powered generator discount program TIER:SUPPORTIVE CR 2.3.3 PRIORITY SCORE:2.75 Identify a third party partner to offer discounted maintenance service CO-BENEFITS: for program recipients 'tough, 0 STRATEGY ACTION CR 2.4 CR 2.4.1 Identify,fund, and prepare existing Identify potential County facilities that can serve as resilience hubs by and new public facilities to serve 2025 and amend the Unified Development Ordinance to allow for these in as resilience hubs(i.e. locations certain zoning districts which are able to generate power CR 2.4.2 in the event of a power outage, Promote these facilities through Orange County Emergency Services distribute emergency supplies, and coordinate communication) CR 2.4.3 Organize resilience hub preparation and training sessions for facility staff TIER:SUPPORTIVE PRIORITY SCORE:3.75 CO-BENEFITS: 0000 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA 73 GOALS R E S I L I E \ • 1l 11 U \ I T Y LOOKING TO 2050 GOAL TARGET CR 3 INVEST IN EXPAND COUNTY , INFRASTRUCTURE FOR CLIMATECLIMATE RESILIENCE • RESILIENCE EXPENDITURES STRATEGY ACTION CR 3.1 CR 3.1.1 Expand the use of green Partner with higher education resources within the County(UNC- infrastructure(GI)to manage CH, Durham Tech)to perform research and test GI stormwater pilot stormwater runoff,considering programs. Plan for one research project per year beginning in 2027 incentives to encourage CR 3.1.2 implementation in local Establish partnerships with at least two schools or community neighborhoods organizations like Urban Sustainability Solutions to install rain garden installations and provide green infrastructure education in the TIER:SUPPORTIVE community PRIORITY SCORE:4.75 CR 3.1.3 CO-BENEFITS: Implement permeable, GI alternatives to paving in sidewalks, parking ® ® 0 0 O lots and driveways at County facilities CR 3.1.4 Provide guidelines and incentives for developers to use GI CR 3.1.5 Pair permeable surfaces with stormwater management strategies such as bioswales and rain gardens at County facilities CR 3.1.6 Attend neighborhood association and Rotary Club meetings to communicate green infrastructure improvements and offer a "How to"on translating this work onto specific residential properties 74 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA GOALS AND STRA A 9, , • „ 1I U iJ I T Y STRATEGY ACTION CR 3.2 CR 3.2.1 Assess strategies for Develop and implement a comprehensive riparian ecosystem restoration reducing impacts of climate plan and relevant floodplain management policies change on municipal and CR 3.2.2 community infrastructure Partner with Arts Commission to create murals using heat reflective paint on County properties that do double duty as a resiliency measure and TIER:SUPPORTIVE inform and educate the community about climate change and its impacts PRIORITY SCORE:4.75 CR 3.2.3 CO-BENEFITS: Do a study to evaluate reducing unnecessary parking spaces to decrease 018900 impervious surfaces and create more green spaces on County property CR 3.2.4 Promote light-colored roofs and/or a minimum specified reflectance for commercial roofs when new or at replacement CR 3.2.5 Partner with the Triangle Climate Resilience Partnership to promote alternative cooling strategies like shade trees,green roofs, and building awnings. Determine and enact standards for new buildings 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA 75 9, , • „ 1I U iJ I T Y CR 4.1 CR 4.1.1 Continue outreach and Use the Department of Social Services'registry to continue to access comprehensive care strategies for populations with special needs during the time of disasters vulnerable populations CR 4.1.2 Expand Community Emergency Response Team program that teaches TIER:COMPLEMENTARY community members real world disaster response skills to respond to PRIORITY SCORE:3.25 community emergencies in the event that public safety is compromised CO-BENEFITS: CR 4.1.3 ® ®® Collaborate with community-based organizations to develop an inventory of locations with isolated seniors and develop a plan for a social support network during heat waves, bad air quality days,and other emergencies CR 4.1.4 Expand the Steps to Neighborhood Preparedness Program that helps communities connect and build neighborhood emergency plans 76 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA GO4LS —, 2, E S I L I E \ • 1l 11 U \ I T Y LOOKING TO 2050 GOAL TARGET CR 5 PROMOTE TRACK OUTREACH RESILIENCE EDUCATION EFFORTS AND INCLUDE AND AWARENESS 1 • PROGRESS • ACTION CR 5.1 CR 5.1.1 Develop programs to educate Leverage existing public events to increase climate impact the public on climate impacts awareness TIER:COMPLEMENTARY PRIORITY SCORE:3.25 CO-BENEFITS: else STRATEGY ACTION CR 5.2 CR 5.2.1 Disseminate climate resilience Provide climate resiliency information in newsletters and other media information to the business community channels geared for the business community TIER:COMPLEMENTARY CR 5.2.2 Organize bi-annual networking events focused on climate PRIORITY SCORE:3.75 preparedness and resiliency CO-BENEFITS: CR 5.2.3 00 O Promote the sustainable business toolkit developed in BE 4.2.1 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA 77 ,Ak�, 'R, E S I L I E \ • 1l 11 U \ I T Y STRATEGY ACTION CR 5.3 CR 5.3.1 Follow through on recommendations Monitor and report annually on the implementation of the Resilience from the Triangle Regional Resilience Assessment recommendations Assessment,ensuring its findings are acted upon and incorporated into ongoing climate resilience efforts TIER:SUPPORTIVE PRIORITY SCORE:4.25 CO-BENEFITS: 00900 CR 5.4 CR 5.4.1 Increase the number of vendors Acknowledge the importance of this consideration during planning who are small business-owned or sessions run by people of minority identities CR 5.4.2 as much as possible Mention these efforts when applying for grants and in requests for proposals; prioritize applications that meet this consideration TIER:SUPPORTIVE PRIORITY SCORE:2.25 CO-BENEFITS: ®o 78 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA ,A ft, ", 2, E S I L I E \ • 1l 11 U \ I T Y LOOKING TO 2050 GOAL TARGET • INCORPORATE INTEGRATESUSTAINABILITY CLIMATE ACTION1FRAMEWORK WITHIN ._S COUNTY POLICY, BUDGET, • AND PLANNING PLANNING PROCESS STRATEGY ACTION CR 6.1 CR 6.1.1 Incorporate climate preparedness Ensure that maintenance reflects expected future climate conditions and into County programs,operations, variability and not historical climate data for all County buildings,facilities, and maintenance protocols structures,and infrastructure TIER:SUPPORTIVE CR 6.1.2 Establish an interdepartmental working group to integrate climate PRIORITY SCORE:3.75 preparedness in planning, maintenance, and capital improvements through CO-BENEFITS: the development of work plans,screening of capital improvements, and 000 ® cross-sector collaboration CR 6.1.3 Develop a cross departmental "Green Team"whose purpose is to educate departments on implementing sustainable practices STRATEGY ACTION CR 6.2 CR 6.2.1 Integrate CAP goals into County Integrate annual CAP report goals during the budget review process at projects as an order of business the direction of the Board of County Commissioners. Plan to inventory GHG emissions every two years and track against targets TIER:SUPPORTIVE PRIORITY SCORE:4.25 CO-BENEFITS: 0000 STRATEGY ACTION CR 6.3 CR 6.3.1 Provide funding for more sustainability Evaluate and fund additional staffing levels needed to implement CAP staff in orderto implement strategies, strategies apply for grant funding and provide CR 6.3.2 community outreach and education Consider the merits of adding a grant administrator position to apply for TIER:SUPPORTIVE state and federal funding available through IIJA and IRA that can provide significant levels of funding support to the actions in this CAP PRIORITY SCORE:5.00 CO-BENEFITS: 000000 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA 79 ZIP �•� '�f d!' .4 RaR'':`'' pa 7 F�� `�:V. 1.'�jR �.d,r •.R., 'ag_=a'.A�OR"ieeCr�✓`., p[ ;.� 16 a �NEW 0% ,d4 `►, . 1� 1, 5 f rslr .. - s ,y - ���� "y �c.,� .:. ,� 1 vJ+ � % ��`� �,,°?+ r fes' �' "-�'�4��.•••1a����� j y r .tdfq�!- � 6 i•' / 4A /y r ♦ +1.•P ®Ti 1 j 1 r, tom+ ..�,.n.-^ '". •�` �� �S'°�'q _ 7!•Vie,,, ``' ! +,� ,�� �.r-� AA Ap AJEW i.: �rf'T, "+�,� x,. �.:• tai'. .� � Y� � � �a e• �p w. �iS � Iir 7y ,\ ��. ffi � a W 0 Q 11tPLEIT 1 AND REPORTING OVERVIEW The Commission for the Environment (CFE) is a citizen advisory board, composed of 15 members who are appointed by the Board of County Commissioners. The CFE's primary responsibility is to advise the Board of County Commissioners on matters related to the environment. The CFE will act as an oversight committee,working with the Sustainability Manager, as the implementation and reporting process unfolds. Sustainability is inherently wide-ranging and not every action can be implemented at once. Some strategies can start immediately while other strategies,such as policies and regulations,rely on staff putting time in upfront. Other strategies like capital investments involve a long term series of steps from project scoping and procurement, to planning, design, and construction. Many of the actions will be dependent upon the allocation of staff time and resources, and budget prioritization. The plan identifies a responsible department for each strategy and offers timeframes and relative costs associated with each policy. The Sustainability Manager will monitor implementation progress using implementation and monitoring tools outlined in this CAP and will report to the Board of Commissioners on annual progress. As part of annual progress reports, the Sustainability Manager will evaluate the effectiveness of each strategy to ensure that anticipated emissions reductions are occurring. In the event that reductions do not occur as expected, Orange County can modify and add policies or actions to ensure the target is achieved. Not everything will necessarily be easy or work perfectly the first time, and perseverance will be important. It will also be important to maintain flexibility in implementing the CAP. As technologies, business models, and political agendas across all levels of government evolve, Orange County will need to remain flexible in "when" and "how" it implements the actions in this plan. As costs and feasibility change, the County will periodically evaluate and adjust course as necessary. Similarly, as progress towards key targets is tracked, the County may need to scale up or down its efforts, depending on the results observed. The County should update the CAP every five years starting in 2029 and report every year on progress towards their goals. 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA 81 11tPLEIT \ \ AND REPORTING REPORTING TOOL An online dashboard has been designed for Orange County, establishing a publicly accessible platform that transparently reports the progress of the County's commitment to climate action, sustainability practices, and GHG reduction efforts. The opening page of the dashboard, titled 'Focus Area' explains the five categories underpinning the action steps in the CAP: Transportation, Built Environment and Energy, Green Community, Resilient Community, and Resource Conservation. The second page, 'Action Steps,' showcases all actionable steps that Orange County has both planned and committed to implementing, with an 'Action Step Tracker' graphic showing the progress of these strategies. The third page, 'Resources, offers users links and descriptions of the programs, resources and plans upheld by the County, highlighting areas interconnected with the CAP. The fourth page, 'Emissions', illustrates the emission's trajectory with GHG reduction objectives. This page links the Top b strategies outlined for the County to its GHG emission sectors and translates reduction efforts into the equivalent number of cars removed from the road in a given year.The final page, 'Energy,'offers a map visualization, pinpointing the locations of solar panel installations, LEED and energy star- related buildings, and EV chargers, while also tallying the total number of EV registrations within the County. ORANGE COUNTY Climate Action Plan in Action NOKYH CAROLINA Total Solar Energy Produced 1108 Utility-Scale Flat River Mangum Tally I installations Butn — —Residential Elon Burlington M Lebanon Renewable&Efficiency Commercial Graham-p.... Energy Instalations Solar PV Active Registrations of Electric Vehicles by ' a LEED Certified Buildings City D alk Grove O EV Charging Stations Carrhorro Mebane 0Energy Star Buildings Not specified Trian Q� City Ceda ork All Hillsborough - Chapel Hill Williams Morrisville ` Restart („o Baldwin omnr Twn,010t�1.pnwofl Caw�auCa, Figure G: Page from Orange County's Dashboard 82 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA J1fPLE1TE%1T.1aT1 \ AND REPORTING BUDGET In 2019, the Board of Commissioners created the Community Climate Action Grant Program (CCAG) funded through a 1/4 cent property tax to help meet adopted goals that would uphold the Paris Agreement and achieve 100% renewable energy by 2050. The Community Climate Action Grant Program provides funding for impactful public, non-profit, and small business projects, such as solar power at school districts and weatherizing affordable housing. The CCAG will be used to incentivize grant applicants to support the actions identified within the CAP as well as new and innovative programs that complement the CAP through reducing GHG emissions. In addition to the grant program, a review of the Sustainability Budget will need to be completed. FUNDING PLAN Securing the necessary funding to effectively execute the CAP demands a diverse range of funding strategies and avenues. An integral component of the financial approach is identifying potential external funding sources, particularly for actions that require additional support. Recognizing that certain strategies might surpass the County's current resources, tapping into external funding becomes essential. Within this framework, specific funding sources are identified where known.The implementation year for each strategy is selected based on the prioritization score, as well as the Top 10 strategies, as introduced in the CAP's Executive Summary. An imminent implementation year signifies a high prioritization score for that strategy, while a later year means a comparatively lower score. The cost estimates are indicative only; they are based on preliminary assessments, comparisons with similar programs, and expert input and are meant to provide a rough evaluation. For example, several of the strategies involve efforts of County staff. In these cases, a percentage of a staff's time, reflected as a portion of a "full time equivalent" has been estimated. In other cases, estimated costs of newly purchased goods and services are used.4 An inflation factor of 3% year-over-year was applied to the estimated costs. The budget will follow the County's fiscal cycle and specific costs will be integrated into direct department budgets. It should be noted, however, that the County can rely heavily on the influx of state and federal grants to support many of these strategies. Strategy CR 6.3 will ensure that proper staff is in place to manage on-going grant opportunities. 'The full description for all costs has been provided to the County, in a Climate Action Tracker,which accompanied this CAP,and is available upon request. 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA 83 JWPLEITELITATIO AND REPORTING FUNDING PLAN CONTINUED The financial details are organized into two tables. Table B outlines the total estimated costs by focus area that are needed overthe next nine years, adding together the costs of all strategies related to that focus area for the given year. On the other hand, Table C shows the total estimated costs needed for each primary goal, summing up the costs of the strategies supporting these goals. For a more comprehensive outline of funding mechanisms, costs, sources, and an Implementation schedule, refer to Appendices D-F, which align each strategy with its corresponding funding source(s). IMPLEMENTATION FOCUSAREA TOTAL ESTIMATED COSTS YEAR Transportation $799,000 Built Environment and Energy $309,500 2024 Resource Conservation $146,000 Green Community $85,000 Climate Resilience $299,000 Transportation - Built Environment and Energy $210,000 2025 Resource Conservation $87,000 Green Community $120,000 Resilient Community $75,000 Transportation - Built Environment and Energy $580,000 2026 Resource Conservation $23,000 Green Community $100,000 Resilient Community $34,000 Transportation - Built Environment and Energy - 2027 Resource Conservation $47,000 Green Community $120,200 Resilient Community $100,000 Transportation $805,000 Built Environment and Energy - 2028 Resource Conservation $96,000 Green Community $25,000 Resilient Community $33,000 Table B: Outlines the Total Estimated Costs By Focus Area 84 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA AND REPORTING FUNDING PLAN CONTINUED IMPLEMENTATION FOCUSAREA TOTAL ESTIMATED COSTS YEAR Transportation $280,000 Built Environment and Energy - 2029 Resource Conservation - Green Community $110,000 Resilient Community - Transportation - Built Environment and Energy - 2030 Resource Conservation $137,000 Green Community $20,000 Resilient Community $212,000 Transportation - Built Environment and Energy $722,000 2031 Resource Conservation $52,000 Green Community - Resilient Community - Transportation - Built Environment and Energy - 2032 Resource Conservation - Green Community $700,000 Resilient Community $50,000 Table B:Outlines the Total Estimated Costs By Focus Area (continued from page 84) 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA 85 AND REPORTING FUNDING PLAN CONTINUED Table C outlines the total estimated costs that are needed by each core goal. CORE GOALS Z T1. Enhance and diversify public transportation $775,000 O QT2. Improve Orange County Commuter Options(OCCO)program $27,000 Ir Oa T3. Promote cycling and walking as sustainable transportation options $510,000 N Z T4. Increase EV Infrastructure and adoption $562,000 Q T5. Continue and expand anti-idling initiatives $10,000 F BE1.Strengthen energy efficiency and conservation $467,000 Z W Z BE2.Expand renewable energy usage $212,500 00 �0: Z BE3.Promote electrification $50,000 ZW W J 0BE4.Enhance public education and accessibility of resources $240,000 m BE5.Advance sustainable building practices $852,000 Z W O RC1. Implement the 2023-2045 Solid Waste Master Plan $266,000 �a 0 w RC2. Promote water conservation $315,000 N N WZ 0 RC3. Promote a sustainable supply chain $7,000 GC1.Enhance green infrastructure and sustainable land use $160,000 GC2.Increase the tree canopy community-wide $110,000 Y H Z Z GC3.Promote sustainable agriculture $25,000 W� LMU GC4.Promote local food systems $40,000 V 0 GC5.Broaden outreach and resources to better support the sustainable agricultural industry $40,000 GC6.Broaden outreach and resources to better support the $905,000 community CR1.Integrate climate risk solutions in all County planning efforts $346,000 F F CR2.Be prepared for climate emergencies $366,000 LZ? CR3.Invest in Infrastructure for climate resilience $137,000 NCR4.Build a more robust emergency response network $15,000 LU 0 CR5.Promote climate resilience education and awareness - CR6.Incorporate climate action into County policy,budget, $160,000 and planning Table C: Estimated cost by core goal 86 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA Pn F { Air A '.�;a �' .�q` r• �, cl,. y f R! 5 i8 `r tr r J � i , A vV i APPENDIX A 2019 GREENHOUSE • . - REPORT Appendix A: 2019 Greenhouse Gas Emission InventoryReport ORANGE COUNTY NORTH CAROLINA Table of Contents Executive Summary 1 Introductory Summary 3 Previous Inventories and Climate Resolutions 3 Methodology 4 Results 6 Community Inventory 6 County Operations Inventory 11 Conclusion 12 Appendix A.1: Attached Use Data 13 Appendix A.2: Detailed Methodology 16 88 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA 92 Executive Summary INTRODUCTION This report provides an inventory of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions that are attributable to human activities in Orange County. It acts as a foundational document for the 2023 climate action plan, which provides a roadmap for reducing carbon emissions while preserving the living standards of County residents. A GHG inventory describes the primary sources of emissions within the County, including those originating from residents,commercial enterprises,and governmental operations.The emissions studied can be either direct or indirect. Direct emissions are those emitted at the location of use such as natural gas combustion in heating buildings, whereas indirect emissions are purchased and used at one location but generated elsewhere, such as those originating from the electrical grid'. A GHG inventory is crucial for creating strategies and programs that reduce future emissions and providing insight into the environmental condition of the County during the study year. This report was reviewed by the International Council for Local Environmental Initiatives (ICLEI) for completeness and accuracy to ensure its reliability as a foundation for informed decision-making and action. This GHG inventory analyzes two different tracks, which are presented separately. The community track encompasses all Orange County residents, including businesses, individuals, and industrial emissions sources. Community emissions were divided into sectors: commercial, residential, and industrial energy; transportation and mobile services; solid waste; and water and wastewater. The County government operations track includes the emissions related to Orange County government activities, including government facilities, vehicle fleets, and employee commuting. The County operations inventory is a subset of the community inventory, and has specific usage portioned out from the community inventory. This report relies on the best available data to date. If certain data could not be collected, best estimates were used. Emission factors were compiled for each sector from reliable sources, such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the US Community Protocol, which update information regularly. This GHG inventory offers a reliable reflection of real-world emissions in Orange County. All calculations were made using the US Community Protocols for Greenhouse Gas Accounting studies, as published by ICLEI2. Two appendices are included in this report. Appendix A.1 lists raw usage data collected from utilities and other sources, while Appendix A.2 provides a detailed methodology of all calculations used in determining emission totals. https://www.epa.gov/climateleadership/scope-1-and-scope-2-inventory-guidance 2 U.S.Community Protocol for Accounting And Reporting of GHG Emissions Version 1.2 July 2019 ICLEI-Local Governments for Sustainability USA 1 ORANGE COUNTY, NC • APPENDICES 93 COMMUNITY INVENTORY RESULTS In 2019,the Orange County community produced a total of 1,631,671 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent emissions (MT CO2e). As illustrated in the figure below, the greatest percentage of emissions was from transportation and mobile service at 43%, or 702,701 MT CO2e. Energy use(which includes electricity and natural gas)in commercial buildings represents the next largest source at 34%, and energy from residential use followed, contributing 19%. Industrial energy use contributed just 2%. In terms of total amounts, commercial energy produced 556,800 MT CO2e, residential energy resulted in 299,216 MT CO2e, and industrial energy contributed 33,626 MT CO2e. The remainder of the community inventory includes solid waste with 21,350 MT CO2e, water and wastewater with 12,585 MT CO2e, and fugitive emissions with 5,393 MT CO2e. ORANGE COUNTY COMMUNITY INVENTORY PROCESS& TRANSPORTATION& FUGITIVE EMISSIONS MOBILE SOURCES 0% 43% SOLID WASTE RESIDENTIAL ENERGY 1% WATER&WASTEWATER wr ; 1% INDUSTRIAL ENERGY COMMERCIAL ENERGY 34% Figure 1: Orange County 2019 community inventory by sector COUNTY OPERATIONS INVENTORY RESULTS County operations GHG emissions were also analyzed. Orange County government operations were responsible for 19,359 MT CO2e. The largest emission sources were employee commuting at 33%(6,329 MT CO2e). Buildings and Facilities contributed 32%, with 6,185 MT CO2e. Water and Wastewater treatment facilities at 23% (4,479 MT CO2e) followed by Vehicle Fleet at 11%with 2,106 MT CO2e. The Transit Fleet accounted for the remaining 1% (251). Fugitive emissions produced 9 MT CO2e (less than 1%). GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS INVENTORY PROCESS& BUILDING&FACILITIES FUGITIVE EMISSIONS 0% VEHICLE FLEET 11% WATER&WASTEWATER TRANSIT FLEET USAGE 23% EMPLOYEE COMMUTE 33% Figure 2. Orange County 2019 government operations emissions by sector 2 ORANGE COUNTY, NC • APPENDICES 94 Introductory Summary This inventory was performed using the U.S. Community Protocol Version 1.2, as developed by ICLEI and updated for this specific GHG accounting exercise in July 2019. Inventory emissions were calculated using best practices and were based on 2019 data gathered from the County. These "usage" data were assigned an appropriate emission factor to arrive at a figure for emissions emitted. The calculations took place within the ICLEI ClearPath tool. ClearPath assists in GHG accounting and management at the community and municipal levels. Emission factors were compiled from 2019 data and information from the federal Environmental Protection Agency GHG Emission Factors Hub 3 utilized in the ICLEI ClearPath tool. As a result, this report compiles data from the County and models GHGs to provide an accurate depiction of the County's real-world emissions. It also identifies key areas to focus on for strategy development and program creation to reduce emissions in the County. Finally, it serves as an update to the County's existing GHG inventories completed in 2005 and 2017.4 Previous Inventories and Climate Resolutions Fortwo decades,Orange County has been actively striving to reduce carbon emissions. The County's first GHG inventory was conducted in 20055 and the second in 2017. The present inventory, therefore, builds upon previous work to provide useful data on how the County is progressing towards reducing carbon emissions. On June 6, 2017, Orange County Board of County Commissioners adopted a resolution to uphold the Paris Climate Agreement, committing to reduce GHG emissions between 26 and 28 percent by 2025 from 2005 levels and on September 5, 2017,the Board made an additional commitment to transition to a 100% renewable energy-oriented economy by 2050. These resolutions demonstrate the County's leadership towards climate action by creating informed decisions based on data contained in GHG inventories. Several important comparisons can be made across sectors between 2005, 2017 and today, despite the fact that not all sectors were consistently measured over the years. Specifically,comparisons can be drawn between residential,commercial,and industrial energy, transportation, and solid waste. As shown in figure 3, these sectors have experienced significant emission reductions since 2005. In 2005, Orange County was responsible for emissions amounting to 2.8 million tons of carbon dioxide equivalent. In 2017 emissions in Orange County had fallen to 1.78 million tons of CO2e. By 2019, emissions fell further, to 1.63 million tons of CO2e, a decrease of 40.7% between 2005 and 2019. 3 https://www.epa.gov/climateleadership/ghg-emission-factors-hub 4 https://www.orangecountync.gov/DocumentCenter/View/10049/ Orange-County-Greenhouse-Gas-Inventory-2017 5 https://www.orangecountync.gov/DocumentCenter/View/2002/ Greenhouse-Gas-Emissions-Inventory-and-Forecast-PDF 3 ORANGE COUNTY, NC • APPENDICES 95 WAPPENDIX A 2019 GREENHOUSE GAS EMJa!10 • . - GHG INVENTORY COMPARISON BY YEAR Solid Waste Transportation Industrial Energy Commercial Energy Residential Energy 200,000 400,000 600,000 800,000 1,000,000 1,200,000 1,400,000 1,600,000 2019 ■2017 ■2005 Figure 3. GHG Inventory Comparison by Year Methodology The methodology for this inventory was based upon best practices from the US Community Protocol provided by the ICLEI ClearPath tool, coupled with the United States Environmental Protection Agency GHG Emission Factors, which serve as the benchmark for GHG inventory analysis nationwide. Emissions estimates incorporate real-world usage data (listed in Appendix A.1), which were subsequently processed through ICLEI ClearPath functions.6 INVENTORY YEAR The year 2019 was selected for this inventory because it offers a more typical representation of GHG emissions for the year 2022 since the COVID-19 pandemic significantly reduced travel emissions and markedly impacted other sectors as well. Notably, the years 2020, 2021, and 2022 recorded significantly lower emissions compared to current levels. Additionally, the Science Based Targets Initiative recommends using 2019 as a baseline year for future emission reduction targets.' COMMUNITYAND COUNTY OPERATIONS INVENTORIES The inventory considers two distinct GHG accounting tracks: community and County operations. The community inventory includes emissions from residents within Orange County's jurisdiction, accounting for both emissions from residents within the County's 6 https://icleiusa.org/clearpath 7 https://sciencebasedtargetsnetwork.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/SBTs-for-cities-guide-nov-2020.pdf 4 ORANGE COUNTY, NC • APPENDICES 96 . . . . . . . . . . limits and from people who recreate and work in Orange County; the community inventory is inclusive of all towns within the County. Required sectors for community GHG inventories are: 1) community building energy use from kilowatt hours and natural gas therms usage, and other significant energy sources 2)transportation emissions from vehicle miles traveled in the County, 3)solid waste disposed, 4)wastewater and water electricity used and gallons consumed. In contrast, the County operations inventory encompasses emissions resulting from Orange County operations and facilities,making it a subset of the community inventory. Although County emissions represent a small fraction of the emissions inventory, managing them is vital, given the government's ability to influence and lead by example to combat climate change.The County operations inventory includes emissions from County buildings, County vehicle fleets,employee commutes,and water consumption.8 CALCULATING EMISSIONS GREENHOUSE GASSES Local governments are expected to evaluate emissions of the six internationally recognized greenhouse gasses(GHG) under the Kyoto Protocol,9 namely Carbon dioxide (CO2),Methane(CH4),Nitrous oxide(N20),Hydrofluorocarbons(HFCs),Perfluorocarbons (PFCs), and Sulfur hexafluoride (SF6). Each of these greenhouse gasses is reported and converted into metric tons (MT), differentiated by their respective Global Warming Potential (GWP). The GWP of each is benchmarked on Carbon dioxide's potential, which is set at 1, as it serves as the reference point for the other gasses. Methane,with a GWP of 28, is largely emitted from landfills, wastewater, and natural gas leakage. Nitrous Oxide, with a higher GWP of 265, is primarily associated with energy production and wastewater treatment. Hydrofluorocarbons, having a wide GWP range of 12-11,700, are mainly tied to refrigerant usage. Perfluorocarbons, with a GWP between 6,500-9,200, typically result from manufacturing and production processes. Sulfur Hexafluoride, possessing the highest GWP of 23,900, is principally connected with power transmission and distribution. This inventory primarily uses Carbon dioxide, Methane, and Nitrous Oxide10 to establish the carbon dioxide emission equivalents (CO2e)for all sectors analyzed." SECTOR ACTIVITY DATA AND EMISSIONS FACTORS The process of calculating Carbon dioxide equivalents (CO2e) utilizes both activity data and emission factors. When activity data is multiplied by corresponding emission factors, the result is an amount of carbon dioxide-equivalent emissions. By converting each sector's activity data into carbon dioxide equivalents, a comparative ratio for each sector can be established, enabling further analysis and facilitating decision-making about potential reduction strategies. 8 Data was not available for solid waste from County Operations to be differentiated from community waste,therefore all solid waste emissions are included only in the community inventory. 9 https://unfccc.int/resource/docs/convkp/kpeng.pdf 10 As referenced in the US Community Protocol the high GWP GHG's perfluorocarbons and sulfur hexafluoride are not required to complete an accurate inventory.The County reported no refrigerant loss,and therefore hydrofluorocarbons do not appear in the inventory.All other GHGs are measured and reported. 11 https://icleiusa.org/ghg-protocols 5 ORANGE COUNTY, NC • APPENDICES 97 . .EE . . . . EMISSIONS REPORTING Emissions are quantified using the measure of Carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e) and compared across sectors. Each sector is individually reported and assessed in relation to others, offering a comprehensive picture of emissions across the County. The community inventory covers building energy use, transportation, solid waste, wastewater, and water. Building energy is further divided into commercial, residential, and industrial use and consists of both electricity and natural gas consumption. The municipal inventory includes building energy use, employee commute, vehicle fleet, water, and wastewater. Results The following sections detail the findings from the community and County government operations GHG inventories, with results organized by sectors. The community and County operations inventories are separate endeavors, but the information is combined within this report. Each inventory should be considered as a benchmark for future emission reductions. Calculation methodologies for all results are provided in Appendix A.2. Community Inventory In Orange County, total community emissions were 1,631,671 MT CO2e. This result includes emissions from the combustion of fuel for transportation and mobile services, onsite burning of natural gas in commercial, residential, and industrial buildings, emissions linked to electricity procurement for commercial, residential, and industrial edifices, emissions connected to water and wastewater services within the County, as well as solid waste emissions emanating from the County. TABLE 1:ORANGE COUNTY COMMUNITY INVENTORY BY SECTOR Sector MT CO2e Percentage(%) Transportation & Mobile Sources 702,701 43% Commercial Energy 556,800 34% Residential Energy 299,216 19% Industrial Energy 33,626 2% Solid Waste 21,350 1% Water&Wastewater 12,585 1% Process & Fugitive Emissions 5,393 0.33% Total 1,631,671 6 ORANGE COUNTY, NC • APPENDICES 98 COMMERCIAL ENERGY Commercial energy is the largest emitter of the three classes of energy emissions (the others being residential and industrial), producing 556,800 MT CO2e. Data on commercial electricity energy consumption was provided by Piedmont Electric Cooperative, extrapolated from 2017 data from Duke Energy, and obtained from the cogeneration plants at the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill. Data for natural gas usage was sourced from Dominion Energy. Of the commercial total, electricity accounted for 258,454 MT CO2e, natural gas contributed 79,263 MT CO2e, and coal-powered cogeneration accounted for 219,083 MT CO2e. Thus, commercial energy constitutes 34% of total community emissions in Orange County. COMMERCIAL ENERGY ELECTRICITY COGENERATION 46% 40% NATURAL GAS 14% Figure 4. Commercial Energy Breakdown 7 ORANGE COUNTY, NC - APPENDICES 99 RESIDENTIAL ENERGY Residential energy consumption incorporates emissions from natural gas combustion, electricity production, the burning of Liquid Petroleum Gas (LPG), and the use of distillate fuel oil No. 2, all specific to residential communities within Orange County. Data regarding Orange County's residential electricity usage was supplied by Piedmont Electric Cooperative and Duke Energy,while Dominion Energy provided data for natural gas. Statewide data served as the source for LPG and oil No. 2 usage - Orange County's proportionate share was established based on population demographics. Electricity data for 2019 from Duke Electricity was extrapolated from 2017 usage statistics. Overall residential energy use contributed 299,216 MT CO2e. Of that total, emissions attributed to electricity was 200,750 MT CO2e, natural gas contributed 70,445 MT CO2e, LPG resulted in 26,538 MT CO2e, and distillate fuel oil no. 2 generated 1,483 MT CO2e. Residential energy constituted 19% of total community emissions. RESIDENTIAL ENERGY ELECTRICITY OIL NO.2 67% 0% NATURAL GAS 24% LPG Figure 5. Residential Energy Breakdown 8 ORANGE COUNTY, NC • APPENDICES 100 APPENDIX A 2019 GREE ft—SE INDUSTRIAL ENERGY Industrial Energy data was supplied by two entities: Dominion Energy for natural gas and Duke Energy for electricity. The cumulative emissions from industrial energy amounted to 33,626 MT CO2e. Industrial electricity accounted for 18,024 MT CO2e, making up 53% of all emissions from industrial energy. Emissions originating from the combustion of natural gas totaled 15,602 MT CO2e, contributing to 46% of overall industrial energy emissions. Industrial energy usage comprises 2%of the total community emissions in Orange County. INDUSTRIAL ENERGY INDUSTRIAL ELECTRICITY 54% a INDUSTRIAL NATURAL GAS 46% Figure 6. Industrial Energy Breakdown 9 ORANGE COUNTY, NC • APPENDICES 101 TRANSPORTATION AND MOBILE SERVICES Transportation and Mobile services are the primary contributor of emissions in Orange County, generating 702,701 MT CO2e and accounting for 43% of the County's total emissions. Orange County is characterized by its widespread rural communities, where reliance on cars is significant, leading to a considerable amount of Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT)within the County. The emissions produced by gasoline fuel vehicles is 513,127 MT CO2e, while the emissions produced from diesel vehicles equaled 189,575 MT CO2e. SOLID WASTE Emissions resulting from the waste sector are derived from estimated methane production due to decomposition of solid waste generated in the County. These calculations incorporate data gathered from the landfill and consider factors such as methane capture processes. Solid waste disposal contributes to 1%of the total emissions in Orange County, accounting for 21,350 MT CO2e.12 In 2013, the County landfill, Orange County Regional Landfill in Chapel Hill, was closed. All subsequent solid waste has been disposed outside of the County. The methane that is still produced at the County's retired landfill is being destroyed through a partnership with the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill and the County. Data received from Universities Sustainability Office states that the following totals of CO2e have been destroyed during fiscal years 2020 and 2021: 25,000 MTCO2e (2020) and 22,000 MTCO2e (2021). These amounts generally correspond to the EPA 13 and estimations from ClearPath calculations of landfill gas emitted for the same fiscal years: 23,940 MTCO2e(Calendar year 2020) and 18,490 MTCO2e(Calendar year 2021). WATER AND WASTEWATER The Orange Water and Sewer Authority(OWASA) manages some of the County's potable water supply and wastewater disposal and supplied all related data.Total emissions from water and wastewater amount to 12,585 MT CO2e, accounting for 1% of total emissions across the County. Electricity emissions from potable water processes in Orange County are 1,763 MT CO2e. Wastewater electricity consumption is 2,446 MT CO2e and natural gas usage is 196 MT CO2e. Emissions from digester gas consumed 5 MT CO2e. Digester gas flaring emitted 68 MT CO2e. Nitrogen discharge from water treatment emitted 103 MT CO2e.Specific to the community inventory are emissions related to household septic systems which produced 8,004 MT CO2e. PROCESSES AND FUGITIVE EMISSIONS Fugitive emissions, which are defined as unintended leaks or releases of gasses during the transportation or handling of substances like natural gas, contribute less than one percent to the total emissions of the County, amounting to an equivalent of 5,393 MT CO2e. These inadvertent emissions can occur at various stages of production, processing, storage, transmission, and distribution. 2 Waste management and landfill operations in Orange County were undergoing changes during recent years,the information used is extrapolated from 2017 data. 3 https://ghgdata.epa.gov/ghgp/service/facilityDetail/2021?id=1005524&ds=E&et=&popup=true 10 ORANGE COUNTY, NC • APPENDICES 102 County Operations Inventory The following sections provide detailed insights into the municipal GHG emissions within Orange County. The County's emitting sectors include buildings and facilities, vehicle fleets, transit fleets, and employee commuting. In 2019, the County's municipal activities generated a total of 19,359 MT CO2e, making up roughly 1% of the County's total emissions. TABLE 2:ORANGE COUNTY'S COUNTY OPERATIONS INVENTORY BY SECTOR SECTOR MT CO2e Percentage(%) Employee Commute 61329 33% Buildings& Facilities 6,185 32% Water and Wastewater 4,479 23% Vehicle Fleet 2,106 11% Transit Fleet 251 1% Processes and Fugitive Emissions 9 0.05% Total j 19,359 BUILDINGS AND FACILITIES Orange County's government-owned and operated buildings and facilities contribute 32% of the total emissions in the Municipal Inventory, and total 6,185 MT CO2e. The generation and consumption of electricity, along with the combustion of natural gas, are the primary sources of these emissions. Electricity usage for the government consumed 4,510 MT CO2e, where the natural gas combustion consumed 1,675 MT CO2e.14 VEHICLE AND TRANSIT FLEET The County's vehicle fleet (i.e., County maintenance, County law enforcement vehicles, etc.) represents 11% of total emissions, producing 2,106 MT CO2e. Further, since the County contributes funds towards the operation of transit vehicles (buses, vans, etc.), a portion of those emissions are also included. The County's share of the transit fleet produced 251 MT CO2e. EMPLOYEE COMMUTE A survey of commuting habits was disseminated among all Orange County employees to gauge the carbon impact of the daily commute by the County's workforce. Based on the surveys, employee commuting is estimated at around 33% of the total emissions generated by local government operations, producing 6,329 MT CO2e. 14 The County does not have any streetlights under its jurisdiction,which are included at the community inventory level. 11 ORANGE COUNTY, NC • APPENDICES 103 - - - ' WATER AND WASTEWATER Emissions associated with water and wastewater contribute to 23% of municipal emissions, as these services are managed and operated by government-owned programs. Electricity emissions from potable water processes in Orange County are 1,763 MT CO2e. Wastewater electricity consumption consumed 2,447 MT CO2e. Wastewater natural gas consumed 196 MT CO2e. Emissions from digester gas consumed equal 5 MT CO2e. Digester gas flaring emitted 68 MT CO2e. Nitrogen discharge from water treatment emitted 103 MT CO2e. Total emissions from government related water and wastewater processes is 4,479.15 PROCESSES AND FUGITIVE EMISSIONS Fugitive emissions account for less than 1% of the total emissions in the municipal inventory of Orange County and are estimated at 9 MT CO2e. Conclusion In 2019, Orange County, the community generated a total of 1,631,671 MT CO2e and County government operations produced 19,359 MT CO2e. The most significant contributors were transportation and mobile sources,accounting for 43%ofcommunity emissions. Commercial energy sources, including electricity, natural gas, and UNC- CH Cogeneration Coal Boilers, were the second highest contributor, constituting 34% of the emissions. Residential energy was the third highest contributor; other sources contributed relatively minor amounts in comparison. As for the emissions attributable to Orange County's government operations, three primary areas were prominent: Employee commute,Buildings and Facilities and Water and Wastewater are responsible for 33%, 32%, and 23% of the total emissions, respectively. Moving forward, Orange County is committed to maintaining its leadership role in North Carolina's efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. 5 This is not considered double counting emissions according to ICLEI protocols,since these are two separate inventories. In other sectors,municipal data is included in the community inventory in a less explicit way. For example,all County's municipal facilities electricity is included in the community's commercial electricity. 12 ORANGE COUNTY, NC • APPENDICES 104 INVENTORYAPPENDIX A.1 2019 GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSION • . - Appendix A.1: Attached Use Data COMMUNITY INVENTORY Activity Unit Data Source Duke Residential Electricity kWh 477,946,069 Duke Energy 2017. Piedmont Residential Piedmont Electric kWh 173,705,809 Electricity Cooperative 2019. Dominion Residential Dominion Energy MMBtu 1,324,493 Natural Gas 2019. Orange County U.S. Census, and Energy LPG Usage MMBtu 417,443 Information Administration (EIA) 2019. Orange County U.S. Census, and Energy Distillate fuel oil #2 MMBtu 19,925 Information Administration (EIA) 2019. Dominion Commercial MMBtu 1,490,289 Dominion Energy Natural Gas 2019. Duke Commercial Electricity kWh 793,824,045 Duke Energy 2017 Piedmont Educational Piedmont Electric kWh 9,947,766 Electricity Cooperative 2019. Piedmont Commercial Piedmont Electric kWh 35,193,563 Electricity Cooperative 2019. 2018 Annual Air UNC-CH Boiler#6 Coal MMBTU MMBtu 848,000 Emissions Inventory Cogeneration Facility 2018 Annual Air UNC-CH Boiler#7 Coal MMBTU MMBtu 913,000 Emissions Inventory Cogeneration Facility 13 ORANGE COUNTY, NC • APPENDICES 105 COMMUNITY INVENTORY CONTINUED Activity Unit Data Source Google Environmental Diesel Transportation VMT 128,745,750 Insights Explorer(EIE) 2019. Gasoline Google Environmental Transportation VMT 1,243,103,837 Insights Explorer(EIE) 2019. Solid Waste Tons 53,150 2017 GHG Inventory Potable Water 2019 Orange Water Electricity kWh 5,722,491 And Sewer Authority (OWASA) 2019 Orange Water Gas combustion scf/day 108,960 And Sewer Authority (OWASA) 2019 Orange Water Wastewater Electricity kWh 7,939,258 And Sewer Authority (OWASA) Wastewater Natural 2019 Orange Water Gas Therms 36,890 And Sewer Authority (OWASA) Flaring of Digester 2019 Orange Water Gas Cubic ft/day 54,480 And Sewer Authority (OWASA) Septic Systems Population 65,884 2019 Orange County Emissions U.S. Census Data Daily Nitrogen 2019 Orange Water discharge kg N/day 135 And Sewer Authority (OWASA) 14 ORANGE COUNTY, NC • APPENDICES 106 COUNTY OPERATIONS INVENTORY DATA Activity Unit Data Source MWH 14,639 2019 Orange County Usage Building and Facilities Therms 315,060 2019 Orange County Usage Vehicle Fleet Gallons 238,996 2019 Orange County Usage Transit Fleet Gallons 28,595 2019 Orange County Usage Employee Commute Miles 17,443,305 2019 Orange County Commute Survey Wastewater Electricity kWh 7,939,258 2019 Orange Water And Sewer Authority(OWASA) Digester Gas Combustion scf/day 108,960 2019 Orange Water And Sewer Authority(OWASA) Digester Gas Flaring cubic 54,480 2019 Orange Water And Sewer feet/day Authority(OWASA) Wastewater Natural Gas Therms 36,890 2019 Orange Water And Sewer Authority(OWASA) Potable Water Electricity kWh 5,722,491 2019 Orange Water And Sewer Authority(OWASA) 15 ORANGE COUNTY, NC • APPENDICES 107 INVENTORYAPPENDIX A.2 2019 GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSION • . - Appendix A.2: Detailed Methodology COMMUNITY INVENTORY ELECTRICITY Residential, commercial, and industrial electricity usage data for 2019 was furnished by Duke Energy and Piedmont Electric Cooperative. The process of determining emissions involved multiplying electricity usage by the emissions factor relevant to the jurisdiction where the electricity was generated. ICLEI: Local Governments for Sustainability16 provided emission factors for local jurisdictions, which is based on data from the EPA Emissions Hub for SERC Virginia/Carolina (SRVC) eGRID 2019. The specific emission factors are as follows:the CO2 emission factor is 0.089765 MT/MMBtu,the CH4 emission factor is 7.7084 x 10-6 MT/MMBtu,and the N2O emission factor is 1.0632 x 10-6 MT/MMBtu. When these are added to carbon emissions the result is CO2e which represents the total Global Warming Potential. Duke Energy's recent billing modifications resulted in the loss of certain emission data for 2019.This prompted us to estimate emissions using the growth rate of Orange County from 2010-2020 using census data. The County experienced an average annual growth rate of 1.1%,which we used as the basis for our electricity usage estimations. For example, in 2017, residential electricity usage from Duke amounted to 467,602,240 kWh. After applying the growth factor, we estimated that Duke's residential electricity for 2019 would be around 477,946,069 kWh. We used the same method to estimate commercial electricity usage growth from 776,643,905 kWh to 793,824,044.8 kWh. We also estimated that Duke's industrial energy usage would rise from 57,245,643 kWh to 58,511,973.87 kWh. NATURAL GAS Data on residential and commercial natural gas was provided by Dominion Energy. The calculation of natural gas emissions involves multiplying the usage data by an emission factor provided by the US Community Protocol BE.1.1.11 The respective emission factors are 53.02 kg/MMBtu CO2,0.005 kg/MMBtu for CH4,and 1 xE-4 for N2O.The full methodology is detailed in the U.S. Community Protocol for Accounting and Reporting of Greenhouse Gas Emissions Appendix C: Built Environment Emission Activities and Sources. LPG AND DISTILLATE FUEL OIL NO.2 These categories are calculated using data from the United States Census Bureau information 18 and methodologies from the US Community Protocol.19 The Census Bureau tracks statewide residential non-utility fuel usage. To determine the proportion of fuel usage in Orange County, we compared the number of households in the County using 16 U.S.Community Protocol for Accounting and Reporting of Greenhouse Gas Emissions Appendix C: Built Environment Emission Activities and Sources. U.S.Community Protocol for Accounting and Reporting of Greenhouse Gas Emissions Appendix C: Built Environment Emission Activities and Sources 18 https://data.census.gov 9 U.S.Community Protocol for Accounting and Reporting of Greenhouse Gas Emissions Appendix C: Built Environment Emission Activities and Sources 16 ORANGE COUNTY, NC - APPENDICES 108 each type of fuel to the total number of households in the entire state using the same fuel type. In Orange County, 6,078 households use bottled, tank, or LP gas, and 445 use fuel oil, kerosene,or similarfuels.Statewide,256,257 households use bottled,tank,or LP gas, and 91,569 use fuel oil, kerosene, etc. The proportion of households in Orange County using bottled, tank, or LP gas is 0.0237, while the proportion using fuel oil, kerosene, etc., is 0.0486. To calculate the County's share of energy consumption, we multiply these proportions by the statewide energy use. According to data from the US Energy Information Administration 20 North Carolina consumes 17.6 trillion Btu of Hydrocarbon Gas Liquids (HGL, which includes LPG) and 4.1 trillion Btu of Distillate Fuel Oil. After converting these figures from trillion Btu to MMBtu and applying Orange County's proportions, we estimate that the County's consumption of LPG is 417,443 MMBtu and its consumption of Distillate Fuel Oil #2 is 19,925 MMBtu.These estimates are calculated to carbon equivalencies using the US Community Protocol in ICLEI, applying emission factors of 62.98 kg/MMBtu for CO2, 0.01087 kg/MMBtu for CH4, and 0.0010870 kg/ MMBtu for N20. COAL Emissions data from the coal cogeneration boilers at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill are sourced from the 2018 Annual Air Emissions Inventory Cogeneration Facility report, prepared by ClimeCo Corporation in 2019.21 Detailed information about emissions from Boiler 6 can be found on pages 31-33, while Boiler 7's emissions are documented on pages 54-56. TRANSPORTATION AND MOBILE SERVICE Transportation emissions in Orange County were computed using the Google EIE transportation data,22 a source recommended by ICLEI. The emissions factors are sourced from the US Community Protoco1,23 which are as follows: CO2 Emissions Factor 0.07024 CO2 Emissions Factor Units MT/MMBtu CH4 Emissions Factor 1.9493 x 10-$ CH4 Emissions Factor Units MT/mile N20 Emissions Factor 1.0608 x 10-$ N20 Emissions Factor Units MT/mile 20 https://www.eia.gov/state/search 21 2018 Annual Air Emissions Inventory Cogeneration Facility.The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill:Chapel Hill,North Carolina 22 https://insights.sustainability.google/places/ChIJEejT22XdrlkRPupCdcVJtOk?hl=en-US 23 U.S.Community Protocol for Accounting and Reporting of Greenhouse Gas Emissions Appendix D: Transportation and Other Mobile Emission Activities and Sources 17 ORANGE COUNTY, NC • APPENDICES 109 APPENDIX A.2— . . . . . . SOLID WASTE Due to the existence of five waste haulers in the County and the closure of the local landfill in 2013, tracking the amount of solid waste produced in Orange County proved challenging. The destination landfill was unable to provide the required data in time for this report, necessitating an estimation of total solid waste based on 2017 levels and a growth factor for two subsequent years. Emission factors were determined using the 2019 Orange County Recyclables Characterization Study24 and the 2017 Waste Characterization study25 conducted by Kessler Consulting. The following are the specific emission factors: Mixed MSW Emission Factor (MT CH4/wet short ton) 0.0648, Newspaper Emission Factor(MT CH4/wet short ton)0.042,Office Paper Emission Factor (MT CH4/wet short ton) 0.1556, Corrugated Cardboard Emission Factor (MT CH4/wet short ton) 0.1048, Magazines/Third Class Mail Emission Factor (MT CH4/wet short ton) 0.0476, Food Scraps Emission Factor (MT CH4/wet short ton) 0.0648, Grass Emission Factor (MT CH4/wet short ton) 0.0228, Leaves Emission Factor (MT CH4/wet short ton) 0.026, Branches Emission Factor (MT CH4/wet short ton) 0.058. The calculation methodology was adopted from the US Community ProtocoI.26 WATER AND WASTEWATER Both potable water and wastewater systems consume electricity,and the emissions from this are calculated as previously outlined. Additionally, wastewater treatment processes utilize natural gas, the emissions from which are calculated using the aforementioned methods. The process of digester gas combustion is estimated using site-specific data obtained from OWASA. This information is converted into emissions data by applying emission factors from the US Community Protocols. Specifically, the Biogenic CO2 Emissions Factor is 52.07 kg/MMBtu, the CH4 Emissions Factor is 0.0032 kg/MMBtu, and the N20 Emissions Factor is 6.3 x 10-4 kg/MMBtu. Further details on digester combustion calculations can be found in US Community Protocols WW.1.A, WW2.A, and WW.3. Emissions resulting from the flaring of digester gas are also considered in this inventory. This is determined using site-specific data sourced from OWASA and adhering to the best calculation practices provided by the US Community Protocol. The CH4 Emissions Factor in this case is 1.2177 x10-7 MT CH4/scf. Daily nitrogen discharge is another factor incorporated in this inventory. Using the daily nitrogen load provided by OWASA, emissions data is calculated in line with the US Community Protocol. Here, the N20 Emissions Factor stands at 0.005 kg N20/kg N in effluent. Additional details concerning effluent discharge can be referenced in the US Community Protocol, specifically WW.12. The final aspect of the water and wastewater analysis pertains to emissions from septic systems. While OWASA services the majority of households in 24 ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA RECYCLABLES CHARACTERIZATION STUDY,Kessler Consulting,Inc. 25 https://www.orangecountync.gov/DocumentCenter/View/2826/ 2017-Orange-County-Waste-Characterization-Study-Final-Report-PDF 26 U.S.Community Protocol for Accounting and Reporting of Greenhouse Gas Emissions Appendix E:Solid Waste Emission Activities and Sources 18 ORANGE COUNTY, NC • APPENDICES 110 APPENDIX A.2... . GREE . . . . Orange County, approximately 65,000 are not covered by the local wastewater agency. This results in widespread use of septic systems for wastewater disposal. Emissions from these systems can be calculated using a population-based method,which incorporates a CH4 Emissions Factor of 0.048213 MT CH4 per daily kg BOD5.An alternative calculation approach is documented in the US Community Protocol under reference WW.11 (aIt).21 FUGITIVE EMISSIONS Fugitive emissions were calculated by usage data summed from natural gas. This was multiplied by a leakage factor of an industry standard recommended by the U.S. Community Protocol.28 The leakage emissions are multiplied by an emissions factor of 6.1939x10-5 MT CH4/MMBtu natural gas used, and CO2 emission factor of 6.6316 x 10-5 MT CO2/MMBtu natural gas used. COUNTY OPERATIONS INVENTORY BUILDING AND FACILITIES Orange County's buildings and facilities emissions were calculated using usage data obtained from the government's tracking software.This software monitors both electricity and natural gas usage data.The calculations were carried out in the same manner as those for the community inventory of natural gas and electricity. VEHICLE FLEET Fuel usage for Orange County's vehicle fleet was supplied by the County and calculated using the US Community Protocol.29 The annual miles traveled, and annual fuel usage are tracked and multiplied by emission factors from ICLEI. These include a CO2 Emissions Factor of 0.070268 MT/MMBtu, a Biogenic CO2 Emissions Factor of 0 MT/MMBtu, a CH4 Emissions Factor of 2.153 x10-8 MT/vehicle mile, a Biofuel CH4 Emissions Factor of 0 MT/ vehicle mile, a N20 Emissions Factor of 1.248 x10-8 MT/vehicle mile, and a Biofuel N20 Emissions Factor of 0 MT/vehicle mile. TRANSIT FLEET Data on Orange County's transit fleet usage was also provided by the County. This data was broken down by vehicle types, with transit fleet vehicles identified as buses within the data sheet. Emission factors for transit fleet buses include a CO2 Emissions Factor of 0.07024 MT/MMBtu, a CH4 Emissions Factor of 1.93 x 10-8 MT/vehicle mile, and a N20 Emissions Factor of 1.48 x10-8 MT/vehicle mile.ao 2' U.S.Community Protocol for Accounting and Reporting of Greenhouse Gas Emissions Appendix F: Wastewater and Water Emission Activities and Sources 28 https://www.edf.org/sites/default/files/US-Natural-Gas-Leakage-Model-User-Guide.pdf 29 U.S.Community Protocol for Accounting and Reporting of Greenhouse Gas Emissions Appendix D: Transportation and Other Mobile Emission Activities and Sources so U.S.Community Protocol for Accounting and Reporting of Greenhouse Gas Emissions Appendix D: Transportation and Other Mobile Emission Activities and Sources 19 ORANGE COUNTY, NC • APPENDICES qr�— MMLWTI�, � 111 EMPLOYEE COMMUTE Data on employee commutes was provided by the 2019 commuting survey of Orange County employees. This survey asked employees about their commuting habits, and total annual Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) was extrapolated from the responses. While the survey results did not include total mileage, it was possible to calculate this by multiplying the average miles per commute by the average workdays per week and then calculating the yearly VMT using the average number of working weeks in a year,which is 49.31 This yields the total annual commuting VMT for Orange County.The emissions were then calculated using the US Community Protocol emission factors of CO2 Emissions Factor 0.07024 MT/MMBtu, CH4 Emissions Factor 1.8300 x10-8 MT/Mile, and a N20 Emissions Factor 8.3 x10-9 MT/Mile. WATER AND WASTEWATER The emissions from water and wastewater operations for Orange County's municipal activities were calculated in the same manner as in the community inventory.32 As OWASA is a municipal operation, its emissions should be included under those from the County. The difference between the two sectors is that the municipal inventory does not include emissions from septic systems. FUGITIVE EMISSIONS These are calculated in the same way as the community inventory. Fugitive emissions were calculated by usage data summed from natural gas used by the County operations. Usage was multiplied by a leakage factor of an industry standard recommended by the U.S. Community Protocol. 33 The leakage emissions are multiplied by an emissions factor of 6.1939x10-5 MT CH4/MMBtu natural gas used, and CO2 emission factor of 6.6316 x 10-5 MT CO2/MMBtu natural gas used. 31 https://www.bls.gov/news.release/pdf/atus.pdf 32 U.S.Community Protocol for Accounting and Reporting of Greenhouse Gas Emissions Appendix F: Wastewater and Water Emission Activities and Sources 33 https://www.edf.org/sites/default/files/US-Natural-Gas-Leakage-Model-User-Guide.pdf 20 ORANGE COUNTY, NC • APPENDICES APPENDIX B METHODOLOGY OF • FORECAST Appendix Bm Methodology of Emission Forecast ORANGE COUNTY NORTH CAROLINA 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY,NORTH CAROLINA 109 113 Summary This report describes greenhouse gas(GHG)emissions reduction targets and estimated forecasts that are identified in Orange County's 2023 Climate Action Plan (the Plan). It also describes the County's mitigation target plan to the year 2050.The report quantifies the carbon reduction impact that local and federal laws, utility grid mix changes, and transportation efficiencies will have on Orange County's business-as-usual forecast, which results in an"adjusted business-as-usual forecast."Finally,it provides visualizations of the results of Orange County's"Top 10"emission reduction strategies from the Plan. Provisional targets for Orange County's GHG mitigation efforts are as follows: 1. Achieve 50%emissions reduction target by 2030 from a 2005 baseline. 2. Achieve 100%emissions reduction by 2050 from a 2005 baseline This "forecasting" report focuses on emissions in comparison to the 2005 baseline. In 2005 the total tracked emissions' for Orange County were 2,802,5002 metric tons (MT) of carbon dioxide equivalents (CO2e).3 In 2017 the GHG inventory was 1,777,667 MT CO2e.4 The total emissions in 2019 fell to 1,631,671 MT CO2e which represented a reduction of 40.7% in 14 years.5 Looking forward, a business-as-usual (BA U)6 forecast for Orange County shows emissions will grow to 1,693,944 MT CO2e by 2030, and to 1,813,315 MT CO2e by 2050, if no further action is taken. The adjusted business-as- usual (ABAU)forecast shows emissions will reduce to 1,311,816 MT CO2e in 2030, and to 947,191 MT CO2e in 2050; this forecast considers the expected effect of several policy measures that are described below. To achieve targets set in the 2023 Climate Action Plan emissions from sectors listed in the 2005 GHG inventory(residential, commercial, and industrial energy, transportation, and solid waste) should not exceed 1,410,250 MT CO2e by the year 2030. A 100% reduction in emissions would require significant investment in the strategies listed in the Plan, in addition to other actors achieving State and local policy goals(i.e. utility renewable energy targets,vehicle efficiency measures, etc.). If targets from policy goals plus the Top 10 Emission reduction strategies from the 2023 Plan are met, the County's emissions will reduce to 993,646 MT CO2e by 2030 and 56,991 MT CO2e by 2050. https://www.epa.gov/climateleadership/scope-1-and-scope-2-inventory-guidance 2 https://www.orangecountync.gov/DocumentCenter/View/2002/ Greenhouse-Gas-Emissions-Inventory-and-Forecast-PDF 3 The only sectors surveyed in the 2005 inventory were residential,commercial, and industrial energy, transportation,and solid waste. Further,The GHG inventory associated with this Plan comes from 2019 data. 4 https://www.orangecountync.gov/DocumentCenter/View/10049/ Orange-County-Greenhouse-Gas-Inventory-2017 5 In 2019 there was tracking of water and wastewater,and fugitive emissions from natural gas processes, which increased total emissions. b The business-as-usual forecast was estimated starting in the year 2019 using projected growth in population, households,employment,and vehicle miles traveled between 2010 and 2020.Projections were obtained from the United States Census Data. Data for the years 2020 and 2050 were estimated using straight-line interpolation from the USA Census. 1 ORANGE COUNTY, NC • APPENDICES 114 3.0 N 2.5 0 V 2.0 Z0 O :1i 1.5 N J N � W 1.0 2 0.5 gam' 2005 2019 2030 2050 12005 Baseline Business As Usual Adjusted Business as usual --40—Top 10 Emission Reductions Scenario --*---Target -J FIGURE 1: SUMMARY OF ORANGE COUNTY'S GHG EMISSIONS AND REDUCTION TARGETS Background Orange County has set its goals within the context of a strong commitment for environmental mitigation from state and regional partners. The following describes several of the State, regional, and local policies that precede and form a foundation for the County's Plan. STATE GUIDANCE North Carolina Executive Order NO. 80 aligns the State to the 2015 Paris Agreement and the United States Climate Agreement. Further, North Carolina has ratified reduction targets for carbon emissions to 40%from 2005 levels.'Executive Order 2468 builds upon the prior order to reduce GHG emissions by 50 percent below 2005 levels by 2030. House Bill 9519 authorizes utility companies in North Carolina to take necessary steps to reduce carbon emissions by 70% from 2005 levels by the year 2030, and to become carbon neutral in 2050. https://www.deq.nc.gov/energy-climate/climate-change/nc-climate-change-interagency-council/ climate-change-clean-energy-plans-progress 8 https://governor.nc.gov/executive-order-no-246/open 9 General Assembly Of North Carolina Session 2021.Session Law 2021-165. House Bill 951 2 ORANGE COUNTY, NC • APPENDICES 115 The North Carolina Clean Energy Plan10 sets a net zero GHG emissions target for 2050 and established goals to support this target by fostering long-term energy affordability and accelerating clean energy innovation, development, and deployment to better serve business and residential communities. To support these goals, the plan states a commitment to develop carbon reduction policies, tools to support the policies, and to modernize the grid in support of clean energy resource adoption. The Cities Initiative," led by the Environmental Defense Fund, is a collaborative effort among North Carolina local governments to reduce GHG emissions, evaluate barriers, understand business needs, and pursue partnership opportunities. During Phase 1, the Initiative identified 12 core goals around clean energy, transportation, and the built environment on which the collaborative will focus in the coming months. A large part of the process is to uncover funding approaches to support these goals. Phase 2 will unfold in 2024. During this phase, specific strategies and actions will establish a roadmap for implementation. Triangle Clean Cities Coalition12 leverages resources from the Department of Energy's Vehicle Technology office to promote alternative fuels and electric vehicle adoption. The coalition provides collaboration, multi-jurisdiction grant opportunities, workshop education and technical assistance to municipalities who are committed to finding sustainable transportation solutions. Duke Energy has committed to a 50% reduction in emissions by 2030 and net zero emissions by 2050.13 Piedmont Electric Cooperative, another County supplier, also commits to reducing energy by 50%by 2030, and to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.14 REGIONAL GUIDANCE The Triangle Climate Resilience Partnership15 is a cooperative partnership among the Towns of Cary and Chapel Hill, the Cities of Durham and Raleigh, and the Counties of Durham and Orange.The Steering Committee iscomposed of the partners'Sustainability Managers, Sustainability Directors, and Resilience Officers. This partnership—in conjunction with UNC Asheville's National Environmental Modeling and Analysis Center and the Triangle J Council of Governments—performed a quantified assessment to help regional decision makers understand which assets are most vulnerable to specific threats and provide guidance on potential solutions. ° "Clean Energy Plan.North Carolina Environmental Quality."Clean Energy Plan I NC DEQ. 11 https://www.deq.nc.gov/energy-climate/climate-change/mitigation/cities-initiative 12 https://cleancities.energy.gov/coalitions/triangle 13 https://www.duke-energy.com/business/products/renewables/sustainability/ sustainability-goals#:-:text=We've%20already%20seen%20002,your%20higher%20carbon%20 energy%20usage. 14 https://pemc.coop/smart_energy/energy-portfolio/#:-:text=Piedmont%20EIectric%2Opledges%20 to%20reduce,providers%20to%20meet%20these%20goals. 15 https://www.tjcog.org/focus-areas-environment-resilience-climate-and-energy/ triangle-regional-resilience-partnership 3 ORANGE COUNTY, NC • APPENDICES 116 Triangle Sustainability Partnership has successfully initiated the "Solarize the Triangle" program, which hit its top goal of reaching Tier 8 pricing in its first year. It was also successful in lowering the cost of solar for all participants by thirty-seven cents per kilowatt ($0.37/kW), achieving $300,500 in annual utility bill savings, generating $5.98 million in new clean energy development, creating 1,731 kW of new clean energy capacity, and avoiding 3.5 million pounds of carbon dioxide annually. This program will be expanded in 2024 to focus on electrification with a new program entitled "Electrify the Triangle". Central Pines Regional Council (formerly Triangle J Council of Governments) is a resource and support hub for local governments, community members, and partners across Chatham, Durham,Johnston, Lee, Moore,Orange,and Wake counties. This public private partnership focuses on building networks to address gaps, overcome barriers, and surface funding opportunities in key areas, including Environment & Resilience and Mobility&Transportation. The Southeast Sustainability Directors Network is another consortium with which Orange County is involved. The Network helps facilitate and advocate for regional climate initiatives, offers peer learning opportunities, equity resources, and information on regional funding. Provisional GHG Reduction Targets Blue Strike Environmental recommends the County adopt two GHG mitigation targets, one for 2030 and another for 2050.The targets are similar to those of nearby cities and the State of North Carolina. These goals are fully described in the 2023 Plan, but are summarized as follows: 1. Achieve 50% emissions reduction by 2030 from a 2005 baseline 2. Achieve 100% emissions reduction by 2050 from a 2005 baseline These goals are consistent with state laws, regional partners, and local organizations regarding GHG mitigation. North Carolina identified a mid-term goal of reducing emissions by 50% by 2030 from a 2005 baseline, and a long-term goal of carbon neutrality by 2050 with Executive Order NO. 80, Executive Order NO. 246 and House Bill 951. By executing the strategies in the 2023 Plan, Orange County will meet these State guidelines. These targets are realistic given the surrounding local, regional, and state commitments, including those of the utilities from which the County draws its power. TABLE 1:2030 AND 2050 GHG EMISSIONS TARGETS 2005 Baseline GHG Emissions 2,802,500 MT CO2e 2030 Target(50%below 2005 Levels) 1,401,250 MT CO2e 2050 Target(100%below 2005 Levels) Carbon Neutrality 4 ORANGE COUNTY, NC • APPENDICES 117 GHG Emissions Forecasts GHG emission forecasts can be used to estimate the effectiveness of the Plan's carbon reduction strategies in reaching the County's goals. Emission forecasts that include the implementation of the strategies, can be compared to forecasts that do not include the strategies, which are called Business as Usual (BAU) forecasts. An Adjusted Business as Usual (ABAU) forecast considers factors such as population and employment, projecting emission changes based on expected growth, but without the County taking any mitigation action.An ABAU forecast additionally considers the anticipated behaviors of outside actors, on the County. A good example of such an actor is an electric utility company that has committed to reduce emissions from its energy mix; by virtue of their commitment, County emissions would fall due to declining emissions of the electricity used within the County. Finally, to measure the impact of the Plan, the GHG reduction potential of each strategy is subtracted from the BAU and/or ABAU forecasts. BUSINESS-AS-USUAL FORECAST The Orange County business-as-usual forecast scenario shows an estimate of how GHG emissions would change between the years 2019 and 2050 if population trends, vehicle efficiencies, and energy usage continue, without further application of regulations that would reduce local emissions. As shown in Figure 2, under the 2019 business-as usual forecast,Orange County's GHG emissions are estimated to grow approximately 10%above 2019 emission levels by the year 2050 (from 1,631,674 MT CO2e to 1,813,315 MT CO2e).16 ORANGE COUNTY BUSINESS AS USUAL en 2 Z 0 1.8 J 5 1.6 1.4 1.2 1 v 0.8 U 0.6 H 0.4 0.2 0 Nq ,y0 rl' r1`L rp ftA,1h ryb�'1 r�0,yQ ip r3'�!91Y 13 3b,3h,3b,3'1 �0 41 b0 R� A:b 03 0�* R�1 Rb �A O0 OP y0 ,LO,yo tip tip ry0,y0,y0,y0,LO,LO,y0,y0 ey0,yo,y0,y0,LO,y0 ry0,1O,y0,y0 10,LO 1P,y0 1P 11O 1P 110 110 11P PROCESS&FUGITIVE EMISSIONS E SOLID WASTE RESIDENTIAL ENERGY WATER&WASTEWATER INDUSTRIAL ENERGY TRANSPORTATION COMMERCIAL ENERGY &MOBILE SOURCES FIGURE 2: BUSINESS-AS-USUAL FORECAST 6 This forecast was developed in the ICLEI ClearPath program and utilizes baseline annual population growth which is calculated to be approximately 1.1%as according to the US Census Bureau between 2010 and 2020. 5 ORANGE COUNTY, NC • APPENDICES 118 ADJUSTED BUSINESS-AS-USUAL FORECAST There are several federal, state, and local regulations, along with organizational commitments, that have been enacted that would reduce Orange County's GHG emissions. The influence of these regulations and commitments was quantified and included into the ABAU forecast to provide a more complete picture of emissions reductions to 2050. This forecast also shows the remainder of emissions the County will need to reduce if it wants to achieve carbon neutrality.As shown in the figure below,state regulations are expected to reduce Orange County's business-as-usual GHG emissions by approximately 319,855 MT CO2e by 2030 and 684,480 MT CO2e by 2050. North Carolina Executive Order NO. 80 aligns the State to the 2015 Paris Agreement and the United States Climate Agreement. North Carolina ratified targets for reducing carbon emissions 40%from 2005 levels."House Bil1951 18 provides for utility companies in North Carolina to take steps to reduce carbon emissions by 70% from 2005 levels by the year 2030, and further to become carbon neutral by 2050. Duke Energy has committed to a 50%reduction in emissions by 2030,and to net zero emissions by 2050.19 Piedmont Electric Cooperative has also committed to reducing energy by 50%by 2030, and to carbon neutrality by 2050.20 Emission reductions from these commitments move the County towards green energy, with average reductions of 13,742 MT CO2 per year to 2050. The Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standards also impact Orange County emissions by reducing the amount of carbon emitted by transportation and vehicle miles traveled. According to ICLEI ClearPath, increasing CAFE standards will reduce emissions by 1.8% per year. Within the County, CAFE standards can reduce emissions by an average of 8,322.6 MT CO2e annually. 17 https://www.deq.nc.gov/energy-climate/climate-change/nc-climate-change-interagency-council/ climate-change-clean-energy-plans-progress 18 General Assembly Of North Carolina Session 2021.Session Law 2021-165.House Bill 951 19 https://www.duke-energy.com/business/products/renewables/sustainability/sustainability- goals#:-:text=We've%20aIready%20seen%20002,your%20higher%20carbon%20energy%20usage. 20 https://pemc.coop/smart_energy/energy-portfolio/#:-:text=Piedmont%20EIectric%2Opledges%20 to%20red uce,providers%20to%20meet%20these%20goa Is. 6 ORANGE COUNTY, NC • APPENDICES 119 ORANGE COUNTY ADJUSTED BUSINESS AS USUAL z 1.8 O 1.6 1.4 1.2 1 N 0.8 O 0.6 0.4 0.2 0 .,q ,LO rj''A rp jy ,Lh 0,y1 ,LR,to ,SO 3�,�� 33 3b SIb,fib rbl SOB 3Q a0 tk� N NN �h ab p1 �0 RQ y0 ,y0 1p ,L0,L0,L0 10,L0,y0,L0,L0 1p10 1p,L0,y0 110 1p ,LO ,LO,LO ,L0,LO ,y0,10 11,0 10 ,LO 10 ,L0,LO 1p 10 PROCESS&FUGITIVE EMISSIONS E SOLID WASTE I, RESIDENTIAL ENERGY ®WATER&WASTEWATER INDUSTRIAL ENERGY TRANSPORTATION COMMERCIAL ENERGY &MOBILE SOURCES FIGURE 3:ADJUSTED BUSINESS-AS-USUAL FORECAST TOP 10 EMISSION REDUCTION STRATEGIES To evaluate the targets set in the 2023 Plan, Blue Strike modeled five of the Top 10 emission reduction strategies-those with associated quantifiable emissions reductions. Table 2 shows the annual emission reductions for each individual strategy. The annual emission reductions were calculated and modeled in the ICLEI ClearPath program. TABLE 2:EMISSION REDUCTIONS STRATEGIES FROM 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN Decrease vehicle miles traveled (VMT) 30%from a 2019 613 MT CO2e/year baseline by 2050 Increase community EV adoption to 50% by 2035 and 100% by 2050 12,828 MT CO2/year Achieve 50% energy emission reduction target by 2030 and 30,871 MT CO2/year 100% by 2050 using a 2005 baseline Achieve 100%clean renewable energy by 2050 in municipal 912 MT CO2/year and community sectors Complete an electrification study Included in other strategies 7 ORANGE COUNTY, NC • APPENDICES 120 A forecast of emission reductions that includes the strategies is shown in Figure 4. When the strategies are added to the ABAU scenario the County could reduce its 2030 emissions to 993,646 MT CO2 per year, which achieves the target of 50% emission reduction by that year, against a 2005 baseline. By 2050 the County would emit just 56,991 MT CO2 annually, if the strategies are implemented. The remaining emissions are due to solid waste, water, and wastewater treatment. The reduction of these remaining emissions, to fully meet a target of net zero emissions by 2050 is discussed in the 2023 Plan but is not quantified in the forecast. ORANGE COUNTY TOP 6 EMISSION REDUCTIONS 1,800,000 1,631,671 1,600,000 1,400,000 N V 1,200,000 947,191 1,000,000 - -- ___- __ _ 800,000 993,646 600,000 454,033 400,000 - �56,991 200,000 O. O N M a Ln �0 N 00 P O N M -T N 10 f, 00 O� O N M a Ln %0 N 00 O� O NN N N N N N N N N M M M M M M M M M M et O O OO O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N ADJUSTED BUSINESS AS USUAL(ABAU) CAP SCENARIO PROCESS&FUGITIVE EMISSIONS WATER&WASTEWATER SOLID WASTE INDUSTRIAL ENERGY COMMERCIAL ENERGY RESIDENTIAL ENERGY TRANSPORTATION&MOBILE SOURCES FIGURE 4: Orange County Top 6 Emission Reductions Meeting the Targets Achieving emission reductions as substantial as those outlined in the 2023 Climate Action Plan will depend upon fully implementing the strategies of the 2023 Plan. By tracking these strategies, and regularly updating the GHG inventory,the County can look towards achieving its goals of 50%emissions reductions by 2030 and net zero by 2050. 8 ORANGE COUNTY, NC • APPENDICES APPENDIX C STAKEHOLDER REPORT Appendix C : Stakeholder Report ORANGE COUNTY NORTH CAROLINA T� IvKi STEPS L F 1 _'E.E �istijil�:E.4r a:.;ai�114>t'•,`a;;:, 1#ssi°sl,lE�ss}e�esagi`;sy�us:t;�;l s ; � a4it�d 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA 118 APPENDIX C STAKEHOLDER REPORT Background The project team established a stakeholder outreach plan in advance of the CAP planning process. The purpose of this plan was to establish a baseline of actions taken by the County that were already underway, identify gaps and barriers for why some actions fell short, and to better understand what the communities' values and goals are in the near, mid and long term horizon. Four workshops were conducted over the course of three months. The Agricultural Summitwas held in person and the remaining workshops were held on an online platform. This report highlights the feedback received. Workshop #1 - Farming Community& Climate Impact Date: February 20, 2023 .11:00-12:00pm EST Location: Orange County Agricultural Summit @ Cedar Grove Community Center Est.Attendance: 40 people KEY TAKEAWAYS(OPPORTUNITIES): • Regional knowledge and resourcesto support carbon sequestration are lacking.Consider engaging in discussions with the water and soil district' to explore the possibility of incorporating it into their education and outreach initiatives. • Breeze Farms serves as an incubator farm and a pilot for various sustainability features, such as agro voltaics, EVSE, and carbon sequestration. This presents a significant opportunity to integrate climate action into conversations and determine the optimal utilization of the land. •Currently, only two farmer/ranchers have small solar projects on their properties. Investigate Duke's restrictions and find solutions to facilitate bulk purchases. • Local support is available, with Garland Truffles' expressing interest in participating in the planning process. •There are numerous programs and funding opportunities through NIC Cooperative Extension. Explore possibilities for collaboration. The 2030 Comprehensive Plana is being updated by the Planning Department. •A representative from the Community Land Trust'attended the workshop and could serve as a valuable resource for education and outreach initiatives. https://www.ocsoiIny.org/agricultural-conservation.htm1 2 https://garlandtruffles.com/ 3 chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://www.nahb.org/-/media/NAHB/ advocacy/docs/top-priorities/housing-affordability/case-study-orange-county-nc.pdf 4 chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://www.nahb.org/-/media/NAHB/ advocacy/docs/top-priorities/housing-affordability/case-study-orange-county-nc.pdf 1 ORANGE COUNTY, NC • APPENDICES APPENDIX C • . REPORT• Determine the regulations pertaining to property line enhancements, as concerns were raised about the need for additional buffer zones between commercial and residential land units. •There is limited knowledge regarding agroforestry. Define the potential role it could play in the Climate Action Plan(CAP). • Agrotourism appears to be a popular topic. Assess the number of participating farms offering these services and establish how locally produced goods can contribute to the CAP. We asked attendees to describe in one word their concerns about climate change. These were the results: Dead soil Permaculture Synthetic agriculture Security Petroleum Extremes y existential Urgency Stormwater Ignorance warming, Temperatures Storms Opportunity �t� Production Growing Scary Cost Equity Drought Energy BEST PRACTICES:PRIORITIES Note:Attendees were asked to vote for the action items they would like to see implemented • Promote water conservation and water-smart fixtures and appliances(1 dot) • Increase waste diversion from construction and demolition debris(1 dot) • Increase recycled and greywater use(3 dots) • Increase the County's tree canopy(3 dots) • Pilot carbon farming opportunities(0 dots) • Develop extreme heat protocols for outdoor workers(0 dots) • Develop comprehensive riparian restoration plans(1 dot) • Expand Green Infrastructure to reduce run-off(1 dot) • Enact reflectivity standards for new development to reduce impact of Heat Islands(0 dots) • Expand number of water fountains and cooling stations(0 dots) • Update safety protocols to include climate hazards(1 dot) •Adopt Green Building/Zero Net Energy building standards(0 dots) • Develop County-supported energy efficiency programs(3 dots) 2 ORANGE COUNTY, NC • APPENDICES APPENDIX C • . REPORT• Develop and incentivize residential and commercial fuel switching programs(1 dot) • Development of on-site and off-site renewable energy projects(1 dot) • Promote/incentivize the sale of electric vehicles in the County(1 dot) • Expand the number of public and private EV charging stations(0 dots) • Promote transit-oriented development principles for new development(3 dots) • Increase the number of local public transit options(2 dots) • Increase shared mobility options(bikes, scooters, etc.) (0 dots) • Pass ordinance banning non-essential single use items(4 dots) Workshop#2 - Business and Vendor Perspectives Date: March 14 @ 9:00-10:30am EST Location:Online via Zoom Attendee(s): •Jensen Anderson,Director of Community Engagement and Assistant to the President, Chapel Hill-Carrboro Chamber of Commerce • Leigh Anne King, Clarion Associates • David Shaw, CEO of Roc Records •Scott Czechlewski, CEO, Hillsborough/Orange County(NC) Chamber of Commerce KEY TAKEAWAYS: GREEN COMMUNITY • Reducing energy use and climate footprint in land use requires accessible office space located in town, but finding such space is challenging due to limited availability, particularly for smaller firms. •Lack of affordable housing in their area could lead to people having to move further away and increase emissions from commuting. •While businesses care about the environment, they may be hesitant to participate in a green business program due to current financial struggles. •Complexity,cost, and time will be significant factors in getting the business community interested in a green business program.Need to start with easy,low-cost initiatives to get businesses invested,with community support and incentives being key motivators for participation. Food recovery program could be a good first step. • If lots of businesses are participating in the program, others will (marketing/publicity important) • Need to talk with developers/HOAs for green infrastructure (get boots on ground perspective/support) 3 ORANGE COUNTY, NC • APPENDICES APPENDIX C • . - • - •Some communities have implemented a sustainability point system in their ordinances, allowing developers to choose from a list of sustainable options to earn benefits such as increased density or an expedited process. Providing this flexibility and offering sustainable options is the way forward for building development. •Opportunities for businesses to attract and retain customers through sustainability practices (brand loyalty). Local food network/recognition. The County could potentially support and create a network around this to encourage businesses to adopt sustainable practices. - Example: David Shaw is a music distributor and he is actively working on becoming more sustainable in their manufacturing and packaging practices to improve their brand and attract more business. •The County could provide resources such as networking sessions for businesses to share best practices and talk about cost, benefit, and analysis to help build out the conversation around sustainability practices. RESOURCE CONSERVATION • David Shaw's Yep Roc label company, is interested in installing solar panels on their warehouse roof but the initial investment is a bit of a hurdle. Solarize the Triangle- He suggests having incentives for businesses to convert to more sustainable power and even install electric vehicle chargers. He also has a palette disposal issue and would benefit from a reuse program, as would other similar businesses in the area. Interest in building out a reuse market for C&D. •There is a nonprofit organization called Don't Waste Durham5 that has implemented a program to work with local restaurants on using reusable takeout containers, and there may be interest from business owners in the County to participate in similar programs if they are financially viable. • Incentivizing reusable practices such as bringing your own bag and offering discounts for businesses that participate,ratherthan penalizing those who use plastic bags or take out containers, could be more effective in reducing waste. • Requiring new mixed-use spaces to have chargers for residents,would be important for addressing the issue of limited charging access in rural areas. BUILT ENVIRONMENT - Incentivizing LEED certification for construction through additional tax benefits as a means of ensuring that County standards are being followed. TRANSPORTATION •It would be helpful for businesses to have an EV playbook that guides them on the different levels of chargers,electrical capacity,and the process for installing EV chargers. s http://www.dontwastedurham.org 4 ORANGE COUNTY, NC • APPENDICES APPENDIX C • . REPORT• Having quarterly networking sessions for discussing public transportation options for large manufacturing businesses and school buses could be helpful in reaching climate goal •Working with the chamber networks to develop education programs around the Commuter Options program (Go Triangle program) • More traffic may push people to take public transit, but there are interesting options beyond traditional transit,such as Wilson,NC's microtransit program partially paid for by the community. The program offers "on-demand trips' ' with smaller vehicles and are affordable. • Providing more bike racks and water stations, to encourage people to use alternative transportation such as walking and biking • Encouraging the inclusion of bike racks or garages in new apartment construction and showers in office buildings to increase bike usage and accessibility. CLIMATE RESILIENCE •Consider using tools like the CDC's Social Vulnerability Index and programs like Fern Leaf to identify disadvantaged populations in flood-prone areas and prioritize protection of important community assets from a safety standpoint. •A discount or program to provide discounted generators for people with health issues who live in lower income areas would be helpful, especially since power outages can be a significant problem in those cases. • Providing places like spray pads, pools, misters and similar amenities in outdoor malls and dining areas that can offer relief for people who do not have air conditioning during extreme heat events. • Recommended to check out the Sustainable Development Code,6 a helpful website with sustainable development provisions by type, for resources on land use planning and zoning. • Newsletter and quarterly network events would be a good way to disseminate information to the business community. https://sustainablecitycode.org 5 ORANGE COUNTY, NC • APPENDICES APPENDIX C STAKEHOLDER REPORT Workshop#3 - Community and Environmental Priorities Date:: March 15 @ 1:00pm-2:30pm EST Location: Online via Zoom Attendee(s): • Blake Tedder,Assistant Director of Engagement, Duke Forest •Victor Lancaster • Melissa McCullough, Vice Chair Orange Co Climate Council Chair, Climate Action Coalition of Orange Co. • Kristin Prelipp, Orange County Community Relations • Bill Black, Co-founderof the Orange County Business OwnerAdvisory Team •Willim Ward KEY TAKEAWAYS: Climate Resilience •To identify emergency response center, we should look at potential for resiliency hub at community center; solar and community gardens, resource to community and educational resource - Communicate out?What is the plan? Especially to underserved communities - Emergency services dept has communications in that regard, and community engagement office - Social media announcements • Social media is used to get the word out when there are climate threats. For underserved communities, and for people who do not have access to social media, they rely on community leaders and non-profits, as well as churches to disseminate info. •1 out of 10 people speak Spanish as first language; important to tap into all communities and strengthen relationships • Need programs to educate the public on climate impacts. • Explore options for engaging Duke or other local providers to approve or install microgrids and discuss potential concepts for implementing microgrids. Duke Univ. created programs the County could apply for. • Melissa: expanding green infrastructure: lots relevant to education, but need to enable and expand green runoff in more diffuse way in order to address at the source; maybe tax incentives, or just get people to help in local neighborhoods; problems caused by what has been done in the past 6 ORANGE COUNTY, NC - APPENDICES APPENDIX C STAKEHOLDER REPORT Resource Conservation •Want to talk to Habitat about expanding reusable items networks so more can be reused in County •We should focus not just on where things go after purchase, but looking more upstream (ex.: using durables and reusable items). For example we could work with restaurants to build reuse program; identify partners/vendors, maybe have incentive program led by County • Priority is on collaborating with the community; leverage County education programs/resources •A curbside composting program is effective and becoming a standard practice, but requires education to emphasize its importance, and it can be replicated in OC. • Melissa is the chair of the local Sierra Club and is willing to act as a conduit and suggests the Sierra Club could have a role in developing and implementing the CAP.She mentioned creating a train-the-trainer model. Need to follow up with her. She would be open to the idea of reposting social media posts or leveraging their newsletter,to help with outreach. Built Environment • IRA (Inflation Reduction Act) could be a significant resource for non-profits, local governments, and businesses, but the summary is too long and requires someone to coordinate and educate groups on how to tap into it effectively. • County to develop a one-stop-shop type of website to educate on CAP and sustainability practices. • Advocate for low-income individuals regarding IRA funding, which flows through states, and suggests using state representatives or emailing the governor's office to ensure that the state does not drop the ball. • Natural gas is one of the biggest issues, and proactive County efforts are needed to help transition from gas to electric, which may require intervention and support in funding, resources, and branding. Orange County home preservation coalition could be a valuable partner to help low-income people navigate the transition. • Interest in Solarize the Triangle, but funding is currently a barrier. Need to have templates to secure funding and a 30% credit from the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) to expedite the request, which could be a significant incentive for developers. •The transition to EVs is slow and needs more focus on multi-unit dwellings and minimizing costs, along with finding ways to make charging more accessible • Exploring micro-mobility options like e-bikes and infrastructure incentives. • Implementing a policy/requirement for all-electric new construction may face political challenges • Need to make sure no disincentives for EV conversion, e,g. in the form of increased registration fees 7 ORANGE COUNTY, NC • APPENDICES APPENDIX C STAKEHOLDER REPORT Green Community • Breeze Farms serves as an incubator farm and a pilot for various sustainability features such as agro voltaics, EVSE, carbon sequestration, which presents a significant opportunity to weave climate action into discussions and explore how to best utilize the land •The branding around native and water-efficient landscapes will be very important •Audubon Society has programs/resources;could be good partner("OC protects our pollinators") • Promoting locally-sourced food is a low-hanging fruit and an easy win in the Climate Action Plan, as there are already many farmers markets and a unified front could be created to link them together •There is potential for an OC foods movement outside of restaurants. • Opportunities to improve the natural environment include fighting sprawl, joining initiatives such as the Eno New Hope working group, which focuses on protecting and linking lands, as well as protecting streams. •There is currently no value given to trees in Orange County and North Carolina, and exploring ways to quantify their value, such as through a Tree Master Plan, could be a potential recommendation for the Climate Action Plan. • Melissa suggests initiatives that promote transitioning lawns towards native landscaping, and recommends a program to accompany efforts to support pollinators. •There are currently no major obstacles for rainwater capture, and there are online resources available, but more hands-on workshops and exploration of programs such as those in California could be beneficial. The EPA EnviroAtlas is worth looking into Transportation • Need to find a better way to publicize County commuter program •The lack of bike lanes outside of Chapel Hill in the County and the high risk involved in using County roads are major barriers to walking and biking. Infrastructure improvements are necessary. •While it may be challenging and expensive, there is an opportunity to coordinate with land linkage efforts for infrastructure, although wildlife habitat may pose some challenges for bike lanes. • Bike infrastructure is a high priority, with a focus on creating an integrated network, securing funding sources, and linking opportunities with big employers, as well as exploring the possibility of converting abandoned railroads to bike/hike trails. 8 ORANGE COUNTY, NC - APPENDICES APPENDIX C STAKEHOLDER REPORT Workshop#4- Student Voices Date: March 23 @ 1:00pm-2:00pm EST Location: Online via Zoom Attendee(s): • Environmental Club @ University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill • 30 students participating in Climate Action Day KEY TAKEAWAYS: Resource Conservation • Stickers in bathrooms and on washing machines were suggested as a way to encourage water-saving behaviors and promote more efficient washing cycles. • Recycling bins were praised for being readily available in dorm rooms, while the addition of side-by-side recycling and trash bins in bathrooms was suggested for better waste separation. • Presence of recycling and composting systems in dining halls and highlighted the involvement of the Green Guides program in educating students about proper waste sorting. •The potential for implementing edible food recovery programs on campus was raised, as well as the focus on sustainability efforts by Carolina Dining Services. •Implementation of Water Conservation Measures: - Installing aerators in bathrooms and break rooms. - Exploring the possibility of using dual handles in bathrooms for water conservation. - Utilizing stickers in bathrooms and on washing machines to promote water-saving practices, such as adjusting washing cycles and reducing paper towel usage. •Effectiveness of Recycling System: - Recycling bins are provided in dorm rooms, but no trash cans are available. - More trash cans than recycling bins on campus. - Recycling and composting systems in dining halls. - Green Guides program educates students on waste sorting. - Accessibility of recycling facilities is considered good. •Improvement in Waste Disposal Infrastructure: - Suggestion for side-by-side recycling and trash bins in dorm rooms and bathrooms. - Benefits of a 3-bin system or separate recycling and trash bins in all locations. 9 ORANGE COUNTY, NC • APPENDICES APPENDIX C • . REPORT•Potential for Edible Food Recovery Programs: - Awareness of composting programs like Compost Mates. - Focus on sustainability in dining services, but no mention of edible food recovery programs. - Interest in exploring the possibility of implementing edible food recovery initiatives. Green Community • Incorporate green infrastructure practices, such as green roofs and rainwater collection systems, in campus buildings and facilities. • Promote native and water-efficient plantings for landscapes on campus, reducing the use of pesticides and fertilizers. • Explore collaborations with the local farm community to establish rooftop gardens and other innovative green initiatives on campus.For example,Eco-studio internships are focused on the edible campus gardens. Climate Resilience • Students considerclimate impactswhen making decisions about their future locations. • Usage of reflective paint and the installation of misters in outdoor spaces on campus to mitigate heat island effects and enhance comfort for students, faculty, and staff. • Assess the campus infrastructure to identify opportunities for incorporating stormwater catchment systems, swales, and vegetative solutions. These measures can help manage drought and flooding challenges, ensuring the availability and efficient use of water resources. Transportation • Acknowledgement that the Chapel Hill transit system has programs in place to promote bus usage • Program to reserve or rent a bike on campus so that students are able to bike to classes, or even off campus. • It was noted that charging stations are already available on campus, and efforts by organizations like Orange County Anytown are underway to increase their number. •The idea of providing rental electric vehicles to students for specific purposes was suggested as an appealing benefit. • Limited parking on campus promotes sustainable transportation. Built Environment •The Renewable Energy Fee at UNC, managed by the Renewable Energy Special Projects Committee (RSPC), was mentioned, highlighting its significant budget and successful project implementation. The RSPC is a student-run committee that generates project ideas, presents proposals, and votes on funding allocation. 10 ORANGE COUNTY, NC • APPENDICES APPENDIX C • . REPORT• Energy-saving measures implemented on campus included automated/sensor lights,solar panels on buildings,energy savings stickers,and low-flow showerheads. •The potential use of technology and apps for waste sorting, water conservation, and sustainable choices was mentioned, although specific examples were not identified. ADDITIONAL STUDENT OUTREACH • Bladen Currier,Orange County Sustainability Intern did an outreach event atUNC'sClimate Action Day on April 13-where she extrapolated survey questions and had students put a mark next to the ones they agreed with. 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Images on right: Student mural project from the outreach event. Images by Bladen Currier. 11 ORANGE COUNTY, NC • APPENDICES APPENDIX C STAKEHOLDER REPORT Workshops#5 - Staff Perspectives Date:April 20, 2023 @ 1:00pm-2:00pm EST Location: Online via Zoom Attendee(s): • Bruce Woody,Assistant Director of Solid Waste • Chad Phillips, Deputy Tax Assessor • Janice Tyler,Aging Director at Orange County Government • Rhea Colmar, Nurse • Caroline Hausler, Recycling Education and Outreach Coordinator • Amy Eckberg, Sustainability Program Manager KEY TAKEAWAYS: Resources Conservation • Inconsistency in Sustainable Resources across County Facilities:Discrepancies in resources across different County bathrooms were highlighted. Differences include the presence of automatic faucets and air blowers in some facilities but not all,which necessitates the need to consider the trade-offs when implementing sustainable solutions like installing electric hand dryers versus using paper towels, especially in older buildings. • Proposal for Composting: Composting was proposed as a potential addition to County buildings, although usage levels were uncertain. • Hybrid Working Model as a Resource Conservation Strategy: The newly approved hybrid working model was cited as a positive move towards conserving gas and reducing traffic. • Preference for No Towels to Support Conservation Efforts:In order to save money and reduce waste, it was proposed that the County phase out the use of towels in the restrooms. • Need for Facility Design Changes for Resource Conservation: Changes to facility design, like barrier-free entrances to restrooms, would be needed for some conservation measures. Challenges with temperature control were also noted, indicating room for optimization in heating and cooling systems. • Struggles with Recycling and Waste Management: Struggles with recycling and waste management were identified. Public education on what materials are recyclable was cited as a major challenge, with policy initiatives such as wastewise events proposed as potential solutions. 12 ORANGE COUNTY, NC • APPENDICES APPENDIX C • . - • - Green Community • Promotion of Native Plants and Natural Landscaping:The use of native plants and natural landscaping instead of maintaining green grass lawns was suggested, which could reduce chemical use and water consumption. The County was suggested to set an example for the community in this regard. •Appreciation for Local Farmers' Markets and Suggestions for Expansion: Local farmers' markets were appreciated and suggestions were made for bringing these markets to County buildings for easy access to County employees. Expansion of farmers' markets to underserved areas to tackle food deserts was also proposed. - Opportunities within Agricultural Space:There was a consensus on the potential to expand on initiatives within the agricultural or farming space. Climate Resiliency • Implementation of 2018 Assessment: One of the participants mentioned their involvement in the creation of the 2018 Assessment but was unsure whether the findings have been acted upon. It was suggested that the group needs to revisit the document, and potentially, COVID-19 has delayed some of the actions. • Emergency Response System: It was stated that the County is doing well with its emergency response system, with improvements seen over the past five years. The system is effectively alerting the community during emergencies and efficiently setting up shelters. • Assessment of Parking Spaces: A suggestion was made to assess the number of parking spaces and determine whether all are necessary. The idea is to reduce impervious pavement, lessen runoff, and create more green spaces. This approach aligns with a future vision of increased car-sharing, more public transportation, and reduced need for single-use vehicles. •Cycling Infrastructure: It was recommended that the County invest more in creating safe spaces for cycling and preserving green spaces.Thegoal istoencourage residents to use alternative modes of transportation, such as bicycles, rather than relying on cars. A participant shared a vision for a greenway that connects different parts of the County, providing a safe and eco-friendly transportation route. Transportation • Positive Response to EVs in County Fleet:The introduction of EVs in the County's fleet is seen as a positive step, with a recognition that more work needs to be done. • Expansion of Bike Lanes and Greenways: Upgrades to bike lanes in Chapel Hill were positively received. Staff suggest similar upgrades and the addition of long- distance greenways connecting all parts of Orange County. 13 ORANGE COUNTY, NC • APPENDICES APPENDIX C STAKEHOLDER REPORT • Improvements in Public Transportation: Public transportation in Northern Orange is limited, and bus routes/schedules don't cater to everyone. Smaller, energy- efficient buses or vans could be utilized during off-peak hours for a more reliable and frequent service. • Expansion of Mobility On-Demand Service:There is a call to expand the mobility on demand service,which is currently limited in terms of hours and locations it's offered. • Micro-vehicles over Larger Buses: A suggestion was made to switch from larger buses to smaller micro-vehicles in some areas. • Concerns About Aging County Fleet: Concerns were raised about the aging and non-functional vehicles in the Orange County fleet, with an ongoing effort to improve the fleet. Built Environment: • New Lighting System: A new $46,000 lighting system has been installed to a County's facility to significantly reduce electricity use. This system uses sensors to turn off lights when rooms are not in use. • Policy-Driven Energy Efficiency:There's a caIIfor policy-d riven approaches toenergy efficiency, including mandating energy-efficient buildings for new constructions. •Water-Saving Measures:Water-saving measures like aerators and low-flush toilets are mentioned as beneficial for energy saving. • Energy-Saving Education and Incentives: Staff suggest more education or incentives to encourage energy-saving behaviors such as turning off lights and computers when not in use. 14 ORANGE COUNTY, NC - APPENDICES APPENDIX C STAKEHOLDER - • - TE AC N o .o J`,6Wes[rike 0 COMMUNITY SYMPOSIUM DATE: September 6, 2023 LOCATION: Solid Waste Service building ATTENDEES: Bill Ward, Chloe Sherer, Max Feldman, Kathy Kaufman, John Lohnes, Lauren Zola, Melissa McCullough, Veronica Penn Beattie, Kristie Mather, Amy Eckberg, Sandrine Mallet, Kristin Cushman KEY TAKEAWAYS: When asked people to describe one word to combat climate change, here are the responses. • Public education • Outreach •Admit crisis • Energy • Standards • Proper funding - Presented the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) climate goals of 50%emission reductions by 2030 and 100% by 2050 - Top emission sectors are transportation and energy. Transportation emissions came from using both Google Environmental Insights and the unique data on Orange County's vehicle fleet. Each was inputted to Local Governments for Sustainability ICLEI Clearpath tool to model the emissions. The commuting data came from a 2019 Employee Commute Survey 15 ORANGE COUNTY, NC • APPENDICES APPENDIX C • . REPORT- Presented emissions forecast to 2050 using assumptions that Duke Energy will uphold their Renewable Energy Portfolio standards, It was discussed that the County will monitor Duke's progress toward this goal and adjust the planning process accordingly - Mentioned that there will be an online dashboard which will be presented at the November 2, 2023 Board of County Commissioners meeting - Presented Top 10 things the County should do FEEDBACK •There needs to be more detail around weatherization. How can we expand education on rebates • How to get past public education and into supporting actions - Joint statement to climate commitment among communities - Make part of emergency preparedness • Bill Ward reviewed the Top 10 and commented on the accuracy of the EV% of adoption. The consultant explained that she used NC Department of Transportation registration data from August 2023 •There was discussion around what the cost implications were on the TOP 10 •There was a suggestion to use the CAP to create a climate commitment campaign across multiple regional counties. It was felt that once the County Commissioners adopted the CAP, this campaign could really get people's attention on climate issues. • Discussed limitation for EV adoption.We need to better motivate residents by promoting rebates and increasing charging station connectivity. At the same time, we don't want to lose focus on the importance of hiking and walking. Melisas mentioned that she can walk or bike to most of her activities. - Greenbridge apartment complex needs chargers - what are the opportunities at multi unit dwellings?What role could the County play? - Consider infrastructure and spaces for developers to install EV chargers. •We discussed partners who were missing from our CAP list.Two came to mind: Carolina Advocates and the Sierra Club • Consider a 2024 climate resolution from the County Commissioners, similar to what they did for emergency services? • John discussed how to integrate climate into health care by forming a health advocacy group • John mentioned that there was no public transportation in the north. 16 ORANGE COUNTY, NC • APPENDICES APPENDIX C STAKEHOLDER REPORT In addition to the Symposium, a draft of the CAP was posted on the County's website, along with an online public comment portal. The County received 31 responses to the question "Please share your thoughts on the CAP" and each respondent was asked to rank the CAP as "Good: The CAP provides a clear path for a green future in Orange County.'; "Neutral: The CAP covers major points, but they could be improved." or "Bad: The CAP does not serve Orange County's needs." Comments from this process have been integrated into the final draft of the CAP. Orange County's intern, Chloe Sherer, participated in UNC-CH's Sustainability Social event held in September where she led education/outreach efforts promoting the draft CAP.Chloe talked to 30 people;many people scanned QR code linking to CAP and survey; lots of professionals there; 2 who are running for town council - Melissa McCullough and Theodore Nollert. She said feedback focused on urban planning, equity and the environment. She talked to someone who works with Action for the Climate Emergency (ACES) and some folks from the business school. One person she spoke to was very interested in advancing nuclear energy. Another one was from solar equity on UNC-CH campus. She also spoke to Sustainability staff at the Town of Chapel Hill and other Eco Studio Interns/students. 17 ORANGE COUNTY, NC • APPENDICES APPENDIX D FUNDING MECHANISMS Ae n d i x D: ORANG CE OUNTY The full description for all costs has been p p "" NORTH CAROLINA provided to the County,in a Climate Fundin Mechanisms Action Tracker,which accompanied this CAP,and is available upon request. •- Examples Description Special Benefit-Based Community Improvement Fee Levied on property owners to fund Assessments neighborhood enhancements. Special Taxes Open Space Preservation Tax Tax on properties for preserving County open spaces and green areas. Property Tax Increment Tax Increment Financing Incremental property tax revenue allocated for development projects. Utility User Tax Energy Consumption Tax County tax on utility service consumption such as natural gas. Parking Fee County Parking Revenue User fee for County-owned parking facilities. Enterprise Fund Waste Management Fund Self-sustaining funds generated from County-owned enterprises. Development Fee Land Use Development Charge Fee paid by developers for funding County infrastructure. Carbon Development Carbon Footprint Charge Fee based on carbon emissions from Impact Fee developments to fund mitigation. Congestion Pricing Traffic Congestion Charge User fee to reduce traffic congestion and raise funds. Green Bond Environmental Impact Bond Bonds for capital improvements with an environmental focus. Green Revolving Fund Sustainability Investment Fund An internal fund where savings from efficiency projects are reinvested in future green initiatives. Energy Performance Energy Efficiency Agreement Contracts for energy upgrades in Contracts(EPC) exchange for cash flows from a portion of savings. Public-Private Partnerships Renewable Energy Partnership County partnerships with private (PPP) companies for energy projects. Infrastructure as a Service Energy Infrastructure Lease Leasing energy infrastructure from (IAAS) private entities for funds. 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA 136 APPENDIX E FUNDING SOURCES Appendix E . Funding Sources ORANGE COUNTY NORTH CAROLINA 137 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA APPENDIX . - 141 Ad Federal / DOT DOT Surface Transportation Block Funding for public road, pedestrian, Grant Program bicycle infrastructure, and transit capital projects. Federal / DOT DOT Transportation Alternatives Funding for pedestrian/bicycle Program facilities, safe routes to schools, and other related projects /$20 million annually for NC Federal / DOT Charging and Fueling Funding for deployment of publicly Infrastructure (CFI) Grant Program accessible electric vehicle charging infrastructure and other alternative fueling infrastructure. Federal / DOE Energy Efficiency and Conservation Funding for local governments for Block Grant Program energy efficiency and conservation projects. Federal / DOE Energy Improvements in Rural or Funding for clean energy projects in Remote Areas (ERA) rural or remote areas aiming to improve energy systems, reduce emissions, modernize infrastructure, develop microgrids, and enhance energy efficiency. Funding varies based on project specifics. Federal / DOE Energizing Rural Communities A$15 million prize challenging Prize (American-Made Challenges) individuals and organizations to create plans or financing strategies for rural communities to enhance their energy systems and further clean energy projects. Federal / EPA Clean Diesel Funding Assistance Grants and rebates for clean diesel Program projects, up to 50%of cost. Federal / USDA Rural Energy for America Program Grants/Loans for agricultural producers and small businesses to purchase renewable energy systems; funding varies based on project. Federal / DOE Weatherization Assistance Provides funding to increase the Program (WAP) energy efficiency of homes. Typically, up to $6,500 per home. Federal/ EPA Diesel Emissions Reduction Act Grants to reduce diesel emissions; (DERA) varies based on project size. 1 ORANGE COUNTY, NC • APPENDICES APPENDIX E FUNDING SOURCES Geography/Agency Program Description Federal/ DHHS Low Income Home Energy Provides assistance to low-income Assistance Program (LIHEAP) households to help pay for energy bills and weatherization improvements Federal (tax credits and Inflation Reduction Act(IRA) Provides various tax credits, deductions) various programs: deductions,grants, loans and bonds. • The Empowering Rural America (New ERA)Clean • Energy Investment Tax Credit(ITC) • Clean Energy ITC Technology Neutral • Clean Energy Production Tax Credit (PTC) • Clean Energy Production Tax Credit (PTC)Technology Neutral • Commercial Clean Vehicle Tax Credit • Etc... Federal (tax credits and 179D for energy efficiency Section 179D of the U.S. tax code deductions) initiatives provides a tax deduction for building owners or designers who implement energy-efficient improvements in commercial buildings. Under Section 179D, eligible non-profit universities can claim a deduction of up to$1.88 per square foot for energy-efficient improvements made to their buildings.This includes upgrades to lighting, heating, cooling, and ventilation systems, as well as improvements to the building envelope, such as insulation and windows. Federal/ DOE Property Assessed Clean Energy Provides clean energy financing. (PACE) Financing Funding varies by program Federal/ EPA Diesel Emissions Reduction Act Grants and rebates to reduce harmful (DERA) Program emissions from diesel engines ($115 million for FY 22-23) Federal/ EPA Clean Heavy-Duty Vehicle Program Grants and rebates available for up to 100%of the costs associated with clean heavy-duty vehicles. Part of the Inflation Reduction Act. 2 ORANGE COUNTY, NC • APPENDICES APPENDIX E FUNDING SOURCES Geography/Agency Program Description Federal/ EPA Solar Energy System Tax credits Tax credits for solar water heaters and PV systems. Receive 30%of the total solar system costs as a federal tax credit. Federal/ FTA Grants for Buses and Bus Facilities Capital funding to replace, Program rehabilitate, and purchase buses and bus-related equipment Federal/ DOT RAISE grants Grants for transportation projects Federal/ FEMA FEMA Pre-Disaster Mitigation Grants to projects that implement Program long-term risk reduction from future hazards and climate events while reducing dependence on future federal disaster recovery assistance. Eligible projects include generator installation at critical facilities, eligible acquisition, elevation and mitigation reconstruction projects, and more State North Carolina's Utility Savings Promotes energy savings in the state. Initiative (USI) State Energy Star Plus State Rebate Provides rebates to residential Program customers for installing certain energy efficient appliances and equipment that are Energy Star certified. Rebates typically range from $50-$500 per appliance. State Energy Improvement Loan Low-interest loans to fund energy Program (EILP) efficiency, renewable energy, and water conservation projects for commercial, industrial, nonprofit, schools, and local government customers. State North Carolina Energy Efficiency Offers rebates for homes/businesses Rebates implementing energy-efficient solutions; amounts vary by project. State North Carolina Department of Funds for zero emission vehicle Environmental Quality(DEQ) infrastructure and transportation, $92 Volkswagen Settlement Mitigation million through 2027. Program 3 ORANGE COUNTY, NC - APPENDICES APPENDIX E_.A ,..FUNDING SOURCES Geography Agency Program Description State North Carolina Energy Office Rebates for purchasing energy Appliance Rebate Program efficient appliances. Varies based on products. State North Carolina GreenPower Payments for renewable energy Production Incentive produced;varies based on system size and energy generated. State North Carolina Green Business Offers grants and loans to small Fund businesses and farms for implementing renewable energy, energy efficiency, and other sustainable practices. State Clean Water State Revolving Fund Provides low-interest loans to commercial, industrial, nonprofits, schools, and local governments for funding a wide range of water infrastructure projects. Regional/Piedmont Piedmont Clean Energy Program Provides financial support for clean Authority energy initiatives. Regional/Piedmont Piedmont Together Zero Emission Planning grant from Duke Energy for Authority Vehicle Readiness Planning EV infrastructure development. Regional/Central Pines Central Pines Regional Council Free energy assessments and plan Regional Council Energy Planning&Technical development support for local Assistance governments. Local/OWASA Orange County Water and Sewer Offers rebates for water-efficient Authority (OWASA) Programs appliances and fixtures Local/Duke Energy Home Energy Improvement Offers rebates for qualified energy Program efficiency improvements; up to$600 per home for various improvements. Local/ Duke Energy Smart$aver Incentive Program On-bill financing program for certain energy efficiency improvements for homeowners and businesses. https://www.duke-energy.comhome/products/smart-saver 4 ORANGE COUNTY, NC • APPENDICES APPENDIX F COMPREHENSIVE Appendix Fm. Comprehensive Funding Plan ORANGE COUNTY NORTH CAROLINA The cost estimates are indicative and based on preliminary assessments, comparisons with similar programs, and expert input. Appendix F is meant to give a broad idea of the possible funding source(s)for each strategy.The sources are not exhaustive and maybe subject to change based on various factors such as inflation, specific requirements during the time of execution, emerging technological advancements, or adjustments in the scope of a given strategy. As we navigate the details of various grants and funding avenues, the allocation of dedicated staff resources cannot be overstated. A role such as a Grants Administrator is crucial for adeptly handling the nuances of grant processes and ensuring optimal use of the funds received. Allocating resources as part of the plan to such specialized staff positions underscores our commitment to both fiscal responsibility and the maximization of grant opportunities. 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA 142 APPENDIX F COMPREHENSIVE POTENTIALIMPLEMENTATION ESTIMATED COST POSSIBLE STRATEGY YEAR COST _A LEAD ASSUMPTION FUNDING PARTNERS All SOURCE(S) 24 • $50k for comprehensive study. TDM Coordinator, $20k for Orange County T 1.3 Explore Transportation; innovative public 2024 $170,000 Transportation stakeholder engagementDOT programs EVs for Orange; transportation options . "TransLoc." $100k to expand rideshare app MOD,including features vehicles and other operational costs. $10k for marketing TDM Coordinator, T 2.1 Initiate campaigns Orange County pilot marketing (development and Transportation; campaigns that use deployment). PIO office to innovative means/ Operating come up with methods to inform 2024 $20,000 Transportation $10k for and Capital a"Just the community about partnering budgets Bus"or similar public transportation activities campaign(s), options/programs/ and program distribute through incentives participation communication incentives. networks T 2.2 Partner with chamber networks and the Regional Transportation Hillsborough- Alliance to develop Orange County education programs 0.1 FTE for Operating Chamber of program Commerce, around the Orange 2024 $7,000 Transportation development and and Capital Chapel Hill- County Commuter budgets Options program and coordination. Carrboro similar multimodal Chamber of transportation Commerce solutions for private businesses T 3.1 Publicize and DEAPR,Climate promote greenway Action Coalition trails and multi-modal of Orange transit lanes as an $10k to cross- Co.;local bike alternative means of promote and Operating shops,Carolina transportation through 2024 $10,000 DEAPR develop new and Capital Tarwheels; Parks and Recreation promotional budgets BikeWalkNC; educational programs, materials and Chapel Hill special events, events. Cycling; Bicycle promotions,outreach Alliance of and marketing efforts Chapel Hill $210k for purchase of 3 new T 4.1 Continue efforts agEVs to replace the IRA fundingng fleet.i to introduce more EVs 2024 $210,000 Transportation DOT and DOE Internal into the County's fleet $70,000 per programs Rivian R1Ttruck according to caredge.com. 1 ORANGE COUNTY, NC • APPENDICES APPENDIX F COMPREHENSIVE IMPLEMENTATION ESTIMATED COST OTENTIAL YEAR COST ASSUMPTIM POSSIBLE 'J�ARTNERS STRATEGY FUNDING IWO SOURCE(S) $50kfor grant applications, Car dealers development of provide en T 4.2 Accelerate the EV playboen and DOT and DOE incentives;EVS transition to EVs in the for Orange; rams community through 2024 $72,000 Sustainability $20kfor partnerships. pro IRAgunding Climate Action advocacy,education Coalition of and awareness landscaping and Orange Co. screening around Triangle Clean new charging Cities Coalition stations. 0.1 FTE to conduct Chapel Hill- T5.1 Expand the Sustainability Carrboro Public "Driving is Exhausting" Solid Waste outreach($7,000) Operating Schools;Orange public education 2024 $10,000 and$3,000 and Capital Services County Schools; campaign Transportation for marketing/ budgets PTAs;Triangle signage materials Clean Cities 0.1 FTE for policy management and implementation BE 1.1 Continue to ($7,000), strengthen policies for Asset $100,000 per Green yearly reductions in 2024 $157,000 Management facility upgrade Revolving Internal energy use in County Services (assumed 2 Fund operations facilities per year), and$50,000 for annual audits and assessments. EmPOWERment, 0.2 FTE/year Duke Energy, BE 2.2 Explore ($14,000) Dominion Energy partnerships and for program North Carolina, funding opportunities participation Operating Piedmont to address barriers and negotiating Electric to renewable energy 2024 $14,000 Sustainability partnerships, and Capital Cooperative, adoption,tapping into acquiring funding Budgets Triangle Inflation Reduction and implementing Sustainability Act(IRA)funding renewable energy Partnership,NC projects. Clean Energy Fund BE 2.3 Leverage parking lots to apply Asset solar canopies to Management Cost Integrated in Solar siting increase renewable 2024 Staff Time N/A Services, BE 2.1. survey consultant energy generation and to combat urban heat Sustainability island effects 2 ORANGE COUNTY, NC • APPENDICES APPENDIX F COMPREHENSIVE IMPLEMENTATION ESTIMATED COST POSSIBLE ENTIAL STRATEGY L FUNDING OT YEAR COST ASSUMPTION SOURCE(S) 1JARTNERS BE 2.4 Continue to release rounds of the "Solarize the Triangle" Operating Triangle program which would .05 F-1 E for work to install solar on 2024 $3,500 Sustainability coordination and Capital Sustainability residences,businesses Budgets Partnership and nonprofits in Orange County BE 2.5 Implement an expedited permitting process for all new 2024 Staff time Planning N/A N/A Internal solar projects across the County BE 2.6 Convene stakeholders to attend Costs for planning, Orange County a Focus Group/design executing, Ag Summit,NC charette to discuss Sustainability, summarizing Clean Technology capacity,design and 2024 $25,000 Cooperative and designing a Capital Center,UNC- implementation of Extension conceptual plan Budget CH,Piedmont agro voltaics and for a pilot agro Electric community solar voltaic program Cooperative projects BE 3.1 Facilitate the transition from natural $50,000 for gas to electricity, public education Local utility ESCOs,Utility providing support 2024 $50,000 Sustainability and outreach and state companies, in terms of funding, programs OCHPC resources,and campaigns. branding BE 4.1 Re-design sustainability website for one-stop-shop $30,000 for information that website redesign, Operating educates public $20,000 for and capital on the County's 2024 $60,000 Sustainability content creation, budgets Internal Climate Action Plan and$10,000 and sustainability for ongoing practices,offering a maintenance and centralized platform updates. for information and resources 0.1 FTE to manage RC 1.4 Identify programs and future programs, partnerships initiatives,facilities, ($7,000). and infrastructure to achieve the Zero $5,000 for Operating Waste goal,as defined Solid Waste program and capital by the County,while 2024 $13,000 Services development, budgets Waste hauler ensuring the long- including workshops. term financial stability of the County's solid $1,000 for waste and recycling outreach program materials and promotion. 3 ORANGE COUNTY, NC • APPENDICES APPENDIX F COMPREHENSIVE IMPLEMENTATION ESTIMATED COST POSSIBLE ENTIAL STRATEGY LEAD FUNDING OT PF YEAR COST�=L ASSUMPTION SOURCE(S) $ARTNERS $500 per device RC 2.1 Continue to installations, install water-saving assuming 3 devices such as devices per State(DEQ) aerators and dual facility upgraded grants handles in County Asset each year and 5Operating Orange County facilities and broaden 2024 $37,500 Management facilities for a total and Capital Water and Sewer these efforts to include Services review anew an.Regularandbudgets Authority other water-saving re technologies;in upgrade to newer water-saving partnership with all technologies water providers assumed to be $30,000. $70,000 for educational materials and RC 2.2 Collaborate signage(10 signsa with educational t$7,000 each). $500 for stickers. Operating institutions and the DEAPR, Orange County wider community to 2024 $95,500 Community $25,000villin for and capital Water and Sewer increase awareness Relations providing sere budgets Authority,UNC about water-saving water conservation practices kits(at$25 per kit) in partnership with Orange County Water and Sewer Authority. RC 3.1 Transition at least one procurement Incremental cost item annually Finance and for procurement to a recyclable, 2024 Staff Time Administrative adjustments N/A Internal compostable,non Services and sustainable landfill option through sourcing will vary 2030 RC 3.2 Eliminate purchasing of Incremental cost disposable or single- 2031 Staff Time All for procurement use plastics for adjustments will NSA Internal nonessential uses for vary County operations Costs of developing GC 6.1 Develop educational programs and resources educational resources ($10,000), to promote native organizing landscaping, community community gardens Cooperative workshops Operating Audubon and support 2024 $40,000 Extension, ($10,000),and and Capital Society,Master pollinators,potentially DEAPR establishing budgets Gardeners in partnership with a recognition organizations like the program for Audubon Society and households and Master Gardeners businesses that adopt native landscaping ($20,000). 4 ORANGE COUNTY, NC • APPENDICES APPENDIX F COMPREHENSIVE POTENTIALIMPLEMENTATION ESTIMATED COST POSSIBLE STRATEGY YEAR COST LEAD ASSUMPTION FUNDING PARTNERS JIL SOURCE(S) Costs for the organization and promotion of 5 more workshops on rainwater capture each year($2,000 per workshop x 10= $20,000/year). GC 6.2 Expand Costs for workshops and distributing 100 resources for free rainwater EPA's rainwater capture, Cooperative capture kits at Operating EnviroAtlas, learning from 2024 $45,000 Extension, each workshop and Capital Master successful programs DEAPR (50 kits x$100 budgets Gardeners in other regions and per kit=$5,000/ leveraging tools like workshop x 5 the EPA's EnviroAtlas workshops/year). Costs for showcasing and replicating rainwater capture infrastructure at the Davis Center and additional County facilities ($10,000). GC 6.5 Expand Community Climate Action Grant program At Board to provide more 2024 Staff Time Sustainability of County N/A funding to community Commissioner projects that support (BOCC)discretion the strategies in this CAP EI Centro Generator Hispano, discount program Nami Orange development cost: County.PORCH CR 2.3 Implement $10,000. Hillsborough, a program for Annual Orange County discounted battery Emergency information Federal(EPA) Rescue Mission, Services, and state Orange powered generators campaign cost: for lower-income 2032 $80,000 Social $20,000/year. grants County Home residents with health Services, Operating Preservation Housing, Generator and capital Coalition, issues who may be Aging incentives for 100 budgets Marion Cheek affected by power lower-income Jackson Center, outages residents annually Orange County (at$500 off Community per generator): Centers,Refugee $50,000/year. Community Partnership 5 ORANGE COUNTY, NC • APPENDICES 151 EST COST POSS POTENTIAL STRATEAW=FMN COS IrD ASSUMPTION FUNDTNL. PARTNERS "Raleigh Rainwater Rewards"program development cost: CR 3.1 Develop $30,000. BOCC- School districts, Sustainability, Annual public appropriated programs to educate community 2024 $44,000 Community events cost: funds and the public on climate groups and the impacts Relations $4,000/year. general grant library Community opportunities organization partnership cost: $10,000/year. CR 3.4 Increase the number of vendors who are small business-owned or run 2024 Staff Time Planning N/A N/A Internal by people of minority identities as much as possible Outreach program for vulnerable EI Centro CR 4.1 Continue populations cost: Hispano, outreach and Aging,Social 000., $10 Services, Operating Nami Orange comprehensive 2024 $15,000 Health Survey and and Capital County.PORCH care strategies for outreach to budgets Hillsborough, vulnerable populations Department vulnerable Orange County populations cost: Rescue Mission $5,000/year. CR 6.1 Incorporate Asset climate preparedness Management Maintenance cost Operating for climate-ready into County programs, 2024 $20,000 Services, and Capital Internal operations,and Sustainability, County buildings: budgets maintenance protocols Emergency $20,000/year. Services CR 6.2 Integrate CAP goals into County All projects as an order of 2024 Staff Time Departments N/A N/A Internal business CR 6.3 Provide funding for more 2 FTE in addition Operating sustainability staff in Finance and to Sustainability Budget Community order to implement 2024 $140,000 Administrative Program Manager Internal strategies and Services and grant Climate provide community administrator Action Grant outreach Program 6 ORANGE COUNTY, NC • APPENDICES APPENDIX F COMPREHENSIVE IMPLEMENTATION ESTIMATED COST POSSIBLE IIAORTENTIAL STRATEGY YEAR COST LEAD ASSUMPTION41 FUNDING TNERS 2025 ME BE 1.4 Promote energy-saving $10,000/year behaviors through Asset Manage- for development Operating comprehensive 2025 $10,000 ment Services/ and distribution and Capital Internal education and Sustainability of educational Budgets materials incentive programs 0.2 FTE/year ($20,000) BE 2.1 Proactively for program Duke Energy adopt and expand the Sustainability, oversight, Dominion Energy use of clean energyAsset $50,000/year for Federal Grants 2025 $170,000 conducting solar FEMA North Carolina solutions within Management Piedmont County facilities and Services siting surveys, programs Electric operations $100,000/year Cooperative for adding battery p storage to critical facilities $10,000 for EI Centro BE 4.3 Develop training of Hispano, Climate volunteer energy ambassadors, Action Coalition ambassador program. $10,000 for Operating of Orange Use ambassadors to 2025 $30,000 Sustainability program and capital Co.,Orange provide education management, budgets County Home about energy saving and$10,000 Preservation tips and resources for community Coalition, outreach events. Commission for the Environment RC 1.1 Expand the existing reuse network with partner organizations, State(DEQ) Waste hauler, improving the ability grants Solid Waste to divert waste and Solid Waste Solid Waste Operating Convenience increase the reuse 2025 Staff Time Services Master Plan and Capital Centers,Climate of items within the budgets Action Coalition County;as outlined in of Orange Co. the 2023-2045 Solid Waste Master Plan(in support of BE 4.1) 0.1 FTE to manage programs and partnerships RC 1.2 Partner with ($7,000). local businesses $10,000 for and nonprofit promotion and Climate Action organizations to build partnership State(DEQ) Coalition of a comprehensive development. grants Orange Co., reuse program for 2025 $87,000 Sustainability $70,000 for Operating Community items such as pallets, program setup and Capital Worx,Chamber takeout containers, and maintenance, budgets of Commerces electronics and school including a supplies regional swap-out/ recycling program for replacing gas-powered lawn equipment. 7 ORANGE COUNTY, NC • APPENDICES APPENDIX F COMPREHENSIVE STRATEGY YEAR COST LEAD ASSUMpT"jON FUND11BNL; �AORT TNERS AL SOURCE(S) GC 1.1 Encourage and prioritize the conservation of green spaces in the County Sustainability, 5-year land Land North Carolina to serve as rural 2025 $40,000 DEAPR, conservation plan Conservation State Climate buffers against climate impacts,continuing Planning cost:$40,000 Fund Office the goal of conserving a significant portion of total County land area GC 1.2 Continue and It seems the enforce policies that ordinances preserve a significant are already in Cooperative percentage of place,so no cost Extension, Planning, Eno River acreage from new 2025 Staff Time DEAPR required,only N/A developments,with an enforcement, Association, Triangle Land emphasis on natural which should landscapes and native technically be in Conservancy plants the budget Costs of enhancing branding of locally GC 4.1 Strengthen sourced food and Refugee the branding and focus on building Community promotion of locally a stronger ag Operating Partnership, sourced food,linking tourism network and Capital together existing Cooperative Soil&Water g g ($10,000),hosting budgets 2025 $40,000 Extension, Conservation farmers'markets and gardening Explore creating a unified DEAPR workshops Agricultural District, Food front to support an ($10,000),and Grants Bank,Seccoo nd Orange County foods developing an Harvest Food movement online platform Bank linking all farmers' markets in the County($20,000). Costs of hosting training workshops Eno River GC 5.1 Encourage for farmers on the use of County sustainable Association, land for sustainable farming practices Soil&Water farming practices and Cooperative ($15,000),offering Operating Conservation education,leveraging 2025 $40,000 Extension, incentives for and Capital District,Ag DEAPR budgets Summit, Breeze Farms as a farmers practicing model for sustainable sustainable Carolina Farm farming farming on County Stewardship land($500 per Association incentive X 50 farms=$25,000) CR 1.1 Conduct a Heat Sustainability, Heat Island Island Mapping Study 2025 $20,000 Emergency Mapping Study State grants Services cost:$20,000 8 ORANGE COUNTY, NC . APPENDICES APPENDIX F COMPREHENSIVE POTENTIALIMPLEMENTATION ESTIMATED Cos POSSIBLE STRATEGY LEAD T4 FUNDING YEAR COST ASS6MPMT10N % SOURCE(S) PARTNERS CR 2.1 Continue Annual reviews updating the FEMA Hazard Mitigation Plan and updates cost: year and ensure effective $55,000 $56,650 Emergency Annual r$20,000port FEMA grants Internal implementation of the Services Annual report Eno-Haw Regional production cost: $15,000/year Hazard Mitigation Plan Average cost of$15,000 per facility for lighting upgrades. Green 10 facilities to Revolving BE 1.2 Continue the be upgraded per Fund total the oa transition to efficient Asset year, Energy Internal,ESCOs lighting t for gng lighting green 2026 $200,000 Management cosEfficiency Duke Energy d Services, upgrades comes infrastructure across Grants Saver Program all County facilities Sustainability to$150,000. Programs with The remaining local utility $50,000 is for and U.S.DOE annual evaluations and green infrastructure measures. 0.1 FTE/year BE 1.3 Advocate ($10,000) for policy-driven for policy measures for energy implementation, efficiency in new $10,000 for construction for Asset initial policy Programs with County facilities 2026 $100,000 Management development, U.S. DOE Internal by recognizing Services $30,000/year developers at the for training, Board of County $50,000/year Commissioner for compliance meetings monitoring and other costs. $50,000 for program development, BE 4.2 Develop a $50,000 IRA funding Green Business program to support for program businesses in adopting 2026 $150,000 Sustainability management, for charging Program Best sustainable practices $50,000 for infrastructure Practices general business sustainability incentives. BE 5.3 Encourage County staff to 0.1 FTE/year IRA funding (Low-Carbon research green ($10,000)for Transportation building materials/ additional staff methods in order to 2025 $130,000 Planning and training, Materials Internal Grants conduct engineering $120,000 for work in-house to lower salary increase program)and LEED credits cost 9 ORANGE COUNTY, NC - APPENDICES Amd APPENDIX F COMPREHENSIVE IMPLEMENTATION ESTIMATED OST POSSIBLE ENTIAL STRATEGY LEAD FUNDING OT YEAR COST IN SSUMPTION SOURCE(S) fRTNERS 0.1 FTE to liaise with waste hauler and conduct audit ($7,000). RC 1.7 Work with $15k for waste the Solid Waste hauler fees to Solid Waste Department to Solid Waste conduct the audit. Operating Services,Waste 2026 $23,000 $1k for developingand Capital conduct a post Services hauler;build into consumer waste audit and maintaining budgets annual Franchise of County facilities a list of non- recyclable items, including any necessary training or communication materials. GC 6.6 Transition municipal off-road fossil fuel engines (landscaping 50 swaps of equipment, landscape DEAPR, Operating construction equipment at equipment, 2026 $100,000 Solid Waste $2,000 per piece; and capital Internal recreational vehicles) Services tax rebates of 30% budgets to electric options and (range pricing) require that County contractors use electric options EI Centro Hispano, Nami Orange CR 2.2 Develop and County.PORCH promote a clear Hillsborough, communication plan Communication Orange County for underserved Emergency plan development Operating Rescue Mission, communities during Services, cost:$10,000. Orange climate threats, 2026 $34,000 Aging' budgets Social Monthly training and capital County Home leveraging social Services session costs: Preservation media,community $24,000/year. Coalition, leaders,non-profits, Marion Cheek and churches Jackson Center, Orange County Community Centers 27 ' 0.1 FTE to oversee the program and liaise with RC 1.3 Promote partners($7,000). policies and incentives $20,000 for legal Operating to eliminate non- and Capital Solid Waste fees. essential single-use 2027 $48,410 Servicesbudgets Internal plastics and prioritize $20,000 for reusable food ware promotion, and utensils. enforcement,and partnership with the Green To Go program. 10 ORANGE COUNTY, INC • APPENDICES APPENDIX F COMPREHENSIVE POTENTIALIMPLEMENTATION ESTIMATED COST POSSIBLE STRATEGY YEAR COST LEAD ASSUMPTIONN FUNDING PARTNERS Costs of transitioning landscaping at two County GC 1.3 Reduce/ buildings per eliminate amount of year($80,000), mowed/manicured installing Operating Soil&Water lawns on County rainwater and Capital Conservation properties;replace 2027 $120,000 DEAPR collection systems budgets District, with native pollinator in two County Cooperative gardens,native buildings per year Extension grasses ($20,000),and organizing an event showcasing County's green infrastructure ($10,000). CR 2.1 Expand the use 5-year green UNC,Durham of green infrastructure Tech research, to manage Sustainability, infrastructure plan development cost: Upper Neuse Community stormwater runoff, DEAPR,Asset $30,00River Basin Climate considering incentives 2027 $40,000 Management Resear0.ch Association Action grant to encourage Services Research funds funding,Urban implementation in partnership cost: Sustainability local neighborhoods. $10000/ Sustainability Solutions Ecosystem restoration plan CR 3.2 Assess cost:$40,000. strategies for reducing Sustainability, Mural creation EPA grants The Triangle impacts of climate 2027 $60,000 Asset cost:$5,000/year Parks and Climate change on municipal Management ($10/sq ft for 500 Recreation Resilience and community Services sq ft) Trust Fund Partnership infrastructure Alternative cooling strategies cost: $10,000/year. 11 ORANGE COUNTY, NC • APPENDICES APPENDIX F COMPREHENSIVE4a _AL IMPLEMENTATION ESTIMATED JOST POSSIBLE IPOTENTIAL STRATEGY YEAR COST LEADA SSUMPTION FUNDING iARTNERS . 0.5 FTE for project coordination and management Orange ($35,000). County Public $50,000 for Transportation, consultant fee GoTriangle, T 1.1 Continue for updates and Durham-Chapel updating and strategy design. U.S.FTA/DOT Hill Metropolitan $120,000 for Planning executing the Orange programs County Transit Plan, 2028 $305,000 Transportation implementation Operating Organization of changes to addressing service and Capital (DCHC-MPO), gaps in Northern OC address service budgets Chapel Hill UNC- and scheduling issues. gaps and extended Transit,UNC- services(assuming Chapel Hill upgrades in and the towns infrastructure, of Chapel Hill, vehicles,and Carrboro and technologies). Hillsborough 100,000 for TDM Coordinator. T 3.2 Create a micro- mobilitysubsidy $500 subsidy TDM Coordinator program that provides per e-bike,with a to work with EI higher subsidies for target to subsidize Centro Hispano, low income residents 2028 $500,000 Sustainability/ 1,000 e-bikes. State Rogers-Eubanks town and county-wide. Transportation Subsidy money programs Neighborhood Similar to what City can come from Association, of Raleigh and Denver state and federal Marion Cheek have done programs. Jackson Center 0.2 FTE to manage programs and relationships with RC 1.5 Evaluate haulers($14,000). the potential of a curbside composting $30,000 for State(DEQ) Internal,waste program,backed feasibility study. grants hauler,Waste by a County-led 2028 $64,000 Solid Waste $20,000 for Operating Reduction educational campaign Services education and Capital Partners to on the importance campaign budgets conduct audits and benefits of development, composting delivery and collaboration with hauler for campaign. 12 ORANGE COUNTY, NC • APPENDICES 158 APPENDIX F COMPREHENSIVE FUNDING PLAN IMPLEMENTATION ESTIMATED COST POSSIBLE ENTIAL STRATEGY YEAR COST LEAD ASSUMPTION FUNDING OT TNERS a A�� I[ 0.1 FTE to manage programs and relationships with Table Feeding partners($7,000). Local Hungry RC 1.6 Examine the $10,000 for State(DEQ) Kids,Orange implementation of an program grants County Food edible food recovery development. Operating Council,OC Food program,potentially in 2028 $32,000 Solid Waste $5,000 for and Capital Bank,Second partnership with local Services outreach materials budgets Harvest Food restaurants and food and promotion. USDA Bank of Orange pantries $10,000 to work programs County,Orange with Orange County's Food County's Food Assistance Assistance Program Program for program expansion GC 3.1 Expand and promote Costs for initiatives within the launching new agricultural space, Cooperative initiatives or Operating Orange potentially including Extension, collaborations and Capital County Master collaborations with 2028 $25,000 Economic with local farms budgets Gardeners,Good local farms and each year($5,000 Explore Agricultural e County Development, g y DEAPR per initiative x 2 Community Practices(GAP) Master Gardeners for initiatives/year= Garden Grants Certification innovative practices $10,000/year for like rooftop gardens 2.5 years) and agro voltaics. CR 3.3 Follow through Resilience on recommendations Assessment from the Triangle Operating Emergency recommendation The Triangle Regional Resilience review cost: and Capital Climate Assessment,ensuring 2028 $33,000 Services/ budgets Sustainability/ $10,000. Resilience its findings are acted upon and incorporated Planning Urban heat Partnership into ongoing climate mapping study cost:$20,000. resilience efforts • $50k for feasibility study.$200k for DOT and DOE a pilot program, programs Rental car T 4.3 Explore the idea7 including IRA funding companies; of providing rental Operating EVS for Orange' EVs as an additional 2029 $280,000 Sustainability purchasing EVs, and Capital Climate Action transportation option establishing budgets Coalition of rental locations, Car Orange Co. and promotional Companies activities. Costs of developing a GC 2.1 Create a Tree Master Operating Tree Master Plan, Plan($60,000), and Capital Soil&Water quantifying the value and organizing Conservation of trees to preserve 2029 $110,000 DEAPR an annual tree budgets District, giveaway and increase tree Explore g y program, Conservation Commission for cover across the native plant sale/ Trust Grants the Environment County. seed giveaways (1,000 giveaways @$50=$50,000). 13 ORANGE COUNTY, NC • APPENDICES APPENDIX F COMPREHENSIVE POTENTIALIMPLEMENTATION ESTIMATED COST POSSIBLE STRATEGY YEAR COST LEAD ASSUMPTION FUNDING PARTNERS Al Jim SOURCE(S) 2030 $30,000 for legal and consulting fees to add a requirement that all irrigation use recycled water in new developments. State(DEQ) RC 2.4 Transition 20% Planning $100,000 to of the community grants Orange County water supply to 2030 $130,000 Asset expand OrangeManagement Water and Sewer Operating Water and Sewer recycled water by Services WAuthority recycled and Capital Authority Y g 2035 and reuse water budgets programs into County facilities,if primary recycled water lines are already in place ($40/foot'"2500 feet). RC 3.3 Establish Sustainable Materials Finance and Administrative 0.1 FTE for Purchasing Guidelines guidelines Operating with a list of 2030 $7,000 Services Asset development and Capital Best Practices construction materials and enforcement budgets with low embodied Management ($7000). GHG emissions Services GC 6.3 Utilize the County's existing Costs of Lands Legacy developing Program to conserve educational important natural and resources on cultural resources, land and stream Eno River working with the Eno- protection Operating Association, New Hope Landscape 2030 $20,000 DEAPR ($10,000),and and Capital Soil&Water Conservation Plan implementing a budgets Conservation and other initiatives volunteer program District to improve the natural for natural environment through environment protection and linkage protection of lands and stream ($10,000). protection 14 ORANGE COUNTY, NC • APPENDICES Amd APPENDIX F COMPREHENSIVE IMPLEMENTATION ESTIMATED OST POSSIBLE JkPOTENTIAL STRATEGY LEAD FUNDING YEAR COST As SSUMPTION SOURCE(S) JrARTNERS Costs for identification of potential public facilities for Orange County resilience hubs: Public Library, $10,000. Rogers Road Emergency Cost for preparing Community CR 2.4 Identify,fund, Services/ these facilities to and prepare existing Center, Sustainability, serve as resilience FEMA grants, and new public 2030 $212,000 Asset hubs:$200000DOE Grants Efland Cheeks , . facilities to serve as Community for quarterly resilience hubs Management Costs a y Center, Services resilience hub preparation and Cedar Grove training sessions Community for facility staff: Center $500 per session x 4 sessions/year _$2,000/year. 2031 Cost of$7,000 per year for LEED certification for two new buildings annually(2 buildings x$3,500 BE 5.1 Formalize per building= and enhance the Asset $7,000)over a commitmentto 2031 $22,000 Management 10-year span, N/A Internal achieving LEED Services/ plus$15,000 standards for County Planning in contingency facilities for potential additional costs related to standard updates, inspections, or additional certifications. BE 5.2 Encourage the use of geothermal $600,000 for heat ground-source heat Asset pump installation Management in 3 buildings, pumps in more County 2031 $700,000 IRA funding Internal, ESCOs buildings,based on Services/ $100,000 for the success of current Planning infrastructure implementations improvements. RC 2.3 Analyze 0.1 FTE to conduct facility design and audits and usage to pinpoint implement savings State grants Asset Orange County opportunities for 2031 $52,000 Management measures($7,000). Operating Water and Sewer water conservation, Services $45,000 for and Capital Authority including restrooms annual audit and budgets and optimized heating implementation and cooling systems costs at 3 facilities. 15 ORANGE COUNTY, NC • APPENDICES 161 IMPLEMENTATION ESTIMATED COST POSSIBLE POTENTIAL STRATEGY YEAR COST LEAD ASSUMPTION FUNDING PARTNERS 2032 GC 6.4 Convert abandoned railroad corridors and integrate into bike/ Eno River hike trail networks This number came Operating Association, bringing about 2032 per mil00 Rails Trails DEAPR directly from the and Capital Soil&Water positive impacts per mile v budgets Conservation on mental health, initiative. District transportation emissions,and the economy Cost for implementing porous paving Cooperative projects:$10 per square footThis Extension, . CR 4.3 Expand Soil&Water green infrastructure will vary based Federal(EPA) Conservation program to reduce on the size and grants District,Eno River impermeable surface 2032 $50,000 complexity of Operating Association, If areas and capture the project. and Capital Triangle Land runoff from paved we assume that budgets Conservancy, areas the project will Urban cover an area of Sustainability 5,000 square Solutions feet per year,the annual cost will be $50,000. 16 ORANGE COUNTY, NC • APPENDICES ABAU:adjusted business-as-usual ESCO:Energy Service Company MW:megawatt BAU:business-as-usual EV:electric vehicle MWH:megawatt hours BOCC: Board of County EVSE:electric vehicle supply NC: North Carolina Commissioners equipment N20:Nitrous oxide Btu:British thermal unit FEMA:Federal Emergency Management Agency OC:Orange County CAFE Standards:Corporate Average Fuel Economy Standards FTA:Federal Transit Administration OCCO:Orange County Commuter Options CAP:Climate Action Plan GAP Certification:Good Agricultural Practices Certification OWASA:Orange Water and Sewer CCAG:Community Climate Action Authority Grant Program GHG:greenhouse gas PACE:Property Assessed Clean C&D:construction and demolition GI:green infrastructure Energy CDC:Center for Disease Control GWP:global warming potential PFCs:Perfluorocarbons CFE:Commission for the Environment HB: House Bill PIO: Public Information Office CFI:Charging and fueling HFCs:Hydrofluorocarbons PORCH Hillsborough:Food Security infrastructure Community Organization HGL:Hydrocarbon Gas Liquids CH4:methane HOA:Homeowner Association PPP:public-private partnerships CO2:carbon dioxide PTA:Parent-Teacher Association HVAC:heating,ventilation,&air CO2e:carbon dioxide equivalent conditioning PTC:Production Tax Credit DCHC-MPO:Durham-Chapel Hill ICLEI:International Council for Local RAISE:Rebuilding American Carrboro Metropolitan Planning Environmental Initiatives Infrastructure with Sustainability and Organization Equity IPCC:Intergovernmental Panel on DEAPR: Department of Environment, Climate Change RECs: Renewable Energy Certificates Agriculture, Parks, and Recreation IRA:Inflation Reduction Act RFP:request for proposals DEQ:Department of Environmental Quality ITC: Investment Tax Credit RSPC:Renewable Energy Special kg N:kilograms of nitrogen Projects Committee DERA:Diesel Emissions Reduction SF6:Sulfur hexafluoride Act kW:kilowatt DOT:Department of Transportation kWh:kilowatt hours SFC:specific fuel consumption DOE:Department of Energy LEED:Leadership in Energy and SRVC:South East Reliability Corporation (SERC)Virginia/Carolina EIA:Energy Information Environmental Design Administration LGO:local government operations TDM:transportation demandmanagement EIE: Environmental Insights Explorer LIHEAP:Low Income Home Energy UNC:University of North Carolina EILP:Energy Improvement Loan Assistance Program USDA:United States Department of Program LMI:low-to-moderate income Agriculture EO:Executive Order LPG: Liquid Petroleum Gas USI:Utility Savings Initiative EPA:Environmental Protection MOD:Mobility on Demand VMT:vehicle miles traveled Agency MMBtu:one million British thermal WAP:Weatherization Assistance EPC:Energy Performance Contracts units Program ERA:Energy Improvements in Rural MSW:municipal solid waste or Remote Areas MTCO2e:metric tons carbon dioxide equivalent 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY,NORTH CAROLINA 159 DEFINITIONS Level chargers:Provides charging through a common residential 120-volt (120V)AC outlet Level 2 chargers:Offers higher-rate AC charging through 240V(in residential applications)or 208V(in commercial applications)electrical service Level 3 chargers:Offers the fastest way to charge an EV Scope 1:Carbon emissions resulting directly from fuel use Scope 2:Carbon emissions associated with energy purchased by Orange County and generated elsewhere 160 2023 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN ORANGE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA