Energy Initiatives

Catalyst Projects

One of the stated goals of the Block Grant was to create a lasting change after the money from the grant was depleted. Catalyst projects were intended to inspire the community embrace new initiatives and resources and carry them forward. In many cases Charlotte's corporate community has stepped up and contributed additional dollars to expand these initiatives and the City embraced the opportunity to leverage their partnership.

Electric Vehicle Charging Stations
Electric cars are the wave of the future but a number of logistic hurdles remain before their potential can be fully realized. Finding a convenient and accessible place to charge the car's battery is a deterrant for broader adoption of the vehicles. The City of Charlotte is partnering with Charlotte Center City Partners (CCCP) to install a number of Electric Vehicle Charging Stations in and around the City. In addition, Duke Energy and Wells Fargo have committed to installing publically accessible stations in their decks also.  READ MORE>

Energy Efficient Lighting
Many municipalities in the area consume a large portion of their electric usage keeping public areas lit at night. New technology promises to reduce energy consumption by replacing existing light fixtures with emerging products like LED lighting. The I-485 Park & Ride Energy Efficienct Lighting Pilot is considered a test project to determine the effectiveness and durability of this new techniology. If the test prove wothwhile, expectation are that more city structures would be the focus of future installments.  READ MORE>

Photovoltaic Systems
Photovoltaic (PV) energy is a powerful technology in the Charlotte area because of our high percentage of sunny days. In order to demonstrate the true potential of PV technology, solar arrays will be installed on public parking buildings and tying them to informational kiosks in public areas. The PV panels themselves will be highly visible and the kiosks will record and present the amount of energy produced and returned to the power grid. The long term goal is to educate both public and private sectors, and the community at large on the viability of solar power.  READ MORE>

Center City On-Street Recycling
Recycling has long been the leading activity among individuals but adequate public receptacles and related service has lagged behind participation in the private sector. Charlotte Center City Partners is spearheading the program to place special on-street recycling receptacles in the public right of way along Tryon Street in Uptown Charlotte. The program also features regular pick up and processing of the separated waste. In addition, an awareness program funded by CCCP will draw attention to the new recycling opportunities.  READ MORE>