Arcata Now 100% Powered by Renewable Electricity Through RCEA’s REpower+ Program
Arcata Now 100% Powered by Renewable Electricity Through RCEA’s REpower+ Program
The City of Arcata has officially enrolled all of its electric accounts— approximately 60 meters total—into Redwood Coast Energy Authority’s REpower+ program, making the City’s operations 100% powered by renewable electricity. While most accounts have been enrolled in Repower+ since the program began, there were a few remaining accounts to be enrolled.
This citywide opt-up includes electricity accounts for major public facilities such as City Hall, the Arcata Community Center, the library, parks and ball fields, and essential water infrastructure like pumps and booster stations. The decision aligns with the City’s adopted Climate Action Plan goals, including the decarbonization of municipal buildings and infrastructure. The upgrade to REpower+ also came with bill savings as RCEA helped the City optimize its PG&E rates to best suit each meter’s specific needs.
“Arcata’s leadership is helping set the tone for climate resilience and sustainability in Humboldt County,” said Beth Burks, Executive Director of Redwood Coast Energy Authority. “Opting up to 100% renewable electricity through REpower+ is an important milestone, and we’re proud to support the City’s continued efforts to reduce emissions and invest in a clean energy future.” Plus, future plans are already underway for additional energy-saving upgrades in Arcata, including solar panel installations and high-efficiency lighting at the Arcata Community Center.
This decision reflects a broader commitment to a cleaner, greener, and more livable community, powered by renewable energy. RCEA commends the leadership and coordination across City staff, especially Emily Benvie (Environmental Services Deputy Director), Morguine Sefcik (Environmental Programs Manager), and the Arcata Energy Committee, to make this possible.
“The City has been proud to partner with RCEA on opting into the Repower+ program, as well as on several other electrification, energy-efficiency, and building decarbonization projects and programs,” said Emily Benvie, City of Arcata Environmental Services Deputy Director. “In just the past year, the City and RCEA have partnered on completing EV infrastructure at the new Carlson Park, contributing to the e-bike incentive program, and planning and implementing major efficiency and decarbonization upgrades at a number of City facilities. RCEA’s strong partnership and technical support have made it possible for the City to make substantial progress in meeting its climate goals.”
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About Redwood Coast Energy Authority
Established in 2003, the Redwood Coast Energy Authority is a local government joint powers agency whose members include the Blue Lake Rancheria, Yurok Tribe, the County of Humboldt, the seven cities within the county, and the Humboldt Bay Municipal Water District. RCEA’s purpose is to develop and implement sustainable energy initiatives that reduce energy demand, increase energy efficiency, and advance the use of clean, efficient, and renewable resources available in the region. For more info, visit redwoodenergy.org.
