The Village of Lake Zurich has continued its momentum to become eco-friendlier by now supporting renewable energy through the purchase of 100% Green Power for the community’s 824 streetlights. Starting in July 2024, all of the energy consumed by Lake Zurich streetlights will be backed by renewable energy credits that directly support clean sustainable energy produced by Midwest-located wind, solar, and hydroelectric facilities.
Lake Zurich Mayor Tom Poynton says, “The most important thing we do in local government is plan for the long-term. Lake Zurich wants to be an environmentally focused and sustainable community for future generations. I am proud of our village being a leader on this front with our transition to a 100% Green Power program that has been well-received by residents and small businesses, and now our street lights also backed by 100% Green Power.”
The Village decided to support renewable energy with the power from the streetlights. Through the help of Constellation New Energy, these streetlights will create about 144,000 kWh’s a year. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, that is the equivalent emissions as the burning of 66,000 pounds of coal, which represents how large the reduction in Lake Zurich’s carbon footprint will be with the street light transition.