Joint Sustainability Committee Recommendation To Council
The committee discussed a recommendation concerning Austin Energy's proposal to acquire gas-burning peaker power generation. The discussion focused on aligning procurement with the Austin Community Climate Plan and the Climate Equity Plan, which aim for net-zero emissions. The recommendation advises the City Council to mandate a transparent public engagement process, conduct an independent economic analysis comparing gas peakers to zero-emissions alternatives, ensure competitive purchasing processes are followed, and commit to achieving carbon-free energy generation by 2035.