Joined by state and local leaders and Delaware energy champions, Mayor Jerry Clifton accepted the 2020 Energy Champion Award from the Delaware Energy Services Coalition during an outdoor ceremony this afternoon. The award recognizes the City of Newark for incorporating energy efficiency and sustainability goals into policies, capital projects and practices.

Notable accomplishments include the creation of Newark Sustainability Plan; HVAC upgrades at City Hall, the Newark Police Department, the George Wilson Center, and the Field Operations Complex; over 800 new LED streetlights completing the City’s transition to fully LED; water system pump and motor upgrades, the planned installation of approximately 1,300 kW of new solar generation on City property increasing City-owned solar generation by nearly 500%; a commitment to a Greenhouse Gas emissions reduction goal to be net-zero by the year 2060; and the 100% Renewable Energy Program that allows electric customers to purchase 100% of their energy from renewable sources.

"This award would not be possible without the input and contributions of Newark's talented staff and the volunteers from the Conservation Advisory Commission and the Sustainability team," said Mayor Jerry Clifton. "I'm proud of Newark's strong efforts to create a green place to live and work, and I look forward to seeing how much more we can accomplish."

"It is a great honor to have the Energy Champion Award named after me, but also an extra burden to ensure the award goes to the most deserving recipient," said Senator Harris B. McDowell. "Newark's commitment to sustainability cannot be overlooked and I'm thrilled to recognize them for their efforts."

The Delaware Energy Services Coalition is a public/private partnership that promotes energy cost-savings and renewable energy solutions through outreach and education events.