Energy powers nearly every aspect of our daily lives, from keeping the lights on to ensuring hospitals can operate vital medical equipment. But recent natural disasters have underscored the urgent need to rethink how we plan for, diversify and protect our energy systems.
On August 19th, Centralina Regional Council hosted the Energy in Action webinar, bringing together expert voices to discuss how strong energy strategies are essential for building community resilience. The event is part of Centralina’s work in developing a comprehensive climate action plan for the region, funded through the EPA’s Climate Pollution Reduction program. Panelists included representatives from Land of Sky Regional Council, Solar CrowdSource and the Southern Alliance for Clean Energy.
Shared Lessons and Innovative Approaches
Our panelists emphasized that communities across the southeast are learning from one another to build healthier and stronger futures. Through peer-to-peer networks, public-private partnerships and regional initiatives, local governments are discovering practical ways to strengthen energy security.
Key takeaways from the discussion included:
- Peer-to-Peer Learning: Programs like Electrify the South Collaborative are helping local governments share resources, identify tools and collaborate on transportation electrification goals
- Natural Disaster Response: After Hurricane Helene, microgrids provided cleaner, more reliable energy to communities in crisis, showing how innovation can drive recovery and preparedness
Looking Ahead: Climate Action in Our Region
The Energy in Action webinar is just one step in Centralina’s broader commitment to long-term planning. Building on the Priority Climate Action Plan completed in March 2024, Centralina is now leading the development of a comprehensive climate action plan for the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Metropolitan Statistical Area.
Throughout September, Centralina will host seven focus group meetings across our 13-county study area: Anson, Cabarrus, Cleveland, Gaston, Iredell, Lincoln, Mecklenburg, Rowan, Stanly and Union counties in North Carolina, and Chester, Lancaster and York counties in South Carolina. These sessions will give stakeholders the opportunity to engage in meaningful dialogue about both near-term and long-term strategies for building resilience.
We encourage community members, local officials and regional partners to take part in these conversations. Together, we can weave a stronger energy future.
For more information about Centralina’s climate action planning or to register for a focus group, contact Megan Upchurch at mupchurch@centralina.org.
