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In 2012, the D.C. Council established a new environment mandate, which drove Mattavous-Frye’s establishment of a dedicated Energy Efficiency and Sustainability (EES) Section at OPC. This mandate requires OPC to “consider public safety, the economy, conservation of natural resources, and environmental preservation when dealing with public utility or energy companies.”35 OPC’s EES Section was created to promote awareness of energy efficiency and to educate consumers across all income levels and wards about renewable energy programs, sustainable energy options, practical energy-saving measures, and innovative developments. OPC staff members have conducted hands-on workshops at hundreds of civic associations, community organizations, senior centers, houses of worship, schools, and parent groups to demonstrate energy-efficient products and share with consumers simple tips on how to save energy and money on utility bills. OPC wants to empower consumers to participate in these advancements, develop relevant legal and policy positions that benefit ratepayers, and engage with key stakeholders.
With the passage of the CleanEnergy DC Omnibus Amendment Act of 2018, D.C. set its intentions to advance and meet its environmental goals. This new law established D.C. as a national and global leader in implementing sustainability efforts and combating climate change. OPC, which had been championing such policies for decades, embraced this advance and dedicated its efforts to ensure the sustainability of all infrastructure investments aligned with current environmental policies, and equitable use of ratepayer funds.
The effects of climate change had already begun to affect the District. It was necessary to implement both mitigation and adaptation strategies. Building on Sustainable DC 1.0, Mayor Muriel Bowser’s Sustainable DC 2.036 plan in 2018 emphasized the crucial necessity for balance among environmental, economic, and social needs.
When OPC makes policy decisions, it emphasizes the achievement of the District’s sustainability goals. Specifically, OPC proposes initiatives and supporting programs that reduce per capita energy use, encourage the production of clean and renewable energy, and ensure that ratepayers benefit from modernization of the energy infrastructure. OPC also makes it a point to advocate for smart meter use, grid improvements, and enhanced energy reliability and resilience, and they hold the city accountable by reviewing the city’s emissions annual reports and utility-filed reports of methane gas leaks.
OPC’s Journey to Protect Utility Consumers 39