The City of Charleston encourages green energy use through several initiatives focused on energy efficiency, renewable energy adoption, and sustainability programs. Key actions include upgrading public buildings with energy-efficient technologies, promoting solar energy and clean energy research, and supporting community outreach to reduce environmental impacts.
Energy Efficiency in Public Buildings
Charleston County has implemented more than 30 energy efficiency projects in 18 buildings, including LED lighting retrofits and HVAC upgrades. One notable project involved retrofitting the Public Service Building’s lighting to LED, reducing energy use by 40% and qualifying for energy rebate programs. These efforts have resulted in significant cost savings and reductions in energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.​
Renewable Energy and Solar Initiatives
The City has passed resolutions supporting renewable energy sources like solar and offshore wind for their sustainability and economic benefits. Collaborations with renewable energy developers support large-scale solar projects supplying the region with clean energy. Programs like the Solar for All grant aim to increase solar adoption among low- and moderate-income households. The City also plans to integrate solar and battery storage systems to improve energy resilience and sustainability.​
Sustainability and Community Engagement
Charleston has a Green Team that advises on sustainability policies and energy efficiency measures across the City’s public buildings. The team works on facilitating resident participation in sustainability efforts, researching renewable energy opportunities, and supporting electric vehicle infrastructure development. They engage in community education and help identify federal and state funding for green initiatives.​
Energy Resilience and Savings
The City has prioritized energy management performance contracts leading to over 175,000 tons of CO2 savings and a 47% reduction in municipal energy use citywide. Upgrades on public facilities such as ballparks, theaters, parking garages, and traffic signals to LED technology have generated substantial energy and cost savings along with rebates, advancing Charleston’s resilience and sustainability goals.​
These multi-faceted efforts reflect Charleston’s comprehensive approach to encouraging green energy use through efficiency, renewable adoption, incentives, and community involvement.
SOURCES
[1](https://charlestoncounty.gov/ccrs/green-energy-efficiency.php)
[2](https://www.charleston-sc.gov/2365/Energy-Resilience-Initiatives)
[3](https://www.charlestonbusinessmagazine.com/2025/05/15/532639/energyre-and-google-sign-agreement-for-600-mw-of-solar-energy)
[4](https://www.charlestonwv.gov/sites/default/files/non-departmental-documents/2024-08/Charleston%20Green%20Team%20Strategic%20Plan%20-%20FINAL%20-%207-22-2024.pdf)
[5](https://www.charleston-sc.gov/1160/Renewable-Energy)
