Government Briefs 07.09.15

Suffolk County

Climate Action Plan Accepted

The Suffolk County Legislature accepted what is called a Climate Action Plan at its general meeting last month in Riverhead. The plan, a framework for efforts to combat climate change, also assessed the county’s achievements, including an estimated $5 million in recurring annual savings from reduced energy use. Additionally, greenhouse gas emissions have dropped, with the plan setting a goal of reducing emissions 20 percent from 2005 levels by 2020.

The $5 million annual savings results from energy-efficient changes in heating and cooling systems in 30 buildings. Solar panels have also been installed on six buildings, and new buildings must meet the highest green certification standards.