Dupage Policy Journal

The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County has joined the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Green Power Partnership, a voluntary program aimed at reducing the environmental impact of conventional electricity.

According to recent calculations, the Forest Preserve District uses over 3.7 million kilowatt-hours of green power annually, which exceeds its total electricity needs by 5%. This is achieved through the purchase of renewable energy credits and 100% wind-generated energy to offset conventional energy use. The EPA states that this level of green-power usage is equivalent to the annual electricity consumption of approximately 400 average American homes.

In addition to purchasing renewable energy credits, the District also utilizes solar technology at several locations to further offset traditional energy consumption. The organization has implemented various other environmentally friendly initiatives as well.

By participating in the green power market, the Forest Preserve District and other partners in the Green Power Partnership are contributing to reduced health impacts from air emissions such as ozone, fine particles, acid rain, and regional haze.

“We’re thrilled to accept this EPA recognition,” said Forest Preserve District President Daniel Hebreard. “We take great pride in being at the forefront of embracing green energy technology and hope that this most recent partnership helps send the message that green power is not only economically viable but also readily accessible.”

Additionally, the District's land management practices result in carbon sequestration equivalent to its operations plus an additional 50 DuPage households. Its ecosystem restoration efforts enhance climate resiliency and biodiversity while reducing stormwater runoff, cleaning air and water, and preserving scenic viewsheds.

Support for these green energy efforts has been bolstered by donations through its 501c3 partner Friends of the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County. Currently, Friends is raising funds for a new net-zero-designed building at Willowbrook and encourages donors to direct their contributions towards future green energy projects via dupageforest.org/friends.

The EPA’s Green Power Partnership aims to increase green power use among U.S. organizations by advancing the market for such resources to mitigate air pollution and other environmental impacts related to electricity use. As of 2021, more than 700 partners were voluntarily using over 85 billion kilowatt-hours of green power annually. Partners include Fortune 500 companies; small- and medium-sized businesses; local, state, and federal governments; as well as colleges and universities. More information can be found on the EPA’s website at epa.gov/greenpower.

For over a century, the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County has connected people with nature through its forest preserves, trails, education centers, and programs which attract more than 5.5 million visitors annually. For further details or inquiries call 630-933-7200 or visit dupageforest.org where links to their e-newsletter and social media pages are available.

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