How Jackson, Wyoming built a ‘culture of sustainability’ – saving money and reducing pollution

The goal was simple, but the challenge was significant: cut energy use by 10%, reducing pollution and costs for the town and its residents.?

But when leaders in Jackson, Wyoming set out to tackle this ambitious goal, it wasn’t just about hitting a number – it was about changing the culture and creating a foundation of collaboration, trust, and innovation that has positioned the mountain town for the future.?

At the recent Mountain Towns 2030 Summit in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, leaders from the Town of Jackson, Teton County, and Lower Valley Energy shared their groundbreaking journey of collaboration to achieve ambitious energy conservation goals, exploring how partnerships between local governments, utilities, and communities can align climate policies with actionable solutions. The efforts of Energy Conservation Works (ECW) – a collaboration between Jackson, Teton County, and Lower Valley Energy – serves as a practical example for other mountain towns addressing climate change challenges.

Executive Director Melissa Turley began by recounting the origins of EWC, which emerged from the Town of Jackson’s ambitious 10x10 Initiative in 2006. The goal was simple yet challenging: reduce the Town and County’s energy use by 10% from 2006 levels by 2010.

“The cheapest kilowatt hour is the one that isn’t used,” Turley emphasized, highlighting their commitment to conservation over consumption.?

This early success was the product of collaboration among government entities and Lower Valley Energy, which provided technical expertise and operational support. ECW became formalized through a Town & County Joint Powers Agreement, creating a permanent structure for cooperative action.

“The creation of ECW wasn’t just about reducing energy use—it was about setting the stage for lasting collaboration and innovation,” Turley explained.

The panel highlighted several flagship programs that exemplify ECW’s impact on sustainability in the region:

1. Residential and Commercial Loan Program

James P. O'Brien , Board Chair for ECW and Partner at Baker McKenzie, explained how ECW’s loan program makes energy upgrades accessible to residents and businesses. Offering low-interest loans (1.5%) up to $40,000, the program is administered through Lower Valley Energy’s billing system, allowing participants to repay loans directly on their utility bills.

Projects funded through the program include:

• Energy-efficient windows and insulation upgrades.
• Installation of rooftop solar systems.
• Modern heating systems and programmable thermostats.

“By embedding loan payments into utility bills, we’ve made it easier than ever for people to invest in energy efficiency,” O’Brien said.?

2. Community Solar Project

Turley shared details about ECW’s 1-megawatt solar array, a flagship initiative that pairs renewable energy generation with battery storage. The project prioritizes equitable access, reserving subscriptions for low-income households at significantly discounted rates.

Funding sources include:

• A $5 million SPET (Special Purpose Excise Tax) measure, approved by voters.
• Subscriber fees from households and businesses.
• A 30% direct pay reimbursement through the Inflation Reduction Act.

“This solar project not only reduces emissions but ensures that clean energy is accessible to everyone in our community,” Turley said.

Jon Hougland , Chief Financial Officer for Lower Valley Energy, highlighted the unique strengths of Lower Valley Energy’s cooperative model, which prioritizes community needs over profits. This structure has allowed Lower Valley Energy to implement tailored solutions like:

• Hydroelectric facilities providing renewable power to municipal operations.
• Demand-side management programs to optimize energy use.
• Collaboration with ECW to unlock grants and funding for local projects.

“Our cooperative model isn’t just a business structure—it’s a philosophy that aligns perfectly with the goals of ECW,” he explained.

Former Jackson, WY Mayor Mark Barron reflected on the leadership principles that made ECW’s early initiatives successful. From the outset, building trust between local governments, the utility, and the community was a top priority.

“It wasn’t just about cutting energy use,” he said. “It was about creating a culture of sustainability that people could believe in.”

Jackson Town Council Member Jonathan Schechter emphasized that partnerships thrive when grounded in shared values and clear communication. He identified five guiding principles for successful collaboration:

1. Passion: Engage individuals deeply committed to climate action.
2. People: Leverage local expertise to drive innovation and problem-solving.
3. Focus: Maintain a shared vision to align diverse stakeholders.
4. Trust: Build relationships that can withstand differing priorities.
5. Flexibility: Adapt to new challenges and opportunities as they arise.

“Sustainability isn’t static—it’s about evolving to meet the needs of our community while keeping our values at the core,” he said.?

The panel also addressed key challenges ECW faces as it continues to grow:

• Engaging Low-Income Residents: Expanding program access to underserved populations remains a priority.
• Grid Resilience: As electric vehicle adoption grows, maintaining infrastructure reliability will require proactive planning.
• Political Realities: Navigating differing priorities among local governments and utilities necessitates ongoing dialogue.

“We’ve learned that success comes from listening as much as leading,” Turley said. “Community input is invaluable.”?

For towns seeking to replicate ECW’s success, the panel offered actionable insights:

1. Conduct Energy Audits: Identify inefficiencies to set data-driven priorities.
2. Build Strong Partnerships: Engage governments, utilities, nonprofits, and residents in a shared vision.
3. Diversify Funding Sources: Combine grants, tax measures, and private investments to maximize impact.
4. Embed Equity in Programs: Ensure initiatives serve all community members, particularly those with fewer resources.

“The principles of collaboration and trust apply everywhere. Every community has the potential to lead in sustainability,” O’Brien said.?

Energy Conservation Works demonstrates how partnerships between local governments, utilities, and residents can achieve transformative climate solutions. By fostering trust, collaboration, and innovation, Jackson has created a replicable framework for addressing energy challenges in mountain towns and beyond.

“Our story shows that small towns can achieve big things when they work together. It’s a model of what’s possible with trust and shared purpose,” Barrons said.?

Watch the full seminar here