Chicago City Wire

Mayor Brandon Johnson expressed his commitment to environmental justice and economic prosperity for all Chicagoans during an Earth Day event at Hartzell Memorial United Methodist Church. He stated, “This Earth Day event underscores our commitment to seeing an equitable, healthy, climate-resilient Chicago.”

Philip B. Clement, President & CEO of World Business Chicago, praised Mayor Johnson's efforts, saying, “Initiatives like Mayor Johnson's Earth Day Celebration are crucial in mobilizing collective action and leveraging federal resources for clean energy projects.”

Department of Environment Commissioner Angela Tovar highlighted the importance of federal rebates and incentives for clean energy projects, stating, “We are thrilled to work with the White House and Department of Treasury to bring Chicagoans the information they need to access federal rebates and incentives via the Inflation Reduction Act.”

Rev. D. Josiah Montgomery, senior pastor of Hartzell Church, expressed gratitude for the Climate Infrastructure Fund grant, which will help enhance their ministry center with energy upgrades. He said, “Hartzell Memorial UMC is a committed, long-standing member of the Bronzeville community, and we are proud to do our part in protecting the environment, on Earth Day and every day.”

The Earth Day event served as a platform for residents, community leaders, and stakeholders to learn about resources and funding for clean energy and sustainable development. It highlighted the city's commitment to clean energy solutions and environmental resilience.

Under the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, states, local governments, Tribes, territories, and nonprofits are eligible to receive funding for clean energy projects, aiming to accelerate the transition to a greener, more resilient Chicago.

The event was hosted by Mayor Brandon Johnson, the City of Chicago's Department of Environment, and World Business Chicago, in collaboration with the White House and U.S. Department of Treasury, and in partnership with Hartzell Memorial UMC.

For more information about federal clean energy resources, individuals are encouraged to visit cleanenergy.gov.