Improving Equity in OC’s Renewable Energy Transition

Abstract
The ongoing conversion of fleets in San Diego to zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) will significantly reduce carbon emissions in the area, which is essential for environmental sustainability and improving public health. However, San Diego’s current ZEV adoption rates are currently projected to fall short of 107,000 vehicles which is below the desired goal of 771,000 ZEVs by 2030. Our team’s efforts will close this gap by increasing funding for this transition by boosting community engagement with zero-emission buses and gaining corporate sponsorships. Community engagement, achieved through public meetings, surveys, interactive workshops, and outreach campaigns, ensures that the project garners support from residents while also meeting their needs and expectations. Corporations, on the other hand, provide the necessary funding, resources, and expertise to accelerate the transition to ZEVs, as ZEVs and their required infrastructure are very costly. It can also help generate awareness and support for sustainable companies among a wider audience. Costs to create, implement, and maintain zero-emission fleet vehicles and their infrastructure will level out to approximately $2 billion, which deploys 25 buses. However, partnerships with corporations that fund zero-emission initiatives, California programs, and partnerships with zero-emission companies- can aid the growth of the project, while reducing emissions and improving air quality which improves health for San Diego locals. As the conversion of fleets in San Diego to zero-emission vehicles remains ongoing and reduces carbon emissions in the area- the city of San Diego can obtain funds through partnerships with companies, and reach their desired goals by 2030. Conclusively, San Diego can achieve their goals of improving air quality and aiding in the global movement to reduce carbon dioxide emissions through this project.