• We can either continue down the current energy consumption path and endure the consequences, or
  
  
• We can build a new future by changing our patterns of energy use.

The Metropolitan Energy Commission recommends the second option. Specific conclusions that lead to that choice are:

• We have some problems related to energy costs in our community and the potential impacts those costs have on the environment. These can be addressed by focusing on waste reduction through improved energy efficiency and the use of more solar energy. This approach toward the wise use of energy will make the metropolitan Tucson area a healthier, safer, and more prosperous community.
  
  

• We can do something to improve the energy situation in Tucson. Buildings can be more comfortable and waste less energy through better design and construction. Transportation alternatives can contribute to a cleaner and healthier community. Major public and private employers, through their construction and operations procedures, can help lead the way and serve as models for this and other communities.
  
  

• Tucson can change and in so doing improve the quality of life. Tucson has obvious and important advantages over many other communities. The use of our solar energy resource can become significant in the years to come. Tucson has a substantial academic and corporate technology base that includes skilled people. There is strong community support for solar energy and energy efficiency. The combination of these advantages coupled with our growth rate allows us to make changes more easily and to become known as a "Model City" for dealing effectively with our energy needs.
  
  

• We must actively begin solving these problems and not just wait for solutions to appear.

Timing can make a big difference. By seizing an early and active leadership role, Tucson can encourage local business growth, attract industries from other parts of the country and foster new economic development.

Plans that do not assign accountability for implementation are, in most cases, plans that never achieve their purpose. Plans that do not involve the participants are never successful in the long run. The next phase of the planning process includes these implementation processes:

• Gain approval of this plan by the Mayor and Council of the City of Tucson and by the Board of Supervisors of Pima County. Following approval, the plan should be presented to business, industry, professional, nonprofit and citizens groups throughout the metropolitan area. The Metropolitan Energy Commission can assist in this process.
  
  

• The Metropolitan Energy Commission will identify "community energy catalysts" - specific groups of individuals and organizations to develop and implement strategies that will address important energy issues in a positive way. These catalysts (groups of people focusing on one aspect of energy) would develop Action Plans and be responsible for the implementation of those Action Plans.
  
  

• Provide support to community energy catalyst teams. Appropriate government bodies with the cooperation of community groups like the Metropolitan Energy Commission will take on the task of supporting, encouraging, and recognizing those community catalysts as they address energy issues.
  
  

• Conduct periodic assessments of progress toward more efficient community energy use. This assessment will determine what progress has been made in the development and implementation of action plans. It will also identify any appropriate revisions to this plan to reflect the future realities. It will include estimates of energy and money saved as a result of the Community Strategic Energy Plan. The Metropolitan Tucson Energy Assessment will be done initially by the Metropolitan Energy Commission; results will be reported to the community.

Specific examples of ways to accomplish the strategic goals can be found here. These examples are intended to assist the community energy catalysts (groups of people focusing on one aspect of energy) in developing more specific short-term action plans and to provide guidance for monitoring progress.