Energy Democracy

Energy democracy is an umbrella term that combines a recognition of the need for local, clean energy systems with the need to equitably share the energy resources that are available. Underneath this umbrella are Community Solutions’ decades-long concerns with energy conservation, appropriate technologies (such as the passive house) and the development of renewable energy systems-- all of which are reflected in our media and written materials. In addition to this, our Energy Navigators project brings energy literacy to our low-income neighbors in Ohio and beyond, and the Environmental Dashboard project will clearly show the environmental impact of our activities.

Featured

Antioch Eco-Village Piioneers

This is a group of 14 people advocating for the establishment of a cohousing community on the Antioch College campus. Read more about the group in The Yellow Springs News.

Resource Page

Click for a list of Energy Democracy resources!

William Beale

William Beale was engineer, but above all else an outspoken proponent of electric vehicles, clean energy, and creative solutions to energy needs like pyrolysis. Mr. Beale was the inaugural winner of the Arthur Morgan Award.

Passive House Revolution

What if we could create and retrofit buildings that will use 80 to 90 percent less energy for heating and cooling? And, what if at the same time we could cut their greenhouse gas emissions by at least 80 percent? Passive House Revolution shows that this intriguing scenario is not only possible but actually starting to unfold.

Antioch Solar Farm

The Antioch Solar Farm is an Antioch College initiative to produce clean energy. Sheep are brought in to graze on the grass between the solar panels to make this project more sustainable. Check out the Climate Solutions Video Chanel for a video on the Antioch Solar Farm and many more videos on renewable energy.

Reggie Stratton

Reggie Stratton, the former Director of the Physical Plant at Antioch College leads a tour of the Antioch College, Geothermal Plant.

Watch here!

Richard Heinberg

Richard Heinberg is a prolific writer, blogger and activist advocating for the end of fossil fuel. Check out his interview with Community Solutions here.

Stirling Engine

The Stirling Engine is a power source which is remarkable due mainly to its efficiency although Stirling Engines can vary greatly in size and power. This example was built by a Yellow Springs High School student. Read more about how we can avoid the trap of tearing down the younger generation and instead build onto them.

Energy Navigator Project

Energy Saving Tips

Community Solutions has been working to set up home weatherizing teams. This video is a first example of people from Yellow Springs, Antioch College, Springfield and other communities working together to seal a home.

Bob Brecha

Bob Brecha, Director of the Hanley Sustainability Institute at the University of Dayton, shares his perspective on how climate change will impact food security around the world.

Occupied by Kurt Cobb

Community Solutions Fellow, Kurt Cobb, reviews Norways latest television series.