Sustainable Success
Social & Economic Impact Report
Cincinnati has been recognized as the top sustainable metro area in the country.1
As a nonprofit driving carbon reduction in the region, we take pride in our work contributing to that designation.
The Greater Cincinnati Energy Alliance is equipping our communities with the resources they need to build a carbon-conscious economy. Energy efficiency and renewable energy upgrades improve our building stock and encourage responsible capital investment—which leads to more valuable properties, improved air quality, and a more energy-resilient region. These are all qualities that attract families, an educated workforce, new business, and investment.
Our Mission:
To be the leading driver of activities that sustainably reduce the carbon footprint of the Greater Cincinnati community.
Roadmap for Building a Sustainable Community
OUTREACH & EDUCATION
We talk with regional stakeholders every day about the social, environmental, and financial benefits of carbon reduction through improved energy efficiency and the use of renewable energy. Through workshops and meetings, homeowners and business leaders learn how they can improve their bottom line with smart energy investments that boost value and reduce expenses.
“It is possible to thrive and live sustainably and solar is a big part of that for the Cincinnati Zoo.”
—Thane Maynard
DIRECTOR, CINCINNATI ZOO & BOTANICAL GARDEN
—Thane Maynard
DIRECTOR, CINCINNATI ZOO & BOTANICAL GARDEN
COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS
We enjoy relationships with 20 local governments, which amplifies the reach, credibility, and popularity of our programs. In the home or in the business community, partnering with local leaders helps us efficiently connect and expand our services where they’re needed most.
“It’s good for the environment and it’s good for your pocketbook… this is a win-win.”
—John Cranley
MAYOR OF CINCINNATI
—John Cranley
MAYOR OF CINCINNATI
EFFECTIVE PROGRAMS
We make it easy for residents to improve their homes with energy efficiency and renewable energy upgrades by continually fine-tuning our Get Efficient and Solarize programs. Thanks to Solarize, Hamilton County is #1 in Ohio for residential solar installations. Meanwhile, our commercial PACE financing gives local property owners the support they need to make carbon reduction a smart business choice. Nearly one of every three PACE financing loans in Ohio is originated by GCEA.
“PACE allowed us to access low-cost, long-term financing and stabilize our energy costs for our properties.”
—Dan Neyer
PRESIDENT, NEYER PROPERTIES
—Dan Neyer
PRESIDENT, NEYER PROPERTIES
FACILITATING LOCAL INVESTMENT
We help homeowners and business owners invest in energy efficiency and renewable energy projects that reduce carbon emissions. This is the core of our expertise. Whether we’re connecting a homeowner with a qualified contractor or injecting funds into the capital stack of a construction project, our work is creating a more carbon-conscious economy.
“It’s extremely satisfying to generate our own electricity and help turn the tide toward a more sustainable future. We appreciate the support we received from city, state and federal programs that helped make it possible.”
—Bill and Julie Lonneman
CINCINNATI RESIDENTS
—Bill and Julie Lonneman
CINCINNATI RESIDENTS
#1
Hamilton County has the
most solar rooftop installations in Ohio
most solar rooftop installations in Ohio
$27MM
social carbon
costs avoided
costs avoided
$31MM
in PACE loans
originated
originated
7:1
GCEA produces $7 of private investment for every $1 of incentive funds managed
Established in 2009, GCEA is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that facilitates investment in high-efficiency and renewable energy projects. Throughout Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky, we partner with organizations who value sustainable economic growth and smart city principles. As the region’s leading driver of carbon-emissions reduction, our programs positively impact both our residential and corporate communities.
Awards and Recognition:
Connect With Us:
(513) 621-4232
greatercea.org
1. Bruns, Adam. “Investors, Tenants Seek More Sustainable Locations.” Site Selection Magazine, July 2018, siteselection.com/
issues/2018/jul/sustainability-rankings-investors-tenants-seek-more-sustainable-locations.cfm. Accessed 19 March 2019
