Blue Horizons Project Last updated or reviewed on May 22, 2024 The Blue Horizons Project grew out of the former Energy Innovation Task Force (EITF), a working group convened in April 2016. The EITF was a joint initiative between the City of Asheville, Buncombe County, and Duke Energy Progress to research and recommend energy efficiency and demand-side management programs in Buncombe County. The EITF had two goals: Avoid or delay the construction of an additional natural gas powered combustion turbine power plant at the Asheville site in the year 2023 Transition Western North Carolina to a cleaner, more affordable, and smarter energy future through community engagement and collaboration that is mutually beneficial to the community, customers, and Duke Energy Progress On January 28, 2020, following the decision to delay construction of an additional natural gas plant in Asheville, City Council voted to dissolve the EITF to be replaced by the Blue Horizons Project Community Council. The EITF’s final meeting took place on March 11, 2020 and the City and County issued a joint request for proposal (RFP) to contract with a nonprofit to implement the Blue Horizons Project and to manage the Blue Horizons Project Community Council. The Green Built Alliance was selected for both roles. The Blue Horizons Project provides educational resources, information, and programming to support a clean energy future. You can learn more about current initiatives and opportunities to get involved on the Blue Horizons Project webpage. Regular Meeting Schedule Notice: The Blue Horizons Project Community Council meets monthly on the first Monday of the month at 3 p.m. The traditional meeting length is 90 minutes. Meetings are conducted virtually or in person with a hybrid option. For more information including meeting schedule, agendas, and meeting information please visit the Blue Horizons Project Community Council website. Contact Information Kiera Bulan Sustainability Manager 828-620-0664
