ASHFAQ’s BOLD VISION FOR A SUSTAINABLE NAPERVILLE
As a Board Member of Accelerate Climate Solutions and Committee Member of the Naperville Environment and Sustainability Task Force, I understand that the decisions we make today will shape the future of Naperville for generations. Climate change is not just an environmental issue—it is an economic issue, a public health issue, and a matter of ensuring Naperville’s long-term success. Cities across the country are leading the way in climate action, and Naperville must do the same to stay competitive, resilient, and forward-thinking.
Naperville must be bold, proactive, and innovative in how we transition to a clean energy economy, reduce pollution, and protect our resources, all while ensuring economic prosperity and affordability for residents and businesses. My plan focuses on modernizing our energy policies, investing in sustainable infrastructure, and creating a city that remains one of the best places to live for decades to come.
A CLEAN ENERGY FUTURE FOR NAPERVILLE
Naperville sources 80% of its electricity from coal, making us one of the most coal-dependent cities in Illinois. The proposed $2 billion IMEA contract extension would lock us into dirty energy until 2055—a decision that limits our options, prevents cost-saving innovations, and jeopardizes our future.
🔹 Reject the IMEA Contract Extension – We must stop Naperville from signing a long-term contract that will lock us into high costs and outdated energy sources.
🔹 Transition to Clean, Affordable Energy – We need a diversified energy portfolio that includes solar, wind, battery storage, and energy efficiency initiatives. Cities like San Diego and Denver have made this transition—Naperville must too.
🔹 Promote Local Energy Generation – Allow businesses, homeowners, and city buildings to generate and store more renewable energy, reducing our reliance on external providers.
🔹 Strengthen Energy Efficiency Standards – Encourage high-efficiency appliances, home retrofits, and sustainable building designs to reduce energy demand across the city.
A SUSTAINABLE, FUTURE-READY ECONOMY
Sustainability is not just about the environment—it’s about jobs, innovation, and long-term economic security. Naperville has the opportunity to lead the clean energy transition while strengthening our economy.
🔹 Prioritize Local Businesses in Green Contracts – Naperville should give preference to Naperville-based companies for city contracts related to sustainability projects, keeping jobs and investments local.
🔹 Sustainable Development & Smart Growth – Adopt building energy efficiency codes that lower long-term costs and ensure future developments are climate-resilient.
🔹 Expand EV Infrastructure – Increase public EV charging stations and provide incentives for businesses and homeowners to switch to electric vehicles.
🔹 Encourage Sustainable Business Practices – Support businesses that invest in sustainability, such as waste reduction, clean transportation, and energy efficiency programs.
SUSTAINABILITY & SMART CITY PLANNING
Naperville has a strategic plan, but we must follow through on sustainability commitments. I will ensure sustainability is a priority in city planning, budgeting, and decision-making.
🔹 Adopt a Climate Action Plan – Naperville must create a clear roadmap for achieving carbon neutrality, ensuring future city decisions align with sustainability goals.
🔹 Support Active Transportation & Smart Mobility – Develop a Naperville Active Mobility Plan to improve bike lanes, pedestrian safety, and multimodal transportation for a healthier, more connected community.
🔹 Electrify City Operations – Transition municipal buildings, vehicle fleets, and city services to zero-emission alternatives, cutting fuel costs and reducing pollution.
🔹 Strengthen Green Purchasing Policies – Ensure city purchases prioritize sustainability, including eco-friendly office supplies, fleet vehicles, and construction materials.
🔹 Increase Renewable Energy Incentives – Strengthen Naperville Renewable Energy Program (NREP) funding to help residents and businesses upgrade to clean energy solutions.
🔹 Improve Government Transparency on Sustainability – Naperville should track and publicly report progress on climate and sustainability efforts to ensure accountability.
WHY NAPERVILLE MUST ACT NOW
Naperville is one of the largest cities in Illinois, and with that comes the responsibility to lead. Across the country, cities are driving the transition to clean energy, sustainable growth, and climate resilience—Naperville cannot afford to be left behind.
The status quo is no longer an option. Sticking with outdated energy policies threatens our economy, raises costs for residents, and puts our health at risk. But if we act boldly, we can build a city that is cleaner, stronger, and more resilient—one that our children and grandchildren will be proud to call home.
Let’s build a more sustainable Naperville—together.