Orange County’s Sustainability Initiatives Deliver Big Wins for Taxpayers and the Community

Orange County’s sustainability initiatives are not only reducing pollution and conserving natural resources — they are saving taxpayers millions of dollars, improving operational efficiency and creating lasting value across government operations.

Through the leadership of the Office of Sustainability & Resilience, the County is saving millions of dollars, modernizing its facilities, streamlining energy use, and building a stronger, more resilient future. By investing in energy efficiency, clean power and long-term strategic planning, Orange County is proving that sustainability and fiscal responsibility go hand in hand.

“Every dollar we save through smarter energy use is a dollar we can reinvest in the people and services that make Orange County stronger,” said Carrie Black, Chief Sustainability & Resilience Officer. “Sustainability is fundamentally about efficiency — using less, wasting less and delivering more value for taxpayers.”

Smart Investments Deliver Big Savings

Energy-efficient upgrades across County facilities are producing measurable returns. LED lighting conversions, reflective roof coatings and clean energy installations are cutting both energy use and maintenance costs — saving residents money year after year.

At the Orange County Convention Center, upgraded lighting alone is projected to save approximately $700,000 annually, with an estimated $14 million in total savings over 25 years. Reflective roofing upgrades across County buildings are expected to save an additional $6 million in cooling and replacement costs.

Meanwhile, County-owned solar arrays are helping power major facilities while lowering utility expenses. Two solar projects are expected to generate $9.5 million in net savings, and the Convention Center’s rooftop solar installation is projected to save another $11 million over its lifetime.

“These investments make financial sense,” said Black. “They lower operating costs, reduce risk from energy price fluctuations and make our facilities more resilient in the long term.”

Leveraging Grants and Building Community Resilience

Since 2019, the Office of Sustainability & Resilience has helped secure more than $6 million in state and federal grants, expanding the County’s ability to fund energy efficiency and resilience projects. These include assistance programs for seniors, flood vulnerability assessments and early plans to convert community centers into resilience hubs — neighborhood facilities that support residents before and after emergencies.

Good for the Economy, Good for the People

Orange County’s sustainability efforts extend beyond cost savings. They help create local jobs, improve comfort and safety in County buildings, and enable residents — especially seniors and low-income households — to lower their own energy bills.

“Sustainability is about people,” said Black. “When we save energy, we save money. But we’re also improving quality of life — keeping homes cooler, making neighborhoods safer and building a more resilient Orange County for everyone.”