Climate & Sustainability

Sustainability

The City of American Canyon is committed to building a sustainable and resilient community through thoughtful planning, environmental stewardship and community engagement — leading the way in environmental action, responsible growth and a sustainable future. From preserving open space and supporting active transportation to promoting resource conservation and climate awareness, the City integrates sustainability into its programs, services and long-term planning efforts. These initiatives are guided by our Council, commissions and policies, creating opportunities that support a healthy environment and high quality of life. Residents play an important role in this work, and the City encourages the community to stay informed, explore resources and participate in ongoing efforts that contribute to a more sustainable American Canyon.

Get Involved 

Sustainability Rebates & Incentives Program

Small action make a big impact. The City offers programs that help residents save water, reduce environmental impacts, improve homes, and invest in a more sustainable American Canyon. 

BayREN's EASE Home Program

BayREN’s EASE Home helps income-eligible residents make upgrades that improve home health and comfort, as well as help save money on energy bills. The EASE Home program will evaluate your home for opportunities to reduce energy costs and enhance your home's safety and directly install your recommended improvements. Upgrades could include insulation, weatherstripping, smart thermostats, duct system repair or replacement, and some health and safety remediation (i.e., mold, pest remediation).

BayREN and Napa County will cover 100% of the project costs, so eligible participants could receive upgrades worth up to $14,000 at no cost to the program participants.

You can participate in this program if you:

  • Live in a single-family home (up to 4 units) built before 2010.

  • Are a PG&E customer.

  • Have a household income less than 120% of Area Median Income (AMI). Details are listed below.

  • Install at least one energy-saving weatherization measure in your planned upgrades, such as insulation, duct sealing, duct repair or replacement, or an induction stove

Renters are also eligible to participate! Tenants will need property owner permission to proceed with upgrades.

Climate Action 

As part of the City's broader sustainability efforts, American Canyon connects residents with resources and programs that support environmental awareness and everyday sustainable practices. Napa Climate Now is a Napa County-based, non-partisan community group that offers information, tools, and educational resources to help individuals learn more about climate action and ways to incorporate sustainable practices into daily life. The organization also shares opportunities to stay informed and participate in community-based efforts. American Canyon residents are encouraged to explore Napa Climate Now to learn more and find ways to stay informed and engaged. 

Renewable Energy 

MCE is the not-for-profit renewable electricity provider serving American Canyon residents and businesses since 2016. Local customers have access to cleaner energy options and can choose to ‘opt up’ to MCE’s Deep Green 100% renewable energy service. By opting–up to Deep Green, customers choose 50% wind and 50% solar energy and eliminate their electricity–related carbon footprint. Customers can benefit from rebates, bill discounts and programs that help reduce energy use and lower costs over time. Review the table below for a snapshot of how MCE programs are benefiting the American Canyon community.

Environmental Stewardship

Protecting our environment is a shared responsibility. The City of American Canyon is committed to preserving natural resources, enhancing local ecosystems, and investing in projects that create a healthier, more resilient community. Through innovative programs, regional partnerships, and sustainable practices, we are working to protect the environment for current and future generations. 

Climate Leadership

American Canyon is leading the way in climate action. In 2022, the City became the first city in Napa County and the second city in California to prohibit the development of new fossil fuel service stations, demonstrating its commitment to a cleaner, more sustainable future. This milestone was inspired in part by the advocacy of American Canyon High School students, whose passion for climate action helped bring the issue before the City Council. Learn more about this achievement in the Napa Valley Register article and the students' inspiring role in the KneeDeep Times article

 

Water Sustainability

Water is one of American Canyon's most valuable resources. As California continues to face drought and statewide water supply challenges, the City is committed to ensuring a reliable, resilient water supply for current and future generations. American Canyon purchases most of its drinking water from the State Water Project while maintaining emergency interconnections with the Cities of Napa and Vallejo to enhance water reliability.

The City is also investing in sustainable water infrastructure by expanding its recycled water system, reducing dependence on potable water for irrigation and other non-potable uses. In 2023, new recycled water mains were constructed, allowing existing services to convert from potable to recycled water and saving approximately 42 acre-feet of drinking water. The City continues to explore additional recycled water improvements, including public fill stations to make recycled water more accessible to residents.

Zero Water Footprint

Water is one of American Canyon's most valuable resources, and the City is committed to ensuring future growth does not increase demand on our potable (drinking) water supply. Through its innovative Zero Water Footprint (ZWF) Policy, all new development must offset its projected potable water use by implementing water-saving measures such as high-efficiency fixtures, water-wise landscaping, recycled water where available, dual plumbing systems, and other conservation strategies. Projects must demonstrate a net-zero impact on potable water demand before receiving City approval.

American Canyon is also the only city in Napa County with a recycled water program, providing an alternative water source for irrigation and other non-potable uses. During California's historic drought, the City delivered recycled water directly to residents so they could continue watering trees, gardens, and landscapes without using valuable drinking water.

These efforts have produced measurable results. In August 2013, the City received 412 acre-feet of water from the State Water Project. By August 2023, water demand had decreased to 266 acre-feet, despite the City's population growing from 20,171 to 21,631 residents and the addition of more than 12 million square feet of commercial and industrial development. This significant reduction reflects the success of American Canyon's proactive water conservation efforts, including leak detection and repair, recycled water use, and implementation of the Zero Water Footprint Policy.

 

Vegetation Management Program

Maintaining healthy landscapes is an important part of protecting our community and preserving our natural environment. The City of American Canyon uses sustainable vegetation management practices to reduce wildfire risk, improve public safety, protect local ecosystems, and maintain parks, open spaces, and other public lands. Through innovative approaches, including conservation grazing, the City is able to manage vegetation in an environmentally responsible way while supporting biodiversity and enhancing the natural beauty of our community.

 

Water Conservation

Water is one of American Canyon's most valuable natural resources. Conserving water helps protect our community's long-term water supply, supports a healthy environment, and prepares us for future drought conditions. Whether you're making small changes at home or transforming your landscape, every drop saved contributes to a more sustainable and resilient American Canyon.

Explore resources, rebates, and practical tips to help reduce water use indoors and outdoors.

 

 

Regional Climate Action Efforts 

As climate changes continue to escalate, coordinated regional efforts are essential to ensure a sustainable and resilient future. The Napa County Regional Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (RCAAP) will help develop actions that will serve as a roadmap to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and climate vulnerabilities, advancing the region’s sustainability and resilience goals.The RCAAP is a collaborative effort led by multiple jurisdictions, including the County of Napa, the Cities of American Canyon, CalistogaNapaSt. Helena, and the Town of Yountville. Together, they have partnered to leverage resources and promote engagement to advance climate action and adaptation in the Napa region.

 

Environmental Services

Energy Compliance