Sustainability Achievements Since 2011

Path to Net Zero Emissions: The report documents Carlisle’s first community-wide estimate of greenhouse gas emissions (broken down by sector and fuel type), identifies options for greenhouse gas reduction goals, and outlines a conceptual approach for reaching such goals.

Carlisle Master Plan: After nearly 5 years of work by dedicated volunteers, town officials, board and committee members, consultants and other stakeholders, the Carlisle Forward Master Plan was completed in 2022.

Community Choice Aggregation This program enables local government to combine the purchasing power of its residents and businesses to provide them with an alternative to Eversource Basic Service, (your electrical supplier in Carlisle). A recent study from UMass Amherst found that CCA programs can be less expensive and more sustainable than standard suppliers.

Green Communities: Carlisle voted to become a Green Community in 2011. This allows Carlisle to apply for grants for energy reduction projects.

Solar Challenges. The former Energy Task Force organized two solar challenges in 2013 and 2016 to encourage residents to install photovoltaic panels on their properties.

Heat Smart Challenges. Carlisle was one of the pilot communities to encourage the installation of heat pumps in residents ' properties.

Solar Array on the CPS Roof: Hidden away but it is generating renewable energy.

Ground Mount Solar Bylaws. The town voted for these bylaws in 2017.

Complete Streets: A federally funded program to ensure that the town center encouraged pedestrians.

Updated Mowing Protocols: New mowing protocols on two parcels of conservation land protects meadow eco-systems for beneficial insects and nesting birds.

Electric Vehicle Charging Stations at Carlisle Public School. There are 6 chargers at the school. 

Solar Canopy at Carlisle Public School: This solar array covers the school parking lot. The solar array was erected in summer/early fall 2020 and became operational in early 2021. In addition to producing renewable electricity, the array is expected to provide the Town with $33,777 annually for the next 20 years.