EcoSmart

EcoSmart is the City of Ames' comprehensive strategy to reduce energy consumption and decrease its carbon footprint. While many of these efforts are new, others have been around for decades.

Smart Water is a suite of programs directed at water and wastewater customers, both residential and commercial, to reduce demand and consumption. Programs focus on water-saving techniques, conservation methods, and public education and outreach. Click here for more information on Smart Water

Smart Energy is a suite of energy programs aimed at improving comfort, reducing bills, and contributing to the reliability of the electric system. These programs keep electric rates low and improve our environment. Smart Energy programs focus on utility load management, development of alternative energy resources, and education. Smart Energy rebates reward customers for investing in energy-efficient appliances, construction, and more. Click here for more information on Smart Energy

Smart Trash focuses on the City of Ames' commitment to diverting trash from the landfill through a progressive waste-to-energy system transforming garbage from around Story County into Refuse Derived Fuel (RDF) for the Ames Power Plant. By processing trash at the Resource Recovery Plant, metals are pulled out for recycling. Glass is collected at glass recycling bins at local grocery stores, and more than 70 percent of the community's trash is diverted from the landfill. Click here for more information on Smart Trash 

Smart Ride focuses on efforts to reduce carbon emissions through increasing efficiency in transportation services both in city operations and in public services. The City of Ames has moved to purchasing fuel-efficient vehicles including sub-compacts, hybrids, and two all-electric Bolts for fuel efficient driving and carbon footprint reduction. 

Smart Watersheds raises awareness of local storm water and watershed efforts through educational and outreach events to improve water quality of area lakes and streams, and control pollution from erosion run-off. Click here for more information on Smart Watersheds