Starting a Coalition

Starting a Clean Cities and Communities coalition can be a valuable first step toward establishing partnerships to advance the deployment of affordable, efficient, and clean transportation fuels and technologies in your area. Before you consider starting a coalition, check for local coalitions where you can become a stakeholder. The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) grants official Clean Cities and Communities designation to coalitions that exhibit broad commitment to and support for implementing alternative fuels and advanced vehicle technologies. Coalitions that receive designation must have:

  • An active network of stakeholders who meet regularly and have defined roles
  • A clear organizational structure
  • A director to lead the coalition
  • Reliable funding for the coalition director position
  • Specific, attainable goals and a strategic plan for achieving them
  • Strong partnerships with air quality officials, energy officials, and other decision makers who control resources and help guide policy.

Receiving official designation as a Clean Cities and Communities coalition is a multiyear process. Coalitions receive guidance from a regional manager before, during, and after designation. For step-by-step instructions on starting a coalition, see the Clean Cities Coalition Designation Guide.