Duke Energy Ohio and Kentucky are pleased to announce the recipients of the 2024 Climate Resiliency Grants from the Duke Energy Foundation. A total of $105,000 has been awarded to various organizations in southwest Ohio and northern Kentucky – the culmination of a competitive award process – to support initiatives ranging from water quality and habitat restoration to species conservation and nature-based outdoor recreation.

“Our goal is to foster a resilient ecosystem and community that can thrive for generations to come,” said Amy Spiller, President of Duke Energy Ohio and Kentucky. “These grants and initiatives reflect our commitment to environmental stewardship, and our belief in the power of local action.”

Duke Energy continues to execute on its goal to reduce carbon dioxide emissions from electricity generation by at least 50% by 2030 and 80% by 2040, on the way to net zero carbon emissions by 2050. The company has already reduced carbon dioxide emissions by 48% from 2005 levels. The company is also working to achieve net-zero methane emissions by 2030.

Supporting other organizations that are also committed to climate resiliency aides in the sustainability of the region’s climate.

“The Cincinnati Parks Foundation is thrilled to partner with the Duke Energy Foundation. This grant will help to enhance Avondale’s resilience against climate impacts by planting more trees,” said Jennifer Hafner Spieser, President and CEO of the Cincinnati Parks Foundation. “Together, we’re bringing this community even closer to the goal of 40% urban canopy coverage as outlined in the Climate Safe Neighborhood Plan.”

Included in the list of grant recipients and program details are, from Clermont County:

  • Ohio Cardinal Land Conservancy

$10,000 | East Fork Wetlands Protection and Restoration

Funds will help to protect and restore a 67-acre parcel immediately adjacent to East Fork Lake State Park that contains high-quality wetlands and streams.

  • Cincinnati Nature Center

$10,000 | Native Habitat Restoration and Vernal Pool Establishment

The grant will restore a recently cleared agricultural area by replanting native vegetation and establishing vernal pools to prevent the reseeding of invasive species, and enhance biodiversity at Rowe Woods.

(Edited for space.)