A Practical Guide for Community-Driven Public Power
Cleveland Public Power represents one of the most significant victories for community control over corporate power in American history. Founded in 1907 and defended against privatization in 1978 by Mayor Dennis Kucinich, saving residents over $300 million, CPP proves that communities can defeat corporate monopolies and preserve essential public services.
IEJ developed this guide in partnership with the Our CPP coalition. Cleveland’s 1978 victory over corporate control provides the foundation for today’s fight for energy justice.
Who This Guide Serves
- Community organizers working on energy justice campaigns
- Neighborhood advocates seeking reliable, affordable power
- Housing justice activists addressing utility shutoffs and energy burdens
- Environmental groups pushing for community-owned clean energy
- Policy advocates interested in municipal utility governance models
What You’ll Learn
- To Navigate Municipal Power Structures
- To Build Effective Community Advisory Models
- To Execute a Winning Campaign Strategy