Eric Veium has been selected as the 2024 Climate Champion for his vision and implementation of a multitude of actions over many years to create a clean energy economy throughout our city, county, and region. 

Eric began his climate solutions advocacy as a Cal Poly student and then later as the energy and sustainability analyst at the university. He was instrumental in bringing the solar farm to the Cal Poly campus, establishing SLO City Farm, forming SLO Clean Energy – which later morphed into SLO Climate Coalition with an MOU with the City of SLO – of which he chaired until recently. He was a driving force in bringing Community Choice Energy to SLO County, the establishment of California Alliance for Community Energy, and our local Climate Justice Alliance. He is currently taking the lead on a new groundbreaking E-home Assist program and efforts to encourage the SLO County Board of Supervisors to make climate solutions a priority. And so much more.

In addition to Eric’s climate work, he is an effective, persuasive, and articulate speaker – and a nice person. He is well-liked, respected, and has many devoted and enthusiastic fans. We recognize and honor Eric as an inspirational and powerful climate leader.