Categories: News

What’s the Deal with Jim Kenney & Phil Rinaldi?

As we mentioned in our 2015 Mayoral Election Guide, Jim Kinney has a super green agenda. But one thing keeps popping up in the Sustainability Scene: Why does Kenney have the ties with Phil Rinaldi of Philadelphia Energy Solutions (aka the “Energy Hub” ringleader)?

A recently formed coalition calling themselves “Bright Philly Future” recently approached Kenney with their concerns. According to their website,

There has been some concern expressed in environmental circles about the presence of Phil Rinaldi, CEO of Philadelphia Energy Solutions, on Jim’s Policy Committee. We also were concerned about this and asked for a meeting with Jim and his policy chief, which turned out to be extremely productive.

Our team of representatives from interfaith groups, environmental groups, labor & business, all opposed to the dirty energy hub, new pipelines, dangerous oil trains, and fracking, found Kenney most willing to listen to us as we educated him and his team about the moral issues around climate change as well as the value of green investment over fossil fuel investment in creating jobs without sacrificing clean air, clean water and clean food.

Read the full story on the Bright Philly Future website.

 

Photo: Jim Kinney 2015 website

Julie Hancher

Julie Hancher is the co-founder and Executive Director of Green Philly, an independent media organization making sustainability accessible, affordable and actionable. Since launching Green Philly in 2008, she has grown it from a passion project into a leading voice for local climate storytelling, pairing impactful journalism with community events and experiences. Julie is a frequent speaker on climate, media innovation and the future of local journalism, and is the creator of SustainPHL and EcoFair. Outside of Green Philly, you can find her hiking, biking, traveling, or exploring Philadelphia.

Recent Posts

Enviro jobs & grants, & more

Catch up on the latest sustainability news: Parks and Rec expands environmental stewardship program. Philadelphia…

2 days ago

Meet 6 people making Philly greener, one neighborhood at a time.

(and they're all SustainPHL nominees!) From storm drains in Germantown to community gardens in Kensington,…

3 days ago

Vacant lot greening, A challenge to the school board, & more

Catch up on the latest sustainability news: Teens turn vacant lot into green space. Since…

1 week ago

The Philly Passive House: What does a home without fossil fuels look like?

Inside a Francisville Passive House project, Green Philly attendees saw how airtight construction, insulation, efficient…

1 week ago

New trash bill, utility assistance, National Estuaries Week, & more

Catch up on the latest sustainability news: Council considers new bill for waste disposal contract.…

2 weeks ago

Announcing the SustainPHL 2026 Nominees

Meet the local leaders, organizations and changemakers shaping a more sustainable Philadelphia. Philadelphia has welcomed…

2 weeks ago