B
abcock Ranch, a planned community in Punta Gorda, Florida, has made headlines for its impressive resilience during Hurricane Milton, with no power outages or damage to homes. This solar-powered community, dubbed "the Hometown of Tomorrow," boasts 880 acres of solar energy at the Babcock Ranch Solar Energy Center.

    Every home in Babcock Ranch meets the minimum Bronze Standard FGBC Certification, featuring high-performance windows and insulation, tight construction and ducts, efficient heating and cooling equipment, and energy-saving lighting and appliances. These features result in significantly lower utility costs for residents.

    Resident Jason Upperco moved into the community ahead of schedule to experience its benefits firsthand. His electric bill was "mind-blowing" - half the cost of his previous home despite having double the square footage. Janette Dulaney, another resident, echoed similar sentiments, praising the community's environmental impact and affordability.

    Babcock Ranch is not only energy-efficient but also climate-resilient, earning it fame as "Florida's first hurricane-proof town." The community's homes are built to withstand 150 mph winds, situated inland and 30 feet above sea level to minimize storm surges. About 90% of the community is built on preserved wetland, naturally collecting excess water and preventing flooding.

    The community's Smart Pond systems use live weather forecast data to project water levels and automatically lower them before a storm arrives. During Hurricane Milton, two Babcock Ranch buildings served as shelters for 2,000 people, while the rest of Florida experienced widespread power outages.

    Babcock Ranch's co-founder, Syd Kitson, aims to build the most innovative, resilient, and climate-resilient town in America. His vision is to work with Mother Nature, constantly monitoring changing environmental demands. The community offers a range of activities to reduce residents' carbon footprint, including walkable neighborhoods, public transportation, and local events.

    Kitson's inspiration for Babcock Ranch dates back to his college days, where he believed in the importance of clean energy and sustainable development. He founded a real estate development company and purchased Babcock Ranch in 2006, setting out to build a profitable community that harmonizes with nature. For his efforts, Kitson was named Time magazine's "Dreamer of the Year" in 2023.

    Residents praise the community for its unique features and benefits, including its walkable neighborhoods, lakes for recreation, and holiday events. Upperco believes Babcock Ranch should be duplicated around the world to inspire communities seeking a positive impact on the planet.