Vision
On a global level, as we move off our addiction to oil, huge money is going to be made. This new economy has the potential to make the industrial revolution and the tech boom of the past look small. Peter believes that Vermont is uniquely situated to get a piece of this economic opportunity.
Fighting climate change may be the paramount challenge of our time, but it’s not a zero-sum game. If we’re smart about it, we can create a sustainable future for ourselves while at the same time laying the groundwork for future prosperity.
Record
Peter returned to the Vermont Senate in 2006, driven in large part by his commitment to combating climate change. Since 2006 Peter has played a key leadership role in passing two climate change bills. One of these bills, called “the toughest climate change bill in the nation” by Al Gore, would have expanded Efficiency Vermont to cover all fuels, not just electricity.
Although Governor Douglas vetoed that bill, Peter remained committed to delivering on its critical investments in in-state renewable energy generation and energy efficiency. Both bills created well-paid jobs, lowered Vermonter’s energy and heating bills, and reduced our dependence on foreign sources of energy.
Under Peter’s leadership, Vermont became the first state in the country to pass “standard offer” legislation that sets standard offer rates for renewable energy projects in Vermont. The legislation has seen great success, with a record number of renewable energy generation projects being proposed and funded since its passage.
Peter promoted and helped to pass a 2008 economic development bill with key green provisions. At his urging, the legislation included the Entrepreneurs’ Seed Capital Fund, which invests stimulus funds into start up green energy companies and developed more predictable requirements for wind and hydro development.
The Future: Green Energy In Vermont
As governor, Peter will focus his efforts on building a strong renewable energy economy that will grow businesses, create well-paid jobs, save Vermonters money, get us off our addiction to oil, and take important steps to fight the looming specter of climate change.
If you are supporting commercial wind power in Vermont, you just lost my vote! Take a look on the internet and discover the rapidly growing segment of Vermonters who feel the same way. The scenic beauty of our ridge lines may be the most important thing we have in drawing tourists, second home owners and a talented work force to our state. Wind will certainly be an important component in developing our nation’s energy future, but there is a right and a wrong place to do it. Vermont is the WRONG place. There are a number of other ways in which we can do our part without destroying the heart of our state.
I’m sorry if I missed this, but is Peter committed to closing VY if he is elected?
Yeah. Shumlin has always been the strongest candidate in advocating for the closure of VY. From what I’ve seen closing VY and committing to renewables are two of his highest priorities.
Thank you for being committed to closing VY on schedule. I disagree that many Vermonters are against wind farms. There will always be the “not in my backyard” attitude, which in my opinion is very short sighted. Our country must look towards all options to reduce our carbon footprint and the need for oil, including wind and solar.
Great job on the debate last night!