Two of Vermont’s leading public policy organizations today released a set of new comprehensive tools that will help communities deal with the pressing issues regarding the state's energy future.
‘Vermonters are eager to help lead the state on its transition away from a fossil fuel-based economy to one based on renewable energy, conservation and efficiency. With the state’s well-developed planning framework, they are also well positioned,’ said Johanna Miller, Energy Program Director at the Vermont Natural Resources Council. ‘Now, they also have some new tools.’
Global challenges of diminishing energy resources, skyrocketing energy prices and climate change require concerted action on the part of all local, state and national governments. They also require forward-looking planning.
The set of publications recently released today by the Vermont Natural Resources Council and Vermont League of Cities and Towns outline how communities can comprehensively, systematically and aggressively address energy use and consumption. They are:
The Energy Planning and Implementation Guide for Vermont Municipalities ‘ A step-by-step guide outlining how communities can use the energy element of their municipal plan to comprehensively address energy issues.
Communities Tackling Vermont's Energy Challenges ‘ A publication overviewing three dozen success story ‘snapshots’ of innovative, entrepreneurial and proactive approaches Vermonters are taking to help save money, reduce energy consumption, transition to renewables and combat climate change.
‘VLCT is pleased to offer help to local officials to show how their neighboring cities and towns are planning for a new efficient, locally based energy future and the kinds of initiatives that might help achieve the kind of future they envision,’ said Karen Horn, VLCT’s Director of Public Policy and Advocacy. ‘A lot of good work has already been done. What works in one town may well provide a model for action in others.’
Growing interest in energy planning catalyzed the collaboration on energy planning between VNRC and VLCT and the creation of these two guiding documents.
‘These tools will greatly assist towns that want to incorporate energy issues in their Town Plans,’ said Waterbury Selectboard Chair Rebecca Ellis. ‘The planning process provides a wonderful opportunity to engage citizens in shaping a vision for the future. Once adopted, the Town Plan directs the community’s actions both with broad goals and specific objectives. From conservation to efficiency to renewables, these publications will help communities who want to make a difference on energy.’
Waterbury LEAP (Local Energy Action Partnership) is one of roughly 100 town energy committees in Vermont. Over the past four years LEAP volunteers have completed dozens of local projects that have helped Waterbury expand renewable energy opportunities, become more energy efficient, and reduce emissions. For example, last year LEAP raised funds to build solar arrays on two local schools, including Thatcher Brook Primary School. ‘This helped bring the concept of renewable energy and solar power to life for local students and teachers,’ said Duncan McDougall, chair of LEAP. ‘We look forward to using many great ideas from the Energy Planning and Implementation Guide, and we hope some of our projects will inspire other towns. Town energy committees are wonderful about sharing what they’ve learned with colleagues in other towns, and this guide is yet another great way to make that happen!’
Noted VNRC’s Miller: ‘We look forward to working even more closely with Vermont communities to use these guidance documents and help them map out a strategic plan of action; a plan that helps Vermonters save money, make their homes more comfortable and livable, create new, well-paying clean energy jobs by growing a robust renewable energy economy in the state and more.’
Read more here: http://www.vnrc.org/energy/resources/energy-planning-implementation-guid...
About the Vermont Natural Resources Council
The Vermont Natural Resources Council is an independent, nonprofit research, education, and advocacy organization founded in 1963 to protect Vermont’s environment, economy, and quality of life. Nearly 6,000 households, businesses, and organizations have joined VNRC in support of our mission to establish an approach to development that strengthens communities, enhances economic opportunity, and protects Vermont’s irreplaceable natural resources.
About the Vermont League of Cities and Towns
VLCT is an association of all the cities and towns in Vermont whose purpose is to support and strengthen local government.
Soruce: VNRC. 5.9.2011
Vermont groups say planning key to strategic energy action
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