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Getting smarter about the way we use energy will save families money and create jobs right here in Virginia. Energy experts agree that by far the cleanest, cheapest and quickest way to produce more energy is through efficiency. That is why energy efficiency is again our top goal this legislative session in Richmond. And we need your help!
Call your State Senator and urge support for Senator McEachin's Senate Bill 71, which calls on Virginia utilities to take the lead by requiring them to reduce energy consumption 12% by 2022 by investing in readily-available energy-efficiency improvements.
Last year we gained some unlikely support on the Senate Commerce and Labor Committee (the key committee for energy efficiency bills) right after we flooded legislators' offices with calls and emails in support of efficiency. The bottom line: Your calls work! So, let's do it again this year.
The McEachin bill would create up to 10,000 new jobs in the Commonwealth. It's exactly the "Jobs Plan" Virginia needs right now! Efficiency investments will boost Virginia's economy and create a demand for energy efficient construction and weatherization, energy auditors and engineers, and other jobs.
Enacting strong energy efficiency programs not only creates jobs in Virginia, it also saves families and businesses money on their electric bills while also cutting harmful air and water pollution and reducing the threat of climate change. Efficiency is an emissions-free approach to meeting a large portion of the state's energy needs. It's available today with more efficient appliances and industrial processes, and improved weatherization and HVAC systems for offices, schools, homes and other buildings.
Efficiency would enable Virginia to meet its energy needs without constructing new, expensive power plants like the 1500-megawatt coal-fired plant proposed for the Hampton Roads area (Surry County), estimated to cost as much as $6 billion - the most costly coal plant in the U.S. The plant would be the biggest in Virginia and would release over 14 million tons of global warming pollution every year.
President Obama has declared this week as "Clean Energy Week". His key Cabinet Secretaries will spread out across the country to host a series of Clean Energy Week events.
From the White House press release: "Clean Energy Week events will highlight the President's commitment to passing comprehensive energy and climate legislation that will generate millions of jobs, break our dependence on foreign oil, reduce the threat of deadly pollution and restore America's role as a global leader in the clean energy industry".
One such event took place in Charlottesville this morning as Nancy Sutley, Chair of the White House Council on Environmental Quality and Van Jones, Obama's Special Advisor for Green Jobs (aka the Green Jobs Czar), joined Rep. Tom Perriello and other electeds highlighting a revolving loan program for energy efficiency programs which was first created through legislation authored by Creigh Deeds this past session.
Through the program, which is in development, the City of Charlottesville and County of Albemarle would be able to lend funds from federal and other grant sources to area residents to make their homes more energy efficient. The loans would be paid back from the energy savings that are generated by the efficiency upgrades. The federal funds would also be used to train area workers in retrofitting and energy efficiency upgrading at the local community college. Those newly skilled workers can seek employment with the local companies participating in the program. Through this innovative program, Charlottesville and Albemarle are trying to unleash the potential of clean energy jobs by not just training people for them, but by helping to create a market that will employ those who have been trained.
Creigh Deeds' legislation, SB1212, allowed the City of Charlottesville the authority to create its own clean energy financing program. This bill couched with Federal programs could provide the model for other Virginia local jurisdictions to finance development of their own renewable energy and efficiency programs.
I'd like however to focus on Virginia, which by stark contrast is anything but a leader on this issue. As many may be aware, the Virginia General Assembly reconvened for it's one day veto session last week. The only real way to sum up the results of that one day session is with one word... disappointing.
We had a real opportunity to move Virginia towards the a clean energy future that is already available and affordable, it just needed a little legislative help. Some of you may have followed me on twitter last week giving the play by play of what went down and I decided to sit and think on it over the weekend before voicing my complete disappointment in our elected officials.
There are some champions to be highlighted and thanked before I go on:
Senator Donald McEachin- introduced a comprehensive piece of legislation on energy efficiency that would have saved consumers money on the electricity bills in the long run and created 10,000 plus jobs for the commonwealth and contained a strong mandatory target. (SB 1447)
Senator Mark Herring- introduced key components of the above bill (a mandatory 19% Efficiency goal for utilities) (SB 1440)
Delegate Albert Pollard- introduced a bill that would give utilities the same rate of return for investments in efficiency that they currently see for investments in coal. This bill passed and is an important step towards a clean energy economy but it is just the first step.
Senator Chap Petersen- introduced bills with strong targets on efficiency. Senator Petersen was also a vocal champion for moving Virginia forward and embracing a clean energy future.
Governor Tim Kaine- yeah that's right, Governor Kaine endorsed legislation that contained mandatory efficiency targets at the beginning of the session and amended the weakened bills that came out of the session to include a 19% efficiency target.
These are the five BIG thank yous I feel I have to give before moving on to lastweek's veto session.
Unfortunately, none of the legislation was able to make it out of the General Assembly with a mandatory efficiency standard....
Below is VALCV's alert asking people to contact their Delegate and Senator supporting amendments to HB 2506 (Pollard) and SB 1248 (Northam). These bills provide incentives for investments in energy efficiency programs. The amendment to SB 1248 adds a goal of achieving 19% energy efficiency by 2025.
Take Action to Support Energy Efficiency
Urge Your Senator and Delegate to the Governor's Amendments
During the 2009 session, the General Assembly made its first commitment to promoting energy efficiency. We now have a chance to make this legislation (HB 2506 and SB 1248) even stronger!
Please contact your Delegate and Senator and urge them to support the Governor's amendments to HB 2506 and SB 1248.
On Monday, Governor Kaine offered an amendment to Senator Northam's SB 1248 that adds a goal of achieving 19% of our energy needs through energy efficiency by 2025. This target was the top recommendation of the Governor's Commission on Climate Change. He also amended Delegate Pollard's HB 2506 to further strengthen and reinforce Virginia's commitment to energy efficiency.
It's a simple question that needs to be posed to our gubernatorial candidates. "How do you propose Virginia gets from Point A to Point B?"
As far as I can tell, none of the candidates disagree that we do indeed need to migrate away from Point A. But do they propose perhaps a Point C? What is Point C? Whether Point B or C, how exactly do we arrive there?
By 2030, total growth in energy consumption will be 31%. The increase comes mainly from the residential, commercial and transportation sectors, driven by a 30% increase in the state's population.
Point A is Virginia's current business as usual where our fossil fuel use continues to grow strongly, particularly for coal and petroleum. Coal consumption in particular increases to 68%, due to construction of new coal power plants in Virginia to meet electricity demand. (A chart showing CO2 emissions for Point A is below the fold.)
Point B is outlined in the Sierra Club's Citizens Energy Plan where "a new energy future integrates energy conservation, more efficient energy use and significant substitution of renewable energy sources for fossil fuel based energy".
Total energy use is reduced 14% by 2020 over the business as usual approach. By 2030 it is reduced by 27%. In absolute terms, energy use is reduced by only 5% from 2005 levels due to the 30% growth in population. However this is offset by a per capita consumption decrease of 56%.
Reduced demand for electricity due to efficiencies makes it possible to halt construction of new coal-fired power plants. As renewable sources such as wind energy grow, older (dirtier and less efficient) coal-fired power plants can be phased out.
The candidates are each very smart cookies. And each have produced energy plans that only talk in generalities. We need to demand more specifics. That said, life could be made easier by pledging to just adopt Point B if elected. Anybody game?
Roanoke County Sets Aggressive Emissions Reduction Target, Recognizes Work of Cool Cities Coalition and Affiliates
Culminating nearly two years of planning and analysis, the Roanoke County Board of Supervisors approved three resolutions yesterday, paving the way for a multi-year campaign to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. These emissions are widely acknowledged to be a principal cause of global climate change. Prior to introducing the resolutions, Cave Spring District Supervisor Charlotte Moore acknowledged the work of county staff, local scientists who provided technical expertise, Roanoke Valley Cool Cities Coalition and several of its affiliates, and Roanoke Cement, a Titan America Company that provided funding for expert assistance to the County in this project. All three resolutions passed by unanimous vote of the five members of the Board of Supervisors.
Following the Board action, Roanoke Valley Cool Cities Coalition's Diana Christopulos commented, "We're so grateful to Charlotte Moore, without whose efforts this great achievement might not have been possible. We are very excited to be a part of this landmark decision, and we look forward to working with the new citizens' committee, the Board of Supervisors, and county staff, as they sustain their quest to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels and strive toward a smart, clean energy future for our community."
Energy efficiency has been the topic of much conversation and debate recently both here on Article XI and in the halls of the General Assembly. The Virginian-Pilot weighed in today on the side of moving Virginia forward towards promoting real true energy efficiency.
Utility self-interest threatens to stymie what should be the simplest and most cost-effective solution to the state's energy crunch. It will require political leadership from the governor and legislative leaders in both parties to cut through the static and craft a plan that makes sense for energy producers, customers and future generations of Virginians.
Two bills will be considered in the next few days that the Pilot refers to as "imperfect but redeemable." SB 1248 will be considered today in House Commerce and Labor and HB 2506 will be considered in Senate COmmerce and Labor on Monday.
If you haven't already, please contact your legislator and tell him or her that energy efficiency is the cheapest, quickest and cleanest way to reach our growing energy demand!
The full Virginian-Pilot editorial is after the jump.
State Senator Frank Wagner (SB 1348) and Delegate Terry Kilgore (HB 2531) are sponsoring legislation that will raise your electric rates, enrich the utilities at your expense and make our air dirtier.
Utilities already see an economic benefit in shifting demand for electricity during peak demand times like the hot days of summer. For example, they might get an industrial customer to run a process in the early morning hours when residential and commercial users are less likely to be running air conditioners, washers and dryers. These actions save utilities money because they pay less for electricity during these low-usage times.
Unfortunately, this legislation by Wagner and Kilgore would allow Dominion and other utilities to charge you for the same actions they are already taking to save money on electricity during peak demand times; in effect double dipping at your expense.
We get dirtier air in the deal too!
The bill also pays industries to use big, dirty diesel generators as back up generators in the summer time to meet peak demand, polluting our air on the same days when we are likely to be under air pollution alerts.
This makes no sense. Click here to get details on how to take action to stop double dipping by Dominion and other utilities at your expense!
By an equally razor thin margin, that very same Senator Saslaw voted WITH Republicans in an evenly divided Commerce and Labor committee just last night. Regarding Senator Donald McEachin's Energy Efficiency bill (SB1447), the committee was divided along party lines with 7 Democrats for and 7 Republicans against. Senator Saslaw cast aside his party, embraced the lobbying efforts of pay-to-play politics of coal loving Dominion Power, and cast the deciding vote AGAINST his own party. The only vote that crossed the aisle.
The first three paragraphs from a CCAN press release (Feb 10, 2009) says it all:
RICHMOND-The only efficiency bill in the General Assembly that would mandate a reduction in electricity demand was killed Monday by one vote. Senate Majority leader Dick Saslaw (D-Fairfax) cast the deciding vote to kill SB 1447, Senator McEachin's bill (D-Henrico).
"Senator McEachin's strong efficiency bill would have ensured reduced rates for consumers, boosted Virginia's economy, and created jobs," said Lauren Glickman, Virginia Campaign Coordinator for the Chesapeake Climate Action Network. "Last night Senator Saslaw voted against the best interest of his constituents in Fairfax, and the best interest of Virginians across the commonwealth."
The McEachin efficiency bill was opposed by Dominion Virginia Power, the largest utility in Virginia. Senator Saslaw received $85,000 in donations over the last three years from the utility. Until Senator Saslaw's vote, the Committee was split along party lines, with seven votes in favor and seven against.
From his press conference last night, here's President Obama on the crucial importance of energy efficiency measures in the economic recovery package:
...This is another concern that I've had in some of the arguments that I'm hearing. When people suggest that, "What a waste of money to make federal buildings more energy-efficient." Why would that be a waste of money?
We're creating jobs immediately by retrofitting these buildings or weatherizing 2 million Americans' homes, as was called for in the package, so that right there creates economic stimulus.
And we are saving taxpayers when it comes to federal buildings potentially $2 billion. In the case of homeowners, they will see more money in their pockets. And we're reducing our dependence on foreign oil in the Middle East. Why wouldn't we want to make that kind of investment?
Now, maybe philosophically you just don't think that the federal government should be involved in energy policy. I happen to disagree with that; I think that's the reason why we find ourselves importing more foreign oil now than we did back in the early '70s when OPEC first formed.
And we can have a respectful debate about whether or not we should be involved in energy policymaking, but don't suggest that somehow that's wasteful spending. That's exactly what this country needs.
Well said, and it sure is great to have a U.S. president "gets it" on energy and the environment. Now, let's make sure the the economic recover/"stimulus" package contains as much money for energy efficiency - by far the biggest bang for the buck in the energy area - as possible.
The Virginia State Senate will be voting this Monday and Tuesday on critical energy efficiency bills. Please call your State Senator and tell them that we must find a way of meeting our energy demands without burdening already stretched family and small business budgets. In today's economic environment, investing in energy efficiency can save consumers and businesses money while enhancing our energy security.
Tell your State Senator to vote "YES" on energy efficiency legislation. SB 1447 (McEachin), SB 1440 (Herring) and SB 1248 (Northam) each represent a major step forward for energy efficiency in the Commonwealth of Virginia.
This is it, people. It's now or never time! Please make this call and let's light up every Senator's phone line in Richmond come Monday.
Who is your State Senator and what is his/her phone number? Click here to find out. Thank you!
I was shocked to hear Sen. John McCain on TV a couple of nights ago (interviewed on PBS News Hour) say that weatherization was not a stimulus measure. Where does he get his information?
Weatherization is energy efficiency. It is a trifecta: helps low-income people reduce their energy bills, puts people to work performing the weatherization work while using materials and equipment primarily produced in the U.S. (like insulation, efficient windows, and HVAC equipment), and reduces greenhouse gas emissions by reducing demand for electricity, natural gas and heating oil.
It particularly will utilize building trades craftsmen who currently are needing work, and will increase demand from the moribund building materials industry hard hit by the housing slump. The overall effect should be very stimulating to the economy and produce many good jobs quickly because it is a labor-intensive activity.
I don't know who is generating the propaganda that weatherization is not a stimulus measure - it is the best kind of stimulus measure.
Evidently many Republicans have fallen for this propaganda; I heard Rep. Boehner make similar remarks. I trust you will not be fooled by it and will resist attempts to excise weatherization from the stimulus package.
Sincerely,
Richard H. Ball, retired energy policy and technology analyst
Annandale, VA
Call our U.S. Senators today! You can reach Sen. Warner's office at (202) 224-2023 and Sen. Webb's office at (202) 224-4024.
The momentum to pass a meaningful energy efficiency bill in Virginia has reached a fever pitch. The House of Delegates is considering Delegate Ken Plum's energy efficiency bill (HB 2176) and it's up to us to make sure it passes!
The House Commerce and Labor Committee will be voting on HB 2176 today. Please contact them ASAP, especially if your delegate serves on this committee.
Tell your Delegate that:
• Delegate Plum's efficiency bill, HB 2176, will mandate that Virginia meet 19% of its energy demand by 2025 with efficiency.
• The bill will lower electricity rates for consumers, stimulate the economy, and create good, high-quality jobs right here in Virginia.
If all of us take action by calling today, we can chalk up a major victory for the environment in Virginia -- and brighten the prospects for a clean energy future in Virginia.
No pun intended, but "screw" compact fluorescent lightbulbs! Let's move to these instead!
Cambridge University researchers have developed cheap, light-emitting diode (LED) bulbs that produce brilliant light but use very little electricity. They will cost £2 (USD$2.80) and last up to 60 years. The LED bulbs are 12 times more efficient than conventional tungsten incandescent bulbs and three times more efficient than compact fluorescent low-energy bulbs. As well as lasting 100,000 hours, ten times as long as today's eco-bulbs, the LED bulbs do not contain mercury, so disposal is less damaging to the environment, they do not flicker and fully illuminate instantly, unlike the current generation of eco-bulbs.
[...]
The 10-fold price reduction could slash household lighting bills by three-quarters. A manufacturer has begun work on production prototypes and the first bulbs could be in the shops within two years. The head of the Centre for Gallium Nitride, Professor Colin Humphreys, said: "This could well be the holy grail in terms of providing our lighting needs for the future."
"We are very close to achieving highly efficient, low-cost white LEDs. It is our belief they will render current energy-efficiency bulbs redundant."
Pretty amazing, huh? Now, imagine doing this not only for light bulbs, but for everything else - heating and cooling equipment, refrigeration, automobiles, power generation and transmission, etc., etc. Pretty soon, we'd have an economy that consumed a fraction of the energy it does today, cost consumers a fraction of the money they currently spend on energy, emitted a fraction of the carbon dioxide it does today, and sent a fraction of the money we currently send to countries that aren't our friends. I believe that's known as a "win-win-win-win" situation. Did I miss any "wins" there? :)
In a recent legislative update, Virginia Beach Delegate Joe Bouchard outlined his priorities for the session, which includes "implementing the Climate Change Commission's recommendations with programs that create new jobs in the growing clean energy industries".
I have four bills implementing the Climate Change Commission's recommendations with programs that create new jobs in the growing clean energy industries. I served on the Climate Change Commission and saw several studies showing the tremendous economic opportunities for Virginia in renewable energy, energy efficiency and conservation. Initiatives in this area not only help reduce greenhouse gas emissions, they contribute to economic growth and help reduce our dependence on imported oil.
The most important of my bills (HB 2562) would exempt purchases of renewable energy systems, including solar energy systems (photovoltaic panels and solar heating) and wind-powered electrical generators of less than 10 kilowatts from the state sales and use tax. This will help stimulate sales of this equipment and attract interest from manufacturers in investing in Virginia. Sales of these systems today are very small, so this tax exemption will not significantly reduce state tax revenues.
I have two other bills increasing the ability of local governments to permit solar energy systems in new housing developments and preventing them from being prohibited where they are currently allowed.
Another bill I introduced (HB 2420) expands the authority of the existing Office of Intermodal Planning and Investment to identify integrated transportation solutions covering all transportation modes that promote economic development, intermodal connectivity, environmental quality, accessibility for people and freight, and transportation safety. Currently, highway, rail and transit plans are developed independently, leaving gaps in transportation capacity in some areas and redundant capacity in others. HB 2420 addresses this problem by having the Office of Intermodal Planning and Investment coordinate actions of the agencies of Virginia's Transportation Secretariat to develop and implement a comprehensive, multi-modal transportation policy, establish standards for the coordination of transportation investments and land use planning to promote commuter choice and transportation system efficiency, establish goals, objectives and priorities in the Statewide Transportation Plan covering at least a 20-year planning horizon, in accordance with the federal transportation planning requirements. These changes will help ensure that taxpayer dollars invested in transportation are spent wisely, resulting in optimum enhancements across all transportation modes.
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Getting smarter about the way we use energy will save families money and create jobs right here in Virginia. Energy experts agree that by far the cleanest, cheapest and quickest way to produce more energy is through efficiency. That is why energy efficiency is again our top goal this legislative session in Richmond. And we need your help!
President Obama has declared this week as "Clean Energy Week". His key Cabinet Secretaries will spread out across the country to host a series of Clean Energy Week events.
Below is VALCV's alert asking people to contact their Delegate and Senator supporting amendments to HB 2506 (Pollard) and SB 1248 (Northam). These bills provide incentives for investments in energy efficiency programs. The amendment to SB 1248 adds a goal of achieving 19% energy efficiency by 2025.
From Mark McClain, 
Windfall profits at your expense!
In a display of political skill today in Richmond, Senator Saslaw reportedly 
The Virginia State Senate will be voting this Monday and Tuesday on critical energy efficiency bills. Please call your State Senator and tell them that we must find a way of meeting our energy demands without burdening already stretched family and small business budgets. In today's economic environment, investing in energy efficiency can save consumers and businesses money while enhancing our energy security.
No pun intended, but "screw" compact fluorescent lightbulbs! Let's move to 
In a recent legislative update, Virginia Beach 
