Climate & Energy
Fighting the climate crisis, repowering Vermont, and saving Vermonters money with local, green energy solutions.
VPIRG is one of Vermont’s leading advocacy groups when it comes to fighting the climate crisis. Our strength comes from the thousands of Vermonters who have chosen to stand up for our future over the years, from establishing Efficiency Vermont, the first-of-its-kind energy efficiency utility in 1999, to banning fracking in 2012, retiring Vermont Yankee in 2014 after decades of organizing, and passing the Global Warming Solutions Act in 2020.
Today, our Climate & Energy work is driven by the understanding that we must fully decarbonize both Vermont and the nation, and that everyone deserves access to clean and affordable energy and transportation. Breaking down barriers contributing to rural, BIPOC, and low-income communities being left behind in this transition is a core part of our efforts.
We must move to modernize Vermont’s transportation system, making investments that will save Vermonters money while making reliable transportation options more accessible and cutting carbon pollution at the same time. We also need to harness the resources and strength of our energy efficiency utilities, expanding their work on efficiency and electrification. And we must continue to expand our in-state renewable energy portfolio in order to reduce our carbon footprint, create jobs for Vermonters, and keep our energy dollars circulating in our own economy.
Recent Climate & Energy News
Scott Admin Announces Recovery Funds Proposal
Late yesterday, Gov. Phil Scott released his proposal for the over $1 billion in funds…
PUC Extends Halt on Utility Disconnections
On Monday, the Vermont Public Utilities Commission (PUC) issued an order that would extend the…
House Passes Transportation Modernization
Going into this legislative session, one of our key priorities was a set of policies…
Legal Aid and VPIRG lead push to prevent utility shut offs
No Vermonter should have to worry that their utilities could be disconnected during this pandemic…
VPIRG and Coalition Partners Announce Joint Budget Priorities
In a letter to the Vermont House Appropriations Committee, VPIRG and 18 organizational allies of…
Burlington: Climate is on the Ballot this Town Meeting Day
This Town Meeting Day, Burlington voters have the opportunity to make a major impact on…