Message from Ben Walsh, Clean Energy Expert at VPIRG: I moderated a “Clean Heating Solutions” forum a few days ago in Middlebury, and our five panelists all came to the same conclusion – Vermonters can affordably heat our homes without fossil fuels, today.

At a time when pollution from fossil fuels has disrupted the climate we all depend on, promoting dirty energy (like fracked gas) isn’t just unnecessary—it’s plain wrong. And the Public Service Board needs to hear that message loud and clear at their public hearing this Wednesday, May 7th in Shoreham - from residents along the proposed Fracked Gas Pipeline route, citizens from across Vermont and YOU.

With Vermont Gas’s ads everywhere you turn, it can be hard to separate fact from fiction. Here’s the truth about why VPIRG is joining Vermonters all around the state to oppose this risky plan:
First, asking others to frack for gas when we've banned the practice here is simply wrong.

Vermont banned fracking in 2012 because it’s so dirty, dangerous and costly. Importing the gas from Canada doesn’t make it any less harmful to public health, or to air, land or water resources.
Fracked gas is also a climate disaster.

Recent studies have shown that fracked gas may be even more polluting to the climate than coal or oil.
And betting on the cost of fracked gas is actually a risky gamble.

Geologists and even energy industry executives are skeptical about when the fracking bubble will burst, and when costs will rise dramatically.
Fortunately, better alternatives are available right now.

Easy-to-use, clean technologies – like air source heat pumps, solar, and efficient wood stoves – are already cutting Vermonters’ heating bills in half.

If you believe that climate change is real and it’s time to start cutting pollution and heating costs at the same time, you’re not alone. We owe it to future generations to make responsible, clean energy choices today. Importing fracked gas when we have untapped, local and clean solutions just doesn’t make sense.

If you agree, JOIN ME WEDNESDAY at the Fracked Gas Pipeline Hearing.
More info on Wednesday's meeting: http://salsa.wiredforchange.com/o/5980/p/salsa/event/common/public/?event_KEY=423133

Hope to see you Wednesday,

Ben Walsh
VPIRG Clean Energy Advocate