Vermont Climate Adaptation Laws: Understanding the Global Warming Solutions Act and Clean Heat Standard
On Wednesday, August 14, 2024, Windham-2 Representative Laura Sibilia will host a moderated information session about two of Vermont's ongoing policy efforts to adapt to climate change: the Global Warming Solutions Act (GWSA) and the development of a Clean Heat Standard.
The session will include key experts Jared Duval, the Executive Director of the Energy Action Network (EAN), and Ed McNamara, Chair of the Vermont Public Utility Commission (PUC). The event will be moderated by Dover Town Moderator Richard Werner and is slated to occur at the Dover Town Hall from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM.
Jared Duval will present an overview and analysis of where Vermont stands relative to its climate commitments and energy goals and provide brief analysis about the recent GHG Inventory publication by the Vermont Agency of Natural Resources. This presentation will highlight Vermont's progress towards achieving the legally-binding emissions reduction targets set by the 2020 Global Warming Solutions Act and key data and methodology being used.
Chair Ed McNamara will provide information about the status of the PUC's current work to develop a Clean Heat Standard, which is a performance standard for heating fuels aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The PUC's statutorily required work will be presented to the legislature and governor for consideration and possible implementation in January 2025.
Representative Laura Sibilia will discuss both the GWSA and the Affordable Heat Act, legislation she helped sponsor to promote sustainable energy practices and affordability.
The event will feature 15 to 20-minute presentations from each speaker, followed by a 30-minute Q&A session moderated by Dover Moderator Rich Werner where the public can ask questions of the experts and provide feedback for Rep. Sibilia.
This event is open to the public and represents a unique local opportunity to learn about some of Vermont's actions to adapt to climate change.
Contact:
Rep. Laura Sibilia Lsibilia@leg.state.vt.us
(802) 384-0233