Dear Addison County Neighbors,
For over a decade, Vermonters have been supporting efforts to reduce the negative effects of burning fossil fuels. We have chosen to come at this challenge in two complimentary ways: burning less fossil fuel, and generating the power we need more cleanly.
On the burning less side, we're doing this through conservation and efficiency programs for homes and businesses. Programs such as those offered by Efficiency Vermont have already saved Vermonters hundreds of millions of dollars. On average, for each dollar we invest in these programs, all Vermonters save two dollars.
On the cleaner generation side, we're moving away from fossil fuels and to more renewable energy, including solar, wind, geothermal, and biofuels (including bio-methane gas at Cow Power farms).
Although support for these programs in Vermont is very strong, the programs are not without controversy, typically when the generally well accepted "good idea" becomes a "local project." And in the last year, especially in and around New Haven, solar projects have drawn many people's attention.
Next week, on Wednesday, 7/15, we all have the opportunity to learn more about a 2.2MW solar proposal for New Haven and then to participate in a public hearing, conducted by the Public Service Board, the state entity that reviews and authorizes applications for solar projects. Whether you're for, against, or just curious about this project, I encourage you to take advantage of this opportunity to learn more.
Here are the details:
SITE VISIT: At 4pm, Public Service Board hearing officer Michael Tousley will conduct a site visit of the proposed Next Generation solar generation facility. Please meet at 820 Field Days Road in New Haven promptly at 4; park alongside Field Days Road, and be dressed to walk 700+ feet uphill through a (likely wet) meadow to the proposed project area.
PUBLIC HEARING: At 7pm, a public hearing will be held in the Congregational Church in New Haven (91 Town Hill Road, next to the village green). This is an opportunity for the public to ask questions and share their thoughts about the project.
I hope to see you at the meeting, but if you can't make it, I hope you'll get in touch with me by email or phone. As a legislator I can do better work representing you in Montpelier when I know what's on your mind. And especially because I serve as Chair of the Senate Natural Resources and Energy Committee, I would appreciate your taking the time to share your thoughts on the best ways for Vermonters to build a cleaner energy future -- one that will save us money while also keeping our environment healthy. You can email me at cbray@leg.state.vt.us or call me at (802) 371-8183. I hope to hear from you.
Best regards to all,
--Chris
Oct 5, 10 PM to 5 PM, Oct 6, 2024
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