RICHMOND – Today, Governor Northam released an Executive Order directing his agencies to develop a plan getting Virginia to 30 percent renewable energy by 2030 and 100 percent carbon-free electricity by mid-century. Additionally, the directive calls for increasing renewable energy usage by state agencies and the executive branch and directs the Secretary of Commerce and Trade to develop a pathway to clean energy jobs for underprivileged communities.
In response to this order, Michael Town, executive director of the Virginia League of Conservation Voters, issued the following statement:
“Voters are sick and tired of our legislature pandering to corporate polluters and blocking necessary action to address climate change and build a clean energy economy. Governor Northam’s Executive Order is a leap in the right direction. Next, we need to elect a legislature that won’t stand in the way of Virginia’s clean energy future and will help put a strong and just plan into action as a first order of business.
While we support the initiatives laid out in this order, we look forward to seeing more details in the final plan of action, especially in ensuring that Virginia creates a clean energy economy that’s inclusive and creates opportunities for every Virginian as we work to secure a carbon-free future.”