Tuesday, Feb. 11, 2020
Contact:
Lee Francis | Deputy Director
Virginia League of Conservation Voters
(804) 225-1902 | lfrancis@valcv.org
RICHMOND – Today, the House of Delegates voted 52-47 to advance the strongest package of clean energy and climate action legislation in Virginia’s history.
The Virginia Clean Economy Act will eliminate electricity sector carbon emissions by 2045, implement the state’s first-ever mandatory renewable portfolio standard, require investments in energy efficiency instead of costly infrastructure, and make it easier to install rooftop solar in Virginia. The VCEA also prioritizes empowering disadvantaged communities when making electric generating decisions, protects low-income ratepayers and, for the first time ever, actually addresses the social cost of carbon.
In response to today’s announcement, Michael Town, executive director of the Virginia League of Conservation Voters, issued the following statement:
“Today, Virginia made history. The House of Delegates just advanced the most aggressive plan to tackle the climate crisis that we’ve ever seen in the Commonwealth, putting us among top states nationally that are working to cut carbon emissions and expand clean energy. This legislation will grow our economy, protect public health and improve Virginians’ lives. But we’re only halfway there. We urge lawmakers to continue the momentum on climate action by getting the Virginia Clean Economy Act to the Governor’s desk. Voters demanded action – now is the time for results.”
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