Strategy should cut total carbon pollution, bolster clean energy
RICHMOND – Today, in a presentation to the state work group tasked with drafting a state plan to reduce carbon emissions from the electricity sector, the Virginia League of Conservation Voters and League of Conservation Voters called for a strong plan that cuts pollution by 40 percent by 2030, covers new and existing power plants, and puts 1,500 megawatts of clean solar energy on the grid by 2025.
The workgroup, led by Virginia Secretary of Natural Resources Molly Ward, will be meeting over the next several months and is expected to have a final recommendation to the governor this spring on how to move forward.
“Virginia can and must seize this opportunity to take meaningful action on climate change – it’s the right thing for public health and safety, our economy and to ensure our state’s clean energy future,” said Michael Town, Executive Director of the Virginia League of Conservation Voters. “The goals that we presented today are reasonable and achievable, and we will be watching this process closely to ensure that this workgroup’s end product meets our mark.”
“Across the country, renewable energy jobs are growing at an astounding rate thanks to individual states’ leadership and now Virginia has this same opportunity,” said Bill Holland, State Policy Director with the League of Conservation Voters. “Transitioning to a clean energy mix powered by renewables is not only doable – it’s imperative for Virginia’s future. Climate impacts will only worsen going forward and now is the time for strong action.”
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