Climate & Energy
Fighting the climate crisis, repowering Vermont, and saving Vermonters money with local, green energy solutions.
VPIRG is one of Vermont’s leading advocacy groups when it comes to fighting the climate crisis. Our strength comes from the thousands of Vermonters who have chosen to stand up for our future over the years, from establishing Efficiency Vermont, the first-of-its-kind energy efficiency utility in 1999, to banning fracking in 2012, retiring Vermont Yankee in 2014 after decades of organizing, and passing the Global Warming Solutions Act in 2020.
Today, our Climate & Energy work is driven by the understanding that we must fully decarbonize both Vermont and the nation, and that everyone deserves access to clean and affordable energy and transportation. Breaking down barriers contributing to rural, BIPOC, and low-income communities being left behind in this transition is a core part of our efforts.
We must move to modernize Vermont’s transportation system, making investments that will save Vermonters money while making reliable transportation options more accessible and cutting carbon pollution at the same time. We also need to harness the resources and strength of our energy efficiency utilities, expanding their work on efficiency and electrification. And we must continue to expand our in-state renewable energy portfolio in order to reduce our carbon footprint, create jobs for Vermonters, and keep our energy dollars circulating in our own economy.
Recent Climate & Energy News
2023 Mid Session Legislative Update
We are officially halfway through the 2023 legislative session, with both legislative and money crossover…
On To The House: Next Steps For S.5, The Affordable Heat Act
Just before the Vermont Legislature left for Town Meeting Week break, the Senate passed the…
Affordable Heat Act Advances Through Vermont Senate, Moves to House of Representatives
In another major win for climate action, the Vermont Senate advanced S.5, the Affordable Heat Act,…
Burlington, Vote YES on 2!
On Town Meeting Day, March 7, 2023, Burlington voters will decide whether to implement a…
Affordable Heat Act Advances Unanimously Through Vermont Senate Natural Resources & Energy Committee
Today, in a huge victory for climate action and addressing Vermont’s second largest source of…
Burlington Town Meeting Day 2023: What YOU need to Know
Burlington Town Meeting Day ballots are scheduled to be mailed to all active registered voters…