The news has been full of announcements about new solar, wind and
biomass energy projects in Vermont. We’ll
find out what’s behind the flurry of projects and whether they represent
a new era of increasing reliance on renewable energy.
Bob Kinzel talks with Congressman Peter Welch about the nation’s economic situation and how the new Federal stimulus law might benefit Vermont’s renewable energy industry.
Wind energy advocates want the Douglas administration to lift its ban on large-scale wind projects on state-owned land. They say Vermont needs to explore all options as it looks for new energy resources.
Energy issues have generated some heat in this year’s gubernatorial race; Vermont volunteers for Barack Obama are heading to New Hampshire, where the presidential race with John McCain is tighter;Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper was returned to power, but not with the majority he’d hoped to win;and commentator Bill Seamans anticipates tonight’s final presidential debate.
Quebec Premier Jean Charest and Governor Jim Douglas emphasized what they called a shared commitment to renewable energy and cooperation on border security.
The groups
say the latest draft of a 10-year energy plan lacks specifics and fails to aggressively promote
renewable energy or transportation alternatives.
One program is designed to help homeowners better
understand which energy efficiency measures have the greatest payback. Another will make low-interest loans
available to help homeowners finance projects.