Take Action NOW: Dirty coal's influence in Virginia means newspapers covering Old Dominion Electric Cooperative's proposed coal plant in Surry are leaving a lot out, like the benefits of energy efficiency. While highlighting the controversy over whether meeting our energy needs requires a choice between the economy and the environment, they forget to talk about the energy solutions that are best for the Surry community. As Democrats, let's remind ODEC it's time to move beyond coal.
Advances in technology mean that coal now employs fewer workers, meaning fewer permanent jobs in Surry if a plant is built. According to independent ACEEE and ABT economic reports, investment in efficiency programs would create thousands of jobs in home energy auditing and weatherization at a lower cost than coal. At 3 cents per kWh versus coal’s 4-5 cents, energy saved through efficiency wins out, even without a carbon tax to address global warming gas emissions.
The VAYD Environmental Caucus supports clean air and affordable energy for all Virginians, and a new coal plant is a leap in the wrong direction. Using efficiency first will save ratepayers money, create jobs, and maintain a healthy environment for the people in Surry. Give this message to Old Dominion Electric Cooperative CEO Jack Reasor NOW
