Vermont's Energy Future
Welcome from Vermont Governor James Douglas

Dear Vermonters

Over the next several years, our state will be faced with a series of complex choices about where we obtain our electricity in the future.  We are fortunate to have a balanced and clean energy portfolio that consists of many sources.  My administration has worked hard with our energy partners to ensure some of the most stable prices in the region, while focusing on bolstering the reliability of our infrastructure.  We’ve placed a premium on environmental protection, unwilling to allow the industrialization of our state.  Now, we plan to empower Vermonters like you, who have an interest in helping to define our energy future.

In 2012, Vermont’s contract with the Vermont Yankee Nuclear Facility will expire.  In 2016, the agreement we have with Hydro Quebec will also lapse.  These long-term agreements have provided us with an environment of predictability and stability, but we are now are at a crossroads.  There will always be electricity available for our utilities to purchase, but we have the unique opportunity to thoughtfully design our next energy portfolio.

Vermont is fortunate to have a host of people who care deeply about our heritage, our environment and our future economic viability; the greatest asset we have is the collective wisdom of the Vermonter.  That is why I have directed the Department of Public Service to carry out an engagement process on electricity, to provide an opportunity for Vermonters to learn and be heard about these important choices.

In the coming months, the Department of Public Service will be organizing a series of informational events, public forums, a deliberative poll, and web-based activities so that Vermonters will have an opportunity to help us chart our energy future.  While our state has many experts in wide disciplines who continue to provide assistance and insight, this process is about you.  These activities are designed and intended to access the collective wisdom of Vermonters, to better understand the choices you want your government to make. 

The next steps for us are complex, the choices imperfect.  I do believe your insight will help us to make a better-informed set of decisions and we venture into the future together.
I thank you for your interest in energy planning for our future. 

Warmly,

Governor James Douglas