Vermont's Energy Future
Welcome from Speaker Symington

Speaker’s Statement on Public Engagement Process
October 6, 2006

Vermont is facing an eminent energy crisis.  With two major power contracts due to expire starting in 2012, we are at a crossroads; we must make difficult decisions about how to meet our state's energy needs.  The
opportunity - and in fact, the very obligation - for public input into the future course of Vermont's energy portfolio is essential.

Vermont has limited options available for replacing the electricity we currently purchase from Hydro Quebec and Vermont Yankee.  These two long term contracts provide two thirds of Vermont's current electric power.
There is no simple solution, because for each option there are significant tradeoffs.

For example, nuclear power presents challenges associated with long term storage of nuclear waste; wind raises concerns regarding aesthetics and potential impact on wildlife habitat.  Fossil fuel generated electricity
increases greenhouse gases that contribute to climate change that already threatens our ski and tourism economies.  Just the question of producing electricity in Vermont raises considerations that need to be weighed, based on the economic impact of in-state versus out-of-state generation, and the
risks of relying on the spot market for electricity versus long term contracts with stable prices that may be higher in the short term.

The Public Engagement Process is designed to create opportunities for Vermonters to understand the tradeoffs that each of our options present; and to enable the general public and other stakeholders can exchange views and ideas with state regulators as our energy policies are established.  The longer we wait to make decisions about our energy options, the fewer viable options we will have.

I encourage Vermonters to take part in this very important conversation about Vermont's energy future.

Gaye Symington