Vermont Rural Energy Council
In June of 2006, VCRD will convene the Vermont Rural Energy Council (VREC) - a year-long policy council designed to investigate economic opportunities in renewable energy generation and efficiency in rural Vermont, and to support entrepreneurship in emerging technologies. VCRD recognizes the importance of leadership in renewable energy planning and policy, and the critical need for practical recommendations that maximize the sustainable use of Vermont's natural resources in energy generation, while protecting and enhancing Vermont's quality of life and economic vigor.
VREC's membership is a public/private partnership with balanced representation from federal, state, business, local organizations, non-profits, policy leaders and producers of innovative energy development. The charge of the Council will be to take testimony, evaluate opportunities, analyze economic and industry research, and build a practical blueprint for action. At the conclusion of the study, specific recommendations will be made to Vermont's Governor, Legislature, Congressional Delegation, energy industry, and the public.
VCRD launches this exciting new initiative on June 22, 2006 under the guidance of VREC Chair Richard White, Chairman and CEO of Community National Bank.
Emerging technologies in biomass, thermal, water, farm and bio-waste methane, solar, biofuels, and small-scale and community wind projects offer unprecedented opportunities for rural entrepreneurship and should be systematically promoted today as strategies toward the future sustainability and prosperity of rural communities.