Energy Democracy for All
Energy Democracy is local people having control of how their electricity is produced and distributed to ensure everyone has access to affordable and clean power.
Two decades into the 21st century, advances in solar panels, battery storage, modernized electric grids and other technologies are revolutionizing how our electricity can be produced and distributed. But large utility companies with monopoly control over the market — such as Duke Energy and Dominion Energy — are keeping us locked into using increasingly expensive polluting fuels like coal and fracked gas to generate our electricity.
At the same time, the increasing impacts of global climate change, including dangerous heat waves and severe storms, are taking a toll on countless communities, but especially disadvantaged communities and communities of color. And monopoly utility companies charge ever higher rates while they knowingly continue to worsen the climate crisis.
But a movement toward Energy Democracy is growing across Appalachia and throughout the country. Local individuals and groups are standing up to demand a seat at the table with decision makers to ensure we transition to a system that is affordable and fair, provides community wealth and jobs, and is built on clean, renewable energy.
Why Energy Democracy?
Learn how monopoly control and a focus on profit have locked us in a pattern of polluting fossil fuels and ever higher rates
State-Specific Info
Tell Congress: Support new power plant regulations
Our legislators need to support the EPA’s new rules to slash power plant pollution
Latest News
Communities call out Duke Energy’s harmful impacts
People from states served by Duke Energy recently testified before the newly formed, independent People’s Commission that the utility’s record on coal ash, electric rates and other issues is harming communities.
It’s a wrap! A rundown of the 2021 Virginia General Assembly
We and our allies fought hard for the health and well-being of communities and the environment, and we’re grateful for the emails and calls you delivered to the legislature to support these efforts.
Federal funding can’t protect 100,000s of NC families from eviction and utility shutoffs
Raleigh, NC — Despite last week’s passage of…
Regulators decide on Kentucky Power’s third rate hike in five years
Although the Kentucky Public Service Commission denied the utility’s original request for a 25 percent rate increase, the body approved a rate hike of 12.5 percent for residential customers.
An enormous step for coal communities, environmental justice and climate
President Biden’s executive order puts the United States in a position to vigorously confront the challenges of climate change, create good-paying jobs and protect communities from the hazards of polluted land, air and water.
NC Utility Customers: Know your rights and resources
We put together a resource guide for residents in North Carolina who are in danger of having vital water and electric services disconnected during the pandemic.
