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
Promoting equity in the transition to clean energy
A new report examines the economic, social and health disparities associated with energy development, and highlights promising points of intervention to reduce inequities in the transition to clean energy.
Va should expand utility shutoff ban during Covid-19 crisis
CONTACT: Peter Anderson, Senior Program Manager Virginia, 434-293-6373,…
A shady, dangerous attack on clean energy
In a major threat to clean energy advances across the U.S., a special interest group wants federal regulators to change the rules for solar owners — in a bad way.
NC governor extends moratorium on utility shutoffs during Covid crisis
CONTACT: Al Ripley, Director, NC Justice Center, Director…
Belong to an electric co-op? Your vote is needed!
Most rural folks rely on electric co-ops for their power, and as “member-owners,” they vote on board members who decide everything from rates to whether clean energy is part of their energy source.
Groups urge expansion of NC utility shutoff moratorium during Covid-19
CONTACT: Rory McIlmoil, Sr. Energy Analyst, Appalachian Voices,…