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
What do Virginia’s new energy laws mean for the coalfields
New energy laws in Virginia provide significant opportunity for solar development in the state’s historic coalfields, but not enough direct support for communities hit by the clean energy transition.
Southwest Virginia seeks partners for solar development
CONTACT: Adam Wells, Regional Director of Community and…
Utilities must suspend service disconnections and waive late fees
Millions of Americans have lost their jobs due to the COVID-19 pandemic. They should not have to worry about having their power or water turned off as a result.
NC groups call for prohibition of all utility shut-offs in state due to covid-19
CONTACT: Al Ripley, Director Consumer, Housing and Energy…
Finally, Virginia lawmakers heed public’s call for clean energy
After years of advocacy by Appalachian Voices and many others, the Virginia legislature 2020 session produced bold measures that will move us toward a cleaner, more equitable energy economy — but there is work left to do.
A movement towards High Country energy democracy
More than 150 people gathered in February to discuss what their local energy utilities should be doing to address the climate crisis and create renewable energy jobs in the NC High Country. Transparency from our utilities and participation in decision-making is even more important as we face the current pandemic.
