Energy Democracy for All

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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.

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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

Tell Congress: Support new power plant regulations

Our legislators need to support the EPA’s new rules to slash power plant pollution

Latest News

Energy Democracy Tour Gathers Communities’ Visions for Our Energy Future

The Tennessee Valley Energy Democracy Tour and the Energy Justice North Carolina, End the Duke Monopoly Tour have been a roaring success so far! Stay tuned for more tour dates in both states and in Virginia.

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Power to the People Pilsner

Wild Wolf Brewing Company in Nellysford, Va., is brewing our benefit beer to raise awareness of our work to advance an inclusive energy future for Appalachia.

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Tennessee “Energy Democracy Tour” gathers community input

The Tennessee Valley Energy Democracy Tour will hold its final stop in Claxton, Tenn., on Oct. 21. At more than 10 tour stops, community members discussed the impacts of TVA’s energy system and shared their visions for the future.

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Complaint filed against Duke Energy with NC elections board

CONTACTS: Rory McIlmoil, 828-262-1500, rory@appvoices.org Cat McCue, 434-293-6373,…

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Virginia Gov. Northam announces climate goals for 2050

CONTACTS: Cat McCue, 434-293-6373, cat@appvoices.org Today, Virginia Gov….

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Southwest Va. groups join in with world’s largest grassroots solar event

CONTACTS: Austin Counts, Appalachian Voices, 276-679-1691, austin@appvoices.org Wise…

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