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
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Latest News
Iowa Electric Co-op Embraces Solar
Since 2008, Eastern Iowa’s Farmers Electric Cooperative has integrated more solar power after seeing the financial benefits it brings to the community.
Banding Together for Better Power Options
An Ohio state law has allowed hundreds of communities to choose a more affordable power supplier.
Advancing a Democratic Energy System
Our Executive Director Tom Cormons discusses why we need an energy system that is responsive and responsible to the people it serves.
N.C. Lowers Risk Rating of Coal Ash Pits
Duke Energy may now be able to cap six toxic coal ash dumps in North Carolina in place instead of transporting the material to lined landfills after state regulators classified the dumps as “low risk.”
Virginians Petition For Change at Their Electric Co-op
Rappahannock Electric’s attempt to block members’ efforts to bring reform amendments to the ballot has sparked a legal dispute. All other Virginia electric co-ops have joined Rappahannock in opposing the members’ push for transparency.
Reform at One Southwestern Co-op Spurs Change at Another
In the Southwest, several electric cooperatives are demanding better terms and more renewables from their power provider.