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
North Carolina needs a statewide People’s Energy Plan
Appalachian Voices, along with many others, is speaking up about the state’s Carbon Plan and the needs of North Carolinians as we transition to a clean energy future.
Groups Unsatisfied with Duke Energy’s NC Carbon Plan
Many North Carolina residents, businesses and environmental groups are calling on the state utilities commission to push for more renewable power, energy efficiency and measures to address affordability in the state’s final carbon reduction plan.
In comments to utilities commission, Appalachian Voices explains how and where Duke’s carbon plan misses the mark
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE July 15, 2022 CONTACT Dan…
The North Carolina People’s Energy Plan
The North Carolina People’s Energy Plan seeks a cleaner, more affordable, more just energy system for the state.
Duke Energy’s Carbon Plan falls far short
Duke Energy would miss important deadlines for reducing carbon emissions and continue relying on polluting fuels if it’s inadequate Carbon Plan moves forward.