Front Porch Blog
Updates from Appalachia
Our hope for the year ahead
Appalachian Voices is beginning 2016 stronger than ever and positioned to advance a positive future for the region we all love. Standing with citizens from across Appalachia and from all walks of life, we are hard at work and have high hopes for the year ahead.
The 2016 General Assembly session begins in Virginia
Clean energy is a major area for potential policy changes during this year’s General Assembly session. But some of the most exciting measures that legislators are considering face significant challenges. Here is a roundup of energy bills to watch.
Open for business — APCo’s energy efficiency program
For folks living and working in western Virginia, Appalachian Power Co. is now offering its first-ever energy efficiency audit program for homeowners. There’s quite a lot more APCo could be doing, but this is a good start and we applaud the company.
Federal agency considers restricting surface mining in Tennessee
Ridgeline corridors across a 67,000-acre area of Tennessee could be protected from surface mining. The U.S. Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement is considering granting the state’s request for a ban. Submit your comment in support of the Cumberland Mountains before Jan. 25!
A winning approach for the Clean Power Plan in Virginia
A new study shows that, in complying with the federal Clean Power Plan, Virginia should prioritize renewable energy and energy efficiency and allow for participation in carbon trading with other states in order to boost economic activity, cut electricity costs, and safeguard healthy air. Such an approach could yield more than $25 million a year for economic development efforts in Southwest Virginia.
