Andy Montroll's Energy Independence

A MESSAGE FROM ANDY MONTROLL

Dear Friends,
The price of energy is on everyone's mind these days. This issue is not just about the cost to us as consumers, but also about environmental impact and our city's ability to attract and retain new businesses.
A Plan for Energy Independence
Currently, the electricity needs of Burlington surpass the generation capacity of the McNeil plant, and so the Burlington Electric Department needs to purchase power from other sources to fulfill its needs. I propose that Burlington seek energy independence, owning, in whole or in part, its own power generation sources.
The benefits of this plan to Burlington residents and businesses are many, and include:
Rate stability for end users
Price stability for BED
Reduction of our carbon footprint
An Emphasis on Renewable Resources
As part of this initiative BED should give preference to power from renewable sources, with the ultimate goal of all of Burlington 's power being supplied by renewable sources. I also want to encourage property owners to install their own energy generating equipment. Property owners who have feed power back into the grid will be offered a discounted rate on the power they do purchase, in addition to being credited for the electricity they put back into the system.Experienced Leadership is Needed Now
This plan will not just happen through wishful thinking. Experience in working with our city departments, as well as a deep understanding of the underlying technical issues, will be needed to reach these ambitious goals. Through my fifteen years on the city council, as well as my training as an engineer, I have the background needed to make this vision a reality. In my administration, Burlington will be a national leader in pursuing a progressive energy policy.