I know that Climate Change is not science fiction, but is science fact. Global warming threatens our Vermont way of life, our economy. It threatens the very things that Vermont is known for - our farms, dairies, colorful fall foliage and fantastic winter skiing.

To meet the challenges of climate change, we need to think very large - we need to reduce the energy use in our buildings by a factor of ten. Making our homes and buildings affordable to keep warm, comfortable, safe and healthy for the foreseeable future is a real investment in Vermont, our children, and our grandchildren. Wind, biomass and multi-fuel district-energy systems, and other forms of distributed generation will build reliability and security into our energy supply system. We need enhanced public transportation, more carpooling and ridesharing, and expanded use of biofuels in our cars and trucks. I will find ways to help more Vermonters- especially the poorest Vermonters- purchase and use energy efficient hybrid vehicles.

When it comes to climate change, I plan not just to talk, but to walk the walk. Addressing the production of energy, and conserving energy is one of the most meaningful ways to combat global warming. I helped create Efficiency Vermont, championed net-metering, and helped put the Sustainably Priced Energy Enterprise Development (SPEED) program in place. As Governor, I will work to make sure that safe, clean and renewable energy sources are part of Vermont’s future. I presented an energy plan earlier this summer help Vermont businesses and residents reduce their energy use by:

• Strengthening the funding and programs of Efficiency Vermont
• Broadening the mission of Efficiency Vermont to include all fuels and heating efficiency
• Promoting – not discouraging - renewable energy.
• Investing in weatherization to include all homes and buildings, so that all Vermonters can use less and waste less energy.
• Incentives for biomass and biofuels that will help our farmers diversify and make fuel for themselves and others.

And, on my first day in office, I will create the Governor’s Office of Energy Independence and Security. This office will have a mission to work across state government and in all corners of Vermont on energy issues. We need to look seriously at the ways Vermont can reduce its use of fossil transportation fuels, ways we can make more energy here in the state, ways we can be a net exporter, not net importer, of energy; and ways to create and keep jobs in the energy sector.

These initiatives will also help Vermont’s economy by protecting our environment and creating jobs.

I find it very ironic that Jim Douglas brags about his signing of the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative- a pact between New England states to curb global warming emissions. Yet, he also strongly opposes utility-scale wind development. Wind is one of the most effective energy sources we have when it comes to limiting and reducing greenhouse gases from power generation. Vermont simply cannot afford two more years of Jim Douglas.

Vermonters are resourceful and conservation minded. They understand that global warming is a local issue. I will make sure they have the resources and the leadership they need to succeed in meeting the challenge of reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Recently, a group of environmental organizations gave Vermont a C- , a barely passing grade, on our work to reduce greenhouse gases. Vermont is a leader on most environmental issues. Under my leadership, Vermont will get an A+.

We’ve got to control the high cost of living in Vermont. With investment, leadership, and vision, WE CAN. As Governor, I will help make it easier for Vermonters to live in Vermont by lowering energy costs and will work to make safe, clean, and renewable energy sources a part of our future.