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U.S. Senator Mark Warner (VA) will speak one-on-one about the climate crisis with moderator Shyamali Hauth, Vice Chair of Faith Alliance for Climate Solutions.
Panelists include:
Trieste Lockwood will discuss how the RGGI funds will be distributed and administration of other energy efficiency measures in the Clean Economy Act.
Harry Godfrey will present a private industry perspective; discussing how local jurisdictions often overlook the cost saving benefits of energy efficiency and how innovative companies can help save taxpayer dollars. Historically Virginia has ranked poorly but now has the opportunity to take a leadership position through advanced energy technologies and services.
Chase Counts will provide perspective on the energy burden faced by Virginians, and how energy efficiency projects make an impact on individuals and families.
(Daniel Gade, Candidate for U.S. Senator from Virginia, has been invited to speak at the event.)
Background:
The energy inefficiency of housing in Virginia is a social justice issue. Low-income homeowners and renters, including African American, LatinX and other front-line households, pay more for utilities per square foot than does the average homeowner. Energy inefficient housing also unnecessarily contributes to greenhouse gas (GHG) pollution.
In Northern Virginia, 14% of households have severe housing problems, including unaffordable housing and high energy burdens. Families who face higher energy burdens experience many negative long-term effects on their health and well-being. These families are at greater risk for respiratory diseases and increased stress, and they can experience increased economic hardship and difficulty in moving out of poverty.
Energy efficiency programs targeted toward communities of color, low income and multi-unit dwellings can address a variety of social and economic factors that affect health. These programs can also improve the financial security of families. They reduce energy burdens – the share of income spent on utility bills – and create jobs in the communities they serve.
An estimated $50-$75 million toward low-income energy efficiency will be disbursed through the new Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI) cap and trade program in Virginia. The 5th annual FACS Virginia Climate Crisis Forum will explore how this program and others can ensure the lowest-income populations benefit from long-term cost savings through energy efficiency, and how this moves us toward a sustainable, net zero Virginia.
Please reserve your virtual spot by selecting a free ticket.
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