We are working with a smart, hardworking group to build small solar arrays around Vermont to add some renewable, distributed generation to Vermont’s electricity grid. This article in the Rutland Herald talks about one aspect of the project; working with municipalities to install solar on idle town land thereby generating some part of a community’s energy locally (and cheaply). I wonder why more towns — and not just in Vermont — do not look to assets they have which could generate electricity — whether low-head hydro, solar, wind or bio-fuels. These projects can defray energy cost, add stability to the grid, and at the very least make a small dent in the carbon footprint of our seemingly insatiable appetite for energy.

It is interesting to see the Governor citing the VBM Report in arguing against the General Assembly’s budget approach.  It would make great sense to have an economic development policy to drive businesses to Vermont which (a) are not motivated significantly by tax policy (would like to be here regardless of a significant tax burden [...]

I am in Kansas City and am too tired to write so I will post a link to John Kemp’s blog for Reuters.  Kemp argues well that upgrading the existing electric supply delivery system is a daunting task in intself and is separate from building a ’smart grid.’  Fix what we have as well as start over. [...]