For Immediate Release: Aug. 17, 2020

Contacts: Jason Roop, jasonroop@springstory.com | Virginia Energy Efficiency Council: Executive Director Chelsea Harnish, chelsea@vaeec.org, 804-457-8619

RICHMOND — The Virginia Energy Efficiency Council stands with Gov. Ralph Northam today as he signs the Virginia Clean Economy Act into law.

“The passage of this legislation is a massive step for the advancement of energy efficiency in the Commonwealth,” said Chelsea Harnish, executive director of the Virginia Energy Efficiency Council (VAEEC). “Today’s bill signing represents the culmination of collaborative work to advance Virginia’s clean energy future, which will have a significant positive effect on job creation in our sector.”

The Virginia Clean Economy Act is transformative legislation passed by the General Assembly earlier this year. It will boost the economy, transform the energy efficiency industry, reduce electric bills for families and position the Commonwealth for a clean energy future.

The legislation also paves the way for Virginia to reach a goal of zero carbon emissions by 2045. It represents an unprecedented shift in energy policy and ensures investment in energy-efficient programs, policies, jobs and technology.

The Virginia Energy Efficiency Council — a broad coalition of business, government and nonprofit voices across the state — spent hundreds of hours working alongside lawmakers, environmental advocates and business groups to advocate for the passage of this legislation.