Virginia House Bill HJR545

Virginia 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/11/23
• Refer: 1/11/23

Caption

Clean energy; Dept. of Energy to study barriers for local governments to purchase.

Impact

This study aims to identify and offer recommendations for overcoming the barriers that inhibit local governments from procuring clean energy sources. The findings could potentially lead to amendments in existing laws or the introduction of new policies that promote clean energy. Furthermore, by enhancing the ability of local governments to facilitate clean energy options, HJR545 has the potential to advance the overall objectives of the Commonwealth Clean Energy Policy, ultimately impacting local economies and environmental sustainability.

Summary

HJR545 is a joint resolution proposing that the Department of Energy conducts a study on the barriers that local governments face in purchasing clean energy and facilitating its purchase for their constituents. The resolution aligns with the Commonwealth's policy to achieve net-zero emissions across all sectors by 2045. It emphasizes the importance of both direct purchases of clean energy by local governments and their roles in enabling constituents to gain access to clean energy options, thereby contributing positively to the economy and environment of the Commonwealth.

Contention

While the resolution may appear broadly beneficial, there could be contention regarding how such a study influences existing frameworks for energy procurement and the extent to which local governments should rely on the state for obtaining clean energy solutions. Stakeholders might debate the effectiveness of current local government programs and the real-world implications of the study's outcomes, particularly on the investment and resource allocation in clean energy technologies. The involvement of various stakeholders, including local governing bodies and utility providers, will be essential to address these complexities and ensure inclusive outcomes.