Vermont's New Governor Sticking with Renewable Energy Goal
MONTPELIER, Vt. -
Vermont's new Republican governor said Monday he would stick with his Democratic predecessor's long-term goal of getting 90 percent of the energy needed in the state from renewable sources by 2050.
But Gov. Phil Scott, highlighting the construction of a new solar power project in the parking lot of a Montpelier food cooperative, said he believed new technology would be needed to make it happen.
"When you look at projects like this and the way we've changed over the last decade in that regard I think it can be accomplished, but we're going to have to have some help in technology changes," Scott said.
While helping to inaugurate the "Solar Canopy" developed by the Waterbury-based SunCommon, Scott said the business fits in well with the top goal of his new administration, economic development. He said it also creates jobs that keep young people from leaving the state.
For several years, Vermont has been working toward some of the most aggressive renewable energy goals in the country. Scott's predecessor, Democrat Peter Shumlin, set the long-term goal.
Related News

St. Albert touts green goals with three new electric buses
ST ALBERT - The city of St. Albert is going green — both literally and esthetically — with three electric buses on routes in and around the city this week.
"They're virtually silent," Wes Brodhead, chair of the Capital Region Board transit committee and a St. Albert city councillor, said. "This, as opposed to the diesel buses and the roar that accompanies them as they drive down the street."
You may not hear them coming but you'll definitely see them.
The 35-foot electric buses are painted bright green to represent the city's goal of adopting sustainable transportation.
"There's no noise pollution, there's no air pollution, and it…