Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin has joined a coalition of Republican governors advocating for fewer energy regulations, arguing that easing restrictions will make energy more affordable and reliable.
Charlie Paullin reports for Virginia Mercury.
In short:
- The Governors’ Coalition for Energy Choice, led by Republican governors, pushes for fewer regulatory barriers and supports the continued use of natural gas.
- Critics argue the coalition’s position hinders clean energy progress and will raise costs in the long run.
- Gov. Youngkin supports a broad energy strategy including natural gas, nuclear power, and reevaluating Virginia’s decarbonization goals.
Key quote:
“For Youngkin to stick his head in the sand and side with fossil fuel interests is something that will raise costs, not lower them.”
— Walton Shepherd, Virginia policy director for the Natural Resources Defense Council
Why this matters:
The push to maintain fossil fuel reliance may slow Virginia’s transition to renewable energy, exacerbating climate issues while delaying potential cost savings from clean energy sources.
Related:
