VGS President and CEO Don Rendall today issued the following statement regarding the EPA’s Proposed Methane Rule
“We are disappointed that the Environment Protection Agency (EPA) is proposing a rule change that will roll back methane emission regulations. We are committed to addressing the challenges of climate change and we believe natural gas must play a pivotal role. We share our customers’ goals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in support of the Vermont’s 90% renewable energy by 2050 goal.
We believe in strong environmental regulation and enforcement at the Federal level. We actively supported adoption of the current methane emission rules in 2015. We urge the EPA to keep and enforce them.
VGS is proud to have already taken steps to reduce our overall carbon footprint, including operating a state-of-the-art pipeline system that includes no bare steel or cast-iron pipes, maintaining strict operations and maintenance practices to minimize methane leakage, and promoting energy efficiency to reduce overall usage and lower customer bills. Plus, VGS now offers an optional retail renewable natural gas product to our customers and is partnering to produce renewable natural gas here in Vermont; helping farmers, cleaning up waterways, and creating a locally-sourced, sustainable fuel supply.”
About VGS
VGS is a leader in energy efficiency and innovation, offering a clean, safe, affordable choice for over 54,000 homes, businesses, and institutions in Franklin, Chittenden and Addison counties. The company plays an important role in Vermont’s clean energy future by displacing higher-emitting fuels, offering renewable natural gas service, and delivering award-winning energy efficiency programs. VGS is leading the country in the development of local renewable energy generation and has targeted a 30% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and becoming Net Zero by 2050. For more information about Vermont Gas visit www.vgsvt.com
Media Contact
Dylan Giambatista
(802) 391-6475
dgiambatista@vermontgas.com