With electric cars, what could Vermont look like in eight years?
Right now, Vermont is a leader in the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, renewable energy, and energy efficiency. In fact, we have a state goal to reduce total energy consumption per capita by 15% by 2025. Unfortunately our transportation habits aren’t quite so forward-thinking. Most Vermonters still drive gas-powered vehicles, and three quarters of us drive alone to work. Tailpipe exhaust generates almost half of our state’s remaining greenhouse gas emissions. That dirty air takes a toll on our air quality, too. How can we meet our energy reduction goals and help Vermont breathe easier? A great start is the increased adoption of electric transportation. Our state’s electric grid produces much less carbon than most others in the US. Plug-in electric vehicles (EVs), including all-electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids driven in Vermont have a significantly lower greenhouse gas footprint than conventional gasoline vehicles. And all-electric cars powered by renewable energy have almost no tailpipe emissions.
Per capita, Vermont is 6th in the nation for EVs
Vermont has a reputation as a clean and “green” state, we rank number six per capita in EV owners and leases! Imagine if we could get even more Vermonters out of gas powered cars and into EVs. That would help us to continue to transform Vermont’s energy future--and propel us to meet the ambitious goals in the Vermont Comprehensive Energy Plan.
Make your next car count- for Vermont
If you’re not an EV owner in Vermont, what’s stopping you? Our personal vehicles are a major cause of global warming. Collectively, cars and trucks account for nearly one-fifth of all U.S. emissions, emitting around 24 pounds of carbon dioxide and other global-warming gases for every gallon of gas (UCS). You can make a difference by driving a vehicle that pollutes less.
Support EV adoption in Vermont
If you’re not ready to make a big purchase, become an advocate for clean air by explaining the role electric cars have in preserving Vermont's beauty. You can start by writing a letter to your local newspaper. Start with this template for a letter to your local newspaper.
Do you already own an electric car? Do you know someone who does? Learn how to host a driveway party to help spread the word about the benefits of electric transportation.
Blog image data source: www.afdc.energy.gov/vehicles/electric_emissions.php
Want to explore transportation emissions in more detail? We suggest the Union of Concerned Scientists clean vehicle resources, such as the link below examining regional electric grid generation sources and emissions comparisons with gasoline vehicles: http://blog.ucsusa.org/dave-reichmuth/new-numbers-are-in-and-evs-are-cleaner-than-ever