If we are to improve the economic health of Virginia and Virginia families, we must create jobs and economic development, and decrease family utility bills. If we can do this and, in the process, reduce pollution and help improve the environment, we will have made an ever greater contribution for Virginia’s future. To accomplish all these critical goals, I have introduced Energy Efficiency legislation. This bill mandates that Virginia utilities reduce energy consumption by 12% by 2022, accomplishing this by investing in easily and readily available energy efficiency improvements. These investments would create businesses, and produce jobs, both extremely critical in these perilous economic times.

Increased demand for weatherization products and energy efficient construction and construction materials for homes, commercial buildings and schools would create jobs right here in the Commonwealth and allow green businesses to grow and prosper. The jobs created by these businesses would be well paying, skilled jobs that would engage our workforce and help many Virginians make a better living to support their families.

Nothing is more significant right now than job creation. As we all know, many traditional manufacturing jobs are gone and probably gone forever. We must be creating new jobs, in new industries and looking at job creation in new ways. This bill achieves those goals. As a matter of fact, the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy estimates that this legislation, with its 12% mandate, will create almost 10,000 jobs right here in Virginia.

Moreover, the numerous jobs created and the industries that are founded will help improve the environment and reduce pollution, As we create these industries and increase our energy efficiency, we would no longer need new expensive power plants that contribute to pollution and global warming. The proposed Old Dominion Electrical Cooperative coal plant would potentially release almost 15 tons of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere annually, augmenting atmospheric warming. Our shorelines and population centers, right here in Virginia, are vulnerable to rising ocean levels, and more powerful storms, both of which result from global warming.

Unfortunately, this legislation failed in the State Senate. I am very disappointed because it would have created jobs, grown industries AND helped protect our environment. I will continue to work to accomplish these imperative goals for our future.

Please remember if you have any questions or suggestions, I can always be contacted at my General Assembly office at (804) 698.7509 or at This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it . My website www.donaldmceachin.com offers more information about my legislative activities. Thank you again for the opportunity to serve you.