Apr 6, 2026
Why Vermont’s Wind Energy Development has Withered
Vermont was once a leader in wind power, with projects like Deerfield, Kingdom Community Wind, and Georgia Mountain helping supply clean, in-state energy. Today, that progress has largely stalled.
In this episode, Peter Sterling of Renewable Energy Vermont breaks down the rise - and halt - of wind development in the state. We explore the backlash over ridgeline projects, the nation’s strictest sound regulations, and how policy decisions have shaped a de facto moratorium on new wind.
We also look ahead: what Vermont’s participation in regional offshore wind efforts means, and whether wind can still play a role in meeting the state’s climate and affordability goals.
4 months ago
Thanks for listening and for sharing your thoughts. A few clarifications may be helpful. Electricity generated by wind projects in Vermont flows into the regional New England grid, where it directly displaces power that would otherwise come from fossil fuels like natural gas, oil, and coal. That physical impact on emissions happens regardless of where Renewable Energy Credits (RECs) are ultimately sold. On the question of funding: yes, organizations and advocates working to expand renewable energy often receive support from the clean energy industry. That’s not unusual in any sector. What matters is whether the underlying facts hold up. And the evidence is clear that wind energy reduces greenhouse gas emissions and plays a key role in addressing climate change. As for the idea that wind turbines are “petroleum consuming,” turbines do require materials and energy to manufacture and install, as all infrastructure does. But over their lifetime, they generate far more energy than is used in their production and operate without burning fossil fuels. We absolutely welcome thoughtful dialogue about where and how renewable energy is developed, but meeting our climate goals will require scaling solutions, not NIMBYism or dismissal without viable alternatives.
4 months ago
Don’t allow yourselves to be scammed into the big lie about industrial wind development innVT. The renewable energy credits are sold out of state to states who are sensible enough not to destroy their mountaintops and create human health hazards by erecting the monstrous petroleum consuming turbines all for the massive financial benefits of huge foreign multinational corporations. Do your research people; do not allow yourselves to be “educated” by those like Mr. Sterling who are being funded by the industry. Follow the money folks …
4 months ago
Thank you -- very enlightening! I learned a lot.