Ralph Northam on Energy & Oil

Make Virginia 100% carbon free by 2050

Create clean energy jobs in rural communities

Last year, Governor McAuliffe signed an Executive Directive to begin the process of capping carbon emissions from Virginia's electric utilities and use the power of the market to foster growth and innovation in the clean energy sector. The Clean Energy Virginia initiative is an incredible opportunity to create the next generation of energy jobs and lead the fight against climate change -- and my administration will implement it fully.

I will also support joining a coalition of states called the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative, or RGGI. We can invest the significant revenues Clean Energy Virginia will generate to create clean energy jobs in rural communities, help families lower their electrical bills, and solidify our position as a global leader in renewable energy.

Restrict offshore oil and gas drilling off Virginia coast

Expanding offshore drilling into now-restricted areas in the Atlantic would pose unacceptable risks to tourism, aquaculture, and military operations. Northam has been a leader in fighting offshore drilling in the Commonwealth for these very reasons.

As State Senator and Lieutenant Governor, Northam fought efforts by Republicans and Democrats to open Virginia's coast to offshore oil and gas drilling, even urging the Obama administration to exclude the Commonwealth from offshore drilling. "Opening up the Virginia coast for drilling would hurt our environment, economy, and people--but President Trump would do it anyway," said Northam.

We must act to address climate change

I firmly believe that it is both possible and necessary to achieve economic development that retains and improves the quality of our air, water, and land. The new energy economy has unlimited potential to create well-paying jobs for Virginians and provide a sustainable source of energy for the Commonwealth. As Lieutenant Governor I will continue to support efforts to promote alternative energy solutions such as wind, solar, and biodiesel.