I am writing insupport Governor McAuliffe's initiative in the fight against climate change. As an energy efficiency professional I urge the Department of Environmental Quality to use its regulatory authority to:

• Create strong science based rules that significantly reduce carbon pollution from Virginia's power plants
• Ensure that Virginians — not utilities — benefit from any profits from carbon regulations
• Help reduce the burden on vulnerable communities that are disproportionally impacted by the climate crisis
• Transition Virginia to a clean energy economy by investing in wind and solar power and energy efficiency.  The economic potential of the efficiency and alternative power industries is tremendous.  Virginia should position itself as a leader in these industries. 

The devistating effects of climate change are already apparent in our state.  We must act now to limit the damage.  Thank you for your consideration.