Active Member Engagement at VEC's Annual Meeting at Smugglers’ Notch

Jeffersonville, VT – Vermont Electric Co-op members came out with enthusiasm to the co-op’s Annual Meeting held at Smugglers’ Notch Resort this past Saturday.

Keynote speaker Kerrick Johnson, the Commissioner of the Vermont Department of Public Service, offered a compelling overview of the power sector regionally and in Vermont and offered a glimpse at what we can expect in the future. He touched on reliability, the risks posed by climate change, and the work his department is doing to address energy affordability.

Commissioner Johnson ended his presentation with an invitation to VEC members to ensure their voice is heard by filling out the surveys and participating in the upcoming engagements that are a part of developing the state’s next Comprehensive Energy Plan that will help shape Vermont’s energy future.

His presentation prompted a range of questions from the audience focusing on the sources of power needed for the future, among other topics.

VEC members enjoyed a complimentary breakfast and giveaways and several lucky members won raffle prizes including an electric power washer courtesy of Smugglers’ Notch Resort, and a battery-powered “weed whacker” donated by Efficiency Vermont, as well as gift cards and certificates to local and national chain stores, and more.?

At the meeting VEC also announced the results of elections in three Board of Directors Districts. Incumbents Mark Woodward and Charlie Van Winkle were re-elected to districts 4 and 5 respectively, and Brian Cook was the successful candidate in District 3.

One of VEC’s new hybrid bucket trucks was on display and got plenty of attention, too. These trucks use battery power to run the boom, allowing crews to shut off the engine at job sites—cutting diesel use by about one-third and reducing noise.

To see Commissioner Johnson’s presentation, click here.