22-04-2025
First annual ‘Electrify Vermont Summit' powers up clean energy collaboration
BURLINGTON, Vt. (ABC22 FOX44) — Vermont's electric energy leaders gathered at the University of Vermont today for the state's first ever 'Electrify Vermont Summit,' bringing together policy makers, businesses, nonprofits and researchers.
The event started with demonstrations of the newest tech, including electric vehicles, e-bikes, induction cookware and electric lawn equipment. Burlington Mayor Emma Mulvaney-Stanak led opening remarks.
'While climate change is a global challenge… we know that state and local action has an impact as well. Here in Burlington, we are committed to being a climate forward and resilient city,' said the mayor.
Keynote speaker Cristina Garcia, a Program Manager of Residential Energy & Heating Electrification at Con Edison, applauded the Burlington Electric Department's efforts in both policy and technological advancement.
'As we look across the country electrification is clearly gaining momentum, more than 350 mayors have signed onto ambitious de-carbonization pledges,' she said. 'That is why events like today's summit are crucial, they bring together diverse stakeholders fostering collaboration and building partnerships that are essential for driving the energy transition forward.'
Garcia and other speakers also noted areas of improvement in affordability, creating incentives and tackling aging infrastructure. Panelists, speaking well into Monday afternoon, celebrated the continual growth of electrification but also addressed challenges with tariffs, federal funding and silos within the industry.
Many of Monday's speakers also reflected on a growing need for cross-industry relationships— some even calling their peers to action. Mayor Mulvaney-Stanak ended her own speech by saying she hoped to see 'sparks fly' between industry leaders.
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