Category: Press Releases

Sen. Van Hollen, Rep. Olszewski, Delegate Charkoudian, and MEA Director Pinsky Lead the Fight for Offshore Wind in Maryland

Elected officials and labor leaders joined business representatives and environmental advocates calling for fully permitted energy projects to move forward for the sake of all Marylanders.

BALTIMORE, MD – To reaffirm the value of offshore wind for stabilizing energy costs, creating good jobs, and securing Maryland’s energy future, lawmakers and advocates came together today to call for continued clean energy development and local investment. Senator Chris Van Hollen, Congressman Johnny Olszewski, Maryland Energy Administration Director Paul Pinsky, State Delegate Lorig Charkoudian, and others spoke to dozens of supporters as part of the Maryland Day of Action for Offshore Wind.

Watch the recorded full stream on Instagram HERE.

“Investing in offshore wind is key to unlocking good-paying jobs, lowering energy costs, and guaranteeing a cleaner future for Maryland,” said Senator Van Hollen. “As the Trump Administration continues to roll back the clock on our wind energy progress to help his Big Oil financiers and friends, I’ll keep fighting to realize Maryland’s wind energy potential and ensure we stay on course toward a stronger, more sustainable, more affordable future for our state.”

“Offshore wind means good-paying jobs, cleaner air, and a stronger future for Maryland,” said Representative Johnny Olszewski. “Right here in Maryland’s Second Congressional District, projects like Sparrows Point Steel will support over 500 new jobs and thousands more across our state, all while lowering energy costs for working families. Investing in offshore wind isn’t just about energy—it’s about strengthening Maryland’s economy and environment for generations to come.”

“For so many of Maryland’s pressing questions, offshore wind energy is the answer. It benefits both the state’s climate and its economy. Offshore wind energy leads to more jobs for blue-collar workers and well-paying, year-round jobs in parts of the state that need them,” said Maryland Energy Administration Director Paul G. Pinsky. “The bottom line is that offshore wind energy projects will help expand energy production for a state and a regional grid that badly needs more reliable production to meet growing demand—and it will do so in a way that doesn’t compound the climate crisis.”

Today’s event, held at the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 24 office, underscored strong support for clean energy growth despite the Trump administration’s policies that prop up fossil fuels. Before a backdrop of a large digital “Yes to Wind” display, speakers emphasized widespread support for the continued development of offshore wind in Maryland. For instance, recent polling from June 2025 revealed that 7 in 10 Maryland voters supported the construction of offshore wind projects—across political lines.

“Offshore wind has enabled our Baltimore-based company to open offices in new markets like Rhode Island and New York as we followed the construction of five projects along the East Coast over the last few years,” said Lee Connor, Chairman of John S. Connor, Inc. “Our company has seen firsthand the increased economic activity and job creation because of U.S. offshore wind development, delivering thousands of good-paying jobs and tremendous local investment. Let’s all say, ‘yes to wind’ and to the host of economic and environmental benefits this American industry has already proven it can deliver.”

“1199 SEIU has fought to make life more affordable for working families across the state of Maryland—from fair wages to stable energy bills,” said Ricarra Jones, Political Director of 1199 SEIU United Healthcare Workers East. “Offshore wind is a win for both our economy and our health. As healthcare workers, we know that clean energy saves lives. Reducing air pollution means fewer asthma attacks, fewer kids in emergency rooms, and healthier communities across Maryland. Offshore wind is the prescription our state needs for a cleaner, more resilient, and more affordable energy future.”

Maryland’s approved offshore wind projects, which secured federal permits in December 2024, are expected to deliver more than $800 million in local investment, including in steel manufacturing, port redevelopment, and direct commercial fishing support. These projects will power approximately 700,000 homes with affordable, reliable electricity and stabilize prices for Marylanders at a time when they are on the rise.

The Maryland Day of Action marked the first in a nationwide series of “Yes to Wind” events taking place across a dozen states this fall. Each event highlights growing momentum for offshore wind as a practical, homegrown energy solution that reduces carbon pollution while revitalizing local economies and stabilizing energy prices.

In Maryland, a broad coalition including the Chesapeake Climate Action Network, IBEW Local 24, Sierra Club Maryland Chapter, Ironworkers Local 5, Maryland League of Conservation Voters, USW District 8, Shore Progress, BlueGreen Alliance, MAAREC Action, IUPAT District Council 51, Offshore Wind Alliance, and Oceantic Network, united around a shared message: Offshore wind is critical to building a resilient, affordable and American clean energy future for all.

“Offshore wind is an investment in reliable, affordable, homegrown energy for Maryland. Building offshore wind is critical to meet the expected growth in energy use due to data centers,” said State Delegate Lorig Charkoudian. “Moving these projects forward is crucial to help stabilize rising energy bills, diversify our energy supply, and build a more resilient, clean, and abundant energy future for our state.”

“Offshore wind will provide job opportunities for the members of IBEW Local 24,” said Michael McHale, Business Manager, IBEW Local 24. “We will put our skills to work in the supply chain, building manufacturing facilities, onshore helping to build maintenance and marshalling infrastructure, and offshore performing the electrical work on the turbines, cabling, and maritime substations.”

Watch the full-length video of the press conference HERE.

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Publishers Weekly Names CCAN Executive Director Mike Tidwell’s Book to Top 25 Nonfiction Books of 2025

The Lost Trees of Willow Avenue is the first book to tell the story of global warming from the perspective of one American street.

From mysteriously dying trees to people sick with Lyme disease to neighborhood activists fighting back, this unexpectedly dramatic story has received stellar reviews from The Washington Post and critics nationwide, including — now — Publishers Weekly top 25 pick for nonfiction

TAKOMA PARK, MD – Publishers Weekly magazine has just named The Lost Trees of Willow Avenue to its list of top 25 nonfiction works of 2025. Calling this first-of-its-kind story of climate change impacts on one American street “a powerful portrait of a community,” the magazine says author Mike Tidwell sheds “light on how warming temperatures affect everything from wildlife to people’s health and their perception of the future.”

If you’re looking for a truly original climate change interview, Tidwell’s story of how extreme weather plays out on his one block over a 12-month period in 2023 is truly mind-blowing. He writes of record floods and spreading Lyme disease and hotter temperatures on his DC-area street, but also of growing solar energy and the Hindu gas station owner who switches entirely from pumping gas to fast-charging electric cars. The book also explores the controversial issue of geoengineering as a possible Plan B to cool the planet as severe climate impacts spread across every square foot of America and the world.

Tidwell is the author of seven nonfiction books. His essays have appeared in many publications, including The Washington Post, Reader’s Digest, National Geographic Traveler, and more. He is a former National Endowment for the Arts fellow for creative nonfiction. He is also the founder and director of the Chesapeake Climate Action Network.

Visit Tidwell’s website here and St. Martin’s press page here. Contact Mike for print, radio or TV interviews. He is close to studios in Washington, D.C. and available for Zoom conversations.

https://us.macmillan.com/books/9781250362261/thelosttreesofwillowavenue/

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Chesapeake Climate Action Network is the first grassroots organization dedicated exclusively to raising awareness about the impacts and solutions associated with global warming in the Chesapeake Bay region. Founded in 2002, CCAN has been at the center of the fight for clean energy and wise climate policy in Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, DC.

Richmond Councilmembers and Advocates Call on Governor Youngkin to Protect FEMA, Protect Virginia

Advocates urge strengthening, not eroding, FEMA disaster relief programs as climate disasters escalate and federal aid hangs in the balance.

RICHMOND, VA – Richmond city councilmembers and climate organizations held a press conference today to urge Governor Glenn Youngkin to use his seat on the FEMA Review Council to strengthen the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), not dismantle it. This effort comes amid alarming signs that FEMA is losing key staff, combined with significant disaster funding cuts, which are severely weakening the agency’s capacity to respond to disasters. The Trump Administration’s plan to shift disaster relief costs to states risks imposing significant financial burdens on Virginia residents and taxpayers.

“Our communities depend on FEMA to be a reliable partner when disaster strikes,” said Richmond City Councilmember Stephanie Lynch. “Strengthening FEMA isn’t about politics — it’s about making sure every Virginian has the support they need to recover, rebuild, and become more resilient in the face of a changing climate.”

“Americans must be able to count on their federal government for aid in times of crisis, and to be partners in preventing their severity,” said Richmond City Councilmember Katherine Jordan. “Emergency management and prevention are bedrock responsibilities of government. I join Virginians from across the Commonwealth asking our Governor to ensure we have the strongest FEMA possible – both in ability to respond to disasters – and through equipping communities with critical dollars to prevent or mitigate events before they happen.”

“When federal support is ripped away, local governments are left holding the bag, and the overwhelming burden almost always falls on the people who can least afford it. But, Governor Younkin can change that,” said Kim Sudderth, Hampton Roads Environmental Justice Advocate.

Speakers highlighted the growing risks that extreme weather disasters pose to Virginia and how dismantling FEMA would jeopardize critical disaster relief as climate disasters grow in frequency and severity. Following the press conference, advocates delivered a petition signed by hundreds of Virginians demanding action to protect federal disaster programs.

“The climate crisis isn’t a far-off, distant future; it is our new reality that Virginians are experiencing through unprecedented extreme weather that overwhelms our critical infrastructure,” said Gabby Walton, Federal Campaigns Associate for the Chesapeake Climate Action Network. “Our local disaster response depends on FEMA’s support, and the federal government’s moves to suspend critical FEMA staff and funding is unacceptable. As the FEMA Review Council considers overhauling and possibly dismantling FEMA altogether this hurricane season, I urge Governor Youngkin to use his influence to improve the agency, not dissolve it.”

“Our elected leaders should not be playing politics when it comes to disaster recovery; they shouldn’t pick winners or losers after a devastating flood, hurricane, wildfire, or other natural disaster,” said Catherine Setaro, Hampton Roads Field Manager at Virginia League of Conservation Voters. “Governor Youngkin needs to use his official capacity on FEMA’s Review Council to strengthen this agency while he has the chance.”

Recent proposals from the Trump administration and members of the FEMA Review Council risk dismantling FEMA and cutting disaster relief funding. Since January, the Chesapeake Climate Action Network (CCAN) and 20 supporting Virginia-based organizations have highlighted the life-saving importance of federal disaster aid by submitting an organizational letter to Governor Youngkin. Virginia’s reliance on FEMA for recovery in major storms highlights the potential dangers if federal support is eliminated.

Watch the live stream recording on our Instagram account HERE.

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Chesapeake Climate Action Network is the first grassroots organization dedicated exclusively to raising awareness about the impacts and solutions associated with global warming in the Chesapeake Bay region. Founded in 2002, CCAN has been at the center of the fight for clean energy and wise climate policy in Maryland, Virginia, Washington, DC and beyond.

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Community Members Push Back Against Dominion Energy’s Proposed Chesterfield Gas Plant at DEQ Hearing

CHESTERFIELD, VA — Community members, local leaders and advocates testified at the final Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) public hearing yesterday to oppose Dominion Energy’s proposed $8 billion gas plant in Chesterfield County. Speakers highlighted the project’s potential to raise electric bills, pollute local air and lock Virginia into decades of reliance on fossil fuels, primarily to power the growing data center industry.

The hearing drew residents, environmental advocates and legislators united in opposition, emphasizing that Virginians are already facing an energy affordability crisis while Dominion seeks to expand fossil fuel infrastructure and give multi-million dollar pay increases to its CEO.

“This project is about Dominion Energy expanding its profits, not serving the people of Virginia,” said Nicole Martin, president of the Chesterfield County NAACP. “Families across the Commonwealth are struggling to pay their bills. We cannot allow a new gas plant to make the problem worse while polluting our air and harming the health of our communities.”

The No New Gas Plants coalition reiterated its call for Virginia to invest in cleaner, more affordable energy solutions, rather than expensive new fossil fuel infrastructure. Coalition members also stressed that Virginians deserve transparency, accountability and a voice in decisions that affect their health, environment and cost of living.

Members of the public can still submit comments on the DEQ air pollution permit here until 11:59 PM on Thursday, October 23, 2025.

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Photos and video will be made available for use here licensed under CC BY-ND 4.0, attributable to the No New Gas Plants Coalition. To view a copy of this license, visit: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/. If these licensing terms pose a barrier to your publication, please contact media@nogasplant.org.

The No New Gas Plants Coalition is a statewide alliance of grassroots organizations, community leaders, environmental advocates and policy experts working to stop the expansion of costly and polluting energy infrastructure in Virginia. Formed in response to Dominion Energy’s plans to build up to six new gas-fired power plants, the coalition is united by a vision of an affordable and clean energy future. Together, we advocate for the health and voices of Virginia communities most impacted by pollution and rising energy costs.

The Coalition includes Allegheny-Blue Ridge Alliance, Appalachian Voices, immigrant advocacy organization CASA, Chesapeake Climate Action Network, Chesterfield County NAACP, Clean Virginia, Friends of Chesterfield, Mothers Out Front, New Virginia Majority, Sierra Club Virginia Chapter, Southern Environmental Law Center, Sunrise UVA, Virginia Conservation Network, and Virginia Interfaith Power & Light.

chesterfield Chesterfield gas plant Chesterfield Virginia Dominion Energy no new gas plants virginia deq

Virginians Celebrate International “Sun Day” With Solar-Powered Home Tours, School Bus Electrification, and Peace-Centered Community Rally

Local families, advocates, and community leaders showcase solar as the cheapest, most reliable energy source for the Commonwealth

Richmond, VA — From Richmond to Vienna to Leesburg, Virginians turned out in force this weekend to celebrate the first-ever International “Sun Day,” joining hundreds of communities nationwide in uplifting solar energy as the clean, affordable power of the future. More than 300 celebrations were organized across all 50 states, with nine events in the DC-Maryland-Virginia region sponsored or co-sponsored by Chesapeake Climate Action Network (CCAN) and a broad coalition of clean energy allies.

In Richmond, dozens gathered at “Sun Day: A Day for Peace and the Planet,” co-hosted by CCAN, Third Act-RVA, the Richmond Peace Education Center, and the University of Richmond. The family-friendly event featured live music, art, climate education, and a call to accelerate solar energy deployment across Virginia.

In Vienna, community members celebrated the electrification of school buses at Louise Archer Elementary before touring a newly built PHIUS-certified net-zero home. Participants marveled at how energy-efficient features improve comfort, cut bills, and create healthier indoor environments. Throughout the day, large community banners declaring “Celebrate Solar” were displayed across town, uplifting solar as cleaner, cheaper, safer, and unlimited.

“For decades, we’ve called this stuff ‘alternative energy.’ We want to drive home the point that that’s not true anymore. This is the straightforward, common-sense, obvious way to power our future, the cheapest way to drive down electric prices, the easiest way to build a working America,” said Bill McKibben, co-founder of Third Act – the group that is the the driving force behind Sun Day – as well as a pioneering environmental author, who has been instrumental in bringing global attention to climate change and the potential of renewable energy.

In Leesburg, visitors toured a home powered entirely by solar, where residents showcased how households can thrive on renewable energy without relying on polluting fossil fuels. The event offered a firsthand look at Virginia’s energy future while engaging families in conversations about transitioning toward 100% clean power.

“Every day, the sun provides more energy than humanity could use in a year. It’s time we center our future around that gift,” said Ting Waymouth, Northern Virginia Organizer, Chesapeake Climate Action Network (CCAN). “These events made clear that Virginians understand the urgency of the clean energy transition, and are ready to lead with solutions that protect families, lower bills, and safeguard our planet.”

These events are part of the DMV region’s participation in International Sun Day, a weekend of actions across the U.S. and the world, organized by a broad coalition of groups, including Third Act, Fossil Free Media, and others, as well as CCAN. More than 300 events are planned in all 50 states, with CCAN sponsoring or co-sponsoring 9 across the DMV region.

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Family-Friendly Festivals in Takoma Park and Baltimore Celebrate “Maryland Sun Day” with Music, Art, and Kids’ Activities

Community festivals highlight solar energy’s role in an affordable, sustainable future, featuring children’s activities, live performances, and conversations about Maryland’s clean energy leadership.

TAKOMA PARK, MD — Sunshine, live music, and the power of community brought hundreds of residents together in Takoma Park and Baltimore this past weekend for “Maryland Sun Day” celebrations, part of a global movement calling for the large-scale deployment of solar energy that is cheap, reliable, and ready to go. Residents of all ages are invited to enjoy music, art projects, kids’ programming, and hands-on educational activities while connecting with local leaders to send a clear message: we have the tools to power our communities with clean energy and overwhelming public support to do it.

In Takoma Park, families, neighbors, and local legislators gathered at the Takoma Urban Park Gazebo to enjoy an afternoon of music and community activities. Local musician Teresa Jiménez headlined the family-friendly concert, while kids participated in sun-inspired projects and interactive learning stations highlighting the promise of solar power. The event showcased the city’s deep-rooted commitment to sustainability and clean energy leadership in Maryland.

“Solar energy projects are the cheapest and quickest to build energy projects on the planet,” said Delegate Lorig Charkoudian, MD District 20. “We can lower bills, stabilize the climate, and create family-sustaining jobs by creating market certainty for solar energy of all types — residential, community solar, and utility scale.”

Other speakers at the event included Maryland State Senator William C. Smith, Jr. (District 20, Montgomery County), Delegate David H. Moon (District 20, Montgomery County), and Bryan Bomer, Sustainability, Energy, and Mechanical Manager, Montgomery County.

In Baltimore, families gathered for an afternoon of children’s crafts, food trucks, and solar education programming. Attendees enjoyed music performances from Tavair Dominique, Buzz Merrick, and Dan and Claudia Zanes, reinforcing the joy and creativity at the heart of Maryland’s transition to renewable energy.

“Takoma Park and Baltimore came together this weekend to show what solar power really means: healthier communities, affordable energy, and a brighter future for our kids,” said Brittany Baker, Maryland Director for Chesapeake Climate Action Network. “Maryland has the chance to lead the nation in clean energy, and these celebrations prove residents are ready and eager to see it happen.”

Both events were part of the DMV region’s participation in International Sun Day, a weekend of “Sun Day” actions across America and around the world – organized by a broad coalition of groups, including Third Act, Fossil Free Media, and others, as well as CCAN. More than 300 events were planned across all 50 states. In the DMV region alone, CCAN sponsored or co-sponsored 9 events.

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Solar Power Shines by the U.S. Capitol: Electric Vehicles Parade on the National Mall to Kick Off International “Sun Day” Celebrations of Clean Energy

Senator Ed Markey (MA) addresses a Sun Day weekend rally on the National Mall.

Parade and press conference bring together legislators and activists to launch a weekend of over 300 events across 50 states with the goal of promoting cheap, reliable solar energy. CCAN sponsors 9 events in the DMV region.

WASHINGTON, DC — The first-ever electric vehicle (EV) parade near the U.S. Capitol was held today to kick off a historic campaign for greater solar energy deployment worldwide. This initial “Sun Day” weekend celebration featured dozens of electric cars, bikes, and scooters decorated with pro-solar messages, circling on the National Mall. Just prior to the EV parade’s arrival, Congressional and state legislators joined clean energy and climate activists at a press conference to call for broader use of clean energy and a faster transition away from fossil fuels.

At the press conference, a historic solar hot water panel, originally installed on the White House roof by President Jimmy Carter over 45 years ago and still operational, was displayed as a symbol of America’s enduring potential for clean energy leadership. View the full array of inspiring events nationwide on the Third Act “Sun Day” webpage.

Watch a recording of the live stream HERE.

“Solar and wind are the most affordable sources of electricity in our country,” said U.S Senator Ed Markey (MA). “Last year 94 percent of all new electrical generation installed in the United States was wind and solar and battery storage technologies. That’s what builds the fear into the coal and natural gas industry’s heart, they can see it coming. Because if it’s 94 percent then 95 percent, year after year, we have replaced the dependence which we’ve had upon coal and natural gas. So that’s our job. Last year 50,000 new megawatts of solar was installed in the United States. In 2009 we had a cumulative total of 2,000 megawatts…. We’re coming out on Sun Day, we’re letting everyone know that if they are not going away, we’re not going away. We’re on the right side of history.”

“As Virginia and the entire country are facing increasing energy demand, solar is one of the cheapest and quickest ways to develop energy generation to meet this coming demand,” said Delegate Rip Sullivan, 6th District, Virginia House of Delegates. “Outside of just providing energy, these projects help families and communities by providing a critical source of income while also supporting local schools, emergency response programs, and much more through the revenue to localities. There is no doubt that the path to affordable and reliable energy depends on the continued development and installation of solar.”

“Solar power isn’t just a clean energy issue,” said Laurie Welch, a leader with the volunteer group Third Act Maryland. “It’s a housing affordability issue. Rooftop and community solar lower utility bills, which means residents have more money to cover their rent or mortgage. As our founder, Bill McKibben, says, ‘Renewables are no longer an ‘alternative’ energy – not Whole Foods. Renewables are now the Costco of energy – cheap, available, and ready to go!’”

“Solar is the cheapest and fastest-to-build source of new power, with enormous potential to cut energy bills, create jobs, and help us tackle the climate crisis,” said Charles Harper, Power Sector Senior Policy Lead at Evergreen Action. “Fossil fuel interests know that the promise of solar and other clean energy technologies threatens their bottom line, so they’ve tried to shut it down at every turn. But the momentum is too great, and we won’t let them. This first Sun Day is about celebrating how far we’ve come — and building the people power we need to push our leaders to deliver even more clean energy now.”

“Solar power is not new to America; 45 years ago, President Jimmy Carter installed solar hot water panels on the White House roof,” said Mike Tidwell, executive director of Chesapeake Climate Action Network (CCAN). “One of those panels is here today, and it’s still operational. Think about that, a panel built almost 50 years ago is still able to harness free power from the most abundant resource in our solar system, whereas fossil fuels require endless costly searches for a new supply and pollute our air every time they are burned. Today’s solar systems can provide the cheapest and cleanest energy for your homes and businesses for decades to come. It’s long overdue for solar panels to become the new symbol of America’s clean energy leadership.”

This EV parade and rally in D.C. kicked off a weekend of “Sun Day” actions across America and worldwide – organized by a broad coalition of groups, including Third Act, Fossil Free Media, and others, as well as CCAN. More than 300 events are planned across all 50 states, starting this weekend and extending into October.

In the DMV region, CCAN is sponsoring or co-sponsoring 9 events, ranging from a Sun Day For Peace & The Planet in Virginia to a tour of solar-powered homes across the District. Most activities will culminate on Sunday, September 21, the autumnal equinox, declared International Sun Day. For information about CCAN’s Sun Day events, visit our website.

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Hundreds Pack DEQ Hearing to Oppose Dominion’s Chesterfield Gas Plant

Sen. Ghazala Hashmi, Del. Mike Jones, and Del. Rodney Willett join residents urging denial of the air permit

CHESTERFIELD, VA — Hundreds of residents, community leaders, and public health advocates filled the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality’s (DEQ) air permit hearing Monday night to oppose Dominion Energy’s proposed methane gas plant in Chesterfield. Speaker after speaker warned of higher energy bills, more pollution for nearby neighborhoods, and a costly step backward for Virginia.

Check out the live stream recording of the hearing here.

“Tonight’s turnout makes one thing unmistakable: Chesterfield families do not want a new gas plant,” said Senator Ghazala Hashmi (D-SD15). “This project would raise costs and increase pollution when cleaner, more affordable options are available right now. DEQ should deny this permit and protect public health.”

“Virginians are already stretched, and communities closest to this site have lived with industrial health burdens for generations,” said Delegate Mike Jones (D-HD77). “Dominion’s proposal asks the public to pay more for more pollution. We can meet our energy needs by investing in efficiency, storage, and renewables that lower bills and create jobs.”

“Families in Chesterfield and across Virginia are already paying too much for electricity,” said Delegate Rodney Willett (D-HD58). “Dominion’s proposal would force customers to bankroll outdated fossil fuel infrastructure instead of investing in cleaner, cheaper energy solutions that are readily available. We should be building a system that lowers bills and safeguards public health, not one that keeps us tied to the past.”

“People showed up because they understand what is at stake,” said Glen Besa, board chair and co-founder of Friends of Chesterfield. “This plant would lock in years of fossil fuel costs and emissions at a site already harmed by coal. DEQ should listen to the community and reject an outdated, risky project.”

The proposed facility would be built at the retired Chesterfield Power Station site. Residents and experts testified that the project would add to local air pollution, undermine Virginia’s clean energy goals, and expose customers to volatile fossil fuel prices. Speakers urged DEQ to require cleaner, lower-cost alternatives.

DEQ will now review public comment and testimony from the hearing before making a permitting decision.

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The No New Gas Plants Coalition is a statewide alliance of grassroots organizations, community leaders, environmental advocates, and policy experts working to stop the expansion of costly and polluting energy infrastructure in Virginia. Formed in response to Dominion Energy’s plans to build up to six new gas-fired power plants, the coalition is united by a vision of an affordable and clean energy future. Together, we advocate for the health and voices of Virginia communities most impacted by pollution and rising energy costs.

The Coalition includes Allegheny-Blue Ridge Alliance, Appalachian Voices, CASA, Chesapeake Climate Action Network, Chesterfield County NAACP, Clean Virginia, Friends of Chesterfield, Mothers Out Front, New Virginia Majority, Sierra Club Virginia Chapter, Southern Environmental Law Center, Sunrise UVA, Virginia Conservation Network, and Virginia Interfaith Power & Light.

Chesterfield gas plant Chesterfield Virginia Virginia

Chesterfield Residents Pack VA Department of Environmental Quality Briefing, Call for Clean Air Over Gas Pollution

CHESTERFIELD, VA — Dozens of residents, advocates, and community leaders gathered Thursday evening to speak out against Dominion Energy’s proposed gas plant in Chesterfield, ahead of a public briefing hosted by the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ).

The press conference, organized by the No New Gas Plants Coalition, highlighted concerns about the project’s health, climate, and economic impacts. Speakers called on the DEQ and State Corporation Commission to reject the proposal and instead invest in clean, affordable energy solutions.

“Dominion’s proposed plant threatens our community’s health and our environment, and it’s being planned without real community input,” said Nicole Martin, president of the Chesterfield County NAACP. “We refuse to let Chesterfield be a sacrifice zone for outdated fossil fuel infrastructure.”

The Chesterfield gas plant is the first of six new methane gas plants Dominion plans to build across Virginia. The proposed facility would be located on the site of a retired coal plant, raising concerns about cumulative pollution and environmental injustice.

“Dominion is doubling down on dirty energy when we should be accelerating the transition to renewables,” said Glen Besa, board chair of Friends of Chesterfield. “This project would lock in harmful emissions and drive up costs for families already struggling with high bills.”

The No New Gas Plants Coalition is calling on state leaders to reject Dominion’s proposal and instead support a clean energy future that protects public health, reduces costs, and confronts the climate crisis.

The coalition’s next major event is a rally on Monday, September 8, outside the DEQ’s public hearing on the proposed plant’s air pollution permit. Hundreds of residents from across the region will gather to demand that the permit be denied.

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Chesterfield gas plant Chesterfield Virginia Dominion Virginia Power environmental justice Virginia Virginia

Amid This Summer’s Record Heat and Violent Rain, Local Author Shows How Climate Change is Killing Trees and Making People Sick on His Street and Yours

If you’re looking for a new way to tell the climate story, Mike Tidwell’s new book, The Lost Trees of Willow Avenue, is a good place to start

TAKOMA PARK, MD – Reporters across America looking for new ways to cover this summer’s ongoing extreme heat and rain should contact local DC-area author Mike Tidwell. Mike moves beyond the abstractions of climate change and shows how it’s affecting area neighborhoods daily through lost trees, more flooding, and the documented spread of heat-induced Lyme disease.

If you’re looking for a full interview or just a quote for a general climate story, contact Mike for print, TV, or radio content. He has written widely for The Washington Post and has been featured on NPR, CNN, and leading podcasts.

Learn more about Mike’s new book, The Lost Trees of Willow Avenue. And view a 3-minute companion film here.

In addition to writing, Mike currently serves as executive director of the Chesapeake Climate Action Network.

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Chesapeake Climate Action Network is the first grassroots organization dedicated exclusively to raising awareness about the impacts and solutions associated with global warming in the Chesapeake Bay region. Founded in 2002, CCAN has been at the center of the fight for clean energy and wise climate policy in Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, DC.