Members of the Vermont Electric Cooperative (VEC) voted by a large majority to approve a proposed transmission line that would provide a connection to the electric grid for a proposed wind project in Lowell, Vt.
More than 6,700 VEC members cast ballots during a special election completed this week. Results for three ballot items and a director election in VEC's District 3 were announced on Tuesday at a special meeting of the VEC membership.
A proposed transmission line upgrade from Lowell to Jay passed with 5,340 votes in favor and 1,379 opposed. In addition, an agreement to purchase power from Hydro-Quebec passed with 5,970 votes in favor and 700 votes opposed; and a bylaw amendment allowing the board of directors to set methods allowing for the retirement of patronage capital passed with 5,572 in favor and 991 opposed.
‘High voter turnout reflects the importance of energy issues to VEC members,’ says Dave Hallquist CEO of VEC. ‘As an electric cooperative, our members have a voice in making important decisions about our energy future.’
Green Mountain Power has proposed building a 21-turbine wind project on Lowell Mountain.
