WASHINGTON (WCAX) – Vermont Senator Peter Welch joined with other Democrats Wednesday in introducing an ambitious climate proposal to establish a 100% renewable energy standard in the next 20 years.

The American Renewable Energy Act would prioritize and develop solar, wind, and geothermal energy, as well as methane digesters on farms and wastewater plants.

“Taking immediate, ambitious action to reduce emissions and build a clean energy future is essential to combating the climate crisis. Coupled with the historic investments in renewable energy in the Inflation Reduction Act, now is the time to enact a national renewable energy standard. Vermont has long led the nation in the clean energy transition, passing historic legislation just this summer that puts us on the path to achieve 100% renewable electricity by 2035,” Senator Welch said in a statement. “This bill will help the country follow in Vermont’s footsteps to speed the transition to renewables and build energy independence.”

With both the Senate and House now in GOP control as well as President-elect Donald Trump’s denial of climate science and promises to encourage oil exploration, the prospects for the act remain uncertain.

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