Recently the Vermont House overwhelmingly approved S.52, a renewable energy bill that takes the first steps toward Vermont gaining control of its own energy future through the use of clean, local energy. It's quite refreshing that our Legislature had the foresight to pass this forward-looking bill.

Now the House Energy Committee is discussing a bill allowing for dry cask storage of nuclear waste at Vermont Yankee. This bill actually has the potential for much greater consequences in regard to what direction Vermont takes for its future energy needs. The main idea of the bill is very simple — charge Vermont Yankee for storing nuclear fuel waste along the Connecticut River, and use that money to significantly expand the use of renewable, clean, safe energy sources based in Vermont.

What a fantastic idea. When Vermont Yankee's contract expires in 2012, we need to have renewable energy sources available to replace that nuclear power. The beauty of this idea is that Vermont Yankee would end up helping to pay for this transition to a clean energy future. The charge Vermont Yankee will pay for storage won't increase energy rates. To the contrary, the money will be funneled to Vermont companies and residents that install renewable energy systems and therefore could help stabilize rates, and keep future energy dollars in the state.

This is truly a rare opportunity for our state. Hopefully, the Legislature will again have the foresight to see that this is clearly in the best interest of all Vermonters.

JOHN McCONNELL

Hinesburg