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Commonwealth Policy Institute Lays Out Energy Plan for the State

  The policy arm of a statewide Democratic group has issued its recommendations for Kentucky’s energy future. 

The Commonwealth Policy Institute—CPI—is part of the Women’s Network. 

Earlier this month, the organization released a white paper laying out an energy plan for the state.

CPI Energy Committee Chairwoman Lane Adams says the group is adding its voice to others who are urging more diversification in a state that’s traditionally relied on coal.

“We would hope that adding our voices to the other groups that have expressed similar concerns about our reliance on a fuel that is definitely limited and getting more expensive, that we could bring about some change," said Adams. 

The paper recommends lawmakers consider steps like adopting a renewable portfolio standard, updating energy efficiency building codes and setting aside some coal severance tax money for economic development in the coalfields. It also wants the Public Service Commission to take factors like health and economic development into consideration when approving new energy projects.

Erica Peterson is a reporter and Kentucky Public Radio correspondent based out of WFPL in Louisville, Kentucky.