Planning Commission reviews RRPC enhanced energy plan draft; debates natural gas, biomass and data displays

The Pittsford Planning Commission conducted a detailed, page‑by‑page review of a draft "enhanced energy plan" prepared by the Rutland Regional Planning Commission. RRPC representative Jeremy Gildrien walked the commission through tables, graphics and policy language; commissioners raised layout, accuracy and policy concerns and asked for revisions. "RRPC is not mandating what is in the document," Gildrien said, and he offered to provide an updated draft without the maps for the commission's next review.

Discussion centered on several technical and policy points. Commissioners questioned updated energy‑burden numbers (the draft lists an average of 12.2 percent versus a prior 10.6 percent) and confirmed that the LEAP model data include large local users (Gildrien said the BTU accounting includes Omya). Members also agreed to remove or revise a vehicle fuel‑mileage graphic judged misleading, to label GMP's 100% carbon‑free claim as the utility's claim rather than an uncontested fact, and to delete items already completed or duplicated in the transportation actions. The commission debated keeping energy‑siting language tied to PUC 248 criteria—some members favored retaining that detail to give the Select Board leverage in intervening at state siting proceedings; others recommended flagging contentious sections for public hearings. Gildrien said GIS maps will be produced now that the commission declined to designate preferred sites, and he will circulate the revised draft for further comment.