A few weeks ago, the Lebanon City Council formed an Energy Advisory Committee. City Councilor James Dean and I worked together to propose the idea. The City Council is non-partisan, but it just so happens that James Dean is a Republican and I am a Democrat.

Two things I notice about this: Energy is an issue that provides opportunities for Democrats and Republican to work together. And local government seems to lend itself to non-partisanship.

There are a lot of great things happening with energy committees around the state - and nation. It gives me hope for the future.

Some groups to know about...

US Conference of Mayors Climate Protection Agreement

The Carbon Coalition

Sustainable Energy Resource Group

EPA New England's Community Energy Challenge