There hasn't been a big fossil-fuel-burning plant in the area yet, and a gas plant in Vernon would cross a threshold into the past.
Maximizing efficiency and output at the old, existing Vernon Dam hydroelectric plant would be a big first step to boosting clean energy. A nice solar facility and small-to mid-scale vertical axis wind turbine array would be great. Winds funnel nicely down that part of the river valley; it's a perfect spot for harvesting wind, water, and sun!
But of course, Kinder Morgan is trying to get as many contracts as possible in place to make the pipeline seem more necessary - hence, the early talks.
The Climate Café group in Brattleboro has already scheduled a few of us who have been battling the pipeline here in Massachusetts to speak at Brooks Memorial Library in Brattleboro evening of Oct. 27.