The Richmond Times-Dispatch caught up with Brian and fellow Democrats recently as they were unveiling their proposal for promoting alternative energy.

Dels. Ward L. Armstrong, D-Henry, the House Democratic leader, and Brian J. Moran, D-Alexandria, the caucus chairman, said at a news conference that their plan would help Gov. Timothy M. Kaine achieve his goal of reducing the rate of growth in energy use in the state by 40 percent.

The proposal would provide a tax credit for the purchase of renewable energy products and exempt alternative energy sources in homes and businesses from local property taxes.

It also would expand the Weatherization Assistance Program so more low-income people could weatherize their homes and save on utility bills.