Bill > H0159

This bill proposes to completely repeal Vermont's Renewable Energy Standard (RES), a policy that previously required electricity providers to source a certain percentage of their electricity from renewable sources. Specifically, the bill eliminates several sections of Vermont's legal code related to the RES, including definitions, standard offer programs, and reporting requirements. The bill removes provisions that previously mandated electricity providers purchase renewable energy, maintain specific renewable energy portfolios, and track greenhouse gas reduction credits. Key sections being repealed include definitions of "new renewable energy" and references to renewable energy compliance mechanisms. The bill also removes requirements for annual reporting on renewable energy progress and eliminates references to renewable energy standards in other parts of Vermont's energy planning statutes. While the repeal is comprehensive, the bill includes a delayed effective date of July 1, 2025, which suggests lawmakers want to provide a transition period for the state's energy sector. This change represents a significant shift in Vermont's approach to renewable energy policy, potentially removing previous incentives and requirements for renewable energy development.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://legislature.vermont.gov/bill/status/2026/H.159