Bill > S0065

This bill amends Vermont's existing energy efficiency utility regulations to prioritize greenhouse gas emissions reductions and ensure equitable access to energy efficiency programs. The legislation requires the Public Utility Commission to appoint energy efficiency entities with a renewed focus on reducing greenhouse gas emissions, with specific emphasis on supporting low-income residential customers and small businesses. Key provisions include mandating that at least 25% of the annual budget be targeted for low to moderate-income residential services and 12.5% for small businesses and non-profit organizations. The bill introduces new funding sources, including net revenues from capacity savings and carbon credit sales, and allows energy efficiency utilities to support innovative approaches to reducing fossil fuel use, such as incentivizing electric vehicle adoption for high-consumption fuel users. The bill also authorizes the use of efficiency funds for electrification, energy storage, and building energy code attainment, with a clear priority on greenhouse gas reduction. Additionally, the legislation requires the appointed energy efficiency entities to provide services in a manner that is equitable and just, with the goal of helping Vermont meet its broader energy efficiency and emissions reduction targets. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.