Bill > H0354

This bill amends Vermont's public utility regulations to establish a new "thermal efficiency benefits charge" that would allow the Public Utility Commission to impose a volumetric charge on customers to support thermal efficiency programs. The charge would be specifically designed to help meet greenhouse gas reduction requirements, be shown separately on customer bills, and be paid into the Electric Efficiency Fund. The bill expands funding sources for thermal energy efficiency services by adding new revenue streams including capacity savings from the New England Independent System Operator (ISO-NE), net revenues from carbon credit sales under the state's cap and trade program, and potentially other appropriated funds. The bill gives priority to incentives for high-efficiency biomass heating systems and allows for flexibility in allocating costs between regulated and unregulated fuel efficiency programs. The proposed charge aims to support energy efficiency initiatives that are determined to be "societally cost-effective" and help reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The new provisions will take effect on July 1, 2025, and include definitions for key terms like biomass, district heat, fossil fuels, regulated and unregulated fuels to provide clarity in implementing the new charge.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://legislature.vermont.gov/bill/status/2026/H.354