Blog

Why this year’s ENERGY STAR award is so important to us

Efficiency Vermont was recognized as an ENERGY STAR Partner of the Year for Sustained Excellence for our work to help low- and moderate-income Vermonters weather the pandemic.

How to use energy efficient solutions to make a healthier home

This guide provides quick fixes and long term solutions to make your home healthier and your household happier.

Ask an Expert: How to save energy when you work from home

After COVID-19 working from home may become a permanent situation for many. These energy saving practices can start you on a path to lower energy use and a more productive work environment for years to come.

How do we help more Vermonters weatherize their homes?

More moderate-income families have recently weatherized their homes. How does Efficiency Vermont and the state's network of weatherization providers help more Vermonters benefit from weatherization?

Three easy steps to get started on your home weatherization project

Benefits of weatherization include improving the comfort of your home and saving money on your fuel bills. This How To helps you figure out how to get started on your weatherization project.

Hard hit by pandemic, ski areas invest to stay resilient

• Vermont’s ski industry’s investment in energy efficiency has helped make them more resilient in the face of a pandemic. Learn how efficiency can help these iconic destinations stay resilient.

Efficiency helps one family restaurant focus on the future

When a couple took over ownership of the Readsboro Inn, a global pandemic wasn’t in their plans. Thanks to their community, they stayed open and this summer made an efficiency investment that will help them serve the community even better.

King Arthur Flour is on a quest to save energy and money

An energy efficient solution helped King Arthur Flour keep the kitchens cooler all year round, saving energy and money.

Helping Vermonters build resilience now and in the future

In a time of uncertainty, Efficiency Vermont is focused on helping Vermonters be more resilient, adapting to changing times, and ensuring energy savings are accessible to all Vermonters at the lowest possible cost.

Our Insights | 1 min read

How to reduce your carbon footprint at home

Having an impact on greenhouse gas emissions might seem daunting. But there are things you can do around your own home to reduce your carbon footprint.

How energy efficiency is helping to build resilience

2020 has required resilience from businesses and Vermonters alike. Learn how Burke Mountain, Landmark College, Gifford Hospital, and Commonwealth Dairy have found that energy efficiency and resilience go hand in hand.

Your Stories | 5 min read

How did one Vermont college take control of its energy savings?

Landmark College found that an efficiency project cut one building’s energy use in half – without installing any new equipment.

Top gift ideas for the energy saver in your life

Choosing gifts that help them use less energy while delivering comfort, convenience, and some of the latest cool gadgets is a no-brainer. Here are our picks for the latest green gifts this holiday season.

How to fix a wet, damp, or downright leaky basement

Learn how to dry out your wet basement by diverting water runoff, fixing leaks, eliminating condensation, and covering damp floors.

Weatherization can warm up your space while you work from home

How one Wardsboro couple upgraded from a dusty, drafty attic to a new home office thanks to a weatherization project.

Happy Fall! Energy efficiency meets the best of Vermont

Even though you may not be able to travel this fall, there are still so many ways you can enjoy the fall right here in Vermont. Did you know that some of your favorite fall activities are also related to energy efficiency?

New law shifts Efficiency Vermont into higher gear on transportation, thermal efficiency

Governor Scott recenty signed S.337 - the Energy Efficiency Modernization Act. This bill will allow Efficiency Vermont to do more to help Vermonters reduce their energy burden.

How To | 1 min read

How to tighten up your home for better cold weather comfort (video)

Watch this video for professional tips on air-sealing your home. Locate common problem areas and learn how to seal them.

How To | 1 min read

How to air seal and insulate your basement (video)

Watch this video for professional tips on air-sealing and insulating your basement. Locate common problem areas and learn how to seal them. In addition, explore the types of insulation that work best in a basement.

Top 3 reasons to get a home energy monitor

A home energy monitor may be able to help you find energy hogs in your home.

Summer guide to energy savings & comfort

A few simple tips to minimize your energy costs and help you feel more comfortable all summer long.

Vermont families save money and stay warm with weatherization

Several families share their stories of how weatherization helped them save money and feel more comfortable in their homes.

Who knew? 8 ways NOT to use a heat pump

You might be surprised by some of the ways a heat pump works differently than a boiler or furnace. If you want to minimize your energy use and maximize your comfort, here’s a few tips on what not to do.

The renter’s guide to energy savings

Renters can reduce their energy use and save money with a few simple, low-cost actions.

How to deal with hazardous building materials

Encountering hazardous materials during a home renovation is extremely common. Learn to identify, assess, and remediate these issues so they don't pose problems down the road.

How to defeat the summer peak

By reducing electricity usage during summer peak demand periods everyone saves money

How to lower your monthly electricity costs

There are a few easy step you can take to lower your electric bill each month.

Lighting tips for fall and winter

Try these lighting tips to help manage your energy use during the long nights in fall and winter.

How to make your home net zero

Net zero is the balance between the power a home needs and the renewable energy you can generate to match the need. With new heating technology and lower-cost renewable energy systems, any home can get to net zero.

Home buying with efficiency in mind

Energy use is an important consideration when shopping for a home

Our Insights | 6 min read

Weatherization makes more sense than ever during a pandemic

Button Up Vermont 2020 campaign launches to support Vermonters who want to weatherize their homes.

Ask the Experts: How to save energy when you are starting seeds

An interview with energy and gardening experts on starting seeds indoors efficiently and effectively.

How small dairy farms in Vermont can give themselves a pay raise

In the wake of the economic shutdown caused by COVID-19, Efficiency Vermont is supporting farms across Vermont with efficiency solutions to help them save money and increase revenues. In particular, Efficiency Vermont is helping small and medium dairy farmers install systems that cool milk faster, increasing the quality and revenue from the milk for farmers.

Why does it matter what time of day you use power?

When you use electricity is becoming increasingly important both financially and environmentally. Learn more about why timing matters and what you can do to shift your energy usage throughout the day.

A new Vermont brewery celebrates opening as one of the most energy efficient

Is Black Flannel Brewery the most energy efficient brewery in Vermont?

What do good cheese and energy efficiency have in common?

Cabot and its parent company, Agri-mark, know that both excellent cheddar cheese and energy efficiency take time and commitment.

13 ways your business can cut energy costs

How to save energy and money at your small business.

Together Vermonters can restart the economy

As we enter a new phase in our response to the COVID-19 crisis and begin to turn our focus to our economic recovery, Efficiency Vermont is helping stimulate economic activity through investing in energy efficiency improvements.

Your questions about smart homes, answered

What makes your home and appliances smart? Can smart homes help save energy? Answer these and more about this growing technology.

Your most frequently asked questions... answered!

We compiled our answers to some of the most frequently asked questions we get at Home Shows and other events around the state.

How to make your home "smarter" and save energy

Many people are turning to smart technologies to save energy. Use this guide to get started.

Energy activities for kids at home

Try these fun and educational activities, games, and songs with your kids to learn more about energy efficiency and clean energy.

Your Stories | 6 min read

Control optimizations get A+ results at Stowe High School

Stowe High School reduced their electric energy use by more than 25%. Electric savings of about 150,900kWh will be save the school $16,500 a year.

Bringing efficiency to those who need it most

Vermonters are looking toward energy efficiency to improve their homes.

Heat pumps help food shelf fight hunger

A new heat pump allows a community food shelf to keep cool and serve hungry community members efficiently.

How one Vermonter found herself on the path to net zero

When Karen and David first got an energy audit five years ago, they had no idea they were setting out on the path to a net zero home.

A guide to water heaters

Get the facts on what to look for when buying a water heater. Explore the top water heater types and learn more about each type of water heater.

How do we help Vermonters with 'Affordable Energy'?

Energy efficiency is one of the most affordable tools we have to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and save Vermonters money.

Vermont communities save big with local solutions

Efficiency Vermont works directly with communities across the state to help residents and businesses benefit from energy efficiency.

Keeping beer cold without warming the planet

New technology can help reduce energy waste and greenhouse gas emissions from refrigeration – a major source of emissions in Vermont.

A guide to home heating systems

Compare facts on some of the most popular choices for home heating systems, including boilers, furnaces, wood stoves, and heat pumps.

Modernizing energy efficiency

The changing energy landscape creates new opportunities for energy efficiency to help Vermonters save more than ever before.

10 ways NOT to save energy this winter, and what to do instead!

Don’t let yourself resort to these tactics to stay warm this winter – energy efficiency can help keep you comfortable and save money.

Is a heat pump heating & cooling system right for you?

A heat pump helps you to maintain a comfortable temperature in your home year-round while using less energy than many other heating and cooling systems.

Publyk House serves up big savings with energy efficiency

The Publyk House is a favorite restaurant in Southern Vermont. Now it’s efficiency upgrades are making it more sustainable.

What is the impact of energy burden in Vermont?

Understanding energy burden can shed light on the impact of energy expenses on families and how efficiency can help lower those costs.

How to choose and install storm windows

Adding storm windows is far more affordable than replacing the windows if you're experiencing drafts or air leaks from aging windows.

Is a smart thermostat worth buying?

With a smart thermostat, you can make the most of your heating and cooling systems without wasting money or energy.

A homeowner's buying guide to insulation

Get the facts on the basic types of home insulation, where they are used, and why.

How to combine efficiency and solar energy to maximize benefits

Going solar, weatherizing your home, and moving away from systems that use fossil fuel can reduce your energy bill. This guide provides recommendations to optimize your investments in clean energy.

Don't leave money on the table for weatherization

Weatherization makes sense. Insulating and air sealing your home saves money, makes you more comfortable in the winter and the summer, and even improves health in your home.

Electric vehicles: your top questions answered

Electric cars can save you money on fuel and reduce your carbon footprint. More Vermonters are plugging in, but there’s a few things to consider before you make the switch. Below, we answer your most frequently asked questions.

Our Insights | 7 min read

Weatherization gets a shot in the arm

New legislation will help more Vermonters than ever before weatherize, save energy and feel more comfortable in their homes.

Electricity on ice: Rethinking energy savings and storage

Vermont utilities work together to provide energy savings and thought leadership on emerging flexible load management strategies for large energy users.

Keeping cool with heat pumps

Heat pumps aren't just for heating - they can help you stay cool and comfortable all summer long too.

Cannabis: A budding opportunity for energy savings

Growing cannabis is an energy intensive process. Energy efficiency can help save producers money and keep these businesses growing.

Energy efficiency unlocks climate change solutions

Energy efficiency can help Vermont meet its clean energy goals

Innovation watch: About Energy Savings Accounts

In 2019, we launched a new program to help some of the state’s biggest energy users save ever more throughout their facilities.

How efficiency's best makes its way to Vermont

Efficiency Vermont researches air to water heat pump technology, seeks to transform marketplace

Should you switch to wood pellet heating?

If you're planning to replace a home heating solution, a wood pellet heating system offers some unique benefits worth considering.

The case for air sealing

Air sealing is one of the least expensive and most cost-effective actions you can take to improve the comfort and energy-efficiency of your home or small business.

Winter tips to stay warm and save energy

Winters in Vermont are long and cold, and heating bills can be a strain on your budget. Get ready for winter, lower your monthly bills, and increase the comfort of your living or work space.

Reaching out to Button Up

Efficiency Vermont employees spent a day volunteering to help vulnerable Vermonters weatherize their homes.

Low-carbon fuel keeps Hardwick family warm

The Emersons warmed up their Hardwick home and gave themselves the gift of time with an advanced wood heat system.

Natural refrigerants are coming to Vermont

New refrigeration systems can help reduce significant greenhouse gas emissions, making a big impact on our state’s pollution.

Blue Seal doubles down on energy savings

By partnering with Efficiency Vermont on several projects, Blue Seal made a big dent in two of its biggest expenses: power and fuel.

3 easy ways to save money at your business

Tackling the three biggest energy users can help you start saving at your business today. Here are three low-risk, high-reward projects that will get you off and running.

How Vermont beer makers brew up savings

Several great local breweries joined together to compare notes on how energy efficiency could help them keep costs down and flavors up.

How to find the light that's right for you

Use this handy tool to find out how much you can save by switching to ENERGY STAR LED lighting.

How to finance your business's energy-saving project

A businessperson’s guide to financing energy improvements that save you money from day one.

Maple High Brix yields sweet success for sugarers

Sugaring is a key part of the Vermont economy, but it uses a lot of fuel. Here’s one example of how energy efficiency can help.

When to repair or replace your windows

Windows in disrepair often look worse than they are. Start with easy updates—add weather-stripping and window locks, hang energy-efficient window treatments, and install storm windows.

Your Stories | 6 min read

How VT electric savings fund heating efficiency

Vermonters save money when they save electricity through efficiency. But electric efficiency helps support heating efficiency in VT too.

Partnership to help Vermonters who need it most

We partner with weatherization agencies, non-profits, and efficient home builders to better serve low- and moderate-income families.

Make the most of variable frequency drives

Wondering whether VFDs are a good fit for your business? Learn more about how they can deliver maximum savings.

Energy justice for all Vermonters

Some families spend over 20% of their income on energy expenses – energy efficiency can help reduce costs for families who need it the most.

Your Stories | 5 min read

Lighting is at the core of VT Cider Co.'s savings

A local hard cider company found that lighting controls in their warehouse helped save money and make a better environment for employees.

Custom solutions help local businesses do more for Vermonters

Energy efficiency has helped local small businesses – from granite supply to hospitality – save money and serve their customers.

Your Stories | 6 min read

Your local store is keeping costs down with energy efficiency

A few popular locally-owned grocery and convenience stores turned to energy efficiency to keep the lights on and the beer cold.

How to choose energy efficient lighting for your home (video)

Watch this handy video on how to look for and install energy efficient LED lighting in your home.

How one couple's dream home is energy efficient and eco-friendly

Kelly and Rachel worked with Efficiency Vermont to transform their efficient and sustainable dream home into a reality they enjoy every day.

How much electricity does your home use?

With this chart, you'll be able to see how quickly your energy bill can add up when you use appliances and lighting not manufactured with energy efficiency in mind.

Keeping Vermont’s efficiency standards high

Learn more about energy efficiency standards and how they can help keep costs down for all Vermonters when buying new appliances.

Jericho Settlers Farm grows more for less

Efficiency Vermont and Jericho Settlers farm worked with partners to improve efficiency and make sure the farm could continue to grow their business.

Invest in energy upgrades to avoid losing money

Learn how an investment in energy efficient lighting can reduce your monthly bill and improve the space in your small business. The infographic below provides a real example of the savings your small business could be missing out on.

Do you know how efficient your home is?

This handy calculator can give you an estimate of how efficient your home is. You’ll need the square footage of your home and your energy bill (electric and heating).

Vermont maple sugar makers tap energy savings

Maple sugaring is a delicious but energy intensive process. Energy efficiency saves on fuel to help keep the syrup flowing for less.

Businesses at the heart of the Green Mountain State invest in efficiency

Ben & Jerry’s, Keurig, and BlueCross BlueShield have found that efficiency helps them reduce operating costs and grow their businesses.

How to avoid hiring the wrong contractor

You’re ready to tighten up your home or business, but the project is beyond what you want to do on your own. Use this four-step guide as a checklist to help you find the right contractor.

Better Buildings by Design 2017

Annual conference brings green energy workforce together, helps make Vermont more affordable, helps the economy

One county's energy upgrades save thousands of dollars

Orleans County installed energy efficiency upgrades in county buildings that are saving taxpayers thousands of dollars each year.

Button Up Day: A success from Glover to Brattleboro

Communities across the state hosted a day of workshops, trainings, giveaways, and more for as part of the 2016 Button Up Vermont campaign.

Can a smart home save energy?

A home energy management system can connect and manage all of your smart and connected home devices. It may also be able to save you energy.

Energy efficiency has its day(s)

In honor of Energy Efficiency Day 2016, we share some of the ways we celebrate energy efficiency in Vermont and how you can join in.

Here's to helping Vermont brewers save money

The growing craft beer industry in Vermont embraces the importance of energy efficiency to help reduce costs and keep making delicious beer.

How to choose the best quality LED bulb

Your best option for a high-quality, long lasting, energy saving bulb is to buy ENERGY STAR® certified LED bulbs. Use this guide to choose the right light bulb(s) for your home or small business.

14th Star Brewery toasts to $230,000 in savings

A state-of-the-art brewery in Vermont upgrades their energy efficiency and saves $16,000 a year on energy costs.

Can energy efficiency serve Vermont downtowns?

Vermont’s historic downtowns offer a glimpse of the past and an opportunity for energy and cost savings to help with future growth.

Vermont dairy processing facilities save & grow

Efficiency Vermont helps dairy processing industry save money and energy

3 easy ways to save money at your dealership

Tackling the three biggest energy users can help you start saving at your auto dealership today. Here are three low-risk, high-reward projects that will get you off and running.

Working together to tackle fuel poverty in Vermont

How Vemonters can work together make heating more affordable for low-income households

Buyer beware: Not all LEDs are created equal

The next time you need a new lightbulb, make sure you’re buying an efficient LED bulb that will be sure to help you save energy and money.

How To | 1 min read

How to weatherize your attic yourself (video)

Most homes in Vermont can be made more comfortable by properly air-sealing and adding insulation. This How To focuses on one of the most important areas of the home for weatherization: the attic.

How efficiency saved a town (energy and money)

Efficiency Vermont worked with the St. Albans community to save energy and avoid the need for expensive system upgrades.

How did simple efficiency solutions help Husky save?

A large business in Milton found that energy efficiency was a critical solution to bring costs down and boost their business.