Press Releases

Vermont's 2023 Energy Burden Report

Vermonters spend, on average, 11 percent of their household income on energy. That’s more than one in every ten dollars spent on heating, driving, and keeping the lights on.

New Report Reveals How Costs for Driving, Heating and More Burden Vermonters

The 2023 Energy Burden Report finds communities with lower incomes face high energy burdens, whether in rural towns or in Vermont's large cities.

Evaluating Equity and Justice Impacts of Energy Efficiency Projects

Researchers looked at equality, equity and justice in energy efficiency projects, and identified ways to capture the broader societal impacts of efficiency efforts to both boost equitable outcomes and foster thriving communities.

Energy Resilience: Critical Load Support in Commercial and Residential Applications

This paper evaluated three Efficiency Vermont demonstration projects around energy resilience: a microgrid in a housing complex, heating/cooling projects using phase change materials, and modeling around indoor temperature change after a power outage. Insights from this evaluation can inform design and construction professionals, as well as regulators, about the most cost-effective ways to implement resilience, from simple and inexpensive options to expensive projects.

Greenhouse Gas Reduction: Simulating Grid Effects of EVs, Batteries and Solar in Vermont

A computer model simulated a Vermont neighborhood of about 100 homes with different amounts of solar panels, electric vehicles, and in-home batteries. These distributed energy resources (DERs) can have beneficial effects for the grid, and help manage increased energy loads without expensive infrastructure investments.

Income-eligible Vermonters can get a free home appliance to save money and energy

Voucher for a free energy-efficient appliance available to qualifying homeowners and renters based on household income and how much they spend on their electric bills.

Resilience: The Role of Energy Storage in Meeting Vermont’s Energy Goals

Utility-scale batteries and other long-duration energy storage technology will need to be deployed on a large scale to stabilize Vermont's grid and meet demand when renewables like solar and wind are intermittent. Comprehensive planning with regional grid partners is necessary if all forms of energy storage are to work in concert to meet the needs of the grid.

Greenhouse Gas Reduction: Residential Rate Calculator

Could alternative electricity rates save customers money? This paper used a rate calculator and found that variable rates can in fact lower costs with no change in customer behavior. Utilities could use such a calculator to manage the electrical grid by incentivizing customers to use less or more energy at specific times.

Greenhouse Gas Reduction: Delivering Value to Commercial Customers with Load Shape Segmentation

Advanced meter data and analysis can identify commercial operations with similar energy use patterns, pinpointing untapped savings and finding customers well-suited to efficiency programs—delivering both savings and grid benefits.

Comfortable, Healthy, and Saving Money: Linking Building Occupants’ Health to Energy Efficiency Programs

Healthcare payers, like hospitals and health insurers, could leverage "energy plus health" strategies that realize health benefits from energy efficiency projects. Similarly, government institutions and philanthropic organizations could support vulnerable or marginalized communities and businesses with programs that reduce air pollution, improve indoor air quality, and boost housing safety and affordability through initiatives that consider both energy efficiency and health outcomes.

Efficiency workforce charts a path toward “No Emissions” in buildings

Efficiency Vermont Awarded Partner of the Year by EPA

“As we accelerate historic efforts to address climate change, public-private partnerships will be essential to realizing the scale of our ambition,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan.  “I applaud this year’s ENERGY STAR award winners for working with EPA to deliver a clean energy future that saves American consumers and businesses money and creates jobs.”

Student Scholarships available to Better Buildings by Design

New weatherization financing program available for Vermonters

Shifting to EV? Time your charge with PowerShift

Annual weatherization campaign encourages Vermonters to Button Up for winter

Embodied and Operational Emissions in Retrofitting Vermont Homes

What's the "Carbon Smart" approach to weatherization?

Efficiency Vermont names ‘Energy Leaders’ among Vermont’s largest energy consumers

Efficiency Vermont seeks public input into three-year energy plan

Big incentive increase to help weatherize more Vermont homes

Up to 75% of projects’ costs covered for moderate-income customers

Healthy Homes Vermont 2021

Efficiency Vermont collaborated with regional hospitals and the Vermont Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) to deliver energy-plus-health services to low-income households.

Efficiency Vermont announces 3rd annual appliance recycling offer

Limited-time program offers cash back for old-but-working appliances

Explorations in School Indoor Air Quality

Analyzing data from free indoor air quality monitors to study the effects of HVAC modifications in 11 Vermont schools.

Kingdom Brewing adapts through efficiency

Newport brewer one of 164 Vermont businesses helped by limited-time incentive to restart COVID-stalled projects

EPA names Efficiency Vermont ‘Partner of the Year’

Distinction recognizes ‘Sustained Excellence’ of longest-running statewide efficiency program

Clean energy workforce gathers to tackle building decarbonization

‘Best of the Best’ winners announced at conference

$13.5 million available to help Vermont schools upgrade air quality systems

Greenhouse Gas Impacts of Structural Materials in Commercial New Construction

Quantifying the global warming potential reduction of using wood and mass timber products in place of steel and concrete when constructing commercial buildings.

Energy Resilience: Critical Load Support in Commercial and Residential Applications

Three independent investigations into materials and methods for increasing energy resilience.

Cold Chain Optimization 2021

Investigating two opportunities for saving energy and lowering carbon emissions in the cold chain – the processes and technologies that keep preserve products from harvest to retail sale.

Analysis of State Approaches to Cost-Effectiveness Testing

A look at how benefits and costs of energy efficiency, flexible load management, and electrification distributed energy resources are treated in jurisdictions around the nation.

AMI 360: Deeper Energy Efficiency via Advanced Regression Modeling

How advanced metering infrastructure analysis can provide facility managers with energy- and cost-saving insights.

Celebrate Earth Day with a Free Energy Savings Kit

Vermont Public Power Utilities Offer Energy Efficiency Tools For Customers

VPPSA, municipal utilities, and Efficiency Vermont team up to help Northeast Kingdom Towns invest in energy efficiency.

Assessing the Electrical Grid Greenhouse Gas Impact of Strategic Electrification

As more and more energy uses are electrified, what will be the greenhouse gas impact to the grid that powers them?

Efficiency Vermont welcomes Peter Walke as managing director

Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Peter Walke will join Efficiency Vermont as its new Managing Director starting May 9.

Gas and energy prices are soaring. What can Vermonters do about it?

Efficiency Vermont's Rebecca Foster talks about energy and money saving alternatives to fossil fuels.

VLCT Partnering with Efficiency Vermont to Expand Municipal Energy Efficiency Programs

For Vermont cities and towns ready to up their energy efficiency game and save taxpayers money, "There's never been a better time to act," says Vermont League of Cities and Towns (VLCT) Executive Director Ted Brady. Read more about a new partnership between Efficiency Vermont and VLCT.

City sewer plant operator honored

Rutland’s wastewater treatment facility is the largest in the state, handling 22.5 million gallons a day fed there from seven pump stations around the city. Its chief plant operator, Robert Protivansky, was recently awarded the New England Water Environment Association's operator of the year for Vermont. Protivansky Led two particular initiatives that made him stand out. One was extensive work with Efficiency Vermont, which Rotondo estimated has saved the city $1 million in energy costs during Protivansky's tenure.

Efficiency Vermont seeks new Director

BROC fires up refrigeration units

BROC Community Action's investment in new refrigeration system helps it serve more community members.

Report traces 20 years of impact from nation’s first energy efficiency utility

Efficiency Vermont honors Commercial and Industrial ‘Energy Leaders’

Efficiency Vermont applauds work of Vermont Climate Council

The Caledonian-Record Is Going Solar

Efficiency Vermont heat pump incentives help newspaper move forward with clean energy plans

Weatherization Workforce Plan

A report to the Vermont General Assembly on the coordinated delivery of a standardized statewide building sciences curriculum

Free energy kits help Vermonters celebrate Energy Efficiency Day

Annual weatherization campaign kicks off, motivating Vermonters to ‘outsmart winter’

Vermont digs in on incentives to boost geothermal heat pumps

The technology has strong potential to help electrify homes, but high costs and logistical challenges still put it out of reach for most homeowners.

Efficiency Vermont, Regional Development Corps. team up to give struggling businesses a boost 

Companies with stalled energy efficiency projects can get extra incentives to move upgrades forward, reduce operating costs 

Public comment sought as part of Efficiency Vermont performance assessment

Efficiency Vermont joins effort to reduce energy burden of transportation

New programs to raise public awareness, prepare supply chain for demand increase

Online tool helps homeowners assess, share their homes’ energy efficiency virtues

VPPSA, Efficiency Vermont partnership builds resilience in Barton

 Vermont Public Power Supply Authority (VPPSA) is partnering with Efficiency Vermont to bring unique program offers that help Barton Village Electric Department customers save money by lowering the cost of investing in energy efficiency.

Efficiency Vermont announces 2nd annual appliance recycling offer

Limited-time program offers cash back for old-but-working appliances

Healthy Homes Vermont 2020

Many Vermonters in low-income households are at a greater risk of health problems than are high-income households. Collectively the partners are testing innovative energy-plus-health collaboration pilots and whether these models may be scaled to a cost-effective component of energy efficiency programs statewide. This report addresses the progress achieved in 2020.

EPA recognizes Efficiency Vermont’s service to low- and moderate-income Vermonters

What’s going on in there? Interpretable Machine Learning for Deeper Energy Savings

Efficiency Vermont set out to learn if and how explainable artificial intelligence (XAI)2 approaches could drive adoption of cutting-edge machine learning models for energy modeling at customer facilities.

Phase Change Materials in Refrigeration

Phase change materials (PCMs) are a nascent technology that store heat by virtue of their chemical makeup. How might PCMs be applicable to future energy efficiency work in Vermont?

Lifecycle GHG Impacts of C&I Heat Pump Applications in Vermont

This study provides a method for capturing broader greenhouse gas (GHG) impacts of heat pumps when used to supplement existing fossil fuel heating sources in commercial and industrial buildings.

Carol Weston promoted to Efficiency Vermont Director

Veteran Efficiency Vermont leader to provide seamless transition

Efficiency Vermont Launches Utility Incentive Program in Support of Building Systems Integration

This February, Efficiency Vermont launched an innovative incentive to motivate customers to integrate HVAC systems with lighting or other building systems to enable deeper whole-building energy savings and reduce overall greenhouse gas emissions. Through this incentive, Efficiency Vermont commits to paying 40 percent of labor costs associated with integration (i.e., programming labor, troubleshooting installation, and ensuring schedule override is done safely) when integration work is completed, and 10 percent of the labor costs at 9 months after a report is provided—for a total of 50 percent of the total integration labor costs.

The high greenhouse gas price tag on residential building materials

This paper quantifies the global warming potential (GWP) impacts of alternatives to common building materials used in residential new construction in Vermont and applies the results of the analysis to actual projects slated for construction.

Energy Resilience Return on Investment

How do you put a price on energy resilience? This paper proposes formulas and variables necessary to do that, helping customer determine the best return on their investment in energy resilience assets.

Research & Development 2019-2020 Final Report for PowerShift

Efficiency Vermont has investigated the practical strategies for achieving grid benefits from flexible load management, through its Project PowerShift.

Embodied Carbon in Vermont Residential Retrofits

This paper fills the gap in the data on the embodied-carbon (lifecycle carbon footprint) contribution of weatherization materials in Vermont retrofit projects, helping residents and trade professionals better understand the climate change impacts of the building materials they select when weatherizing existing homes.

In pandemic year, community partnerships adjusted to promote energy efficiency, resilience

In 2021, work to focus on regions hard hit by COVID crisis

Efficiency Vermont names ‘Best of Best’ at annual conference

‘Energy Leaders’ honored at conference

Seven Vermont companies applauded for investments in efficiency, resilience at annual Best Practices Exchange

Energy visits help businesses spot energy-saving opportunities

Free consultations bring expert eye to hidden problems, connect to incentives and resources

New grant program to work toward safe reopening of Vermont schools this fall

Efficiency Vermont to administer School Indoor Air Quality Grant Program

Highest-ever incentives help Vermonters save money on home heating, energy costs

75% of home weatherization costs covered, boosting resilience during COVID-caused recession

Energy loans designed to deliver savings, spur economy

No-cost curbside appliance recycling helps free up space, bring in cash

‘Social distancing’ practices protect customers during curbside pick up

Interim Report for PowerShift

This paper reports on interim findings and progress of a two-year partnership between Efficiency Vermont and Washington Electric Co-op to demonstrate the potential for water heaters to function as “virtual batteries” in a residentially-focused utility service territory with low population density.

2019 Greenhouse Gas Taskforce

An expert assessment of six new greenhouse gas reduction strategies related to energy efficiency.

Healthy Homes Vermont 2019

This paper reports on three pilots designed to test how a collaboration among health care providers, weatherization programs, community service providers, and Efficiency Vermont can deliver an energy-plus-health service approach to improve housing quality, indoor air quality, and customer health.

Expanded weatherization yields EPA recognition for Vermont

Efficiency Vermont, HEAT Squad team up to bring weatherization incentives to underserved communities

Partnership brings contractor support to Northeast Kingdom and Bennington County, expands access to money-saving program

Better Buildings by Design conference expands workforce skills, promotes energy affordability

Peak Response Program: 2018-2019 Demand Response Capability Initiative

This study examines the extent to which a single, medium-sized customer could shed and shift load during the summer peak season, using the Efficiency Vermont office space and staff as the test customer on the Burlington Electric Department system.

Efficiency Vermont partners with communities to save money and energy

As 2019 projects come to an end, 2020 work begins

Efficiency Vermont plans for Vermont’s changing energy needs in new six-year plan

Proposal responds to stakeholder feedback to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, increase weatherization with a flat budget

New report highlights impact of energy costs to Vermont households

Efficiency Vermont uses energy burden to design, measure programs

Efficiency Vermont partners with Vermont Technical College to expand weatherization workforce

Vermont’s 2019 Total Energy Burden by Town

Understanding energy burden, the ratio of energy spending expressed as a percentage of household income, is a powerful way to gauge the impact of energy costs on Vermonters. Energy costs are a significant burden on many Vermont households, competing with other priorities such as housing, healthcare, and food. Energy burden data can inform state energy programs to ensure households with high energy burdens have access to programs that can reduce energy costs and burden.

Keep It Cool: Real-time Monitoring of Convenience Store Refrigeration Systems

Energy efficiency programs’ commercial customers frequently follow a business model of responding to needs, especially operational needs, as they arise. But what happens when those customers’ business objectives could shift from a responsive—or more accurately, reactive—service model to a proactive one? This study shows the benefits to customers when they adopt this approach.

Healthy Homes Vermont 2018

The nexus between building energy efficiency and better health is now becoming the target for improving housing conditions for vulnerable populations. This report offers a story of pilot projects under the new Vermont Healthy Homes Program.

Assessment of Demand Response Capability and Effectiveness

This study investigates where existing efficiency program activities might complement existing distribution utility-led demand-response services.

What Are the Limits of AMI in Supporting Load Management?

This study applies AMI interval data to better understand the effects of energy efficiency on regional grid operations across long periods of time.

Vermont Ranks Third in the Country for Energy Efficiency

Zero Energy Modular home arrives in Swanton

Open house provides closer look at state-of-the-art in energy efficiency

Large Vermont companies look to save money, cut carbon at Efficiency Vermont conference

New pilot to spur innovation in energy management and save money for Vermont employers

Efficiency Vermont and the State of Vermont announce participants, second round of proposals

Zero Energy Modular home arrives in Rutland

Open house Saturday provides closer look at state-of-the-art in energy efficiency

Study to examine expanding role of Efficiency Vermont

Lawmakers last session told the Public Utility Commission to investigate how the nonprofit can have a broader focus that might include efficiency across all areas of life -- from transportation to home heating and more.

New energy efficiency incentives announced to help Vermonters

Energy leaders announced new incentives Friday in hopes to make it more affordable for Vermonters to heat and cool their homes.

New incentives make weatherization more affordable, accessible for moderate-income families

Cutting summer energy costs? No sweat

Zero Energy Modular home serves as ‘pop-up’ venue for energy workshops

Free Energy Visits For Rutland Homes & Businesses

Service provides expert advice to lower costs, increase health and comfort

EPA Recognition Reflects Vermont’s Energy Efficiency

Incentives Offered to Vermonters for Weatherization

Good news for hardworking families with modest incomes -- a $500 "bonus" incentive is available to help reduce the cost of a comprehensive home weatherization project.

Vermonters’ 2018 investment in energy efficiency to save $220 million

Efficiency Vermont holds spending to $2.3 million under approved budget

Efficiency Vermont announces “Best of the Best” in energy efficient construction

Poll: Building professionals look forward to profitable 2019

Efficiency Vermont Programs Receive National Honor

Efficiency Vermont plans to reduce costs, increase value for customers in 2019

Building on record of success, updated ‘triennial plan’ focuses on partnerships, innovation, and operational efficiency

$650 Efficiency Vermont rebate available for efficient wood and pellet stoves

As Black Friday looms, Efficiency Vermont offers one-stop shopping research tool

VEIC welcomes Rebecca Foster as new director of Efficiency Vermont

Rebates lower cost of DIY weatherization

Efficiency Vermont and Sense conduct pilot study of advanced home energy monitoring

Early findings show potential for 8 percent average savings

Medical and energy leaders launch joint study on link between energy efficiency and health

Vermont Castings invests $10 million in improvements

Efficiency Vermont is proud of the partnership we've had with Vermont Castings in Randolph, VT, as parent company Hearth & Home Technologies continues to make substantial investments energy efficiency and plant modernization that are saving money and improving the workplace for nearly 100 employees.

Community leaders celebrate plant investments at Vermont Castings

Green Mountain Habitat for Humanity partners with Efficiency Vermont to build energy-saving homes in Essex Junction

New heat pump technology unveiled in Vermont

Air-to-water heat pumps could transform how numerous VT homes and businesses are heated

Rutland family wins $5K energy makeover in video contest

Double cuteness from twins Calen and Elana edges out competition

Hospitals work for healthy planet through energy efficiency

Vermont medical centers reduce carbon emissions equal to parking 25,000 cars for a year

The Value of Efficiency: Renewable Ramp Challenge

As the electricity grid increasingly accommodates solar electricity, a problem is emerging: At sunset, non-solar sources of electricity must quickly ramp up. This limits choices for power plants providing the post-sunset electricity and is difficult for traditional power grids to accommodate. In this study, Efficiency Vermont analyzed the effectiveness of specific energy-efficient equipment upgrades in flattening the loads of Vermont businesses and residences.

Efficiency Vermont exceeds three-year performance goals

Supercharged sugaring method looks to change maple industry

WCAX Channel 3 takes a behind-the-scenes look at the new Goodrich Family maple sugar house in Eden, VT, which has invested in state-of-the-art High-Brix Reverse Osmosis technology to make maple syrup with less energy. Efficiency Vermont is partnering with the Goodriches to learn more about how this new technology performs in the field, and help other sugar operations benefit as well.

Efficiency Vermont earns 2018 ENERGY STAR® Partner of the Year – Sustained Excellence Award

Electric transit bus demonstration project

Efficiency Vermont analyzed the costs and fuel use resulting from the deployment of an electric public-transit vehicle to determine the impact of this technology in Vermont. Efficiency Vermont worked with a transit-vehicle manufacturer to deploy an electric model through a local transit authority for seven weeks. Data was collected on operating costs, electricity use, fossil fuel displacement, energy efficiency gains (expressed in Btu) and cost savings.

The Benefits of Home Performance w/ ENERGY STAR

Anecdotal evidence suggested that many participants in energy efficiency programs value the non-energy benefits more than the energy savings associated with their efficiency retrofits. These benefits can include greater comfort, safety, noise reduction, and healthcare savings. Currently, Efficiency Vermont’s program cost-effectiveness calculation does not count some non-energy benefits because these benefits are difficult to quantify and monetize.

Paying energy arrearages through savings

This study focused on the concept of using energy savings to pay overdue energy bills, to prevent utility shut-offs, and to lower the energy burden for low-income households.

Electric bikes: survey and energy efficiency analysis

Electric bikes, or e-bikes, are gaining in popularity as the technology improves and prices fall. In partnership with local bicycle organizations, retailers, and Burlington Electric, Efficiency Vermont conducted a survey of e-bike owners to evaluate opportunities for improved energy efficiency in this market.

Efficiency Vermont program recognized for saving energy, improving health

Shareable videos could win $5,000 home energy makeover

Efficiency Vermont, Burlington Electric Department, and Vermont Gas Systems are encouraging customers to go viral.

Efficiency Vermont announces “Best of the Best” in energy efficient construction

Efficiency Vermont recognized 17 Vermont building professionals for their high achievement in using energy efficiency and sustainability practices to construct or renovate Vermont buildings.

Breathe Well, Sleep Well: Cold-Climate Ventilation

Indoor air quality in homes affects human health in profound ways. When that quality is compromised, building occupants can experience health effects that range from immediate to long term. Both airborne pollutants and carbon dioxide contribute to those effects. Although the science is still uncertain about the effects of various levels of exposure to these substances, there is general agreement that improving indoor air quality is an important objective for home improvements.

Orleans County Celebrates Cost-saving Energy Efficiency Projects

Courthouse, Sheriff’s Department Building Reduce Energy Usage by more than half

Customers will pay 5% less for energy efficiency in 2018

Button Up Vermont Campaign Underway in 32 Vermont Communities

The heating season is upon us, and Vermonters statewide are working together to help fellow residents and homeowners outsmart winter by tightening up their homes. Now in its eighth year, Button Up Vermont is working with local energy groups in 32 Vermont communities to help people reduce their heating and cooling costs through improved efficiency.

VCRD Invites Applications for 2018 Climate Economy Model Communities Program

The Vermont Council on Rural Development (VCRD) invites communities interested in charting a path to a more prosperous and self-sufficient future to participate in the 2018 Climate Economy Model Communities Program.

Third party affirms that Efficiency Vermont is delivering significant savings to Vermonters

Each year, a third party verifier assesses and confirms the level of savings that Efficiency Vermont reports to the state of Vermont. As a public utility, Efficiency Vermont is held accountable for delivering these savings through performance-based metrics. If we don't reach our metrics, we don't get compensated. In previous years, Efficiency Vermont has received high marks from third party verifiers for our work in delivering these savings directly to our customers.

Vermont Ranks in Top Five for Energy Efficiency

The American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE), a national non-profit that advances policies and programs for energy efficiency, has, for the fourth year in a row, ranked Vermont among the top five in the nation for advancement and support of energy efficiency.

Vermont Businesses Discuss Jobs and Energy at Sixth Annual Best Practices Exchange

Efficiency Vermont today hosted its sixth annual Best Practices Exchange at Killington Grand Resort Hotel. More than 150 people representing some of Vermont’s largest businesses attended the event, which brought together Vermont business leaders and facility operators from across the state to network, learn, and share the best approaches to energy management.

Listening Tour: Efficiency Vermont hosts forums to hear from Vermonters

As our energy landscape keeps evolving we need help from Vermonters to make sure that Efficiency Vermont is adapting to best serve Vermonters needs. That’s why we’re excited to announce a series of community forums across the state. From Bennington to Newport, we’re going to be visiting Vermont communities in September and October.

Efficiency Vermont and Vergennes Partnership Celebrate Success on Vergennes Day

Last Saturday Efficiency Vermont joined in the festivities of Vergennes Day to celebrate the success of a six month energy-saving effort in Vermont’s oldest city.

Cut Energy Costs this Summer

On hot summer days, stay cool while spending less on energy with these tips from Efficiency Vermont.

Efficiency Vermont joins Vermont Climate Pledge Coalition

Vermont’s state-wide energy efficiency utility, Efficiency Vermont, and the Vermont Energy Investment Corporation, the non-profit organization that administers it on behalf of the State of Vermont have signed on to the Vermont Climate Pledge Coalition.

First Zero Energy Modular Home in Burlington Delivered to North Ave Community

Today a new type of home was delivered to the North Avenue Co-op, a resident-owned manufactured home community in Burlington, VT. An alternative to manufactured housing, this modular home came from the VERMOD factory in Wilder, VT, where it was designed and built for maximum energy efficiency, affordability, durability, and health.

Efficiency Vermont Announces Leadership Transition

Karen Glitman has been named the Director of Efficiency Vermont, the state’s energy efficiency utility, stepping in from her current role as Director of Strategy, Policy and Public Affairs for VEIC. Liz Gamache is stepping down as Director of Efficiency Vermont to serve the Vermont Community Foundation as Vice President for Community Grants and Investments.

Efficiency Vermont Proposes Rate Decrease

Efficiency Vermont has proposed a decreased budget for its next three-year performance period. The utility’s proposal aims to cut the Energy Efficiency Charge by five-percent in 2018 and hold it flat for the remainder of the three-year period while delivering the same level of savings.

Spring clean and save: tips for finding energy savings in your home this spring

For many Vermonters spring cleaning is an annual tradition. According to Efficiency Vermont, this chore can mean more than a tidy home. It can make you some money.

Efficiency Vermont Earns Award for Sustained Excellence in Energy Efficiency Program Delivery

Efficiency Vermont has been named a 2017 ENERGY STAR Partner of the Year – Sustained Excellence Award winner. The award is given for continued leadership in environmental protection through superior energy efficiency achievements.

Pownal Selected as First Climate Economy Model Community

The Vermont Council on Rural Development (VCRD) joined with partners Green Mountain Power and Efficiency Vermont to announce that the town of Pownal was selected as the first to participate in the Climate Economy Model Communities Program.

Vermont Climate Economy Model Communities Program Launched

Efficiency Vermont Director Liz Gamache joined the Vermont Council on Rural Development, Governor Phil Scott, and representatives of Green Mountain Power, Vermont Electric Coop, and Washington Electric Coop on February 16, 2017 to launch the Climate Economy Model Communities Program. This program will help two communities each year to build and implement locally developed plans modeling state-of-the-art rural development in an age of climate change.

Energy Bill Assistance Grants Available to Help Low-Income Vermonters

More than 1000 Gather at Efficiency Vermont's Better Buildings by Design Conference

The region’s premier design and construction event kicked off today in South Burlington. More than 1000 building, design, and clean energy professionals gathered for Efficiency Vermont’s 16th Better Buildings by Design Conference taking place over the next two days.

Efficiency Vermont Announces 2017 New-Construction Partners of the Year

Efficiency Vermont has named two Vermont builders as Partners of the Year in energy efficient design and construction. The awards honor Jim Secor of the Bennington-based Secor Group, for commercial construction, and Sheppard Custom Homes, of Essex Junction, for residential construction.

Craft Brewery Adds Energy Efficiency to Recipe for Success

A craft brewery in St. Albans was recognized by Rep. Peter Welch, Efficiency Vermont and the Vermont Brewers association for its leadership in embracing energy efficiency, supporting veterans, and hiring local contractors and vendors.

Cut Energy Costs & Stay Warm this Winter

According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration’s Winter Fuels Outlook, we’re in for a winter that is 17% colder than last year and heating fuel prices that are more than 20% higher than last year. And while these are just estimates, Vermonters should be prepared for a long heating season and a possible bump in energy costs. To help keep homes warm and energy bills down, Efficiency Vermont offers these 10 tips for the cold weather months ahead.

Nine Vermont Communities Awarded Grants to Promote Button Up Day of Action

Efficiency Vermont has awarded nine community organizations throughout the state with grant funding to support and promote the Button Up Day of Action happening on November 12, 2016.

Vermont Businesses Share Energy Saving Strategies at Annual Best Practices Exchange

Mapping total energy burden in Vermont

The primary components of total household energy use are thermal energy (heating), electricity, and transportation energy. Taken together, these “total energy” costs present a sizable financial burden to households in Vermont. The cold winter weather and the rural character of the state contribute significantly to this expense. High total energy costs are driven, in part, by building inefficiencies, automobile-dependent development patterns, and vehicle inefficiencies. In Vermont and nationwide, total energy costs can be especially burdensome for low-income households.

Business Forward Campaign Encourages Vermont Businesses to ‘Go Big’ on Energy Efficiency

Efficiency Vermont is encouraging business customers to lead the way toward a more energy efficient Vermont. Through Efficiency Vermont’s new campaign, “Business Forward,” businesses and commercial customers in all sizes and sectors have access to enhanced technical expertise, customer support, rebates, and incentives to encourage them to invest in energy efficiency.

Green Mountain Power and Efficiency Vermont Announce Evolve Panton

Community-wide energy transformation project will reduce energy costs for Panton, VT residents.

Efficiency Vermont, Town of Hartford, and VT Downtown Program Partner to Drive Community-Wide Energy Savings

Hartford, VT area residents and business can get free expert energy visits and advice from Efficiency Vermont.

Efficiency Vermont Offers Community Energy Efficiency Outreach Grants

Funding available for communities to promote energy-saving activities on ‘Button Up Day’

Smart lighting & smart hub DIY install: does it yield?

The whole-home automation market is in many ways the Wild West, with industry heavyweights jumping in and small innovators getting noticed. This market is still new, with a vast diversity of products, controlled devices, and levels of service. Although utilities might conclude from the frenetic market pace that it’s better to wait until the market settles down before they get involved, a statewide energy efficiency utility, Efficiency Vermont, saw the benefit to jumping in early.

Efficiency Vermont, Barre Partnership kick off effort to drive community-wide energy savings

‘Barre Saves Energy’ starts Wednesday as area businesses meet to learn more about energy efficiency

Want to Cut Energy Costs this Summer? No Sweat.

On hot summer days, stay cool while spending less on energy with these tips from Efficiency Vermont.

Hannaford Supermarkets Named a 2016 Northeast Business Leader for Energy Efficiency

Northeast Energy Efficiency Partnerships (NEEP) has chosen Hannaford Supermarkets as a 2016 Northeast Business Leader for Energy Efficiency for its efforts to foster the economy and protect the environment via its commitment to energy efficiency. Hannaford is the award recipient for Vermont.

Ceremony launches Vermont's first, multi-family Passive House building

Efficiency Vermont Director Liz Gamache joined state and local officials, and leaders from finance and nonprofit housing organizations at a groundbreaking ceremony on May 2nd that marked the construction start of an innovative, affordable housing community for seniors in Milton, VT.

Money-Making Spring Cleaning

As sure as the return of longer days and songbirds to Vermont, spring cleaning season is back. According to Efficiency Vermont, your spring cleaning efforts could bring you more than a tidy house. They could save you some money.

Rebates available for Vermont maple sugar makers to save energy

At the end of each sugaring season Vermont maple sugar makers often invest in equipment upgrades to improve their production and reduce their costs for the following year. Efficiency Vermont offers a number of rebates to help maple sugarers increase the energy efficiency of their operations.

Efficiency Vermont and community partners devote full day of outreach in Randolph and Bennington

Seeking to develop relationships and form partnerships to promote energy efficiency and clean energy in both the greater Randolph Area and Bennington, Efficiency Vermont Director Liz Gamache ushered in April with full-day visits in each community to meet business leaders, elected officials, customers, and area residents.

Efficiency Vermont wins national honor for ‘sustained excellence’

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has recognized Efficiency Vermont for its long-standing success in saving Vermonters money through energy efficiency.

Vermont snowmaking upgrades prove timely

A concerted investment by Vermont ski and snowboard areas last year in high efficiency snowmaking equipment is paying dividends for skiers and riders this season, allowing many Vermont resorts to maintain open trail counts despite fluctuating weather patterns.

Snowmaking vs Kilowatts: Helping Vermont Resorts Tackle Energy Consumption

Efficiency Vermont has been teaming with ski resorts to reduce energy consumption for a decade with recent focus on snowmaking operations. John McMurry, a lead Efficiency Vermont engineer in this effort talks about the past, present and future of this initiative in Vermont and beyond on Vermont Public Radio's Wintry Mix podcast.

Efficiency Vermont warns shoppers about low-quality LEDs flooding the market

Each day more and more light-emitting diode (LED) lighting products are showing up on the shelves of Vermont stores. LEDs are known for requiring very little energy to power, lasting for more than 20 years, and providing excellent quality light. Unfortunately, some LED products have recently started to flood the lighting market that may not perform when it comes to light quality, energy savings, and lifetime.

Bennington kicks off six-month push to drive downtown energy savings

Downtown Bennington community leaders gathered yesterday at the Catamount Tap House to learn more about plans to rally around energy efficiency.

Efficiency Vermont Announces New Construction Partners of the Year

Today Efficiency Vermont named two Vermont design firms as Partners of the Year in energy efficient design and construction at its annual Better Buildings by Design Conference in Burlington. The awards honor Hayward Design Build, in Colchester, and Rutland-based Engineering Services of Vermont.

Weatherization Works Honored for Energy Saving Renovation

Weatherization Works of Pawlett has received a “Best of the Best” award for energy efficient renovation from Efficiency Vermont. The contractors earned top honors for their renovation of an historic inn in Poultney.

Greensboro Contractors Win Award for Energy Saving Home Renovation

Greensboro-based Vermont Energy Audits has received a “Best of the Best” award for energy efficient renovation from Efficiency Vermont. The contractors earned top honors for converting a drafty, late-20th-century house into a comfortable home that now uses significantly less heating fuel. Vermont Energy Audits did extensive air sealing and insulation work in the 5,000+ square-foot home’s attic and basement that is expected to lower heating costs by more than $3,000 per year.

New Frameworks Construction Honored for Efficient Building & Renovation

New Frameworks Construction has received two “Best of the Best” awards for energy efficient construction and renovation from Efficiency Vermont. The Burlington firm took top honors for its design of a new house in Middlesex and for its improvements to a Norwich home.

Maclay Architects and Building Performance Services Honored for Efficient Renovation

Two Waitsfield firms have received Efficiency Vermont’s “Best of the Best” awards for energy efficient renovation. Maclay Architects was recognized for its renovation of Websterville office building, while Building Performance Services was honored for its energy saving improvements to a home in Moretown.

Joseph Architects Honored for Energy-Saving Building

Joseph Architects has received a “Best of the Best” award for energy efficient construction and renovation from Efficiency Vermont. The Waterbury-based firm was tapped for the honor for its design of a cold-storage and shipping facility for the Capital Candy Company in Barre. Joseph Architects shares the award with project construction manager Connor Contracting of Berlin.

Gossens Bachman Architects and W.A.R.M. Honored for Efficient Building & Renovation

Two Montpelier firms have received Efficiency Vermont’s “Best of the Best” awards for energy efficient construction and renovation. Gossens Bachman Architects received recognition for its innovative design of a new office building, while Weatherization & Renovation of Montpelier (W.A.R.M.) was honored for energy-saving improvements to a Vermont home as well as for notable upgrades to a mixed-use building.

Efficiency Vermont recognizes Fiddlehead Construction and Bread Loaf Corporation

Two area firms have received Efficiency Vermont’s “Best of the Best” awards for energy efficient renovation and construction. Middlebury-based Bread Loaf Corporation was honored for its innovative renovation of the Hartford Town Hall while Fiddlehead Construction, of North Ferrisburgh, was recognized for its energy-saving design of a Charlotte home.

Connor Contracting and Energy Smart of Vermont Honored for Energy-Saving Buildings

Two area firms have received Efficiency Vermont’s “Best of the Best” awards for energy efficient construction and renovation. Barre-based Energy Smart of Vermont has been granted awards for efficient renovations of two historic homes, while Connor Contracting, of Berlin, received shared honors for an energy saving cold-storage facility.

Four Vermont downtowns to be focus of energy ‘blitz’

Four Vermont state-designated downtowns will participate in a pilot program from Efficiency Vermont and the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) that aims to integrate sustainable energy solutions with downtown revitalization efforts.

Low-E & Behold: Low-E Storm Window Solution

Infrared images of buildings show that windows are often one of the largest heating and cooling sinks, or “holes” in the thermal envelope. Single‐pane windows are the most egregious offenders, particularly in colder climates such as the Vermont climate.

Efficiency Vermont introduces new brand identity

Introducing a new website and a brand new look and feel that expresses the organization’s commitment to helping Vermonters find sustainable energy solutions.

Local companies save money, energy with newLIGHT program

Local businesses are cutting their electricity bills, thanks to Efficiency Vermont’s newLIGHT program.

Efficiency Vermont wins a 2011 Energy Star Partner of the Year award

Efficiency Vermont was named the 2011 ENERGY STAR Partner of the Year award winner in the “Energy Efficiency Program Delivery for New Homes” category.

Brattleboro joins Energy Leadership Challenge

In an effort to reduce energy consumption and costs in municipal buildings and operations, Brattleboro is teaming up with a new statewide program sponsored by Efficiency Vermont.

Norwich University joins the Energy Leadership Challenge to reduce energy consumption by 7.5%

University officials announced they have joined Efficiency Vermont’s Energy Leadership Challenge, which establishes a goal of reducing energy consumption by 7.5% on the campus over the next two years.

Efficiency Vermont gives old drafty houses new lease on life

Thanks to technical help from Efficiency Vermont and some financial assistance a Vermont resident’s electricity bill dropped by more than half.

Tips to cut home heating costs

Helpful ways to save energy and decrease your heating bills this winter and insight from a local weatherization and home energy expert.

Pupils shine a light on energy use

Students at Ferrisburgh Central School were recognized for their efforts to sell energy efficient light bulbs as part of Efficiency Vermont and Green Mountain Power's annual CFL Challenge.

Unique Habitat For Humanity home boasts ultra-energy savings

Efficiency Vermont's Peter Schneider discusses his work with Green Mountain Habitat for Humanity on a project that combines affordable housing with cutting-edge energy efficiency technology.

Lake Region cuts almost $16K in energy bills

Lake Region Union High School, in Orleans, Vermont has used efficiency to achieve a dramatic reduction in its energy bills.

Maximizing control, minimizing impact at MyWebGrocer

MyWebGrocer teamed up with Efficiency Vermont on a project to revitalize the Champlain Mill building in Winooski.

Efficiency Vermont cited for leadership

Energy-efficiency programs designed and implemented by Vermont Energy Investment Corp. have been called among the most innovative and effective in the nation.

Environmental activist Bill McKibben praises Efficiency Vermont

In a rare address to the full Vermont House of Representatives, noted environmental activist Bill McKibben warned of the dangers posed by climate change.

Burlington residents promote Home Energy Challenge

On Earth Day, Burlington residents organized to help their friends and neighbors join the Home Energy Challenge.

Spring into action for winter

It may not seem like it, but Spring is a great time to weatherize your home.

After Irene, advocates design efficient mobile home

Efficiency Vermont is collaborating with the Vermont Housing and Conservation Board, the High Meadows Fund, and builder Steve Davis to design the next generation of mobile homes.

Bennington College sees honor for sustainability

Bennington College participated in Efficiency Vermont's Energy Leadership Challenge. They had the highest energy savings of any higher education institution, reducing their electric usage by 12.4% over two years.

Vermonters generate big savings through energy efficiency

Efficiency Vermont Director Jim Merriam sat down with Times Argus Editor Steven Pappas to discuss Vermont's energy picture, and the role of efficiency in helping meet the state's energy goals.

Better Buildings by Design conference explores the cutting edge of energy efficiency

Net zero buildings, which produce as much energy over the course of a year as they consume, are becoming increasingly common.

The EEC: Vermont's investment in energy efficiency

Fox 44 and ABC 22 reporter Michael Page examines the energy efficiency charge on Vermonters' utility bills. What are Vermonters getting for their investment in energy efficiency?

Legislature passes bill authorizing Efficiency Vermont to promote heat pumps

The Vermont House of Representatives approved bill S.202 on May 6th, allowing Efficiency Vermont to offer subsidies for efficient electric heat pumps.

President Obama cites Efficiency Vermont as a national model

In announcing new plans to reduce carbon emissions, President Obama cited Efficiency Vermont's work as a national model.

Governor Shumlin announces thermal efficiency program progress

A partnership between the Department of Public Service, the Clean Energy Development Fund, and VLITE has resulted in $7 million in funding for the Thermal Energy Finance Pilot Program.

Efficiency Vermont a model of successful consumer engagement

Two Efficiency Vermont programs (retail efficient products and SMARTLIGHT) are successful models for achieving widespread energy savings at little cost.

Efficiency Vermont’s three year plan on VPR’s Vermont Edition

Efficiency Vermont might seem like a non-profit that helps you get cheaper, more environmentally friendly light bulbs, but actually, it is a utility.

On Earth Day, Gov. Shumlin announces expansion of efficiency loan program

Marking Earth Day, Gov. Peter Shumlin announced the expansion of the Heat Saver Loan program, which will help Vermonters increase the efficiency of their homes and save money on their energy bills.

PACE program expands reach in Windham County

On April 28, 2015 the town of Brattleboro, VT approved the adoption of Efficiency Vermont’s Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) program.

Vermonters could get up to $5,500 by switching to wood pellet heating

Vermonters can get up to $5,500 to help switch from fossil fuel to local wood heating. Cash incentives are available from the Clean Energy Development Fund and Efficiency Vermont.

Vermont State Colleges partner with Efficiency Vermont to establish a green revolving fund to support energy efficiency investments

First state college system in the U.S. to establish revolving fund for sustainability efforts

Vermont is a national leader in college energy efficiency financing

Vermont has more college and university green revolving funds than any other state

Town of Hartford partners with Efficiency Vermont to generate savings

11 projects completed since 2010 have saved energy and money

Vermont businesses raise the bar on energy efficiency

Governor Shumlin marks one year anniversary of Efficiency Vermont’s statewide Business Energy Challenge

Efficiency Vermont announces New Construction Partners of the Year

Efficiency Vermont and Montshire Museum of Science have a great offer for Vermonters

Governor launches Home Energy Challenge

Year-long sprint set to help Vermonters reduce their heating bills

Vermont continues to make progress on comprehensive home energy efficiency

Contractor workforce expands to meet increasing demand

Efficiency Vermont to launch statewide Home Energy Challenge

Year-long effort will aim to increase the number of homes completing comprehensive energy efficiency improvements

EPA recognizes Efficiency Vermont and Vermont Gas Systems as 2012 ENERGY STAR ® Partners of the Year in energy efficiency program delivery

Efficiency Vermont and Vermont Gas Systems earn award for protecting the environment through energy efficiency

Efficiency Vermont to host forums on improving energy efficiency in municipal buildings

Events to be held in eight towns throughout the state

Solar array awarded to Ferrisburgh Central School

Students lead in challenge to sell energy efficient light bulbs

Efficiency Vermont announces Vermont homebuilder of the year

Chet Pasho of Hartland wins top honor for energy-saving homes

Burlington International Airport unveils new sustainability installation

Burlington mayor and Vermont transportation secretary tout partnership between the Airport, Efficiency Vermont, and Burlington Electric Department to achieve major energy savings

Blair Hamilton Student Scholarships create legacy for Efficiency Vermont co-founder

40 scholarships available for students to attend Efficiency Vermont’s Better Buildings by Design conference

Efficiency Vermont to participate in national “Green Button” initiative

Empowering Vermonters to save money and energy through better information

New partnership aims to make home energy efficiency easy

Vermont Fuel Dealers Association and Efficiency Vermont launch the Efficiency Excellence Network

Vermont designates first ENERGY STAR® schools

Congressman Welch, EPA celebrate new statewide Project Green School Initiative

Green Mountain Coffee Roasters named business leader in energy efficiency

Can you get energy efficient by the fall? $500 says you can.

Efficiency Vermont offers bonus for efficient home and small business upgrades by August 31

Vermont energy efficiency programs win national recognition

Top honors for Efficiency Vermont and Vermont Gas Systems

Efficiency Vermont promotes energy savings for schools

22 Vermont schools awarded ENERGY STAR® designation for top energy performance

Love your light this Valentine's Day

Win a home lighting package from Efficiency Vermont, and find the light that’s right for you

Nine Vermont companies join partnership for energy savings

Efficiency Vermont partners with large energy users

Efficiency Vermont named 2014 ENERGY STAR® Partner of the Year

Efficiency Vermont statement on signing of S. 202

Efficiency Vermont announces grant award winners

New grants will help low-income Vermonters cut energy costs

Carris Reels named business leader in energy efficiency

Efficiency Vermont and Green Mountain Power to launch innovative peak energy savings offering to customers

Program will help utility customers save money on electric bills during peak heat this summer

Efficiency Vermont, Gov. Shumlin announce new initiative to help manufacturers reduce costs, increase competitiveness

Industrial Peak Initiative will focus on reducing pricey peak demand charges

Efficiency Vermont, Sunward Systems to launch new solar water heating initiative

Vermont homeowners go solar and save big on water heating costs

New director chosen to lead Efficiency Vermont

Liz Gamache to take helm of Vermont’s energy efficiency utility on January 19, 2015

Efficiency Vermont launches effort to help Vermonters manage their energy usage and save

100,000 Vermonters to receive monthly Home Energy Reports starting November 17th

Efficiency Vermont kicks off community conversations

Efficiency Vermont and Vermont Gas team up with WestRock to develop energy management plan

Efficiency Vermont honored by EPA as a 2015 ENERGY STAR® Partner of the Year

Community Energy Partnership grants aim to help low-income Vermonters

Efficiency Vermont and BED launch 2nd round of funding for VT non-profits

Public comments sought on Vermont Energy Investment Corporation’s operation of Efficiency Vermont

Vermont hospitals recognized for energy-saving efforts at VAHHS annual meeting

Efficiency Vermont and the EPA honor Vermont’s first ENERGY STAR® certified hospitals

New cutting-edge appliance now available in Vermont

Efficiency Vermont and the Burlington Electric Department launch $400 rebate for award-winning heat pump clothes dryers

Vermont schools at head of energy efficiency class

Home Energy Reports: Providing Low-Cost Savings

Until recently, there hasn’t been an effective method to measure energy savings driven by conservation actions. Behavioral Savings quantify conservation efforts by measuring energy use before and after a change in behavior. In the fall of 2014, Efficiency Vermont launched the Home Energy Reports pilot as a programmatic approach to achieving Behavior Savings. This report explores this method, and energy savings results to date.

Net zero energy feasibility study

In 2015, Efficiency Vermont supported a research project conducted by Maclay Architects to examine the financial feasibility of net zero energy buildings in Vermont and beyond. The study provides background for developers, contractors, designers, consultants, and building clients that will show the relevance and financial benefit of building beyond code standards to net zero energy standards.

Are thermostats the new energy audits?

In 2013, Efficiency Vermont conducted a field research study to examine the potential of identifying the “heat-loss rate” of buildings with thermostat data. Researchers explored the hypothesis that a programmable communicating thermostat paired with location, weather, and other broadly available information sources could be used to discern meaningful differences in household thermal performance. A small sample of data from 13 thermostats in Vermont homes and small businesses was used to complete the study. Results suggest that using remote diagnostics incorporating data from thermostats may be a cost-effective strategy for efficiency programs and could provide meaningful site-specific insights.

Efficiency Vermont's ENERGY STAR Program Report

The Efficiency Vermont Home Performance with ENERGY STAR program officially launched in 2005. In 2008, when the Vermont Legislature set a statewide goal to weatherize 80,000 homes by the year 2020, the program was galvanized. The legislation sought to harness energy efficiency as a driver of savings for consumers and economic development in Vermont. In order to meet the goal, Vermont’s residential retrofit programs would need to scale up.

Electric vehicles as grid resources in ISO-NE and Vermont

In 2013, Efficiency Vermont supported a small research and development project to examine the potential impact of electric vehicles on Vermont's power infrastructure. The study outlines various ways in which electric vehicles can serve as resources to the electric grid, in the context of Vermont's Comprehensive Energy Plan goal to power 25% of vehicles with renewable energy sources by 2030.

The Vermont Home Energy Challenge final report

The Vermont Home Energy Challenge (VHEC) was a yearlong engagement effort to test the potential of local community organizations to help raise awareness of energy efficiency and increase completion of projects under Efficiency Vermont’s Home Performance with ENERGY STAR^® program.

The Barriers to Home Energy Efficiency Improvements

The Vermont legislature has established an ambitious goal to improve the energy fitness of 25% of Vermont’s housing units, about 80,000 homes and apartments, by 2020. This will require a substantial increase in the number of Vermont households completing energy efficiency improvements.

The once and future CFL

For most people, compact fluorescent light bulbs (or CFLs) are the face of energy efficiency. This is not surprising, given that the CFL has utterly transformed energy efficiency over the last decade. The rise of the CFL has enabled massive savings forenergy efficiency programs, and has greatly expanded the reach of energy efficiency efforts by serving as a low cost, firstpoint of entry for consumers looking to reduce their electric bills.

Individual and community engagement

Energy efficiency service providers, such as Efficiency Vermont, know that an understanding of the customer is essential to their effectiveness. Multiple factors—including customers’ priorities, budgets, depth of efficiency knowledge and more—have an impact on customers’ decisions to participate in their programs.

A new dawn in efficient lighting

Lighting has played a central role in energy efficiency programs for decades. Often dubbed low-hanging fruit, lighting has presented savings opportunities for nearly every customer and has offered efficiency programs the ability to obtain a magnitude of energy savings unmatched by any other single technology.

Finding Big Savings: The Value of Energy Efficiency

If you have been paying attention to the energy efficiency field in recent years, you have probably noticed a great deal of excitement about the potential of data. But those of us who work with it every day will tell you that it is not about data; it is about information.