Transportation Efficiency
Find services, tools, and technologies to help you save money and reduce your transportation carbon footprint.
The transportation sector accounts for 37% of Vermont’s total energy use and 45% of its greenhouse gas emissions—more than any other sector of our economy. For a rural state, reducing this burden comes through a mix of policies, regulations, and programs. Explore the options that work for you, including no- and low-cost ways to travel more efficiently.
Ways to Drive Less
Carpooling, vanpooling, and public transit are excellent ways to cut down on driving and save money. Even better are no-fuel options like walking and biking, which are also good for your health. A growing Complete Streets movement is making Vermont roads safer and more accessible to all users, including bicyclists and pedestrians. With a growing number of options, some Vermonters are saying goodbye to their cars altogether.
- Reclaim your commute, save money, and reduce single-occupancy driving. Plan a trip using the Go! Vermont Trip Planner.
- Reduce maintenance and insurance costs with public transit, vanpools, and carpooling
- Use a car sharing service to cut car expenses in half if you drive less than 10,000 miles per year (Source: CarShare VT)
Ways to Drive More Efficiently
Investing in a plug-in electric vehicle (EV) is another good option. With an electric vehicle (EV), about 60% of the energy embedded in its power source goes toward power at the wheels. This is about three times more efficient than conventional gasoline vehicles, which convert only about 20% of the energy stored in gasoline to power at the wheels. An EV also produces lower emissions, for cleaner and healthier air. And charging one is like paying $1.25 per gallon at the pump—a significant fuel savings.
- Charge at home and pay the equivalent of $1.25 per gallon in fuel
- Less maintenance than a traditional vehicle
- Performs well in Vermont conditions
The Housing-Transportation Link
Business Transportation
For a business, transportation costs come from moving goods and people. Adding EVs to your fleet is an excellent way to save money, and there are many other strategies to help foster a more energy-conscious culture. Consider implementing “smart commute” policies like flex scheduling, telecommuting, or a bus subsidy. You can also designate carpool parking spots, install charging stations, promote employee carpooling and vanpooling, or add CarShare VT vehicles.
- Reduce your carbon footprint, promote a sustainable company culture and brand
- Low-cost, quality-of-life benefits help you recruit and retain employees
- Save money on your business transportation with more-efficient fleet operations