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Vermonters encouraged to ‘Button Up’ with rebates & expert contractors ahead of winter

Wed, 30 Sep 2026 21:23:28 GMT

Efficiency Vermont rebates offer up to $7,000 to weatherize a home with an Efficiency Excellence Network contractor

WINOOSKI, VT—As cooler weather arrives and Vermont faces soaring heating fuel prices this winter, a statewide coalition of energy partners is reminding Vermonters to “Button Up” their homes. Through weatherization rebates, energy-saving tips, and professional contractors, the annual “Button Up Vermont” campaign can help all Vermonters prepare for a warmer and more affordable heating season.

“At a time when we continue to see the cost of heating fuel increase, we need to do everything we can to help Vermonters,” said Governor Phil Scott. “Button Up Vermont offers resources, information, and rebates that can help homeowners button up their homes so they can save money and use less energy.”

On Oct. 1, Button Up launches with a slate of informative webinars and events throughout October. Homeowners already noticing drafts or cold rooms, or looking to reduce their heating bills, can contact an Efficiency Excellence Network (EEN) contractor to learn how insulation, air sealing, and other weatherization improvements can keep their homes warmer and their monthly costs lower. Rebates can help make these improvements more affordable.

With winter on the horizon, contractors’ schedules can fill up quickly, making now the best time to plan projects—big or small—to button up. An EEN contractor can deliver comprehensive weatherization that improves comfort while also lowering heating bills.

Vermonters looking to do their own work can get $100 cash back for DIY weatherization projects, like adding weatherstripping to doors or air sealing small leaks.

With nearly 70% of Vermont households heating with fossil fuels, homeowners face rising fuel prices ahead of winter. The average expected savings for a home heating with oil is more than $380 a year after completing comprehensive weatherization, based on current fuel prices. For homes heating with propane, the average expected savings is more than $350 a year.

Professional weatherization can also reduce drafts, improve indoor air quality, address moisture or ventilation issues, and help a home’s heating system operate more efficiently. Overall, it makes homes more comfortable during Vermont’s cold winters.

“With heating fuel prices near historic highs this winter, buttoning up with weatherization is one of the best ways to keep your home warm while lowering your heating bills,” said Peter Walke, Efficiency Vermont’s Managing Director. “Whether you’re starting with a low-cost DIY project or choosing professional weatherization, rebates can help make these improvements more affordable. Now’s the time to get your project started.”

Efficiency Vermont’s Home Performance with ENERGY STAR weatherization rebates offer 75% cash back on professional weatherization, up to $7,000. Customers of Vermont Gas Services (VGS) can access similar rebates, with low-income VGS customers eligible for coverage of 90% of a weatherization project, up to $9,500. Both Efficiency Vermont and VGS work with Vermont lenders to offer no-interest or low-interest financing for weatherization and related home energy improvements.

Rental property owners can also get up to $7,000 per unit in weatherization rebates, improving comfort and affordability for occupants.

Statewide, Vermont’s Weatherization Assistance Programs offer free weatherization services for income-eligible households.

To help Vermonters get started, several free Button Up webinars are being offered throughout October:

Oct. 7, noon-1 pm: Home Weatherization Made Simple
Oct. 14, noon-1 pm: How to Get the Most out of Your Heat Pump
Oct. 21, noon-1 pm: Small Fixes, Big Impact: Energy Saving Tips
View all Button Up webinars and events at buttonupvermont.org/events

Visit the Button Up Vermont website to register for webinars, find events, and explore weatherization rebates and financing options. Vermonters ready to "Button Up" can connect with an Efficiency Excellence Network contractor to start their weatherization project.

About Button Up Vermont

Button Up Vermont is supported by a partnership of service providers and clean energy champions. The annual campaign runs each fall to raise awareness around the importance of weatherization. From tips on air sealing and insulation, to weighing the benefits of upgrades like energy-efficient heat pumps, Button Up Vermont provides Vermont residents with the tools and resources needed to weatherize their homes and save. Button Up Vermont is sponsored by Efficiency Vermont. Learn more at https://www.buttonupvermont.org

About the Efficiency Excellence Network

Managed by Efficiency Vermont, the Efficiency Excellence Network (EEN) is a 650-member-strong group of licensed and insured independent contractors committed to providing customers with the highest level of professional energy efficiency services. The EEN includes experts in the advanced technologies and building science that make homes and facilities more energy efficient and affordable to maintain. EEN members are also trained to understand and consider important health and safety measures that are key to any job. The EEN has members in all 14 Vermont counties, and draws additional contractors from New York, New Hampshire, and Massachusetts. Find an Efficiency Excellence Network contractor near you at https://www.efficiencyvermont.com/find-contractor-retailer#/

Vermont campuses, factories win ‘Energy Leadership’ awards at 15th annual Best Practices Exchange

Fri, 25 Sep 2026 14:50:02 GMT

Efficiency Vermont’s BPX connects more than 190 attendees to share energy insights—plus a keynote from Cabot Creamery Cooperative demonstrating sustainability “from farm to fridge.”

KILLINGTON, VT—More than 190 people gathered at the Killington Grand Resort Hotel for the 15th annual Best Practices Exchange (BPX) this week. Efficiency Vermont’s yearly event brings together the state’s largest commercial and industrial operations and businesses.

Five “Energy Leadership” awards honored projects and partners that demonstrated excellence in energy efficiency. The winners ranged from college campuses to manufacturers to innovative wood heating systems. The award-winning projects are among the commercial and industrial efficiency efforts in 2025 that will save Vermont businesses $78 million over their lifetime.

This year’s event ran from Wednesday, Sept. 23, through Thursday, Sept. 24. BPX assembled leaders from industries like healthcare, manufacturing, education, agriculture, hospitality/tourism, and Vermont’s ski industry. Executives, facilities managers, and mechanical contractors met to discuss projects and share expertise. Presenters and installers shared energy-saving technologies and solutions. And 21 sponsors and vendors demonstrated equipment, industrial systems, and related technologies.

Efficiency Vermont Managing Director Peter Walke surveyed attendees about the biggest barriers they faced to completing energy projects. Many cited challenges like funding, costs, and inflation. Other barriers were operational constraints like staffing, labor, and time. Several said ROI (return on investment) or changing federal policies created barriers. “This all means one thing: extend uncertainty,” Walke concluded. “That’s why investing in energy efficiency is always a good idea. Because efficiency gives you control—on costs, on runtimes, on fuel and energy use—when so many other things are out of your control.”

Jed Davis, Cabot Agri-Mark’s Vice President of Strategic Engagement & Sustainability, delivered a keynote about the co-op’s commitment to sustainability, including energy efficiency. “The farm family owners of our dairy cooperative know sustainability extends from farm to fridge,” Davis said. As a certified B Corporation, Davis told BPX attendees that commitment starts with Cabot’s people. “Our people identify projects that turn our values and strategy into savings. Working with Efficiency Vermont brings incentives and data-driven insights that help us invest in projects with measurable impact.”

The benefits of efficiency from Vermont’s commercial and industrial sector go beyond saving $78 million. In partnership with Efficiency Vermont, projects completed in 2025 will save 386 million kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity over their lifetime. That’s enough to power 5,600 homes for a decade. The projects will also save enough fuel to heat more than 12,000 homes for a year.

Five “Energy Leadership” awards were presented to individuals and organizations whose work exemplified industry-leading energy efficiency. The winners of the 2026 BPX Energy Leadership Awards are:

Impact Award: Vermont State University (VTSU). VTSU partnered with Efficiency Vermont on energy projects across its five campuses. The Castleton campus started with a “controls treasure hunt” that found numerous low- and no-cost improvements that reduced energy costs by $150,000. A campus-wide LED lighting upgrade will save Castleton an additional $168,000 annually. The Johnson campus completed a comprehensive controls optimization project, saving $250,000 a year. The Lyndon campus also upgraded to LEDs campus-wide, saving $64,500 annually. And the Randolph campus modernized its meat processing facility’s refrigeration system, saving over $8,000 a year. Combined, these projects will save more than $600,000 annually, allowing VTSU to direct more resources to support students and academic programs.
Changemaker Award: Vermont Glove in Randolph. Owner and President Sam Hooper made strategic investments in energy efficiency to reduce operating costs and strengthen his company’s future. A major energy improvement project at its 1920s manufacturing facility replaced an ancient coal boiler with an advanced wood pellet heating system. Adding insulation and air sealing cut the facility’s air leakage by 50%. A new addition was designed with a tight building envelope and high-efficiency heat pumps for heating and cooling. The company applied the same approach to workforce housing, weatherizing Randolph’s Windover House and converting it from oil heat to wood pellet heating. These investments lowered operating costs while improving comfort, productivity, and sustainability.
Innovation: Londonderry Village Market. Operated by Associated Grocers of New England, the Londonderry Village Market has taken a “continuous improvement” approach to reducing energy use and operating costs. Early efforts focused on refrigerant leak detection and repairs, followed by new high-efficiency refrigeration cases and an LED lighting retrofit. These efforts resulted in over $40,000 in energy savings per year. The market then turned to its aging HVAC system and partnered with Efficiency Vermont, Turner Piping and Refrigeration, and Green Mountain Power. By installing a dual-fuel heat pump rooftop unit, the market electrified much of its heating and cooling needs while reducing fossil fuel use. Now Londonderry Village Market is ready for future energy management solutions, and Associated Grocers of New England is evaluating similar upgrades at its other markets throughout Vermont.
Energy Champion: Shawn Briggs with Vermont Composites in Bennington. Since 2024, Shawn has led company-wide efforts to reduce energy costs through operational changes, employee engagement, and facility improvements. He championed a facility-wide “Turn It Off” campaign that increases awareness by encouraging employees to shut down ovens, lights, and production machinery when not in use. Shawn also led improvements in lighting, HVAC systems, refrigeration systems, and added programmable thermostats in office areas. By championing a compressed air leak audit and facility-wide submetering, Shawn now has energy usage data to inform future projects. These efforts help Vermont Composites save $107,000 annually, while developing a culture of energy stewardship.
Partner of the Year: Morton Bailey and Lyme Green Heat in Lyme, NH. A member of Efficiency Vermont’s Efficiency Excellence Network (EEN) since 2017, Morton and his team have helped schools, municipalities, and businesses transition to high-performance advanced wood heating systems with a focus on efficiency, performance, and reliability. The company has worked with Efficiency Vermont to support improvements to enhance wood heating system performance, simplify maintenance, and improve customer satisfaction. Lyme Green Heat is also strengthening regional wood fuel supplies by developing a pellet manufacturing facility at a former lumber mill. These efforts ensure a dependable, regional supply of pellet fuel, support local jobs and economic growth, and demonstrate leadership in advancing the region’s renewable energy future.

About Best Practices Exchange

Efficiency Vermont’s Best Practices Exchange (BPX) is an annual conference for Vermont’s commercial and industrial (C&I) sector. Held each year at the Killington Grand Resort Hotel, the event brings together C&I facility managers, decision makers, mechanical contractors, and product manufacturers to share ideas, discuss challenges, and promote solutions. Efficiency Vermont’s program managers, account managers, and engineering consultants are also on hand to share industry best practices and engage in dynamic discussions. Join the conversation shaping best practices for the commercial and industrial marketplace in Vermont. Learn more at www.efficiencyvermont.com/BPX.

Vermonters can save on heating, cooling & weatherization with updated home energy rebates

Mon, 27 Jul 2026 19:57:21 GMT

Efficiency Vermont rebates offer extra help to income-eligible homeowners and renters to save on energy bills

WINOOSKI, VT — Vermont homeowners and renters can now access updated rebates from Efficiency Vermont, offering additional support to qualifying households for home energy upgrades like weatherization, new appliances, and heat pump heating and cooling systems.

The updates incorporate new federal income requirements that ensure Vermont’s low- and moderate-income households can continue to access additional incentives from Efficiency Vermont, electric utilities, and home weatherization partners.

“This update means income-qualified Vermonters can get extra help toward new heating systems, efficient appliances, and other upgrades that keep their homes comfortable and their energy bills affordable,” said Peter Walke, Efficiency Vermont’s Managing Director. “Many Efficiency Vermont rebates are available, whatever your income, but it’s crucial to offer extra help to those who need it.”

Support for income-eligible Vermonters goes beyond rebates. Efficiency Vermont offers free and low-cost energy efficient household appliances and energy-saving services for eligible households and renters, connects customers to income-based rebates from Vermont’s electric utilities, and works with the state’s Weatherization Assistance Programs on free weatherization services for income-qualified households.

Efficiency Vermont programs, many with additional support for income-eligible households, include:

Free resources to save on energy: Call Efficiency Vermont’s Energy Advisors to understand your home’s energy use and ways to save—and schedule a free Virtual Home Energy Visit to take a virtual tour of your home with an Energy Consultant for personalized advice to achieve your goals.
Rebates to save on energy-smart appliances. Stay cool this summer with $150 off an ENERGY STAR “Most Efficient” window AC unit. Keep the indoor air clean and comfortable with up to $75 cash back on an air purifier. And find rebates for dehumidifiers, heat pump clothes dryers, and other appliances.
Get up to $7,000 cash back on home weatherization. Insulating and air-sealing a home keeps it warmer in winter and cooler in summer—because a weatherized home uses less energy to maintain comfortable temperatures year-round. Get 75% of project costs covered, up to $7,000.
Save $375 to $2,200 with heat pump rebates. Heat pumps can both heat and cool a home—like air conditioners that can also run in reverse. Get $375 to $475 off a ductless “mini split” heat pump, or up to $2,200 off a ducted heat pump. And get up to $1,000 back for a heat pump water heater that delivers hot water for your kitchen, bathroom, or laundry room. Many utilities and Efficiency Vermont offer extra heat pump incentives for income-eligible households.

Financing solutions can help reduce the upfront costs for home energy projects, with extra help offered to income-qualified households. Local lenders offer Home Energy Loans with no-to-low interest (up to $25,000), while WRAP (the Weatherization Repayment Assistance Program) allows households to pay off weatherization and other home energy projects on their monthly utility bill.

Based on the federal Department of Housing and Urban Development income guidelines, Vermont’s income levels consider a household’s county of residence, income, the number of people in a household, and the Area Median Income (AMI).

The update means a family of four in Chittenden, Franklin, or Grand Isle counties earning $149,650 or less qualifies as moderate-income, while a family of four earning $99,750 or less qualifies as low-income. Elsewhere, households of four people in nine other counties (excluding Chittenden, Franklin, Grand Isle, Addison, and Washington) would be considered moderate income if earning $133,800 or less. The full breakdown of household income in all Vermont counties is on Efficiency Vermont’s website.

Renters are also eligible for support under the updated income guidelines. Efficiency Vermont rebates for renters use rent limits, rather than renter income, to qualify. Renters in manufactured homes, multifamily units like duplexes and triplexes, and those living in studio or multi-bedroom apartments can access rebates and services.

More information on updated household income levels can be found on Efficiency Vermont’s website.

Affordable housing innovation & workforce program win "Best of the Best" awards at yearly energy conference

Tue, 05 May 2026 17:34:23 GMT

Efficiency Vermont’s annual Better Building by Design (BBD) event honors ten firms for affordability, energy resilience, and workforce development efforts

SOUTH BURLINGTON, VT — More than 840 people gathered for the 2026 Better Building by Design (BBD) conference this week, the region’s premier design and construction conference held each year by Efficiency Vermont. Ten organizations were honored with “Best of the Best” awards for leadership and innovative projects, including the event’s first-ever award recognizing a workforce development program.

Architects, designers, builders, contractors, and more from across the northeast gathered at the DoubleTree Hotel & Conference Center in South Burlington from May 6-7. The theme for this year’s event was “Tight Margins, Bold Moves: Building for Affordability, Efficiency, and Electrification.” The ten “Best of the Best” award winners whose work demonstrated the themes of this year’s BBD are:

Workforce Development Innovation: Vermont Adult Learning’s Energy Works Program (statewide)
Efficiency Excellence Network Partner of the Year: Lamos Electric (Franklin)
Efficiency Excellence Network Leadership Award: Johnstone Supply (Williston)
Affordable Housing Innovation (Multifamily Homes): Champlain Housing Trust and Evernorth for the 10th Cavalry Apartments (Colchester)
Performance Excellence (Multifamily Homes): Cathedral Square for Reid Commons (St. Albans)
Affordable Housing Innovation (Single-Family Homes): Central Vermont Habitat for Humanity for 41 Central Street (Randolph)
Performance Excellence (Single-Family Homes): Bellwether Craftsmen and New Frameworks for Rose Hill Lane (Shelburne)
Commercial Resilience Champion: Geobarns, LLC, for Farmer and the Bell (Woodstock)
Small Business Innovation: Duncan Wisniewski Architecture, Alburgh Family Clubhouse (Alburgh)
Large Business Innovation: Studio III Architecture and Scott + Partners Architecture, BETA Technologies Production Facility (South Burlington)

Attendees shared the latest in energy efficiency practices, strengthened professional connections, and shared insights across nearly 50 conference workshops. More than 60 exhibitors, nonprofits, and other organizations offered interactive learning with building materials, heating systems, and other technologies that improve how homes and buildings use energy.

“Vermont is meeting the energy challenges we face together—collaborating with electric utilities, supporting our weatherization partners, and working with educators, trainers, and employers to grow our climate workforce,” said Peter Walke, Efficiency Vermont’s Managing Director, in comments opening the annual event.

Efficiency investments made in 2025 saved Vermonters over 49,000 Megawatt-hours (MWh) of electricity, or enough to power more than 700 homes for a decade, Walke noted. Those investments will save Vermonters $139 million over their lifetime. “It takes coordination across the supply chain—and a skilled workforce to design, install, and service these projects—to make this kind of durable affordability happen.”

This year’s BBD keynote speaker was Ellen Kahler, the Executive Director of the Vermont Sustainable Jobs Fund (VSJF). Kahler’s more than two decades leading VSJF make her one of the most influential Vermont voices on sustainable economic development and workforce advancement. “Building anything well, whether it’s a building or a business, takes good leadership, clear communication, a healthy organizational culture, and strong teamwork,” Kahler said in an address focused on affordability and resilience in an uncertain market. “You can’t control global or national markets … taking care of what you can control will enable you to navigate the uncertainty that will always be there.”

Additional information on the ten “Best of the Best” Award winners:

Innovation in Workforce Development: Vermont Adult Learning (VAL) Energy Works Program. VAL’s Energy Works Program has a multidisciplinary team that provides personalized education, language acquisition, and career readiness support for adult learners facing barriers such as unemployment, underemployment, poverty, and language access. Launched in Rutland four years ago, the Energy Works Program has since expanded into a statewide workforce development model. Through its integrated support services, employer-driven curriculum, and credentialed training, the Energy Works Program represents a forward-thinking, inclusive, and impactful approach to workforce development.
Efficiency Excellence Network – Partner of the Year: Lamos Electric in Franklin. Founded in 2017 by Vermont native Mike Lamos, Lamos Electric expanded in 2022 when Tyler Murphy joined the company, broadening the team’s capacity and reach. The team has delivered high-quality electrical installations, from homes to industrial and agricultural operations. Their reputation is built on trust, working closely with customers to scope projects and providing guidance with incentives and financing options. Lamos Electric has also been a key partner in two unique Efficiency Vermont programs, including the Low-Income Fuel Switch (LIFS) program installing ductless heat pumps for participants across hard-to-reach areas of the state.
Efficiency Excellence Network – Leadership Award: Johnstone Supply in Williston. Joining the EEN in 2022, Johnstone Supply quickly established itself as a high-volume supplier of energy efficient technology, including being among the first suppliers in Vermont to sell heat pumps with new and more environmentally -friendly A2L refrigerants. Johnstone is committed to sponsoring trainings and related opportunities, often hosting events at their supply house. Last year, Johnstone sold over 1,200 pieces of incentivized equipment, resulting in over $800,000 in rebates issued. The Johnstone team regularly engages with Efficiency Vermont to provide accurate rebate information, moving the needle on electrification across residential and commercial projects.
Residential New Construction – Affordable Housing Innovation for Multi-Family Homes: Champlain Housing Trust & Evernorth for the 10th Cavalry Apartments in Colchester. Transforming three National Register-listed buildings into 65 mixed-income affordable homes in the Fort Ethan Allen Historic District required navigating complex historic preservation and environmental challenges. Working with the National Park Service, the project restored tin ceilings, slate roofs, and historic windows—all while adding insulation and removing contaminants like asbestos and lead. Conforming to historic restrictions required installing high-efficiency gas boilers for heat and hot water. The team also added high-efficiency lighting, appliances, and EV chargers. This project preserves the legacy of the 10th Cavalry Regiment of Buffalo Soldiers housed there from 1909 to 1913, while also delivering permanently affordable and energy- efficient homes.
Residential New Construction – Performance Excellence for Multi-Family Homes: Cathedral Square for Reid Commons in St. Albans. A 33-unit affordable apartment building serving mixed-income older adults, Reid Commons is Cathedral Square’s first fossil fuel-free building—and one that marks 16 years of effort to redevelop a brownfield that once housed a manufacturing facility. Heated and cooled using energy harnessed from a closed-loop geothermal system made up of eight 700-foot wells, the building also uses a geothermal system that provides hot water for the kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry in the facility. The building’s comprehensive insulation and air sealing exceed the requirements of Efficiency Vermont’s High Performance program, while a floor-by-floor Energy Recovery Ventilation system provides a consistent flow of fresh air.
Residential New Construction – Affordable Housing Innovation for Single-Family Homes: Central Vermont Habitat for Humanity for 41 Central Street in Randolph. Two 1,400-square-foot homes in this duplex used precision- manufactured panelized walls assembled on-site. This not only achieved exceptional air tightness and durability, but reduced material waste, improved the duplex’s thermal performance, and accelerated the building schedule—all while maintaining high build quality and craftsmanship. Developed through Central Vermont Habitat for Humanity’s affordable homeownership program, the two homes are fully electric and heat and cool with heat pumps. The homes are also ENERGY STAR® certified and meet the high standards of Efficiency Vermont’s Certified Homes 3.0 standards, ensuring long-term affordability through low energy bills for years to come.
Residential New Construction – Performance Excellence for Single-Family Homes: Bellwether Craftsmen and New Frameworks for Rose Hill Lane in Shelburne. This custom home was designed and constructed to prioritize high performance, energy efficiency, carbon sequestration, and natural building materials. The home uses New Frameworks' straw panel—sourced locally from an organic grower—as both the vertical structure and insulative assembly. The wall panel system was paired with Bellwether’s extremely airtight and energy efficient building envelope techniques. The home’s geothermal heat pump system uses both radiant heating and ducted air for heating and cooling—all using electricity generated from the home’s roof-mounted solar panels.
Commercial New Construction – Commercial Resilience Champion: Geobarns, LLC, for Farmer and the Bell in Woodstock. Redeveloping a brownfield into a new restaurant and retail space, Geobarns designed the building to use its characteristic modified timber frame structure. The result is an open floor plan that celebrates structural timbers, natural materials, and an open kitchen. Emphasizing reduced embodied carbon in all aspects of the building’s design, the structure is insulated with recycled cellulose and wood fiber insulation board (as opposed to petroleum-based materials). The facility’s walk-in cooler implements an extremely environmentally friendly refrigerant and uses ENERGY STAR® kitchen equipment and heat pumps for heating and cooling.
Commercial New Construction – Small Business Innovation: Duncan Wisniewski Architecture for the Alburgh Family Clubhouse in Alburgh. Offering full-time and after-school childcare for more than 60 children, the Alburgh Family Clubhouse was designed with space for meetings in the evening to ensure the childcare center truly serves its community. The clubhouse has a wood-framed structure with both cavity and exterior continuous insulation, with raised-heel roof trusses creating room for additional attic insulation. The all-electric building uses heat pumps to meet the facility’s heating, cooling, and hot water needs.
Commercial New Construction – Large Business Innovation: Studio III Architecture, Scott + Partners Architecture, for the BETA Technologies Production Facility in South Burlington. A first-of-its-kind facility designed for scaled manufacturing of electric airplanes, BETA’s 188,500-square-foot production facility uses over 250 geothermal wells that provide energy for all of the facility’s heating and cooling needs. With 100% electrified systems, the building incorporates sustainability into its foundation with a 99% recycled glass aggregate that replaced nearly 100,000 cubic feet of Styrofoam insulation that would be used in similar builds. Overall, the building uses 50% less energy than a typical building of the same size—optimizing for both energy efficiency and the comfort of those working inside.

About Better Building by Design

Hosted by Efficiency Vermont, the annual Better Building by Design (BBD) conference provides building professionals with a variety of continuing education opportunities to increase their knowledge in energy efficiency best practices and technologies to better serve their customers. Each year BBD gathers participants from among Vermont’s 18,300 person-strong clean energy and climate workforce, along with other professionals from around New England, for training sessions and workshops at the two-day conference. Learn more at https://www.efficiencyvermont.com/bbd

Market Segment Characterization for Heat Pump Electrification

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 19:50:00 GMT

A significant share of industrial energy use and carbon emissions are from low- and medium-temperature process heat. An efficient pathway to decarbonize these processes is through industrial heat pumps (IHPs). Current IHPs can deliver low-temperature process heat that can cover approximately 44% of the US industrial process heat demand. Emerging higher-temperature IHP designs could address up to 55% of demand. This research examines real-world examples of IHP, which suggest that characterizing successful niche implementations, identifying local barriers, and implementing mitigation measures can all help accelerate IHP deployment and build market confidence. Increasing IHP deployment also reduces overall energy use and operational costs, while lowering greenhouse gas emissions. In Vermont, the benefits of IHPs are particularly relevant for food processing, the beverage industry, lumber, and wastewater sectors. By mapping commercially available technologies to these sectors, this whitepaper provides practical examples of how industrial heat pumps can reduce energy consumption, improve product quality, and support climate goals.

This research suggests that achieving the full impact of IHPs requires coordinated and strategic action that considers barriers such as high energy prices, the up-front costs of IHP systems, the state’s limited workforce expertise with this technology, and the complexity associated with integrating IHPs into existing industrial processes. This research further suggests that utilities and policymakers can support IHP adoption and market transformation through flexible electricity tariff schemes and by enabling demand response programs. This research also finds that incentives, improved marketing (based on successful demonstration projects targeting niche customer segments), and workforce education are critical to scaling IHP adoption. By aligning technical innovation with economic and policy frameworks, Vermont can lead in industrial decarbonization and electrification through IHPs.

Energy Resilience: Estimating Loss Economics

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Following devastating summer floods in 2023 and 2024, the State of Vermont initiated a Resilience Implementation Strategy to support the state’s capacity to “anticipate, respond, adapt, and thrive in the face of current and future conditions and disasters.” One component of this strategy focused on energy delivery and infrastructure adaptation. Separately, Efficiency Vermont’s 2024 Energy Resilience Planning Framework supported another component of the strategy by examining the economic and environmental sustainability of recovery. Building on this work, and using interviews, surveys, and rebate records from the 2023-2024 flooding in Vermont, this whitepaper found consistent patterns of losses and costs across sectors that can be categorized as tangible (e.g., building systems, appliances, structural components) and intangible (e.g., income, labor diversion, personal time). Municipalities were found to have incurred costs in three stages (active event, immediate aftermath, and long-term recovery). Commercial losses clustered around infrastructure and business operations, while residential respondents reported losses related to both personal belongings and building structures, with heating systems and appliances representing the highest repair and replacement costs. Post-disaster price inflation and contractor shortages amplified recovery expenses.

In assessing resilience and recovery, this research identified five tangible and three intangible categories of loss typologies (providing a framework for planners to anticipate economic impacts and integrate them into resilience strategies). This research also provided cost benchmarks for these losses, with heating systems found to be the most expensive to replace, followed by structural repairs and appliances. Also identified are labor costs, which can impose hidden economic burdens, and community dynamics (such as volunteer labor) that can support accelerated recovery but also introduce uncertainties for planners. Finally, this whitepaper identified policy gaps to consider, namely, slow and insufficient FEMA buyouts (underscoring the need for proactive resilience investments and short-term housing strategies). The implications of these findings for energy resilience planning can enable planners to better quantify potential losses, improve cost-benefit analyses, and prioritize investments. These findings can serve as a foundation for broader disaster recovery efforts beyond Vermont.

Closing the Loop: Lifecycle Refrigerant Management for Vermont’s Residential Heat Pumps

Sun, 01 Mar 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Refrigerant management in residential heat pumps is an often-overlooked climate risk. Although these systems make up only a small share of Vermont’s total refrigerant inventory, the roughly 80,000 heat pumps installed statewide (as of 2025) contain refrigerant gases with a high global warming potential (GWP). These gases could become potent drivers of climate change if mismanaged. While the transition to lower GWP refrigerants is underway for new equipment, this does not address the climate liability locked into the heat pumps already installed across Vermont.

Efficiency Vermont undertook research focusing on two stages of the heat pump lifecycle with the highest climate risk: operational leaks, which often remain unnoticed until performance declines, and end-of-life venting, which is illegal yet still common when equipment is removed without proper refrigerant recovery. With Vermont’s earliest heat pump installations nearing retirement, the state could face increased venting without strategic intervention.

This whitepaper emphasizes that nothing should slow heating electrification, and that heat pumps provide substantial greenhouse gas benefits. Refrigerant management strengthens those benefits. The research also highlights the need for consumer education, as many households underuse their heat pumps, thereby reducing fossil fuel displacement. When low utilization overlaps with refrigerant leaks, climate gains can erode.

In addition to its climate benefits, strong refrigerant management also supports affordability, comfort, and grid stability. Centering HVAC contractors as key partners and drawing on interviews, survey data, and a literature review, this paper identifies strategies to reduce barriers, align incentives, improve outcomes, and support best practices for refrigerant management across Vermont’s growing heat pump market.

Businesses can now double energy rebates—up to $25,000 through November

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 21:31:29 GMT

Up to $25,000 in extra incentives are available from Efficiency Vermont for businesses or nonprofits that complete custom projects—while funding lasts.

WINOOSKI, VT—Dairies and ice cream makers. Breweries and furniture builders. Hospitals and colleges. Some of Vermont’s most recognizable businesses have saved energy and cut costs through Efficiency Vermont's rebates for custom projects. Now, for a limited time, any Vermont business can double their rebate—up to $25,000—if they finish a custom project by the end of November.

“Doubling your rebate is really an inflation-buster for businesses,” said Peter Walke, Managing Director of Efficiency Vermont. “It can help operations of any size make policy-proof investments this year. And the energy savings from these projects will help keep costs lower for years to come.”

Custom projects are tailored to meet each business’s unique needs and goals. This ensures businesses install the most efficient equipment and make the most cost-effective facility improvements.

But businesses can only double their rebate for a custom project completed before the end of November.

“You’ve got to start planning right away if you want to get a custom project done in time,” Walke added. “If you want to double your rebate for your business, you’ve got to act now.”

Past projects that received Efficiency Vermont’s custom rebates include:

Energy-saving ice cream making at Ben & Jerry’s facilities in Waterbury and St. Albans. The ice cream makers are saving $816,000 annually thanks to “energy treasure hunts” that toured both facilities and found multiple ways to save energy, including refrigeration optimization projects.
Cutting-edge cold at Lawson’s Finest Liquids in Waitsfield. The brewery’s new 3,500-square-foot cooler uses carbon dioxide as a refrigerant, reducing its environmental impact and boosting efficiency. This saves the brewery $13,000 a year and avoids 223,000 pounds of annual emissions.
Bright ideas at Landmark College in Putney. The first Vermont campus to adopt 100% LED lights, Landmark also added controls for its HVAC systems in nearly all its buildings. Along with other projects, each year Landmark saves $98,000 and enough electricity to power 79 homes.
Energy-conscious yogurt at Commonwealth Dairy in Brattleboro. With a new, optimized building management system and upgrades to their chilled water and compressed air systems, Commonwealth Dairy is saving around $200,000 annually.
Hand-crafted savings at Pompanoosuc Mills in Thetford. Switching to 100% LED lighting, specifically tailored to be warm and inviting to showcase the company’s hand-crafted furniture, helped this Upper Valley icon cut its annual electricity bills by 15%, saving $30,000 a year.
Smart cooling at Central Vermont Medical Center (CVMC) in Berlin. Fine-tuning CVMC’s HVAC systems, chilled water system, and data center cooling drove improvements that save $63,000 annually, reducing energy use and operating costs while also improving staff and patient safety.

Efficiency Vermont has other supports for businesses looking to invest in efficiency, including:

Free Business Energy Consultations for businesses of any size. Understand where energy and money are being wasted in your business, and learn about incentives and rebates that can help.
Rebates for pre-approved commercial tubular LED (TLED) lamp replacements. Rebates cover up to 100% of product costs for qualifying TLED lamps that replace existing fluorescent lamps.
Rebates for pre-approved agricultural LED lighting projects. Rebates cover up to 100% of a project’s total costs in livestock or sugaring facilities, farmyards, dairy barns, processing and sorting rooms, milking parlors, and egg-packing rooms.

Only new or currently incomplete custom projects are eligible for a doubled rebate up to $25,000. Eligible projects may receive up to twice the standard custom incentive with the total additional incentive capped at $25,000 or 100% of the total project cost, whichever is less. Custom projects must be completed in full by November 30, 2026. This offer is only available for a limited time, or until funds run out this year. Doubled rebates are not available for Efficiency Vermont’s standard business rebates. Additional terms and conditions apply. See Efficiency Vermont’s Custom Project rebate page for additional details.

Efficiency Vermont announces 2026 rebates to help Vermonters achieve their home energy goals in the new year

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 14:50:26 GMT

Weatherization, heating systems, and appliance rebates can help households save money—while funding lasts

WINOOSKI, VT—Vermonters can keep their New Year’s resolutions to save energy with 2026 rebates and financial support from Efficiency Vermont and partners across the state—including weatherization incentives while funding lasts.

“Improving your home’s energy efficiency in 2026 is an investment that will pay off for years to come,” said Peter Walke, Efficiency Vermont’s managing director. “It’ll pay off—literally—with lower energy bills. With improved comfort. With lower emissions thanks to more deliberate energy use. And by lowering demand, it supports a more affordable electricity system for everyone connected to our shared grid.”

Now is the perfect time to plan a home energy project. Find a contractor in the Efficiency Excellence Network near you to start your project or begin planning for spring.

Heat pump heating system rebates are available through a joint program offered by Efficiency Vermont and your electric utility. Efficiency Vermont’s website also has information on additional incentives that may be available from your utility.

Weatherization rebates offering up to 90% cash back are also available from Efficiency Vermont—with limited-time funding from the Vermont Department of Public Service supporting increased incentives for low- and moderate-income households. Free weatherization services for low-income households are also available through the state’s Weatherization Assistance Programs.

Incentives and solutions that can help Vermonters embrace energy savings in 2026 include:

Free resources to prioritize energy investments in the new year. Understand current offers or diagnose high bills by calling Efficiency Vermont’s Energy Advisors. You can also schedule a free Virtual Home Energy Visit with an Efficiency Vermont energy expert to get personalized advice and a list of next steps toward your goals.
Up to 90% cash back on weatherization projects. Air sealing and insulating your home lowers energy bills, makes a home more comfortable year-round, and improves indoor air quality. Weatherization also makes it easier to embrace clean technologies like heat pumps. Increased weatherization incentives are only available through the end of 2026—or while funding lasts.
Rebates for heating systems that work for your household. Save up to $475 on a ductless “mini split” heat pump, or save up to $2,200 on a ducted heat pump. Or opt for advanced wood heating with a wood or pellet stove (and a $400 rebate), or get $6,000 off central wood heating systems.
Save up to $1,000 on water heaters that use heat pump technology. Get a $600 discount when you upgrade to a heat pump water heater, bringing the efficiency and savings of a heat pump to the hot water needed in your kitchen, bathroom, and laundry room. Income-eligible households can get an additional $400 back.
Create a healthy home with appliance rebates. Control your home’s temperature and save on energy bills with up to $100 cash back on a smart thermostat. Or manage moisture in your home with up to $90 off a dehumidifier. You can also get up to $400 off a heat pump clothes dryer or washer/heat pump dryer combo unit. If you’re already planning for summer, get up to $150 off a window AC unit.
Businesses can save on energy investments, too. Businesses can get up to $25,000 in additional funding for custom projects or take advantage of increased incentives for pre-approved LED lighting projects. These incentives are only available for projects completed by November 2026.

Low-income households may qualify for additional support, including a voucher for up to $1,200 for replacing one eligible household appliance (like a refrigerator, freezer, or clothes washer). Additional offers include free weatherization through the state’s Weatherization Assistance Programs, and free efficient products like LED light bulbs and water-saving devices. Contact Efficiency Vermont for details.

Vermont lenders can also help you achieve your New Year’s energy goals with financing that removes up-front costs for home energy projects. Low-interest Home Energy Loans offer up to $25,000 for home energy upgrades, with 0% interest for income-qualified borrowers. Or you can pay off a project on your utility bill using the Weatherization Repayment Assistance Program. Contact Efficiency Vermont for qualifying details.

Additional rebates may also be available from your electric or gas utility. Contact Efficiency Vermont’s Energy Advisors to learn about all available offers.

Increasing Access to Energy Efficiency: Piloting community engagement & program adaptation initiatives

Wed, 31 Dec 2025 17:00:00 GMT

Improving access to energy efficiency programs is essential to achieving Vermont’s broader energy and climate goals. When all Vermonters can access the tools and resources they need to reduce energy use, the entire state benefits—from lower utility costs and reduced emissions to healthier homes and stronger communities. However, it's widely recognized that many people struggle to access efficiency programs. Efficiency Vermont aimed to improve the accessibility of energy efficiency programs through two key pathways during its 2024-2026 performance period. First, through increased resource acquisition (RA) support for equity programs, services, and incentives. Second, through a new development and support service (DSS) Equity initiative focused on engaging with customers and partners to gather feedback on, and inform the design of, programs and services. Alongside additional state support, Efficiency Vermont made significant progress in overcoming long-standing barriers that have limited participation from underserved and hard-to-reach communities. This Interim DSS Equity Report collects the many ways Efficiency Vermont was able to identify and address persistent barriers that have historically excluded many Vermonters from participating in energy-saving programs. Beyond financial incentives, this included building meaningful relationships with trusted community partners, listening deeply to the lived experiences of underserved customers, and using those insights to reshape programs in ways that are more responsive, flexible, and culturally relevant. These lessons are already being implemented to improve outreach and adapt programs to better meet the needs of renters, rural residents, and other hard-to-reach groups. They'll also serve as a foundation for continued progress—in the 2027-2029 performance period, and beyond—by centering these lessons learned as core principles of energy efficiency planning and delivery.

Tightening your belt this winter? Efficiency Vermont has free resources that can help

Tue, 16 Dec 2025 18:55:02 GMT

Low and no-cost projects and rebates can help households and businesses save money and energy

WINOOSKI, VT—As 2025 draws to a close, many Vermonters are facing uncertainty and rising costs. When budgets are tight, projects that improve comfort and reduce energy bills may feel out of reach. Recognizing that households and businesses are feeling stretched, Efficiency Vermont has gathered a collection of free resources, practical tools, and affordable projects that can help Vermonters begin to improve their homes and get more from their energy budget.

Do you want to understand what’s driving your electricity costs? Try our electricity usage calculator to see how your energy bill adds up with your appliances, lighting, and other needs—and see where you can save.
Do you need to diagnose the cause of high energy bills? Call Efficiency Vermont’s Energy Advisors to see how your home is using energy, understand what equipment could be wasting money, and learn about services and rebates that can help you reduce costs.
Looking for a deep dive into ways your home can save energy? Schedule a free Virtual Home Energy Visit and take a virtual tour of your home with an Efficiency Vermont Energy Consultant. Get personalized advice for using less energy at home, plus a customized list of next steps tailored to your needs and priorities.
Get $100 back for a Do-It-Yourself (DIY) weatherization project. Use our $100 DIY Weatherization rebate to get cash back for completing simple projects like air sealing windows or adding weatherstripping.

Businesses, nonprofits, and other commercial operations can also take advantage of helpful resources and rebates, including:

Free Business Energy Consultations: Understand where your business is losing energy, and what you can do to fix it, through a Business Energy Consultation. Our Energy Advisors can help you identify cost-effective opportunities, find efficient equipment, and connect you with our Efficiency Excellence Network of contractors.
Up to $25,000 in bonus rebates for custom projects: Businesses can double their incentive—up to $25,000—for custom projects tailored to an operation's specific needs. These bonuses are available for businesses, nonprofits, farm operations, and institutions that complete projects by November 2026.
Increased incentives for pre-approved lighting projects: Businesses that switch to energy-saving LED lamps can get up to 100% of the product costs covered when they replace existing linear fluorescent lamps. Agricultural businesses upgrading to LEDs in livestock or sugaring facilities can get up to 100% of project costs covered.

Efficiency Vermont’s 2025 holiday gift guide also offers inspiration for sustainable, local, and fun holiday shopping. The guide has a collection of thoughtful gifts and experiences, including ways to donate previously used items, implement energy savings, give the gift of rebate-eligible appliances, and support local businesses.

Federal home energy tax credits expire at the end of December—but Efficiency Vermont’s rebates and programs will remain available in 2026 and beyond. Whether you’re just starting to think about energy efficiency, or you’re ready to begin a project, visit efficiencyvermont.com/rebates to find ways to meet your energy goals.

2025 Vermont Heat Pump Action Plan

Mon, 06 Oct 2025 13:28:00 GMT

The Vermont Residential Heat Pump Action Plan is driven by a central goal: to significantly reduce household greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions across the state. This plan outlines a strategic approach to achieving that goal by increasing the adoption of heat pump technologies and optimizing their usage in Vermont's residential sector, while ensuring affordability for all residents.

Building on the findings of the 2024 Vermont Heat Pump Market Assessment, which evaluated the current status, challenges, and opportunities for heat pump use in space and water heating, this action plan focuses specifically on space heating, identifies key market barriers, and proposes targeted strategies to overcome them.

Furthermore, the action plan proposes a comprehensive approach that includes enhanced end-use customer education, financial incentives, technological innovation, contractor training, and regulatory support.

‘Button Up Vermont’ urges Vermonters to weatherize this fall using state rebates and expiring tax credits

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 00:35:14 GMT

Vermont rebates offer up to $9,500 for comprehensive weatherization. Expiring federal tax credits offer additional savings for projects completed by the end of the year

WINOOSKI, VT—As temperatures drop across the northeast, partners in the statewide Button Up Vermont campaign are urging homeowners and renters to prepare their homes for colder temperatures using Vermont weatherization and heat pump rebates—and use soon-to-expire federal tax credits for projects completed this year.

Weatherization rebates from Efficiency Vermont, Vermont Gas Systems (VGS), and other partners aren’t going anywhere. But federal home energy tax credits—for things like energy-efficient windows and doors, insulation and air sealing, and heating systems—all expire at the end of the year.

That’s why this year’s “Button Up Vermont” campaign—kicking off Oct. 1 with a month of webinars, events, and other promotions—will focus on helping Vermonters understand how to make their homes more comfortable using all the state and federal incentives available.

“Buttoning up a home can make it more comfortable while also lowering your heating bills,” said Peter Walke, Efficiency Vermont’s managing director. “Whether it’s starting with a simple ‘DIY’ project or investing in comprehensive weatherization by a skilled professional, Efficiency Vermont’s rebates can help get your home ready for winter—and make it more affordable for years to come.”

Both Efficiency Vermont rebates and VGS incentives offer customers up to $9,500 for comprehensive weatherization projects. Incentives vary based on household size and income. Income-eligible households may qualify for free weatherization through the state’s Weatherization Assistance Programs (WAPs).

“With Federal rebates set to expire at the end of the year, now is the time to leverage rebates and reduce the cost of these energy-saving home improvements,” said Neale Lunderville, President and CEO of VGS. “Our teams work directly with customers to assess how they can get the most bang for their buck and improve comfort. We’re ready to do our part to help Vermonters button up ahead of winter.”

“Everyone deserves a safe, comfortable, and affordable home. Free weatherization services from Vermont’s Weatherization Assistance Programs are one of the best ways we can help eligible households achieve those goals,” said Wendy McGillivray, Executive Director and Director of Weatherization for NETO. Serving the Northeast Kingdom, NETO is one of five WAPs across Vermont offering no-cost weatherization and related services to income-qualified households. “The ‘Button Up’ campaign is a great opportunity for people to learn more about the steps they can take to have a more comfortable home."

Vermonters who complete home energy projects by Dec. 31, 2025, may also be able to use federal home energy tax credits. Those tax credits are the focus of one of several “Button Up” webinars this October as part of the weekly “Weatherization Wednesdays” series. The schedule includes:

View all webinars and events at www.buttonupvermont.org/events

Telltale signs a home is losing heat and needs “buttoning up” include:

Drafts, even when the heat is on, could be a sign that cold air is leaking in and heat is leaking out, wasting energy.
Snow melting unevenly on a roof, indicating an attic in need of air sealing and insulation.
Icicles or ice dams forming on a rooftop, a sign that heat is escaping through the roof.
Mold. A lack of insulation or proper ventilation can cause moisture to rise and get trapped, creating unhealthy indoor air and potentially other issues for a home if left untreated.

Insulating and air-sealing a home as part of a comprehensive weatherization project can address these issues, as well as important health and safety considerations of a home, like moisture management, ventilation, and indoor air quality. Learn more about rebates and financing to help Button Up a home.

About Button Up Vermont

Button Up Vermont is supported by a partnership of service providers and clean energy champions. The annual campaign runs each fall to raise awareness around the importance of weatherization. From tips on air sealing and insulation, to weighing the benefits of upgrades like energy efficient heat pumps, Button Up Vermont provides Vermont residents with the tools and resources needed to weatherize their homes and save. Button Up Vermont is sponsored by Efficiency Vermont. Learn more at https://www.buttonupvermont.org/

About Vermont Gas

Vermont Gas is northwest Vermont’s integrated energy services company. Its team of 140+ Vermonters serve safe, affordable, and reliable thermal energy to more than 56,000 families and businesses in Franklin, Chittenden, and Addison Counties. In addition to gas service, customers are able to access award-winning energy efficiency programs, equipment service and maintenance, and a growing portfolio of heat pump heating and cooling options. Learn more at www.vgsvt.com

Vermonters: Join this webinar to learn about using home energy tax credits before they expire this year

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 14:01:20 GMT

Vermont Law and Graduate School partners with Efficiency Vermont to explain soon-to-expire home energy tax credits and other ways to save

WINOOSKI, VT—Federal tax credits promising significant savings for home energy investments will expire at the end of the year. That’s why Efficiency Vermont is partnering with Vermont Law and Graduate School to offer a free public webinar explaining what homeowners need to know about these tax breaks while they are available.

The webinar will also provide information on rebates from Efficiency Vermont—which are not expiring—that can be stacked with the tax credits for even more savings.

“These home energy tax credits are an important way for households to get extra help for investing in their home,” said Jenny L. Carter, a professor and senior attorney with Vermont Law and Graduate School’s Institute for Energy and the Environment. “We want to help Vermont homeowners understand what’s feasible in the months ahead before these tax breaks expire.”

The federal tax credits promise hundreds—in some cases thousands—of dollars for projects like home energy audits, weatherization upgrades, and new heating systems like heat pumps. But all projects must be completed by Dec. 31, 2025, to be eligible for the tax credit.

“Tax credits are just one way to reduce the cost of home energy improvements—and the good news is Efficiency Vermont’s rebates aren’t going anywhere,” said Peter Walke, Efficiency Vermont’s managing director. “This webinar will help Vermonters understand the tax credits, rebates, and utility incentives they can use to help lower their energy bills. And ways to save whether they use the tax credits or not.”

WHO: Vermont Law and Graduate School professor and senior attorney Jenny T. Carter and Efficiency Vermont‘s public relations manager Matthew Smith.
WHAT: “Weatherization Wednesday: How to Use Home Energy Tax Credits Before They Expire” webinar.
WHERE: Zoom webinar; click here to register.
WHEN: Wednesday, Oct. 1, from noon-1 p.m.
WHY: To help Vermonters understand the soon-to-expire federal tax credits, as well as ongoing Efficiency Vermont rebates and other incentives that will remain available for their home energy projects.

All registrants for the webinar will be emailed a recording of the presentation, along with the slides of the presentation, shortly after the webinar concludes. Learn more and register at www.buttonupvermont.org

Vermont Law and Graduate School and Efficiency Vermont stress that the webinar is intended as general information and is not individual tax advice. Any individual or business planning to use federal tax credits should consult with a professional tax advisor to understand how any tax credits could apply in their specific circumstances.

About Vermont Law and Graduate School

Vermont Law and Graduate School is one of the top environmental law schools in the country. It is a private, independent institution and offers ABA-accredited residential and online hybrid JD programs, master’s degrees, and certificates in multiple disciplines, including programs offered by the Maverick Lloyd School for the Environment, the Institute for Energy and the Environment, the Center for Justice Reform, and other graduate-level programs emphasizing the intersection of environmental justice, social justice and public policy. Both the law and graduate schools strongly feature experiential clinical and field work learning. For more information, visit https://www.vermontlaw.edu/

‘Energy leadership’ awards honor innovation, emissions savings at annual Best Practices Exchange

Fri, 19 Sep 2025 01:22:14 GMT

Efficiency Vermont’s BPX event marks its 14th year with more than 190 attendees and a keynote address from electric aviation pioneer BETA Technologies

KILLINGTON, VT—More than 190 people gathered at the Killington Grand Resort Hotel this week for the Best Practices Exchange (BPX), Efficiency Vermont’s annual gathering of the state’s largest commercial and industrial operators and businesses. The event also honored six “Energy Leadership” award winners in areas ranging from decarbonization to innovation to “partner of the year.”

Held from Wednesday, Sept. 17, through Thursday, Sept. 18, the event brought together business leaders from aerospace, healthcare, utilities, education, food and beverage manufacturing and distribution, and economic development. Attendees included executives, facilities managers, and mechanical contractors, all sharing expertise and knowledge on energy-saving strategies and innovations. The BPX audience also engaged two dozen sponsors and vendors of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) equipment, industrial systems, and related technologies.

“We at Efficiency Vermont hear you—it’s a challenging time to prioritize energy-saving projects,” said Peter Walke, Efficiency Vermont’s managing director, in his opening remarks. “Facing rising costs and unpredictable policies, we’re committed to helping businesses with projects that keep operating costs low and reduce energy use.” Walke stressed Efficiency Vermont’s support as an “energy co-champion” on such projects through technical expertise and financial incentives—like up to an additional $25,000 in extra incentives for businesses that complete custom projects by November 2026.

Investments made in 2024 by commercial and industrial customers with Efficiency Vermont’s support will, over their lifetime, save more than 521 million kWh—enough electricity to power more than 3,800 Vermont homes for 20 years. Those investments will also save the energy equivalent of more than four million gallons of propane and oil.

Alex Gagnon, the lead of Facilities and Construction with electric aircraft pioneer BETA Technologies, delivered this year’s BPX keynote. Born and raised in Brattleboro with a civil engineering degree from the University of Vermont, Gagnon helped bring BETA’s South Burlington production facility to life as a first-of-its-kind building to manufacture electric aircraft. Gagnon told the BPX attendees about building a low-emissions facility aligned with the company’s values around sustainability.

Six organizations were honored with “Energy Leadership” awards for industry-leading projects supporting energy efficiency.

The winners of the 2025 BPX Energy Leadership Awards are:

Changemaker Award: Elderly Services, Inc., facility in Middlebury. Updating a 20-year-old building to reflect values of energy efficiency and environmental stewardship, Elderly Services implemented extensive weatherization and installed a new ground-source heat pump system, reducing its HVAC energy use by 70%. Nearly 200 solar panels generate the facility’s electricity. Combined with participation in Green Mountain Power’s Flexible Load Management program, Elderly Services was able to cut its electric bill in half and reduce propane use by 90%.
Impact Award: UVM Medical Center’s Holly Court warehouse in Williston. UVM Medical Center’s 160,000-square-foot storage facility in Williston warehouses all supplies, materials, and equipment for hospital operations. Replacing old fluorescent lighting—which ran 24 hours a day—with LED lights and lighting controls, the warehouse reduced total building energy consumption by around 30% and is now saving $30,000 in energy costs annually. The project also improved worker safety through improved quality of light in the warehouse.
Innovation Award: Farrell Distributing’s warehouse and shipping center in Rutland. Farrell overhauled its warehouse facility, replacing an old split refrigeration system that cools 35,000 square feet of warehouse space. Working with Efficiency Vermont and Turner Piping and Refrigeration, Farrell invested in a new natural refrigeration system that avoids “conventional” synthetic refrigerants—which can potentially leak and release potent greenhouse gases—and installed a system that uses carbon dioxide as a natural refrigerant. The CO2 system cools the warehouse space, reducing the refrigerant carbon impact by 90,000 lbs (equivalent to over 4,500 gallons of gasoline consumed) and saves the facility more than $90,000 per year in energy costs.
Decarbonization Award: BETA Technologies’ manufacturing facility in South Burlington. BETA opened its 188,500-square-foot manufacturing facility in 2023, a remarkable 12 months after the first concrete was poured. The electric aircraft manufacturing facility was designed and built to be sustainable and energy efficient, reflecting the company’s mission to decarbonize aviation. The fully electrified facility uses over 250 geothermal wells as part of a closed-loop ground-source heat pump system that provides the energy needed to heat and cool the entire facility. Overall, the building uses 50% less energy than a typical building of the same size, avoiding more than 432 metric tons of CO2 emissions annually.
"Energy Champion” Award: Si-Yol Yi, Safety, Health, and Environmental Front Line Manager for Ben & Jerry’s in Waterbury. Si-Yol Yi is leading the modernization of ice cream manufacturing through a comprehensive energy management approach. He developed a pipeline of energy projects to achieve Ben & Jerry’s net-zero energy goals, with projects like an industrial heat pump at the Waterbury facility. When completed, the facility will be able to operate without using its old and inefficient oil boilers, avoiding more than 1 million pounds of CO2e emissions. Si-Yol’s leadership around controls treasure hunts, industrial facility treasure hunts, Flexible Load Management, sub-metering, refrigeration optimization, equipment audits, and more resulted in more than $816,000 in cost savings annually.
“Partner of the Year” Award: Central Vermont Economic Development Corporation (CVEDC) in Montpelier. CVEDC has been an important strategic partner for Efficiency Vermont for many years, and this award recognizes its help for businesses recovering from the devastating summer floods in 2023 and 2024. Supporting retailers, restaurants, and other operations in the region, CVEDC’s outreach helped more than 60 businesses rebuild using more than $300,000 in incentives from Efficiency Vermont’s flood recovery rebates.

About Best Practices Exchange

Commentary: Energy efficiency is our first, best tool for lower energy bills

Mon, 18 Aug 2025 17:51:12 GMT

An editorial by Peter Walke, Managing Director of Efficiency Vermont

Vermonters feel it every time we get an energy bill or fill up at the pump—costs are high and unpredictable. Global markets swing wildly, storms knock out power, and heating our homes in the winter takes a bigger bite out of our paychecks than it used to.

We can’t control global fuel prices. But we can control how much energy we use. That’s why energy efficiency is the single most powerful, affordable tool we have to keep costs down.

Efficiency Vermont is now planning our next three years of programs to help Vermonters save energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. It’s a moment to reflect on the importance of efficiency in our state. And it’s an opportunity for Vermonters to take our survey and share your feedback on our programs and services.

When a business replaces outdated lighting or upgrades to efficient equipment, it lowers its bills and strengthens its bottom line. When a home is weatherized, insulated, and air-sealed, it uses less fuel to keep us warm in January and less electricity to keep us cool in July. These aren’t just small savings—they add up. Over the past two decades, Vermonters have saved more than $3.5 billion thanks to efficiency improvements.

Efficiency is also our cheapest energy resource. It costs far less to save a unit of energy than to produce one. Every kilowatt-hour of electricity we don’t need is one we don’t have to generate, transmit across expensive power lines, and pay for. This means lower costs for utilities, more manageable peaks when demand surges, and, over time, more affordable bills for ratepayers.

It’s also a homegrown solution. When we cut our energy use, we reduce our reliance on imported fossil fuels and keep more money circulating in Vermont’s economy. That’s energy independence in action—something that benefits every household and business in the state.

The benefits don’t stop at the wallet. Efficient appliances and heating systems improve indoor air quality. A well-weatherized home is more comfortable, quieter, and healthier. And every bit of energy we save means fewer greenhouse gas emissions—helping us meet Vermont’s climate commitments while protecting communities from the devastating impacts of a warming world.

Some may think of energy efficiency as a “someday” solution—something to get to after tackling other home projects or business priorities. But it really should be the first step. Vermont can build new renewable energy sources, modernize our grid, and electrify our vehicles and heating systems. But if we don’t streamline how we use energy in the first place, we’ll need to spend more on generation and infrastructure, driving up costs. Efficiency makes all those other investments work better and cost less.

The bottom line: Energy efficiency isn’t just about using less—it’s about living better for less. It’s a proven, practical, and immediate way to make energy more affordable for all Vermonters. In a time of economic uncertainty and climate challenges, it’s the common-sense solution we can’t afford to ignore.

When it comes to energy, so much happens in a global market that’s beyond our control. But we can control how we use energy, and we can choose to use energy wisely. When we do, Vermont becomes stronger, more resilient, and more affordable for everyone.

As Efficiency Vermont looks ahead, we want your help in improving the work we do together to make Vermont’s energy more affordable. Please join the thousands of Vermonters who have taken ten minutes to fill out our survey: call 1-888-921-5990 or visit EfficiencyVermont.com/feedback

About Peter Walke

Peter Walke joined Efficiency Vermont as Managing Director in May 2022. Prior to that, he was the commissioner of the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation and deputy secretary of the Vermont Agency of Natural Resources, where he was Vermont’s lead negotiator for the Transportation Climate Initiative, co-chaired the Vermont Climate Action Commission, and represented the state in the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative. Born and raised in Vermont, Walke returned to his home state after several years working for the State of New York, including as Chief of Staff of the state Department of Environmental Conservation, as well as Assistant Secretary of the Environment. Walke began his career serving in the United States Navy from 2004-2013 as an Intelligence Officer supporting missions in Iraq, Europe, Africa, and for NORAD/U.S. Northern Command. He lives in Montpelier.

Efficiency Vermont doubles custom business incentives—up to $25,000 in extra cash

Tue, 05 Aug 2025 20:50:29 GMT

Businesses, nonprofits, and other organizations can get extra help navigating uncertain times

WINOOSKI, VT—As businesses in Vermont continue to face rising costs and economic uncertainties, Efficiency Vermont is stepping up with additional support. For a limited time, business can double their custom incentive for energy efficiency projects. That means up to an additional $25,000 bonus for businesses, nonprofits, farm operations, and institutions that complete projects by November 2026.

“We’re doubling our custom incentives now so businesses of all sizes can improve their operations while dealing with economic uncertainties, policy changes, rising prices, and other challenges,” said Peter Walke, managing director of Efficiency Vermont. “Doubling our custom incentives helps Vermont businesses achieve greater financial stability, reduces operating costs, and gives them more control over how they use energy."

Efficiency Vermont’s custom rebates are tailored to each business’s needs, ensuring the most efficient equipment and process improvements are implemented for each project. For a limited time, businesses, nonprofits, farm operations and other organizations can double their custom incentive, for up to $25,000 in additional cash for their project.

“It’s pretty easy to be a fan, because it worked,” said Gary Bourne, who used a custom incentive to upgrade cooler doors and lighting at his Notchbrook General Store in Stowe. "We use a lot of juice in these stores. But this incentive got so much covered, we said, ‘great, let’s do it.’ We saw savings the very next month. It was a good investment and a good experience with Efficiency Vermont,” Bourne added.

Businesses that double their custom incentive can also take advantage of:

Free business energy consultations: An Efficiency Vermont energy advisor offers experienced and unbiased advice, identifying the biggest opportunities to save, and understanding which systems are wasting energy and money.
Technical support every step along the way: Professional guidance and technical know-how based on each business’s operations, budget, and goals—offering a prioritized plan and resources to help complete projects.
Low-interest, $0 down loans up to $50,000: Flexible financing through EastRise Credit Union can help any operation. Cash flow analysis can structure financing to meet your business’s needs. And financing options—with as little as $0 down—can be designed so that monthly payments are covered by a project’s energy savings.
Access to the Efficiency Excellence Network of contractors: A trusted network of professionals qualified across a variety of projects and technologies that can turn efficiency plans on paper into a cost-saving project at your business.

Commercial kitchens, industrial processing, and manufacturing are industries that often receive custom incentives. Companies with multiple shifts are also good candidates due to their equipment's extended run hours. The doubled custom incentive is designed to be “policy proof” to help all businesses, nonprofits, farm operations, and institutions complete projects while dealing with escalating costs, higher borrowing expenses, changing state and federal policies, and other economic headwinds.

Efficiency Vermont’s many standard rebates for businesses remain available, but only custom projects—involving business consultations and technical support tailored to comprehensive projects—are eligible for the doubled incentive. If your business could benefit from a custom efficiency project, contact Efficiency Vermont today.

The offer is effective beginning August 1, 2025, and applies to projects that are incomplete as of launch and are completed no later than November 30, 2026. Eligible projects may receive up to twice the standard custom incentive, with the total additional incentive capped at $25,000 or 100% of the total project cost, whichever is less. Additional terms and conditions apply. See Efficiency Vermont’s Custom Project rebate page for details.

PSA: How can energy efficiency programs better help you? Share your feedback with Efficiency Vermont

Tue, 22 Jul 2025 17:15:44 GMT

Help shape the future of Vermont’s energy efficiency programs. Give your thoughts about the programs and services designed to help you save energy and decrease costs.

WINOOSKI, VT—How can energy efficiency offers better meet your needs? What kind of support do you want from programs meant to help reduce your energy bills? Efficiency Vermont wants your help answering these questions as we plan for our next three years of energy efficiency programs.

We want to hear from you! Take our survey by calling 1-888-921-5990 or visit EfficiencyVermont.com/feedback

Efficiency Vermont was established in 2000 to help reduce energy demand through efficiency programs. Each year, our programs and rebates invest millions to make the state more efficient when it comes to using electrical and thermal energy. We do this through:

Rebates and incentives: Whether it’s cash back on an efficient appliance, up to $9,500 towards weatherization, or a custom incentive for a business, our rebates help Vermonters afford energy upgrades.
Technical support: We help Vermonters improve their energy efficiency with unbiased advice and technical expertise. We also help you understand how your home can save energy through a free Virtual Home Energy Visit.
Training our clean energy workforce: We support Vermont’s contractors, weatherization technicians, and HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) installers through regular training, certifications, and education on the latest in building science.
Working with supply chain partners on efficient products. We make sure efficient heating systems and appliances are available and can perform well in Vermont’s cold climate.

Over the last 25 years, we have invested in energy efficiency for Vermont’s homes and businesses. Over the lifetime of those investments, Vermonters will save $3.54 billion, conserve 23 billion kWh of electricity, and reduce thermal energy use by 37 million MMBtus. That’s enough electricity to power 175,000 homes—and enough thermal energy to heat 22,000 homes—for 20 years. To continue these savings, we’re updating our plans and programs (as we do every three years) for the 2027-2029 planning period.

These new plans will continue to help Vermonters save energy and reduce costs. They will also help Vermont achieve other goals like reducing greenhouse gas emissions, reaching Vermonters in all 14 counties, and supporting low-income households. We collect these updated plans in a single document called a Demand Resource Plan (DRP). The Vermont Public Utility Commission (PUC) oversees Efficiency Vermont’s DRP and approves the programs to ensure we achieve our savings goals.

Our rebates, technical support, and other incentives are primarily funded by the Energy Efficiency Charge (EEC). The EEC appears on the monthly electric bills of all Vermonters—renters, homeowners, businesses, and other organizations. The EEC provides funding for Efficiency Vermont’s programs that help keep electric bills affordable while delivering programs and services that help all Vermonters save money, reduce energy use, and lower greenhouse gas emissions. Every $1 Vermont invests in energy efficiency yields more than $2 in savings.

Let us know how we can better help reach your energy goals. Visit EfficiencyVermont.com/feedback

On the Way to Viability: Residential Bidirectional Charging

Fri, 27 Jun 2025 18:41:00 GMT

Bidirectional charging, also called Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X), allows the two-way flow of energy to charge an electric vehicle’s battery and to discharge energy to an external load, including individual appliances (Vehicle-to-Load, or V2L), entire homes (Vehicle-to-Home, or V2H), or the grid (Vehicle-to-Grid, or V2G). This whitepaper explores the viability and economics of residential V2X applications, focusing on the emerging areas of V2H and V2G technologies and introducing potential resilience benefits along with economic ones. The research found that costs remain a significant barrier to many V2X applications (both in acquiring a commercially available system and other potential site-specific costs like electric service and electrical panel upgrades). The early stage of current market offerings (which often lack interoperability between different equipment makers and vehicle models) further compounds the cost challenges of V2X. However, this whitepaper finds that, for households with compatible EVs prioritizing the elimination of fossil fuel use and a need for home power backup systems, V2X technology can be financially viable. When paired with appropriate utility compensation and advancements in technology, V2X applications have the potential to become economical alternatives to generators for home backup power. The whitepaper encourages further exploration of V2X systems, especially the exploration and quantification of grid benefits of residential V2G systems. The whitepaper concludes that monitoring technological advancements, costs, installation experiences, and continued progress and cost reductions will all be crucial for the long-term viability and adoption of V2X systems in Vermont's residential market.

Multifamily Passive House Certification: A New Reach Standard for Vermont?

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 17:34:00 GMT

Efficiency standards for multifamily new construction (MFNC) in Vermont have evolved significantly over the last two decades, and Efficiency Vermont’s involvement in high-performance standards (and related incentives) for these structures has also advanced. State energy codes have also improved and are on a trajectory toward net-zero-ready requirements for new homes by 2030. Improving energy codes diminishes available energy savings for MFNC programs. As Efficiency Vermont’s High-Performance Standard (EVTHP) for MFNC continues to evolve, it approaches the level of the Passive House (PH) standard in attributes like balanced ventilation, continuous thermal barriers, and increased airtightness. In this whitepaper, Efficiency Vermont researchers studied 10 multifamily projects and evaluated real-world building data to investigate energy performance and cost impacts. They found PH projects show an average of 19% lower operational energy use when compared to EVTHP buildings. Other PH benefits include design flexibility, optimized and integrated building systems, independent review of design and construction, modeled predicted energy use, and a higher level of reliable energy savings. Researchers described the added cost and complexity for PH design, construction, and verification. They also noted that the available incentives may help cover much of the incremental costs, while other stakeholders called for additional incentives to support PH certification. The paper recommends that Efficiency Vermont consider supporting Passive House certification as a new “reach goal” for MFNC projects, alongside the existing EVTHP program. Doing so could accelerate market transformation and cultivate broader workforce alignment with high-performance standards regardless of the standard sought.