Vermont Gas Systems features CHP as part of its Energy Efficiency program.

Fulfilling a first-year priority for Governor Shumlin, the Department of Public Service led a multi-agency initiative to complete the state’s first Comprehensive Energy Plan (CEP) since the late 1990s. The CEP covers electricity, heating and process fuels, and energy in transportation and land use decisions and serves as the official policy for the Department of Public Service. Of note, the CEP recommends that Vermont set a path to obtain 90% of total energy from renewable sources by 2050. It states that meeting the goal will require the state to virtually eliminate its reliance on fossil fuels which it asserts can be done through enhanced efficiency and greater use of clean, renewable sources for electricity, heating and transportation. In order to meet the main goal, the plan outlines four drivers for progress including finance & funding, innovation & expertise, outreach & education and regulatory policies & structures. Additionally, the plan encourages the use of CHP as a method of energy efficiency and recommends specific actions to help meet the 60 mw CHP target established by state law; As well, the Plan examines natural gas expansion in the state as a way of encouraging further CHP development. On June 11, 2015, Governor Shumlin signed into law a comprehensive energy bill that modifies the following state policies: Establishes a new renewable electric requirement for utilities of 55% of sales in 2017, rising to 75% by 2032. Ensures Vermont’s renewable energy programs are in harmony with the rest of our region so the state can continue to be a part of renewable energy credit markets that provide ratepayers $50 million a year in rate-reduction benefit. Establishes a requirement for new distributed renewable energy generation of 5 megawatts or less, to provide 1% of electricity in 2017 rising to 10% by 2032, which will add hundreds of megawatts of new residential, business, and community scale renewable energy projects around the state.

In 1988, the Vermont Public Service Board (VPSB) opened an investigation into the cost-effective potential for energy efficiency. In April of 1990, the VPSB issued an order adopting the hearing officer’s report and proposal for decision. Vermont Gas Systems offers natural gas efficiency service within its territory. Natural gas efficiency programs are supported by legislation and regulation (30 V.S.A. Section 235(d); Docket No. 5270 VGS-1, 2) and began in 1993.

In September 2011, the Vermont Public Service Board allowed Vermont Gas Systems to use ratepayer monies to plan for future line extensions, reasoning that it will result in increased economic development and a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.

Vermont Gas Systems owns a CNG station in South Burlington that is currently limited to private use.