The bill H.354, introduced by Representative Logan of Burlington, aims to establish a thermal efficiency benefits charge to support thermal energy and process fuel efficiency services for unregulated fuels in Vermont. The Public Utility Commission is directed to create this charge, which will be shown separately on customer bills and paid to a fund administrator appointed by the Commission. The revenues generated from this charge, along with other specified sources such as capacity savings and carbon credit sales, will be deposited into the Electric Efficiency Fund to facilitate the implementation of cost-effective thermal efficiency programs that align with greenhouse gas reduction requirements.

Key provisions of the bill include the establishment of a volumetric charge for thermal efficiency programs, prioritization of incentives for high-efficiency biomass heating systems, and the allocation of costs for combined regulated and unregulated fuel efficiency services. The bill also clarifies definitions related to biomass, district heat, efficiency services, fossil fuels, regulated fuels, and unregulated fuels. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 30-209(e), 30-209