The bill S.110 proposes significant revisions to Vermont's climate and energy laws, including the repeal of the Affordable Heat Act and the citizen suit provision of the Global Warming Solutions Act. It redefines the state's greenhouse gas reduction requirements as goals rather than mandates and replaces the Renewable Energy Standard with a Clean Energy Standard. The bill establishes a target of achieving net zero greenhouse gas emissions by January 1, 2035, while ensuring alignment with the 2016 Paris Agreement. It also modifies the Vermont Climate Council's structure, making it advisory and expanding its membership to include representatives from municipal governments and rural communities, with a focus on equitable strategies for vulnerable populations.

Additionally, the bill introduces a Clean Energy Standard that mandates retail electricity providers to sell electricity generated from clean and renewable sources, with specific requirements for achieving 63% clean energy by January 1, 2025, and 100% by January 1, 2030. It defines a "customer with low income" and establishes categories under the CES to promote distributed renewable generation, particularly benefiting marginalized communities. The legislation emphasizes the need for accurate disclosures from electricity providers and outlines a Renewable Energy for Communities Program to ensure fair participation in renewable energy initiatives. Overall, S.110 aims to strengthen Vermont's commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and transitioning to a cleaner energy future.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 10-594, 10-578, 10-590, 10-591, 10-592, 10-593, 30-202a, 30-202b, 30-8002, 30-8004, 30-8005, 30-8006, 30-8008