Environment (Climate Change)

H 62 repeals Vermont's Global Warming Solutions Act, specifically removing the Vermont Climate Council and replacing mandatory greenhouse gas reduction requirements with voluntary "goals." It amends state law to change emissions targets from legally binding requirements to non-binding goals, removes the requirement for state agencies to consider emissions in decisions, and repeals the Low Emission Vehicle Rules. These changes would shift climate policy from a structured, mandated approach to a more flexible framework without oversight. The bill takes effect July 1, 2025.

This bill changes Vermont's legal framework for greenhouse gas emissions by replacing "reduction requirements" with "reduction goals" in state law. It directs state agencies to consider emissions impacts in decisions about equipment, buildings, and programs, and requires the Vermont Climate Council to adopt and update a Climate Action Plan by 2021 (with updates every four years) to outline specific strategies for meeting these goals. The plan must include measurable initiatives, progress tracking, and resilience strategies for communities affected by climate change. These changes clarify the state's commitment to emissions reductions while providing a structured process for implementing and reporting on climate action.

H.181 extends the Building Energy Code Working Group's term and directs Vermont's Public Service Department to create a framework for measuring energy savings from building code compliance. It requires the Department to develop an annual methodology for calculating and reporting greenhouse gas reductions linked to energy-efficient construction. The bill also updates the Residential Builder Registry and addresses inconsistent enforcement of energy codes across residential (up to three stories) and commercial buildings. These changes aim to improve compliance with Vermont's energy standards, which currently apply to 54% of residential and 87% of commercial projects, supporting the state's goal of "net zero ready" buildings by 2030.

H 354 creates a new "thermal efficiency benefits charge" that Vermont utility customers using unregulated fuels (like oil or propane for heating) would pay as a separate line item on their bills starting July 1, 2025. The funds collected would go into an Electric Efficiency Fund to support programs, including a 25% incentive for installing high-efficiency biomass heating systems (without requiring other energy upgrades). The charge aims to fund societally cost-effective thermal efficiency programs that help meet greenhouse gas reduction goals under Vermont law. It directly affects residential and commercial customers of unregulated fuels, not electricity or natural gas utility customers.

H.518 proposes to repeal the State Climate Superfund Cost Recovery Program. If enacted, the Agency of Natural Resources would not be required to establish or implement this program. The bill would also eliminate the requirement for the State Treasurer to assess the cost of greenhouse gas emissions to Vermont and its residents. Any state positions authorized for the program or assessment would be terminated, and appropriated funds would be returned to the General Fund.

This bill amends Vermont's State Energy Policy to explicitly prioritize economic equity and beneficial electrification. It requires the Public Utility Commission to evaluate energy resources using these principles, alongside reducing greenhouse gas emissions and cost-effectiveness. The policy now mandates that energy planning must align with Vermont's greenhouse gas reduction targets under 10 V.S.A. § 578 and the Climate Action Plan. These changes directly affect how Vermont's energy strategy is developed and implemented by state agencies. The bill takes effect July 1, 2025.