Plan outlines Company’s commitment to combat climate change and maintain foundational values
South Burlington, Vt. – VGS today filed its Integrated Resource Plan (IRP), reaffirming its commitment to act now on climate change and offer customers a decarbonized thermal energy future. The IRP addresses VGS’s commitment to meeting the thermal energy needs of current customers safely and affordably and creating a pathway to Net Zero by 2050.
“After a year filled with uncertainty, looking ahead to the next 20 years was a welcome exercise for our team,” said Neale Lunderville, VGS President and CEO. “Even when the pandemic is over, we will still face another public health crisis: climate change. The VGS team remains steadfast in our commitment to make homes and businesses as tight as possible, to help customers make the smartest energy choices, and to ensure our energy supply is increasingly more renewable as we approach mid-century.”
In addition to outlining the Company’s climate commitment, the IRP forecasts customers’ demand for energy services for the next 20 years and evaluates the resources and strategies available to deliver on safe, reliable, and affordable low-to-no-carbon energy.
“VGS has proven programs to help customers lower their bills, use less energy, and be more comfortable on the coldest days of the year,” Lunderville said. “While we pursue energy innovation, we will never compromise on safety and affordability. VGS is both pro-climate and pro-affordability, and we will continue to advocate on behalf of our customers without backing away from the fight to protect our planet.”
The IRP VGS files today represents a shift from prior planning models. While the Company will continue to add customers within its existing footprint, this plan considers decreasing natural gas loads and strategies under which VGS can promote such further reductions through efficiency and weatherizations, as well as meeting the needs of customers through expanded energy services.
“Our region is fortunate to be served by a utility such as VGS that can balance the crucial work we need on affordability, safety, and climate action,” said Austin Davis, Government Affairs Manager at Lake Champlain Chamber. “VGS’s commitment to transforming to meet the challenges of our time exemplifies Vermont’s leadership.”
The IRP will be reviewed by the Public Utility Commission in a proceeding that will include a public hearing and opportunity for input. Read the full plan here.
About VGS
VGS is a leader in energy efficiency and innovation, offering a clean, safe, affordable choice for over 54,000 homes, businesses, and institutions in Franklin, Chittenden and Addison counties. The company plays an important role in Vermont’s clean energy future by displacing higher-emitting fuels, offering renewable natural gas service, and delivering award-winning energy efficiency programs. VGS is leading the country in the development of local renewable energy generation and has targeted a 30% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and becoming Net Zero by 2050. For more information about Vermont Gas visit www.vgsvt.com
Media Contact
Dylan Giambatista
(802) 391-6475
dgiambatista@vermontgas.com