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An Official Vermont Government Website

American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA)

Leveraging ARPA Funds for a Brighter Vermont Future

The American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) has brought unprecedented opportunities for Vermont to address pressing challenges and invest in its future. With the infusion of federal funding, the Vermont Department of Public Service is leading the charge to support a wide array of projects and programs that will benefit communities across the state. ARPA funds are being used to enhance Vermont's infrastructure, economy, and overall well-being.

  • Expanding High-Speed Broadband Access:
    • One of the most significant ARPA-funded initiatives is the expansion of high-speed broadband access throughout Vermont. The pandemic underscored the critical need for reliable internet connectivity for remote work, education, and healthcare. With ARPA funds, Vermont is making substantial investments to bridge the digital divide and ensure that every Vermonter has access to fast and reliable internet service, regardless of where they live.

 

  • Supporting Small Businesses:
    • Vermont's small businesses are the backbone of its economy, and they were significantly impacted by the pandemic. ARPA funds are being used to provide targeted support to small businesses through grants, loans, and technical assistance programs. These initiatives aim to help businesses recover, adapt, and thrive in a post-pandemic economy.

 

  • Affordable Housing Initiatives:
    • Affordable housing has been a longstanding concern in Vermont. ARPA funds are being channeled into initiatives that address this issue head-on. Investments in affordable housing projects, rental assistance programs, and homelessness prevention efforts are working to ensure that all Vermonters have access to safe and stable housing.

 

  • Clean Energy and Climate Resilience:
    • Vermont is committed to environmental sustainability and combating climate change. ARPA funds are being used to support renewable energy projects, energy efficiency upgrades, and climate resilience measures. These investments align with Vermont's long-term goals of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and transitioning to a carbon-free, sustainable future.

 

  • Workforce Development:
    • The workforce landscape has evolved in the wake of the pandemic, with new skills and training needs emerging. ARPA funds are being utilized to bolster workforce development programs, providing Vermonters with opportunities to acquire new skills, access education, and secure well-paying jobs in evolving industries.

 

  • Community Engagement and Input:
    • The success of ARPA-funded projects and programs relies on community engagement and input. Vermont actively seeks input from residents, businesses, and organizations to ensure that ARPA funds are used effectively to address the unique needs and priorities of different communities.

 

The American Rescue Plan Act has provided Vermont with a once-in-a-generation opportunity to invest in its future and address the challenges brought about by the pandemic. The Vermont Department of Public Service is committed to transparently and efficiently utilizing ARPA funds to support high-impact projects and programs that will benefit all Vermonters. Through broadband expansion, small business support, affordable housing initiatives, green energy projects, workforce development, and community engagement, Vermont is on a path to a brighter and more resilient future. Together, we can build a stronger and more prosperous Vermont for generations to come.

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Expanding Rural Broadband Access in Vermont

The Vermont Department of Public Service is proud to announce an exciting project funded by the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) aimed at expanding rural broadband access across the state. This project seeks to bridge the digital divide, ensuring that all Vermonters have access to reliable, high-speed internet connectivity.

Project Goals:

  • Connectivity for All: The primary goal of this project is to provide broadband access to unserved and underserved areas of Vermont, including rural communities, remote regions, and economically disadvantaged areas. By doing so, we aim to eliminate the digital divide and promote equal opportunities for education, healthcare, business growth, and overall quality of life.
  • High-Speed Internet: We are committed to delivering high-speed internet connections to these areas, with a focus on meeting or exceeding the Federal Communications Commission's broadband speed standards. This will enable Vermonters to access online resources, participate in remote work and learning, and engage in e-commerce activities seamlessly.
  • Reliable Infrastructure: The project will invest in building robust and resilient broadband infrastructure.  This will ensure that Vermonters have reliable and consistent internet access, even in challenging terrain or remote locations.
  • Oversight – the project will be overseen by the Vermont Community Broadband Board.  The board will develop policies and programs to accelerate community efforts that advance the State’s goal of achieving universal access to reliable, high-quality, affordable, fixed broadband achieving speeds of at least 100 Mbps symmetrical.

Project Implementation:

  • Partnerships: The Vermont Community Broadband Board (VCBB), an independent office within the Public Service Department, will collaborate with Communications Union Districts and local internet service providers to implement this project. By leveraging existing expertise and resources, we aim to maximize the efficiency and effectiveness of broadband deployment.
  • Mapping and Planning: We will conduct comprehensive mapping and planning exercises to identify areas with limited or no broadband access. This data-driven approach will help prioritize deployment efforts and ensure that resources are allocated where they are most needed.
  • Infrastructure Development: The project will involve the construction and installation of broadband infrastructure, including laying fiber-optic cables.  Infrastructure investments will be strategically planned to optimize coverage and minimize service gaps.
  • Community Engagement: We recognize the importance of engaging with local communities throughout the project. We will conduct public meetings and surveys to gather input from residents, businesses, and community organizations. This collaborative approach will ensure that the project aligns with the unique needs and aspirations of each community.
  • Job Creation: The expansion of broadband infrastructure will create job opportunities in Vermont. We are committed to supporting local employment by prioritizing the hiring of local contractors, technicians, and laborers. Additionally, we will work with educational institutions and workforce development programs to provide training and skill-building opportunities for Vermonters interested in careers in the broadband industry.
  • Monitoring and Evaluation: Throughout the project, we will closely monitor the progress and impact of broadband deployment. This will include regular assessments of broadband speeds, coverage areas, and user satisfaction. By collecting and analyzing data, we can make informed decisions and course corrections to ensure the project's success.

 

Project Timeline:

The ARPA-funded broadband expansion project is expected to be implemented over a multi-year period. The timeline will include various phases, such as mapping and planning, infrastructure development, community engagement, and ongoing monitoring and evaluation. Regular updates will be provided to keep Vermonters informed about the project's progress.

Project Benefits: The successful implementation of this ARPA-funded project will bring numerous benefits to Vermont:

  • Equitable Access: By expanding broadband access, we will bridge the digital divide and ensure that all Vermonters have equal opportunities to thrive in the digital age.
  • Economic Growth: Reliable high-speed internet will attract businesses, entrepreneurs, and remote workers to Vermont, fostering economic growth and job creation.
  • Education and Healthcare: Broadband access will enhance educational opportunities, enabling students to access online resources and participate in remote learning. It will also improve telehealth services, allowing Vermonters to receive quality healthcare remotely.
  • Quality of Life: Access to broadband will enhance communication, entertainment, and social connectivity, improving the overall quality of life for Vermonters.

Get Involved: We encourage Vermonters to stay engaged and provide input throughout the project. Visit our website for updates, attend public meetings, and participate in surveys to share your thoughts and help shape the future of broadband access in Vermont.

Together, we can build a connected and inclusive Vermont for all.

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Advancing Energy Efficiency in Vermont

The Vermont Department of Public Service is excited to announce opportunities funded by the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) aimed at advancing energy efficiency across the state. This project seeks to reduce energy consumption, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and promote sustainable practices in Vermont's residential, commercial, educational and industrial sectors.

Project Goals:

  • Energy Savings: The primary goal of this project is to achieve significant energy savings by implementing energy efficiency measures in buildings and facilities throughout Vermont. By reducing energy consumption, we aim to lower utility bills for Vermonters, enhance energy affordability, and contribute to the state's climate change mitigation efforts.
  • Greenhouse Gas Reduction: By promoting energy efficiency, this project will help Vermont meet its greenhouse gas reduction requirements. Energy-efficient buildings and facilities result in reduced carbon emissions, leading to a cleaner and more sustainable environment for current and future generations.
  • Job Creation: The project will stimulate job creation and economic growth by supporting the energy efficiency industry in Vermont. By investing in energy efficiency upgrades, we will create employment opportunities for contractors, energy auditors, technicians, and other skilled workers. ARPA funds are being used to grow the weatherization workforce in Vermont to support ongoing work in this sector.

Project Implementation:

  • Outreach and Education: The project includes outreach and education efforts to raise awareness about the benefits of energy efficiency and provide resources to Vermonters. This involves workshops, webinars, and informational campaigns to help residents, businesses, and organizations understand the importance of energy efficiency and the available incentives and programs.
  • Energy Audits and Assessments: Partners offer energy audits and assessments to identify energy-saving opportunities in buildings and facilities. These audits provide valuable insights into areas where energy efficiency improvements can be made, such as insulation, lighting, HVAC systems, and appliances.
  • Incentives and Rebates: To encourage energy efficiency upgrades, the project provides financial incentives and rebates to Vermonters who undertake energy-saving measures. These incentives may include grants, low-interest loans, or cash-back programs, making energy efficiency more accessible and affordable.
  • Partnerships: The Vermont Public Service Department collaborates with utilities, energy efficiency service providers and local organizations.  By leveraging existing expertise and resources, we aim to maximize the impact and reach of energy efficiency initiatives.

Monitoring and Evaluation: Throughout the funding cycles, we will closely monitor and evaluate the energy savings achieved through energy efficiency measures. This will help assess the effectiveness of projects, identify areas for improvement, and ensure that goals are being met.

Project Timeline: The ARPA-funded energy efficiency projects will be implemented over a multi-year period. The timeline will include various phases, such as outreach and education, energy audits and assessments, incentive programs, and ongoing monitoring and evaluation. Regular updates will be provided to keep Vermonters informed about the projects’ progress.

Project Benefits: The successful implementation of ARPA-funded projects will bring numerous benefits to Vermont:

  • Energy Savings: By implementing energy efficiency measures, Vermonters will experience reduced energy consumption, resulting in lower utility bills and increased energy affordability.
  • Environmental Impact: Energy efficiency upgrades will contribute to Vermont's climate change mitigation efforts by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting a cleaner and more sustainable environment.
  • Job Creation: The project will stimulate job creation and economic growth by supporting the energy efficiency industry in Vermont, creating employment opportunities for skilled workers.
  • Comfort and Health: Energy-efficient buildings and facilities provide improved comfort and indoor air quality, enhancing the well-being and health of Vermont residents.

Get Involved: We encourage Vermonters to stay engaged and take advantage of the energy efficiency resources and incentives offered. Visit our website for updates, attend workshops, and explore the available programs to make your home or business more energy-efficient. Together, we can make a significant impact on energy consumption, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and build a more affordable and sustainable future for Vermont.

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Clean Heat Standard

The Vermont Clean Heat Standard is a policy initiative aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions from heating fuels used in the state.

In 2023, the Vermont Legislature enacted S.5, the “Affordable Heat Act.”  By 2025, the Vermont Public Utility Commission must produce a report estimating the economic impact of the program on customers. At that time, the legislature must pass a second law to enact the full Clean Heat Standard.

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