Section 8125(e)(1)(A) of Act 18 calls for the Public Service Department to complete a thermal sector carbon reduction potential study no later than September 1, 2024. The primary objective of the potential study is to assess and quantify opportunities for carbon emissions reductions in Vermont’s thermal sector. The Department is currently under contact with Optimal Energy, a Hinesburg, Vermont consulting firm acquired by NV5 Global (Nolte Vertical 5) in 2021, to conduct the potential study analysis. NV5 is working with a subcontractor which specialized in renewable and emerging fuels, Energy+Environmental Economics (E3).
The results of the Potential Study will include the following:
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An assessment and quantification of technically available, economic, maximum achievable, and program achievable thermal resources.
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A comparison of potential lifecycle emissions reductions to the emissions reduction targets of the Global Warming Solutions Act (GWSA).
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Consideration and evaluation of market conditions for delivery of clean heat measures within Vermont, including an assessment of current workforce characteristics capable of meeting consumer demand as well as meeting the obligations of the GWSA.
The results of the potential study will be used in the context of the Public Utility Commission’s Cases 23-2220-RULE, and 23-2221-INV, to inform the establishment of clean heat measures, credit amounts needed to meet the Global Warming Solutions Act, as well as obligated party requirements.
The details of the Potential Study can be found in the contractor’s scope of work and project schedule.
Potential Study Stakeholder Engagement
The Public Service Department seeks engagement in the development of the Potential Study. In particular, people or organizations with specific knowledge relating to the technical, economic, and equity aspects of efficiency, sustainability, and systems resilience are invited to:
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Watch the recording of the March 7th Technical Advisory Group (TAG) meeting including an introduction to the Department’s contractors performing the Potential Study (NV5 and E3) and a discussion of the proposed Potential Study methods and assumptions. The discussion starts at time stamp 29:30 in the recording.
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Join public information meetings on the draft and final reports, to be announced.
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Email questions or comments related to the Potential Study to the Department of Public Service please email PSD.cleanheat@vermont.gov.