The Clean Heat Standard, a significant carbon reduction strategy proposed by the Vermont Climate Council, will not become law after Governor Phil Scott vetoed it. The legislature did not challenge this decision in the final days of the 2022 session. Despite the council’s push for both the Transportation Climate Initiative and the Clean Heat Standard, neither was passed.
To comply with the Global Warming Solutions Act, Vermont needs to reduce its carbon dioxide emissions by approximately 1.26 million metric tons, equivalent to 124 million gallons of heating oil. By 2030, Vermont is required to cut down 3.46 million metric tons of CO2 emissions, comparable to all gasoline and diesel fuel sold in the state in 2021. Failure to meet these targets could result in legal action forcing immediate government intervention, potentially including a ban on fossil fuel-burning equipment.
The Clean Heat Standard was designed as a performance standard requiring fuel dealers in Vermont to either reduce their sales of oil heat, propane, natural gas, and kerosene or pay others to do so on their behalf.
For motor fuels like gasoline and diesel, plans include incentives for electric vehicle purchases and more charging stations across Vermont. By 2035, there is a proposal to ban new combustion engine car sales. However, some lawmakers and lobbyists express concerns that these measures may be insufficient to meet the mandates set by the Global Warming Solutions Act.
