Bill tracks PUC recommendations to recognize and lightly regulate thermal energy networks
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Summary
H.609 would implement PUC recommendations from an Act 142 (2024) report by defining Thermal Energy Exchange Networks (TENS) in statute, add permissible purposes for entities such as fire districts, and generally favor light‑touch regulation to spur development.
Representative Scott Campbell presented H.609, which mirrors language recommended by the Public Utility Commission following a statutory charge in Act 142 of 2024 and a PUC report dated Oct. 20, 2025. Sponsor summarized the PUC definition: "Thermal Energy Exchange Networks is the official name...defined as, quote, all real estate, fixtures, and personal property operated, owned, or used or to be used for or in connection with...a distribution infrastructure project that supplies thermal energy to more than 1 household dwelling unit or network of buildings not commonly owned."
The bill would add TENS to the permissible purposes for creating fire districts or other political entities that could develop or operate such systems, while excluding certain categories from PUC jurisdiction. Members discussed the role of fire districts and other multi‑town entities as vehicles for regional cooperation, and noted Vermont Gas and other utilities have run pilots. The sponsor and members emphasized the intention of light regulatory treatment to encourage deployment, with the understanding that the PUC or Legislature could adopt further regulations if issues arise.
Next steps: the committee asked to hear from the PUC, Vermont Gas (which has run pilots), municipal stakeholders and utilities to understand governance, funding and where PUC oversight would apply.