Welch celebrates success of energy efficiency retrofits at Vermont colleges

Funds provided by federal grant championed by Sen. Leahy and Rep. Welch

Today at Champlain College, Rep. Peter Welch celebrated the success of federally funded energy efficiency projects on seven Vermont campuses.  Federal funding for these projects was secured in 2007 by Welch and Senator Patrick Leahy.  Welch was joined by college presidents from the Association of Vermont Independent Colleges and representatives from Senator  Leahy’s office and the Preservation Trust of Vermont.  

“Investments in energy efficiency are a no-brainer.  They create jobs, save money, and improve the environment.  Efficiency retrofits made by these colleges are already yielding substantial savings on their energy bills.   In an era of escalating college tuition fees, I applaud their leaders for doing all they can to reduce energy costs that ultimately must be passed on to students and their families.  They have also taken advantage of the grants as an educational opportunity for students to learn about the latest techniques for responsible energy use that reduces environmental impact.”

In 2007, $1.5 million in federal funds was awarded to AVIC for energy efficiency upgrades, which went towards retrofit projects at Burlington College, Champlain College, College of St. Joseph, Green Mountain College, Goddard College, Marlboro College and Sterling College. Upgrades included investments in energy efficient lighting, thermal windows and doors, additional insulation, replaced window air conditioners and updated plumbing.

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