PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release – May 20, 2024
Contact:
Molly Willard, Wood Energy and Forest Products Specialist
Department of Forests, Parks, and Recreation
molly.willard@vermont.gov, 802-261-1681
Vermont Schools Eligible for Advanced Wood Heating Funds:
Supporting Local Renewable Energy Solutions
Montpelier, VT - The Vermont Department of Forests, Parks, and Recreation (FPR) was awarded a $300,000 Wood Innovation Grant from the United States Forest Service (USFS) to facilitate the installation of advanced wood heating systems in Vermont schools. These funds will be distributed on a first-come, first-served rolling basis, with FPR currently accepting project applications.
Through the program, individual schools can receive up to $25,000 in grant funds to install or upgrade advanced wood heat systems. FPR offers a complimentary technical feasibility assessment through the USFS to ensure the selected system meets heating requirements while adhering to air quality and efficiency standards.
Craftsbury Academy received a similar grant in 2022, leading to significant benefits. Joe Houston, Director of Operations at Orleans Southwest Supervisory Union shared his enthusiasm, “The wood pellet boiler system installed at Craftsbury Academy has been an excellent improvement. We went from burning 5,600 gallons of propane in 2022 to less than 200 gallons in 2023, primarily for summer hot water heating. The system's ease of operation and maintenance, along with the stability of the biomass fuel market, have simplified budgeting for us.”
Lew McCreery of the USFS expresses enthusiasm for supporting Vermont's sustainable initiatives: “We are excited to provide technical and financial support to Vermont’s efforts in maintaining and expanding the use of wood for climate and economic benefits across communities."
This grant-funded program aligns with renewable energy goals, utilizing locally sourced wood to offset fossil fuel usage, thereby saving schools money, reducing net greenhouse gas emissions, and bolstering local economies.
To learn more, visit FPR’s school wood energy incentives page.
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