As Ann Arbor, Michigan, starts its journey to create a sustainable energy utility (S.E.U.) to meet the city’s aggressive goal of becoming net-zero by 2030, local leaders look to successful models like the DC Sustainable Energy Utility and Efficiency Vermont, which are both operated by VEIC. The New York Times interviewed CEO Rebecca Foster to understand where the idea started, how the model has evolved over time, and what benefits statewide efficiency and clean energy programs deliver for local communities.

When asked how the model improved the energy efficiency and savings experience previously run by separate utilities with varying program criteria, Foster shared that “simplifying all of that with one statewide program that could have a uniform and consistent approach with the market was the solution.” She added that since its inception, Vermont’s energy efficiency program has lowered energy costs by $3.3 billion for residents.

Read the full story in the Climate Forward series here.