The University of Vermont is committed to using electricity, fuel and water efficiently. Physical Plant project engineering professionals oversee large and small energy projects with the goal of lowering utility costs,while reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.

Funding for energy efficiency projects comes from several sources. Since 1992, a $125,000 energy revolving loan fund administered within Physical Plant has been used to finance many small projects conducted with assistance from local utility companies which provide rebates which are funneled back into the revolving fund. Projects have also been funded through bonds, borrowing, and by taking longer term and life cycle costs into account during new building construction. A larger $13M Energy Revolving Fund, administered by the University Controllers Office, was established in 2012. This enables funding from UVM’s cash-on-hand reserves to be used for energy projects that have a payback of less than seven years. Lastly, a separate student-funded Clean Energy Fund  supports student initiated projects which address renewable energy education and student engagement.