Power Purchasing | James Gibbons

Executive Director Grace Oedel of NOFA Vermont joins us to discuss the vital role food and farming systems play in local resilience and sustainability. Discover how building a strong, community-focused food shed aligns directly with our Net Zero Energy goals. Grace shares critical insights on mitigating climate impacts, supporting local farmers, navigating systemic challenges, and strengthening community connections. Learn how everyday choices regarding food access, organic farming, and supporting local markets contribute to a thriving, ecologically sound future for all Vermonters.

Molly Webb, Climate Action Advisor at Shelburne Farms, explores how the iconic non-profit farm is actively pursuing its Net Zero strategic goals by 2028. Discover how local initiatives—ranging from land carbon sequestration and innovative biochar application in dairy operations to electric cooking retrofits and geothermal heat pump adoption—are driving real-world climate action. Learn how these sustainable farm practices, renewable energy expansions, and nature-based solutions are directly integrated into community educational programming to inspire actionable environmental stewardship throughout the region.

Ben Sachs-Hamilton, Conference Coordinator of the Northeast Sustainable Energy Association, shares insights on sustainable building practices throughout New England. Discover how regional Pro Tours showcase cutting-edge facilities, including the new all-electric Burlington High School. Learn about low embodied carbon materials, indoor air quality benefits, commercial kitchen electrification, and innovative clean energy solutions advancing our progress toward Net Zero Energy. Explore how community members, building professionals, and local residents can engage with upcoming educational events and transformative regional sustainability networking opportunities.

Ben Rich, Commercial Energy Advisor at VGS, shares his experiences taking long road trips on electric motorcycles. Discover how clean vehicle technology has evolved, from battery range improvements and versatile charging options to overcoming range anxiety. Ben dispels common myths regarding electric vehicles, highlights the advantages of quiet electric dirt bikes, and reflects on memorable human connections made while charging across the nation. Tune in to explore how adopting electric transit can advance our collective journey toward Net Zero Energy.

James Gibbons, the Director of Policy and Planning at Burlington Electric Department, joins Net Zero Energy to pull back the curtain on managing a 100% renewable energy portfolio. Discover how Burlington balances internal resources like the McNeil Station and Winooski One hydro plant with external power contracts to keep your lights on sustainably. Gibbons shares insider insights into navigating complex regional energy markets, dealing with global supply chain disruptions, and keeping local electric rates affordable for our community.

Nate Gunesch, a DOE Energy Innovator Fellow, joins us to discuss the exciting Building GIANTS program. Discover how smart buildings using electric heating and cooling systems are being converted into thermal batteries. This innovative approach to flexible load management helps reduce peak power demand, lowers carbon emissions, and saves money for Burlington residents. Learn about commercial and residential opportunities to easily participate, including new financial incentives for local heat pump owners. Help our City achieve Net Zero Energy today.

Burlington Mayor Emma Mulvaney-Stanak joins the Net Zero Energy podcast to discuss the city's critical climate resilience and adaptation strategies. Discover how municipal departments are breaking down silos to integrate equity, affordable green infrastructure, and ecological solutions into future planning. Learn about exciting updates regarding wastewater phosphorus removal, public EV charging, and a responsible local energy transition. This landmark 100th episode offers residents an incredibly transparent look at building a sustainable, healthy, and resilient Burlington community for every single neighbor.

Kelly Stoddard, the associate state director from AARP, discusses how aging well in Burlington connects with sustainable transit options. Discover how sidewalk maintenance, slower speed limits, and protected bike lanes create a safer environment for everyone. We explore the impact of local bus service reductions and how electric bikes help seniors stay active. Learn about Burlington Electric Department point of sale rebates that make clean transportation affordable. Join us to build social capital and support Burlington's Net Zero Energy future.

Burlington Electric Department Policy and Equity Analyst Ita Meno discusses an exciting new multi-lingual video library designed to demystify household energy decisions. Funded by an American Public Power Association DEED grant, this project translates crucial information on weatherization, efficient heating and cooling, electric appliances, and transportation alternatives into 18 different languages. Discover how these accessible resources help residents lower utility bills and maintain comfortable lifestyles without giving up modern conveniences.

Chris Burns, the Director of Energy Services at Burlington Electric Department, joins the podcast to share the fascinating history and future of the city’s Energy Efficiency Utility. Discover how BED establishes deep community trust, goes across the threshold to assist local homes and businesses, and partners with Vermont Gas to deliver unified energy solutions. Learn how strategic beneficial electrification and targeted weatherization work hand-in-hand to lower utility loads, maximize comfort, and advance Burlington's Net Zero Energy goals.