Heating Efficiency Bill Up For Action

MONTPELIER, Vt.—A legislative committee Tuesday approved another bid to set up an energy efficiency utility aimed at cutting use of heating fuels, and lawmakers hope they've made enough changes from last year's version to avoid another veto by Gov. Jim Douglas.

The measure, approved by the House Natural Resources and Energy Committee, would set up a new program to promote and manage efficiency efforts aimed at buildings. Supporters cited estimates that Vermonters could cut $300 million off the more than $800 million per year they spend now to heat homes, businesses and other buildings.