Vermont Electric Co-Op, Green Mountain Power work to improve remote broadband access

Vermont Electric Co-op (VEC) and Green Mountain Power (GMP) have launched an initiative to help residents in remote areas have better broadband access.

The Broadband Deployment Program will lower the cost for broadband providers to connect customers in remote areas across the state by offering up to $2,000 per unserved location for infrastructure connection costs.

The program, approved by the Vermont Public Utility Commission, seeks to create greater equity for customers. If broadband companies fully enroll for the discounts, more than 10,000 customers who currently do not have broadband could be connected by the end of 2022.

“VEC knows our rural communities need broadband to thrive,” VEC CEO Rebecca Towne said. “This new program is an important step to accelerate connectivity in Vermont and offset the cost of reaching those without internet. As utilities, we are experienced in supporting critical infrastructure, and this additional investment will advance rural connectivity and the future vitality of our region.”

The program lowers the cost to broadband providers for the preparation and infrastructure work needed to deliver broadband service. Often that involves stringing fiber along a route and making sure there is room for internet service providers’ equipment on distribution poles.

“The pandemic exposed connectivity inequities across Vermont that our state must address quickly using all available technologies and resources. This is a practical, cost-effective solution we can put to work now to help change that,” Mari McClure, GMP president and CEO, said. “In addition to the economic, educational and social benefits, more customers will be able to access GMP’s cost-saving and carbon-reducing programs and services since many of the technologies involved require reliable Internet service.”

The program was developed in response to the Department of Public Service’s call to action last year to use all available resources to deploy broadband service to Vermonters.

“Getting reliable high-speed broadband to unserved and underserved communities is as essential as access to phone and electrical service. It affects access to healthcare, education, and employment and can help reduce feelings of social isolation, which can improve overall wellbeing,” Chris Campany with the Windham Regional Commission said. “This is an all-hands-on-deck situation, and anything that can be done to facilitate the critical make ready work should be done, and we applaud VEC and GMP for being part of the solution.”