Dandelion Energy and Vermont Gas (VGS) have partnered to bring renewable geothermal heating and cooling to the Riggs Meadow affordable housing development in Hinesburg, Vermont.
According to the companies, the model is the first of its kind for a natural gas utility, introducing a new approach to clean energy development where gas utility investment can unlock geothermal systems for residential customers.
“This partnership with utilities like VGS helps us expand geothermal access and continues to help us make this a standard, mainstream solution for developers and builders,” said Dan Yates, CEO of Dandelion Energy. “Utility-owned ground loops are a practical, immediate solution to decarbonize housing. We are proud to support and validate this model that aligns utility infrastructure investment with equitable, clean energy access.”
Riggs Meadow will feature 44 townhomes and apartments designed for low- and moderate-income renters and owners. Champlain Housing Trust and Evernorth worked with VGS to explore geothermal heating and cooling options prior to partnering with Dandelion Energy.
As part of the collaboration, VGS is investing in the upfront cost of installing geothermal ground loops, reducing the barrier to deploying the technology for the developer and for future residents. Dandelion will serve as an end-to-end partner, including system design and drilling.
“Geothermal is one of the best solutions we have to make cost-effective, renewable heating and cooling options accessible to more Vermonters,” said Neale Lunderville, president and CEO of VGS. “As Vermont looks to rapidly build housing to meet demand, our teams are eager to incorporate geothermal into our product portfolio to give more choices to home builders and customers.”
The drilling of geothermal boreholes will commence early next year, with residents occupying the homes in late 2027, according to the companies.
Dandelion’s geothermal heating and cooling system captures stable, year-round underground temperatures to help provide efficient, all-electric comfort from a renewable source. The company raised $40 million in Series C funding in 2024 and has since partnered with Lennar for geothermal installations at 14 communities in Colorado as well as with Dream Finders Homes and Ward Communities for geothermal installation in 129 homes in Maryland.
