New All-Electric Housing Initiative Underway in Brattleboro

These homes are engineered to achieve a remarkable 65% increase in energy efficiency compared to standard market offerings.

The largest cooperative mobile home park in Vermont, Tri-Park Mobile Home Park in Brattleboro, is undergoing a transformation with the introduction of an all-electric affordable housing project. This development comes 15 years after the area suffered significant damage during Tropical Storm Irene, marking a significant step toward revitalizing the community.

On Tuesday, representatives from Efficiency Vermont assessed the newly designed manufactured homes, which feature two bedrooms and two bathrooms. These homes are engineered to achieve a remarkable 65% increase in energy efficiency compared to standard market offerings. Project officials confirmed that the purpose of the visit was to ensure that all intended installations were successfully completed in the homes.

Amidst the upgrades, individuals affected by prior flooding events have the option to relocate into these new units. Program manager Tim Yandow highlighted the scale of this initiative, noting it as a significant project for the state. Efficiency Vermont joined the effort in 2023, aligning with its Advanced Manufacturing Home Program in a bid to expedite the production of factory-built homes.

Funding for this project is a collaborative effort, incorporating resources from local, state, and federal levels. The areas where former mobile homes stood will be transformed into green spaces, enhancing the community's environment. Officials plan to conduct ongoing evaluations of the homes once residents move in, which will inform future upgrades and improvements.

Discussions with potential residents in the floodplain showed mixed reactions; while some expressed eagerness about the prospect, others voiced concerns regarding the changes. The all-electric homes are anticipated to be available for new occupants by mid-August. Efficiency Vermont officials emphasized the importance of replacing outdated mobile homes with more sustainable options to meet the community's urgent needs.

Currently, the organization has facilitated the installation of approximately 30 similar homes across Vermont, and ongoing monitoring is expected to influence future housing developments in the state.