On November 14, the Massachusetts legislature passed S.2967, “An Act promoting a clean energy grid, advancing equity and protecting ratepayers.”
The climate bill was announced after significant pressure from environmental justice and clean energy advocates following the failed passage of major climate reforms months prior. This legislation addresses the pressing climate crisis by facilitating a path away from polluting fossil fuels and toward the streamlined adoption of clean energy resources.
A Massachusetts solar project by Bluewave.
“Now, more than ever, state-level legislation is crucial in transitioning towards clean energy. We applaud legislators for passing this bill and recognizing that we urgently need to address the climate crisis, while also prioritizing equity in the process,” said Vote Solar’s Northeast Director, Elena Weissmann. “We congratulate the Senate and House leadership and the advocates who did not take the pressure off, for the passing of this bill.”
The bill introduces significant changes to the siting and permitting of energy infrastructure, which will accelerate the transition to renewable resources like solar energy in the Commonwealth, as well as a plan to phase out methane gas programs without jeopardizing low-to-moderate income ratepayers. Additionally, the bill lays the groundwork for a distributed and resilient grid of the future by incorporating battery storage and electric vehicle charging infrastructure.
“We are thrilled that the bill prioritizes a strong cumulative impact assessment for new energy projects that are rooted in environmental justice principles. This assessment requires new energy projects to fully take into account the historic and ongoing burdens experienced by communities that have been disproportionately impacted by climate change and the current energy system,” said Weissmann. “We look forward to working with partners on facilitating the transition away from polluting infrastructure and onto renewable energy projects that directly benefit frontline communities.”
News item from Vote Solar