Massachusetts Energy Reform

Establishing a clean, secure and affordable energy system has been a top priority for Massachusetts Governor Patrick since his term began in 2007. Patrick signed into law comprehensive energy reform legislation that advances energy efficiency and renewable energy to help the state lower its GHG emissions and keep energy costs low for consumers.

Background

Energy advocacy in Massachusetts is of critical importance, not only to the Commonwealth but to the region as a whole. ENE recently engaged in intensive efforts to develop a policy...
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Massachusetts Energy Reform

The legislation (SB 2768) is the result of coordinated efforts amongst environmental and consumer advocates, lawmakers and other stakeholders to identify and advance policies that will help the state reach its GHG emissions targets while strengthening the economy.

Some of the top priority energy reforms in the bill include:

  • utility procurement of all cost-effective efficiency for electric and natural gas customers
  • new energy procurement stakeholder council
  • an increase in the RPS requiring utilities to get 15% of their power from renewables by 2020
  • long-term contracting for renewables
  • measures encourage development of high-efficiency combined heat and power (CHP)
  • allocation of at least 80% of auction revenues from sales of RGGI emissions allowances to help fund increased investments in energy efficiency programs


A strong and diverse coalition of stakeholders supported the bill -- including ENE and other environmental advocates, business community members, three utilities, low-income advocates, administrators and legislators. All collaborated to craft legislation that would deliver real environmental and economic benefits.

 

Complementing the Green Communities Act, the Massachusetts DPU passed an order that decouples utility revenues from sales. ENE and other environmental and consumer groups strongly advocated the order, because decoupling is an important step toward maximizing efficiency investments.

 

One additional policy that complements the energy package is the Global Warming Solutions Act. Collectively, these initiatives establish goals for achieving a cleaner energy supply, reducing reliance on polluting fossil fuels, and cutting carbon emissions.