On November 21, 2024, Governor Maura Healey signed An Act promoting a clean energy grid, advancing equity, and protecting ratepayers into law. This landmark legislation will accelerate clean energy development, improve energy affordability, create jobs, and promote equitable infrastructure siting. The bill includes major reforms to clean energy permitting and siting processes, supports environmental justice, and introduces measures to lower energy costs for Massachusetts residents and businesses.

Key provisions of the law include:

• Siting and Permitting Reforms: Establishes clearer timelines for municipal and state permits for wind, solar, and other energy infrastructure, with appeals now directed to the state Supreme Judicial Court.
• Equitable Siting and Environmental Justice: Requires cumulative impact analysis for projects in environmental justice communities and establishes a fund to support under-resourced organizations in the siting process.
• Promotion of Clean Energy Technologies: Expands incentives for offshore wind, electric vehicles, and non-gas heating technologies.
• Energy Affordability: Offers expanded bill discounts to middle-class households and makes clean energy options more accessible.
• Workforce Support: Supports workers throughout the energy transition, including in the geothermal heat and offshore wind sectors.

Governor Healey emphasized that the reforms will strengthen the state’s clean energy infrastructure, lower costs, and create good jobs while addressing climate goals. She also acknowledged the significant collaboration between lawmakers, stakeholders, and the administration that made the bill possible.

The legislation also received praise from business and environmental leaders, who highlighted its potential to position Massachusetts as a leader in clean energy and environmental justice.

Source: ass.gov