A new energy future for Massachusetts
We may finally be at a breakthrough moment for energy policy in Massachusetts.
The Massachusetts Legislature has debated major changes to our energy policy in the past few months. And with growing alarm over global warming, energy security and skyrocketing oil prices, our leaders on Beacon Hill are making a change.
In November, after months of work by Environment Massachusetts’ staff, the Massachusetts House passed a bold energy bill—one that could mean a five-fold increase in the electricity we’ll get from wind, solar and other forms of clean, renewable energy, and a significant decrease in the total energy we’ll consume, thanks to energy-efficient technologies.
Environment Massachusetts staff worked with House Speaker Sal DiMasi (Boston), Rep. Brian Dempsey (Haverhill) and a broad coalition of other advocates and businesses to spearhead the passage of a bold energy bill in the House.
Real energy solutions
The bill—currently being considered by the Senate—marks a significant shift in the way the commonwealth approaches energy. At present, more than 94 percent of our power still comes from dangerous sources like coal, oil, gas and nuclear.
Massachusetts can build high-performance homes and businesses that reduce energy waste, and we can produce far more clean, renewable energy from wind and solar power. Solutions like energy efficiency and renewable energy stabilize energy bills, create local jobs, and cut global warming pollution from power plants.
As the bill advances through the Senate, Environment Massachusetts is working to ensure that the final version sent to Gov. Deval Patrick’s desk will remain strong.
“The Legislature and governor have the opportunity to finally put in place solutions that will guide Massachusetts to a new energy future, which includes barring subsidies for technologies that increase global warming pollution and ensuring clear and consistent support for renewable energy,” said Diana Connett, Environment Massachusetts’ energy associate.
The new bill would mean more power from clean sources, like this windmill in Hull.
