Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker Highlights Solar

Last week, Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker made keeping the Massachusetts solar industry growing a priority in his State of the Commonwealth address. Now it’s up to the Legislature to get the job done with smart policy.

Restrictive caps on the Massachusetts net metering program have stalled solar development in nearly half of the state. Projects that would deliver families, small businesses, schools and other entities in 171 cities and towns across the state real economic savings are unable to move forward until the net metering caps are raised. Local jobs, taxpayer savings, reduced electric bills and improved public health are being lost every day.

The state’s 16,000 solar workers and millions of solar supporters need lawmakers to act quickly to lift the net metering caps—and to do it right. The state needs a strong program that fairly compensates customers and gives both industry and consumers the confidence they need to continue investing in this once-bright spot in the Massachusetts economy.

Last year, the legislatively-created Net Metering Task Force, which included lawmakers, utilities, consumer advocates and the solar industry, reported that for every $1 invested in Massachusetts solar, the Commonwealth reaps $2.50 in benefits to ratepayers. Affordable solar power is ready to lower consumer costs, meet our growing energy needs and achieve those laudable climate goals that Governor Baker noted.