Massachusetts’ Bill Combats Climate Crisis by Prioritizing Equitable Clean Energy Solutions
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 14, 2024
Boston, MA – On November 14, the Massachusetts legislature passed S.2967, a robust climate bill advancing our clean energy future.
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 towards the streamlined adoption of clean energy resources.
“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.”
About Vote Solar
Vote Solar is an energy justice non-profit working towards a 100% clean energy future by bringing solar to the mainstream. Founded in 2002, Vote Solar advocates for clean energy in legislative and regulatory arenas at the state level, where most decisions about electricity are made. Despite powerful opposition, we use a winning combination of deep policy expertise, coalition building, and public engagement to get the job done.