By Bob Katzen

Gov. Healey signed into law climate/energy legislation that supporters say will make systemic changes to the state’s clean energy infrastructure which will help the state achieve its net zero emissions by 2050 goals, and also expand electric vehicle use and infrastructure, and protect residents and ratepayers.

“Accelerating clean energy development will create good jobs, lower costs, attract more businesses to Massachusetts and grow our climatetech economy,” said Healey. “This legislation includes important provisions to lower energy costs for families and businesses, including expanding bill discounts to middle-class households and increasing access to clean energy measures that reduce customer expenses such as solar, heat pumps and electric vehicles. These reforms will also end the years-long delays for solar, wind and other critical electric infrastructure, which play a critical role in our ability to be a global leader in clean energy and climatetech.”

“This legislation advances critical updates for the siting and permitting of clean energy infrastructure, ensuring a supportive and reliable electric grid and building out electric vehicle charging infrastructure, among so many other things,” said Rep. Jeff Roy (D-Franklin), House Chair of the Committee on Telecommunications, Utilities and Energy. “By overhauling outdated state permitting and siting processes, the commonwealth aims to secure an equitable, accelerated buildout of clean energy generation and infrastructure that we need to reach our climate goals and power our electrified clean energy future.”

“This comprehensive law is a reminder of the power Massachusetts has to advance groundbreaking climate solutions—no matter who is in power in D.C.,” said Sen. Cindy Creem (D-Newton), chair of the Senate Committee on Global Warming and Climate Change. “The law includes a wide range of policies that move us closer to net-zero emissions, including essential reforms to our gas system. By preventing gas investments that are both imprudent and contrary to our climate mandates, the bill will keep costs down and prevent wasteful spending of ratepayers’ hard-earned money.”