An Act relative to the Energy Facilities Siting Board

This bill establishes an Energy Facilities Siting Board within the Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources to oversee the approval of major energy projects. The board will evaluate the environmental and public health impacts of transmission lines, gas pipelines, storage facilities, and oil facilities while considering costs and local resident wellbeing. For generating facilities like power plants, the board will focus solely on environmental impacts, leaving market forces to determine the need and cost. The legislation also requires the board to consult with the Department of Fish and Game and the Department of Public Health when specific environmental or health concerns are raised.