This bill requires Mass Save program administrators to offer free "zero-carbon assessments" to building owners, identifying measures to eliminate fossil fuel use (like insulation, window upgrades, and electric appliances) and listing available rebates. The assessments include safety checks for gas appliances and carbon monoxide, resulting in a report showing cost savings, health benefits, and a sample energy-efficient plan combining efficiency upgrades, solar, and storage. Utilities must collect and publish detailed energy data by zip code, and contractors must meet quality standards with preference for women/minority-owned businesses and those serving environmental justice communities. The policy applies to energy efficiency plans starting in 2025-2027.
This bill allows the town of Brookline to create its own zoning rules focused on reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving energy efficiency in buildings. It directly affects Brookline residents, property owners, and developers by enabling local regulations on building materials, solar systems, heating/cooling equipment, and utility connections (like electric vehicle charging). Key provisions protect these local rules from being blocked by the state Attorney General, covering areas like emissions from construction, building energy use, and renewable energy infrastructure. The bill specifically authorizes Brookline to implement measures addressing climate impacts through zoning, without conflicting with state building codes or utility regulations.
H 4144 creates a new funding mechanism to support building decarbonization and energy efficiency programs across Massachusetts. It imposes a 2.5 mills per kilowatt-hour charge on electricity consumers (excluding municipal light plant users) and pools funds from cap-and-trade programs and other sources to finance these initiatives. The law requires 20% of these funds to target low-income residential buildings, with additional priority for moderate-income households, renters, and small businesses. Electric distribution companies and municipal energy groups must submit a statewide decarbonization plan every three years, detailing cost-effective programs to reduce fossil fuel use and energy costs while meeting greenhouse gas targets.
By Representatives Decker of Cambridge and Domb of Amherst, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 2389) of Marjorie C. Decker relative to the health impacts and costs of emissions associated with grid electricity and delivered fuels, and the benefits of energy conservation, energy efficiency and renewable energy. Public Health.
By Mr. Mark, a petition (accompanied by bill) (subject to Joint Rule 12) of Paul W. Mark for legislation to promote energy conservation in residential buildings through the installation of energy-conserving windows. Housing.
By Mr. Mark, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 2301) of Paul W. Mark, Lindsay N. Sabadosa, Natalie M. Blais, Joanne M. Comerford and others for legislation relative to investor-owned utilities and expedited approval processes ensuring timely access to funds for energy efficiency and conservation programs. Telecommunications, Utilities and Energy.
By Mr. Mark, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 2644) (subject to Joint Rule 12) of Paul W. Mark for legislation to promote energy conservation in residential buildings through the installation of energy-conserving windows. Housing.
This bill requires Massachusetts state agencies to assess whether clean energy policies will increase costs for households or businesses before implementation. It mandates that all new energy, emissions, or transportation regulations include an affordability and competitiveness review, evaluating impacts on residential energy costs and business operating expenses. Agencies must modify proposals if impacts are unreasonable or adopt alternative approaches to protect affordability, and must publish these assessments 30 days prior to adoption. The law applies to all state departments and authorities managing energy, climate, or utility programs, ensuring clean energy transitions do not disproportionately burden ratepayers or harm economic competitiveness.
