No, they didn’t “take a 7th inning stretch”; they didn’t “build a bridge to a clean energy future” … they just went bridge, in the lingo of Dennis Eckersley:
Last night the MA Senate unanimously passed S.2545, a legitimately outstanding energy/climate bill, a huge step towards converting our economy to renewable energy and reducing emissions. And now your state reps need to hear from you. House Energy Chair Thomas Golden has made some mildly encouraging noises about energy legislation lately, but all state reps need to hear the noise. I’d have to imagine Charlie Baker would sign it if it has the same bipartisan support that the Senate bill displayed.
The précis from the MA Sierra Club:
“The bill increases the Renewable Portfolio Standard [RPS] to a 3% increase per year, up from the current 1%, which would allow Massachusetts to achieve 50% renewable energy by 2030. It also expands procurement of offshore wind to 5,000 megawatts (up from the current 1,600 megawatts) while removing the solar net metering cap and expanding access to solar energy for low income consumers. Additionally, the bill directs the state pension fund to divest from coal – among many other provisions. “
RPS standards are one of the most effective ways to fight climate change currently in practice. They work, creating huge health, economic and climate benefits. We are now at parity with climate leaders California, New York and Vermont.
Here is the list of amendments — some interesting things in here, like electrification of the state’s vehicle fleet; making anaerobic digestion gas plants eligible for renewable energy credits; making public housing available for solar credits, etc.
I like it, especially the elimination of the cap – just left a message for my rep!
And I heard back from him – Brian Murray is in favor of the senate bill!