Comment Periods

Unprecedented Surge in Regulatory Proceedings Creates Opportunities for Public Input on Energy and Environment

Comment periods on environmental regulations and legislation

As recent Massachusetts climate and environmental justice legislation comes into effect, the state is re-examining regulations and public engagement processes. The effect has been a notable increase in requests for public input. The upside is that our agencies and the utilities they should be regulating are now mandated by law to consider public input.

To help get the word out, No Fracked Gas in Mass will be posting these notices and descriptions and comment periods for the issues in these dockets.


» See NFGiM Presentation “Creating System Change” on working with State entities on laws and regulations

COMMENT DEADLINE: Friday December 20th, 2024

Westfield Battery Project

Westfield ESS LLC proposes to construct a 200 MW/800 MWh BESS, located on the Project Site on Medeiros Way in Westfield (also known as Summit Lock Road). The BESS would charge with power from the electric grid during periods when there is excess energy and deliver power back onto the electric grid during times when there is a higher need for electricity. The proceeding does not involve the rates that utilities charge their customers. The Project would use lithium-ion batteries housed in approximately 219 above-ground enclosures. Each BESS enclosure would be approximately 19.7 feet long, 7.9 feet wide, and 9.5 feet tall, and would arrive at the Project Site pre-assembled. Each BESS unit would be on pier foundations and would be set on concrete pads and surrounded by a concrete curb. The concrete pads would be surrounded by crushed stone and/or gravel. Each BESS unit would be managed by an integrated cooling and heating system for thermal safety, and contain sensors supporting embedded monitoring and controls, as well as electrical interface equipment, including industry standard breakers for alternating current protection. The Project would also include power conversion systems, medium-voltage transformers on concrete slabs and pier foundations, medium voltage cables, and other electric infrastructure (collectively, the “Collection System”).

The Department conducted a public comment hearing with both in-person and remote participation options on Thursday, December 5, 2024, at 6:30 p.m.  A recording of the hearing is available at Massachusetts Energy Facilities Siting Board – YouTube.

For more information, see https://www.mass.gov/info-details/westfield-battery-project

First, the petition to intervene or participate, and comments, must be filed with the Department in electronic format, by email or email attachment, to dpu.efiling@mass.gov; AND to donna.sharkey@mass.gov no later than the close of business on December 20, 2024. The text of the e-mail must specify: (1) the docket number of the proceeding (D.P.U. 24-151); (2) the name of the person or entity submitting the filing; and (3) a brief description of the document. The electronic filing should also include the name, title, and telephone number of a person to contact in the event of questions about the filing.

Second, the petition or comments must be sent electronically to counsel for the Company: Shane Early, Sheppard, Mullin, Richter & Hampton LLP, 2099 Pennsylvania Ave, NW, Washington, DC 20006, searly@sheppardmullin.com.

COMMENT DEADLINE: Wednesday, January 22nd, 2025

An Act to Preserve Open Space 

Dec 17th 1pm hybrid public hearing was held; a second virtual hearing will be held on January 16th, 2025

»More information, new registration link to come

The Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) held a public hearing on proposed new regulations authorized by chapter 274 of the Acts of 2022, An Act to Preserve Open Space in the Commonwealth. The proposed regulations, 301 CMR 52.00: Disposition or Change in Use of Article 97 Interests, are required by the Act and provide procedures and requirements for proposals to change the use or dispose of land or interests in land subject to Article 97 of the Amendments to the Constitution of the Commonwealth. EEA is seeking public comment on the proposed regulations. 

A copy of the proposed regulations is available on the EEA website at Article 97 & An Act Preserving Open Space in the Commonwealth (M.G.L. c. 3, § 5A) | Mass.gov. Copies may also be obtained by sending an email to Michael.gendron2@mass.gov.

COMMENT DEADLINE: Tuesday, January 14th, 2025

Berkshire Gas Long-Range Forecast and Supply Plan

 On November 18, 2024, The Berkshire Gas Company filed a petition with the
Department of Public Utilities for approval of its Long-Range Forecast and
Supply Plan for the split-years 2024/2025 to 2028/2029. The Department will review the Company’s Plan to ensure that the forecast accurately projects the gas sendout requirement of the utility’s market area. The Department has docketed this matter as D.P.U. 24-180.

The Department will conduct a virtual public hearing to receive comments on the Company’s
filing. If necessary, the public hearing will be immediately followed by a procedural conference.
The Department will conduct the hearing using Zoom videoconferencing on Tuesday,
January 14, 2025, beginning at 2:00 p.m. Attendees can join by entering the link,
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/85627239296, from a computer, smartphone, or tablet. No prior
software download is required.

If you anticipate providing comments via Zoom during the public hearing, please send an email by 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, January 7, 2025, to julianne.desmet@mass.gov with your
name, email address, and mailing address. If you anticipate commenting by telephone, please
leave a voicemail message by Tuesday, January 7, 2025, at 617-305-3626 with your name,
telephone number, and mailing address.

Any person interested in commenting on this matter may submit written comments no later than
the 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, January 14, 2025. Written comments may be sent by email to dpu.efiling@mass.gov, julianne.desmet@mass.gov, and the Company’s attorneys, Kevin Penders at kpenders@keeganwerlin.com and Steven Frias at sfrias@keeganwerlin.com. Any comments will be
posted to our website as received, without redacting personal information, such as addresses,
telephone numbers, or email addresses. As such, consider the extent of information you wish to
share when submitting comments. The Department strongly encourages public comments to be
submitted by email. If, however, a member of the public is unable to send written comments by email, a paper copy may be sent to Mark D. Marini, Secretary, Department of Public Utilities,
One South Station, Boston, Massachusetts, 02110.

_______________________

The Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) has finalized amendments to 310 CMR 7.71: Reporting of Greenhouse Gas Emissions. The Amendments will be published in the Massachusetts Register on November 22, 2024.

The amendments implement registration and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reporting requirements for companies selling and distributing heating fuels to homes and businesses in Massachusetts, including suppliers of natural gas, fuel oil, and propane and implement a reporting requirement for fuel storage facilities. The text of the final amendments and other supporting documents are available on MassDEP’s heating fuel emissions reporting web page. If you have questions about this notice, please contact climate.strategies@mass.gov.

The final regulation includes a requirement for heating fuel suppliers and fuel storage facilities to complete an online registration process by December 1, 2024. MassDEP is deferring this deadline, and registrations will be treated as on time if they are completed by January 31, 2025. Additional information and a registration link are available on MassDEP’s heating fuel emissions reporting web page.

Please note that these final regulatory amendments include emissions reporting requirements only. MassDEP is currently developing a Clean Heat Standard (CHS) program, but no specific regulatory requirements have been proposed at this time.

••• PAST COMMENT PERIODS •••

COMMENT DEADLINE: Monday December 9th, 2024

At the heart of Mass Save lies a singular problem of misaligned incentives between the administrators of Mass Save – the utilities – and the people of Massachusetts. The utilities have a vested interest in maintaining the status quo of growing their infrastructure, some of which rely on fossil fuels, to benefit their investors. Gas and electric utilities also serve different areas, meaning that moving a customer from gas to electric may result in a lost customer and lost profit.

The administration has proposed a more streamlined decarbonization program, “A Building Decarbonization Clearinghouse,” that could, among other things, remove the utilities as program administrators of our decarbonization programs. They are asking for feedback. Please sign up for a public listening session and comment in support of this vision.

Weds., Dec 4. 6-8pm (register)

Written comments via a form are due on Monday, Dec. 9.

It’s time to remove what’s no longer necessary and redesign based on our current needs. This means simplifying programs where possible and centralizing all programs under one, truly independent, efficient program, whose mission is aligned with the Commonwealth’s goals. Let’s not throw out the baby with the bathwater, though! Many contractors and local partners are working hard to serve customers as best they can within the current program structure. These people should be part of new decarbonization solutions.

COMMENT DEADLINE: Friday December 6th, 2024

3-year Energy Efficiency Plans for 2025-2027

The new 3-year Energy Efficiency Plans for 2025-2027 were all noticed today by the DPU. As I mentioned on Wednesday’s Leader call, there will be 3 in-person hearings and 1 virtual Zoom hearing for public comment. The 3 in-person hearings, for all the plans, will be 12/3 in Worcester, 12/4 New Bedford and 12/5 in Boston all at 7pm, the Zoom is on 12/5 at 2pm. If you want to speak at any of the public hearings you have to pre-register. Written comments will be accepted until Dec. 6. All the details and links for commenting are provided in the Orders of Notice that were published today.

Each company’s notice is linked below. Also in the Orders is the monthly bill impact for each company’s residential R-xx customer rate base for each of the three years. Statewide, the plans equal $5B. in ratepayer costs. The breakdown for each year of each company is in the Orders as well. If you want to learn more about each company’s plan, the docket number is also listed below.

COMMENT DEADLINE: Wednesday, September 25th, 2024

 DOER Publishes Draft Large Building Energy Reporting Regulation for Public Comment

Ch. 179 of the Acts of 2022 (An Act Driving Clean Energy and Offshore Wind) requires the reporting of energy use data for all large buildings in the Commonwealth.  The law went into effect on July 1, 2024, and the first usage reports are required to be made by June 30 2025.   The law requires electric, gas, and steam utilities to report usage data on behalf of the covered buildings.  It requires covered building owners to report usage for delivered fuels such as oil, propane, and wood. 

On August 26, 2024, the Department of Energy Resources released a draft regulation proposing how it will implement its Large Building Energy Reporting (LBER) policy. DOER seeks public comment on the draft regulation between the August 26 and September 25 2024.  DOER will host a virtual public hearing on September 25, 2024, from 1pm to 3pm for those who would like to verbally share their input on the draft.

Written comments should be submitted as attached pdf files to DOER.BER@mass.gov, with the words BER Public Comment in the subject line.  Alternatively, comments can be submitted via mail to Lyn Huckabee at the Department of Energy Resources, 100 Cambridge Street, 9th Floor, Boston, MA 02114.  Even if you provide input at the September public hearing, written comments are encouraged. 

COMMENT DEADLINE: Wednesday, October 2nd, 2024

 Interagency Offshore Wind Council: Public Input Opportunity on Draft Plan

On April 20, 2023, Executive Office of Energy & Environmental Affairs (EEA) Secretary Rebecca Tepper announced the establishment of the Interagency Offshore Wind Council. It is a top priority of the Healey-Driscoll Administration to advance the responsible development of offshore wind to meet the Commonwealth’s ambitious climate goals.

The Strategic Plan will: (1) assess and describe the current status of the offshore wind industry in the Commonwealth and the region, existing legal and policy frameworks, and progress to date; (2) identify key drivers, gaps and needs, and findings relating to offshore wind development; and (3) lay out a long-term vision for offshore wind and recommend specific actions and strategies necessary to advance the following goals and objectives by 2040.

The public comment period has been extended by two weeks. Written public comment on the draft recommendations will be accepted through 5pm on Wednesday, October 2. Please send any written comments to jmintz@vhb.com with “IOWC Public Comments” in the subject line.

COMMENT DEADLINE: Friday, August 30th, 2024

 Mass Department of Fish and Game Implementation of Executive Order No. 618

On September 21, 2023, Governor Maura Healey issued Executive Order No. 618:
Biodiversity Conservation in Massachusetts (E.O. 618).[1] E.O. 618 declares
that “biodiversity conservation is a priority for the Healey-Driscoll Administration.” The order directs the Massachusetts Department of Fish and Game (DFG) to “conduct a comprehensive review of the existing efforts of all executive department offices and agencies to support biodiversity conservation in Massachusetts” and to “recommend biodiversity conservation goals for 2030, 2040, and 2050 and strategies to meet those goals.”

This initiative seeks to make Massachusetts a leader in biodiversity protection. More information is available here.

Two public meetings were held, but the presentations were lacking in details on what our state agencies have in mind. Now we are being invited to share our “vision for nature in 2050.” This is an opportunity to share your thoughts.

COMMENT DEADLINE: Friday, September 13th, 2024

 Draft Near-Term Resource Multiplier Guideline Published

On August 23, 2024, the Department of Energy Resources (DOER) published a draft of the Near-Term Resource Multiplier Guideline which may be found on its 2024 CPS Programmatic Review website, here. DOER releases this draft guideline to solicit stakeholder feedback on the eligibility, value, and application requirements for the Near-Term Resource Multiplier, which was created and defined in DOER’s Clean Peak Energy Standard Emergency Rulemaking filed on July 19, 2024. As this is a draft guideline, DOER is not taking capacity reservations for the Near-Term Resource Multiplier at this time, and any element of this draft guideline is subject to change.

Stakeholders may provide written comments to DOER and those should be sent to doer.cps@mass.gov by Friday, September 13, 2024 at 5:00 P.M. EDT.

COMMENT DEADLINE: Monday, September 16th, 2024

 2010 MEPA Greenhouse Gas Emissions Policy and Protocol and the 2021 MEPA Interim Protocol on Climate Change Adaptation and Resiliency.

The MEPA Office has scheduled public presentations on straw proposals to update the 2010 MEPA Greenhouse Gas Emissions Policy and Protocol and the 2021 MEPA Interim Protocol on Climate Change Adaptation and Resiliency.

Video recording of the June 18th public presentation is available here.

Video recording of the June 20th public presentation is available here.

Comments should be directed to MEPA-regs@mass.gov.

COMMENT DEADLINE: Monday, August 26th, 2024

Clean Peak Energy Standard Notice of Public Comment and Hearing

On July 19, 2024, the Department of Energy Resources (Department) filed an emergency rulemaking with the Secretary of State that makes changes to 225 CMR 21.00 Clean Peak Energy Standard (CPS). The amendments make revisions to the Minimum Standard in response to anticipated near-term undersupply and long-term oversupply conditions in the market. The amendments also add a Near-Term Resource Multiplier for standalone energy storage systems connected to the distribution system that are able to come online before January 1, 2027

To see the specific changes made to the Regulation, please review the clean and redline document at the Department’s website.

The Department will be holding a public hearing to receive verbal and written comments on the emergency regulation.

Location: Zoom (Register Here)
Date: August 26, 2024 from 1:00 to 4:00 PM

Verbal testimony will be accepted at the hearing; however, parties may also provide written copies of their testimony. Written comments will be accepted beginning August 5, 2024 and ending at 5 pm on August 26, 2024. The Department requests that written comments be submitted as attached pdf files to DOER.CPS@mass.gov, with the words 2024 CPS EMERGENCY RULEMAKING COMMENTS in the subject line. Alternatively, comments can be submitted via mail to Thomas Ferguson at the Department of Energy Resources, 100 Cambridge Street, 9th Floor, Boston, MA 02114. Copies of the proposed regulations may be obtained from the DOER website www.mass.gov/doer or by contacting Thomas Ferguson at Thomas.Ferguson@mass.gov.

COMMENT DEADLINE: Tuesday, August 13th, 2024

Environmental Status and Planning Report (ESPR) for the Hanscom Field Expansion

Please note that the May 22, 2024 Environmental Monitor is being republished to address the inadvertent omission of the Hanscom ESPR and to provide notice of planned public meetings. The Proponent has requested an extension of the comment period, which will now close on August 13, 2024 with a Certificate on the ESPR to be issued on August 23, 2024.

This ESPR provides updated forecasts looking at potential future scenarios for 2030 and 2040. The document contains analyses on all topics covered in prior ESPRs, following the structure introduced in the 2017 ESPR, and includes a new section on Environmental Justice.

Two virtual public technical meetings are scheduled for 6:00PM on June 10 and June 11 via Zoom; each will cover half of the analysis topics. Information on the public meetings will be posted on the Massport website.

Comments can be sent to:

Alex Strysky alexander.strysky@mass.gov
Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs
100 Cambridge St., 10th Floor
Boston, MA 02114

COMMENT DEADLINE: Friday, August 2nd, 2024

SMART Straw Proposal

The 2024 SMART Straw Proposal has been published on DOER’s website for stakeholder review. The recording from today’s webinar will also be made available by the end of the week. As noted in the webinar, the primary avenue for providing feedback on the Straw Proposal will be through the upcoming technical sessions.

On July 22nd and 23rd, DOER will host in-person technical sessions at the Connolly Center in the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston, 600 Atlantic Ave, Boston, MA 02210, to collect stakeholder feedback on the SMART Straw Proposal. The sessions will be divided into topic areas, and attendees may register for individual sessions. Interested attendees can register for the in-person technical sessions here. The deadline to register will be July 17th.

DOER requests that each organization only send one representative per session. Lunch will not be provided by DOER, but there will be a break from 12:00-1:00 PM and there is a cafe in the Federal Reserve building as well as various lunch options in the surrounding area.

As noted in the Straw Proposal, there will be an opportunity for additional feedback, due to DOER by August 2nd, for those stakeholders who were unable to attend either the in-person or virtual technical sessions. DOER intends to establish a process for collecting this additional feedback in the upcoming weeks, but does not plan to accept traditional written comment from stakeholders.
Prior to the technical sessions, stakeholders may submit clarification questions on the Straw Proposal through this form. The questions received will be used to inform the content of the technical sessions. DOER requests that all questions be directed through the form to ensure that all topics for clarification are captured.

» Register for the technical sessions here

COMMENT DEADLINE: Monday, July 22nd, 2024

Potential barriers to accessing climatetech test and demonstration sites

The Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (“MassCEC”) is seeking information to better understand potential barriers to accessing climatetech test and demonstration sites across the state.

Today, we are launching a Request for Information (“RFI”) to seek input from the following respondents:

  • Prior, current, and future users of climatetech test and demonstration sites (e.g., climatetech companies and startups).
  • Operators of climatetech test and demonstration sites (e.g., research institutes and universities, private labs and companies with large in-house research and development infrastrucutre).
  • Ecosystem builders that have helped to match users and operators of climatetech test and demonstration sites (e.g., accelerators, incubators, climatetech venture capital funds, community builders).

The information gathered through this RFI is a crucial building block for MassCEC’s future programming and service offering to support climatetech-driven economic development, especially in light of the potential passage of additional funding with the Mass Leads Act.

The submission deadline is Monday, July 22, 2024. For more information, please visit our RFI website and read the survey instructions. Additional questions can be directed to innovation@masscec.com.

» Climatetech Test & Demo Site RFI

COMMENT DEADLINE: Friday, July 12th, 2024

MassDEP increase in the minimum auction reserve price for allowance auctions

MassDEP intends to increase the minimum auction reserve price for allowance auctions under 310 CMR 7.74 from $0.50 to $9.00 per allowance beginning with the September 2024 auction. MassDEP is accepting written stakeholder comments on this change through Friday July 12; comments and questions maybe be submitted via email to: climate.strategies@mass.gov. A discussion document and market monitor memorandum are available on the program web page at: https://www.mass.gov/guides/electricity-generator-emissions-limits-310-cmr-774.

COMMENT DEADLINE: Monday, June 3rd, 2024

MassDEP FirstLight Hydroelectric Project

FirstLight Power (FirstLight) has filed an application with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to relicense the Connecticut River hydroelectric facilities in Turners Falls and Montague and the pumped storage facility in Northfield under the Federal Power Act, 16 U.S.C. § 797(e). As a part of the federal relicense application filed with FERC, FirstLight must also apply for a 401 Water Quality Certification (WQC) from the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP).

Formal written public comments will be accepted until 5:00PM on June 3, 2024. Written comments may be sent electronically via email to dep.hydro@mass.gov which must include “FirstLight 401 WQC” in the subject line in order to be considered by MassDEP. In lieu of electronic submittal, paper comments may be mailed to:
MassDEP – BWR
Attn: FirstLight 401WQC
100 Cambridge Street, Suite 900
Boston, MA 02114

Public Notice:

MassDEP will conduct two virtual public hearings to hear oral comments regarding the WQC application on May 29, 2024 at 1:30PM and 7:00PM. Please register in advance by clicking the date and time of the hearing you would like to attend:

May 29, 2024 at 1:30PM and May 29, 2024 at 7:00PM

For more information, see this MassDEP page

COMMENT DEADLINE: Friday, May 3rd, 2024

2024 CPS Review Stakeholder Questions

In order to evaluate potential amendments to the Clean Peak Energy Standard (CPS) (225 C.M.R. 21.00) as part of the 2024 CPS Review, the Department of Energy Resources (DOER) seeks stakeholder feedback on the following questions, which can be found here.

The deadline for submitting written comments on the questions for the CPS review is May 3, 2024 by 5pm EST. Written comments should be submitted to DOER.CPS@mass.gov with “CPS Review Comments” in the subject line. As an alternative, the public may submit written comments via mail to the Department of Energy Resources, 100 Cambridge Street, 9th Floor, Boston, MA 02114, attention Samantha Meserve. Please be advised that there may be delays in receiving written comments via the mail.
Thank you for your engagement, and if you have any questions on these updates, please contact DOER.CPS@mass.gov.

COMMENT DEADLINE: Friday, April 5th, 2024

Clean Heat Standard

MassDEP has posted new and updated documents for stakeholder comment by April 5, including a new discussion document on options for crediting non-residential buildings and a new “Q0” section at the beginning of the CHS FAQ document listing program design options under consideration. Stakeholders may submit comments on these documents or any other aspect of CHS program design, but do not need to resubmit prior comments unless perspectives have changed. MassDEP will consider all comments received over the course of the stakeholder process in considering next steps.

MassDEP is concluding this phase of the Clean Heat Standard stakeholder process, including the final comment deadline of April 5, 2024. MassDEP will consider stakeholder comments and program design options over the coming months, with the goal of formally proposing CHS regulations before the end of 2024.

MassDEP will hold one more stakeholder meeting prior to April 5. Please register in advance on the Clean Heat Standard web page.

On April 4 at 6:00 PM, MassDEP will hold a final virtual community meeting. The purpose of this meeting with be to accommodate citizens who prefer to speak at a meeting over submitting written comment; MassDEP will not present any new information.

MassDEP will continue to update the CHS FAQ document until April 5; stakeholders are encouraged to review this document and send suggestions for additional questions at any time.

Clean Heat Standard web page

Questions and comments about the CHS stakeholder process may be submitted at any time to climate.strategies@mass.gov.

COMMENT DEADLINE: Monday, April 8th, 2024

Project Maple – Sakonnet River crossing

The 2nd Algonquin blanket authorization project, the one for the pipeline under the Sakonnet River, has been noticed.

The Enbridge filing with FERC for enlarged pipeline under the Sakonnet river is a $40 million, 7 month long project which will include horizontal directional drilling, a destructive and risky practice that negatively impacts water.

Docket(s):              CP24-49-000
Lead Applicant: Algonquin Gas Transmission, LLC
Filing Type:    Formal Notice
Description:    Notice of Request under Blanket Authorization and Establishing Intervention and Protest Deadline re Algonquin Gas Transmission, LLC under CP24-49. 

To view the document for this Issuance, click here
https://elibrary.ferc.gov/eLibrary/filelist?accession_num=20240208-3024

COMMENT DEADLINE: Monday, April 1st, 2024

DOER Piloting Vehicle to Grid Program

Earlier this year, The MA Department of Energy Resources (DOER) submitted a concept paper for the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Grid Resilience Innovation Partnerships (GRIP) program.

DOER has been encouraged by the U.S. Department of Energy to submit a full application based on their proposal, and now seeks public input on the proposed program design to help formulate the full application submission.

DOER’s proposal aims to create a pilot program, that would increase grid resiliency while providing equitable benefits to income-eligible residents in select area(s). Specifically, the program would include providing reduced-cost electric vehicles to low- and moderate-income eligible residents in exchange for use of said vehicles’ batteries during peak hours.

DOER seeks public comment on topics such as:

-Partnerships for the application
-Locations for the pilot
-Potential program designs

DOER will host a listening session where we will quickly review a presentation (available at the event posting) providing more detail on the concept and leave most of the agenda for public input.

Written comments will be accepted until April 1st via email to christina.moroney-ebarb@mass.gov and via Jamboard. Please include DEVOTE in your email subject line.

COMMENT DEADLINE: Monday, April 1st, 2024

Home Energy Rebates Public Input Session

The Department of Energy Resources (DOER) has scheduled a public input session for the Home Efficiency and Electrification Rebate Programs through the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). This law included funding opportunities for states to implement two energy efficiency rebate programs: Home Efficiency Rebates (Sections 50121) and Home Electrification and Appliance Rebates (Section 50122). The funding for these programs will be awarded through the State Energy Offices, such as DOER.

DOER plans to submit an application for both programs this spring. DOER anticipates receiving $73,233,910 and $72,809,130 for each program, respectively. DOER aims to deploy HER and HEAR in such a way as to enhance equitable outcomes while building upon the Commonwealth’s existing efforts in building energy efficiency and electrification. In anticipation of our application, DOER held a public input session to present a straw proposal for program design and solicit community input on its proposed deployment plans.

The Public Input Session was recorded and made available on our website. The straw proposal was posted on our website.

DOER appreciates the submission of written comments no later than Monday April 1, 2024 to:

Christina Moroney-Ebarb at christina.moroney-ebarb@mass.gov.

COMMENT DEADLINE: Friday, March 15th, 2024

Energy Infrastructure Siting and Permitting

The Commission on Energy Infrastructure Siting and Permitting is seeking public comment regarding ways to balance the need for accelerating the responsible deployment of clean energy, meaningful community engagement, and an equitable clean energy transition.

The Commission seeks comments by Friday, March 1, to provide a summary before the Commission’s meeting scheduled for the following week, but will continue to accept comments through March 15. Public comment can be submitted through the surveys linked here or directly to the Commission at CEISP@mass.gov.

In September 2023, Governor Healey established the Commission on Energy Infrastructure Siting and Permitting to develop recommendations to reduce permitting timelines for clean energy projects, ensure communities have input in the siting and permitting of clean energy infrastructure, and ensure that the benefits of the clean energy transition are shared equitably.

COMMENT DEADLINE: Wednesday, February 28th, 2024

Funding for Fleet Electrification

The Mass. Department of Energy Resources (DOER), Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA), Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP), and Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC) are looking for feedback from fleet owners and operators to inform funding for fleet electrification. The Commonwealth of Massachusetts plans to apply for the EPA’s Climate Pollution Reduction Grant opportunity to bolster the MOR-EV Trucks incentive program, expand the Mass. Fleet Advisor program, and provide additional support for medium- and heavy-duty fleet operators interested in purchasing or leasing zero emission vehicles.

We are looking for input to help address barriers to electrification and design a program that works best for fleets. We are asking fleets to fill out a 5–10-minute survey below by EOD Wednesday, February 28th and let us know how the state can help support electrification efforts.

Link to Fleet Electrification Feedback Survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/MAfleetelectrification

COMMENT DEADLINE: Thursday, February 29th, 2024

Parallel Products of New England

MassDEP would like to notify you of an update to the review timeline for the site suitability application for South Coast Renewables, LLC (formerly known as “Parallel Products of New England”), located at 100 Duchaine Boulevard in New Bedford, Massachusetts. Under an extended timeline, MassDEP’s report on the site suitability application is due on February 29, 2024.

The project will perpetuate the state’s waste crisis and add to a history of public health hazards in the city’s North End. They’re concerned about diesel emissions from trucks, polluted water leaching from garbage, and fire risk from lithium batteries at the facility. The North End includes several mixed-income residential developments as well as Superfund sites and brownfields.

The state considers many parts of the North End to be environmental justice communities. Between 33% to 42% of residents in the neighborhoods abutting the proposed facility are people of color, and roughly 10% self-identify as not speaking English proficiently, according to state data. Median household income in the area is between 57% and 88% that of the state.

Parallel Products has not been a good neighbor. In 2020, the New Bedford Conservation Commission issued a cease-and-desist order to the company. The facility was stockpiling uncovered piles of glass in its parking lot, generating polluted runoff during storms that drained into catch basins and nearby wetlands, according to the enforcement order.

If you have questions about the project, the permitting process, the public comment period, or anything else please contact Alison Cochrane at alison.cochrane@mass.gov or (617) 694-3441 or Elza Bystrom at elza.bystrom@mass.gov or (617) 413-2711.

COMMENT DEADLINE: Friday, March 1st, 2024

Energy Affordability for Residential Ratepayers

On January 4, 2024, the Department of Public Utilities (DPU) voted to open an inquiry to examine energy burden with a focus on energy affordability for residential ratepayers. Notice of Inquiry by the Department of Public Utilities on its own Motion into Energy Burden with a Focus on Energy Affordability for Residential Ratepayers, D.P.U. 24‑15, Vote and Order Opening Inquiry (January 4, 2024) (“Opening Order”).
In the Opening Order, the DPU provided background on these issues, an overview of the current methods that the DPU uses to address energy affordability, and a variety of questions seeking input on how the DPU can reduce the energy burden and address affordability issues. The DPU encourages all interested persons to participate in this proceeding and seeks written comments on this topic by March 1, 2024. Details on how to provide comments may be found in the Notice of Inquiry and Request for Comments, also issued on January 4, 2024. Links to Opening Order, the Notice, and other documents related to this inquiry are available here.
The DPU seeks input from residents whose budgets are strained from paying their utility bills while trying to make ends meet, as well as other stakeholders. Please send written comments and questions by Friday, March 1, 2024, to dpu.efiling@mass.gov. Please specify the docket number for the NOI (D.P.U. 24-15), your name or entity submitting the comment, and that the document is a written comment. You do not need to submit your comments in PDF.
The DPU strongly encourages comments and documents to be submitted via email. However, if you are unable to send written comments in email form, you can send a paper copy to Mark D. Marini, Secretary, Department of Public Utilities, One South Station, Boston, MA 02110.

This Notice of Inquiry (NOI) seeks feedback in the following areas:

  • Design of residential energy affordability programs
  • Program administration, such as the process to verify people’s income
  • Small commercial and industrial energy affordability issues
  • General questions and concerns regarding energy affordability

COMMENT DEADLINE: Friday, February 23rd, 2024

Reporting of Greenhouse Gas Emissions

The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) will hold public hearings on proposed amendments to 310 CMR 7.71: Reporting of Greenhouse Gas Emissions. The proposed amendments implement registration and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reporting requirements for companies selling and distributing heating fuels to homes and businesses in Massachusetts, including suppliers of natural gas, fuel oil, and propane, and implement a reporting requirement for fuel storage facilities.

Two public hearings will be conducted online and via telephone. The public hearings will be held:

Tuesday, February 6, 2024 at 10:00 am
Tuesday, February 6, 2024 at 6:00 pm

The proposed amendments, a background document, and hearing registration links are available on MassDEP’s website at: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/heating-fuels-emissions-reporting-regulation

Please join the public hearing from your computer, tablet, or smartphone. You can also dial in using your phone. Testimony may be presented orally at the public hearing, or written comments may be submitted until 5:00 PM on February 23, 2024. Written comments must be submitted via email to climate.strategies@mass.gov, or by mail to Climate Strategies, MassDEP, 100 Cambridge Street, Boston, MA 02114.

COMMENT DEADLINE: Friday, February 16th, 2024

MassDEP is announcing virtual stakeholder meetings for the Clean Heat Standard (CHS).

On March 7 at 3:00 PM and 6:00 PM, MassDEP will hold two virtual community meetings. Each session will include a brief summary of recent stakeholder comments on CHS program design and an opportunity for questions and comments from community members.

MassDEP is seeking initial stakeholder comments on the discussion draft early action crediting regulatory language by February 16, 2024. The discussion draft early action crediting regulatory language is available on MassDEP’s website. MassDEP is continuously updating the CHS Frequently Asked Questions document; stakeholders are encouraged to review this document and send suggestions for additional questions at any time.

» Clean Heat Standard web page

Questions and comments about the CHS stakeholder process may be submitted at any time to climate.strategies@mass.gov.

COMMENT DEADLINE: Monday, February 12th, 2024
Crane & Co. New Boiler

»» See our Action Guide for commenting on this issue

MassDEP’s Western Regional Office has opened the 30-day public comment period (as per CMR 7.02(3)(h)) pertaining to the DRAFT Plan Approval on behalf of the Crane & Company, Inc. located in Dalton, MA.  Comments will be accepted through February 12, 2024.
MassDEP’s Western Regional Office has opened the 30-day public comment period (as per CMR 7.02(3)(h)) pertaining to the DRAFT Plan Approval on behalf of the Crane & Company, Inc. located in Dalton, MA.  Comments will be accepted through February 12, 2024.

How to access the Public Access Portal
To review the application, please use the following link:

Type in “Crane” under “Search By Contact” “Site Name/Location Name” – “Location   City” – Dalton
Hit search or Enter.

  • Open the Application dated 1/03/23 for review.
  • Please note – Public Comment Period ends Monday, February 12, 2024

How to submit your comments by mail

Marc Simpson, Section Chief
MassDEP
Western Regional Office
436 Dwight Street 
Springfield, MA 01103

How to submit comments by email

COMMENT DEADLINE: Thursday, February 15th, 2024

Straw proposal of the Priority Climate Action Plan (PCAP) with the public to inform priorities for the Climate Pollution Reduction Grant (CPRG)

The Massachusetts Department of Transportation, in concert with the Office of Climate Innovation and Resilience (Climate Office), is sharing this straw proposal of the Priority Climate Action Plan (PCAP) with the public to inform priorities for the Climate Pollution Reduction Grant (CPRG). We invite members of the public, community organizations and municipalities to share their feedback on the PCAP. In particular, we invite entities to:

Review the draft greenhouse gas reduction measures and associated benefits for low-income and disadvantaged communities in the document below.
By Thursday, February 15, share specific feedback you have for each measure by sending your comments to us by email at climateoffice@mass.gov. Please note: If you represent an entity eligible for the grant and you plan to apply, it is important to check this document to make sure your proposal will be covered by this PCAP. Please let us know if you would like changes to cover your proposal.

We will consider changes in response to feedback and submit the final PCAP to the EPA by March 1, 2024. In addition to the public comment period noted above, Climate Office is convening the following conversations for review of this draft:

  • A meeting with the Climate-Labor Work Group for Federal Funding on Feb. 7th
  • A meeting of the Massachusetts Environmental Justice Council on Feb. 8th Additional analysis will also inform the final PCAP, including spatial analysis to target priority climate action measures to deliver benefits to low income and disadvantaged communities, a comprehensive analysis of

COMMENT DEADLINE: Monday, January 8th, 2024

Berkshire Gas Efficiency Surcharge Hike

Berkshire Gas is filing for a surcharge increase to bolster it’s energy efficiency programs. They underestimated the amount of people who wanted to take advantage of the heat pump offers, and are looking for budget increases to keep it going. This is a proposed “Mid-Term Modification” to the Three-Year Efficiency plan. It’s a patch for this last year of the current three year plan to keep the program flush.

While rapid adoption of heat pumps is what we definitely want to see, there are concerns with their “Mid-Term Modification”  (MTM) plan and with how the DPU handled notification requirements for the hearing.

COMMENT SUBMISSION INSTRUCTIONS
Comments may be filed no later than the close of business (5:00 p.m.) on Monday, January 8, 2024.

All comments should be submitted to the Department in .pdf format by e-mail attachment to dpu.efiling@mass.gov and elyssa.klein@mass.gov.
The text of the e-mail must specify:
(1) the docket number of the proceeding (D.P.U. 23-93);
(2) the name of the person or company submitting the filing; and
(3) a brief descriptive title of the document.

Written comments also should be submitted to the Company’s attorneys, Emmett Lyne, Esq., at elyne@richmaylaw.com, Leah Cohen, Esq., at lcohen@richmaylaw.com, Joseph Dorfler, Esq., at jdorfler@richmaylaw.com, and David Lyons, Esq., at dlyons@richmaylaw.com and the service list in D.P.U. 23-93.

For detailed information, see this page!

COMMENT DEADLINE: Thursday, December 21, 2023

Clean Heat Standard

MassDEP is seeking stakeholder input to inform the development of a CHS program. On December 14, an evening virtual community meeting will be held at 6 PM. The session will include a brief summary of the draft framework and an opportunity for questions and comments from community members.
•    Register for the December 14, 6PM virtual community meeting here

Framework Community Session Slides

Past Clean Heat Standard Meeting Materials
 
Comments or questions about the CHS and/or heating fuel supplier reporting? Please submit them to climate.strategies@mass.gov at any time. In particular, MassDEP is requesting written comments addressing the draft program framework by December 21, 2023.

COMMENT DEADLINE: September 20th, 2023

WorkshOPP on Fundamentals of Intervention in FERC Matters

Office of Public Participation (OPP) staff will release an educational video on October 25, 2023, in the above-referenced proceedings. The video, titled “Fundamentals of Intervention in FERC Matters” will explain how and why a member of the public may choose to intervene in a Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) proceeding. Staff will address common questions about filing an intervention at FERC.

Questions which will be addressed include: What does it mean to file an intervention in a docket? Is that the same as filing a comment? Does that make me a party to a case, and what does becoming a party to a case mean? Is a lawyer required? Are there examples or templates? What should I know before deciding to intervene?

OPP wants to hear from you. What questions do you have? What has been your experience intervening, commenting, or otherwise navigating a FERC proceeding?

The video will be posted on FERC’s YouTube channel on Office of Public Participation’s playlist. It will include captioning in English and Spanish and will be compliant with section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. For accessibility accommodations, please send an email to accessibility@ferc.gov or call toll free 1-866-208-3372 (voice) or 202-502-8659 (TTY) or send a FAX to 202-208-2106 with the required accommodations.

Please file your questions or comments in the docket (Docket Nos. AD22-11-000, AD21-9-000) on or before Wednesday September 20, 2023. If you need help with filing or have any other questions, feel free to reach out to Matthew Rolnick of the Commission’s Office of Public Participation at Matthew.Rolnick@ferc.gov or OPP@ferc.gov.

COMMENT DEADLINE: September 18th, 2023

DPU to Establish Streamlined Process for Review of Municipal Aggregation Plans

On August 15, 2023, the Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities (DPU) opened an investigation to establish municipal aggregation guidelines, with the goal of creating a more efficient and streamlined process for Massachusetts cities and towns to establish municipal aggregation programs for their residents and businesses.

The DPU Order opens an investigation, and includes proposed guidelines, as well as a proposed template municipal aggregation plan designed to aid municipalities in developing new municipal aggregation plans. As part of its investigation, the DPU proposes an expedited review process for certain municipalities that comply with the proposed template plan and specific provisions to help expedite the DPU’s review.

The DPU seeks public comments on the proposed guidelines and template plan, which the DPU will take into account prior to issuing final guidelines and a final template plan. The DPU will accept initial written comment no later than 5:00 p.m. on September 18, 2023. Instructions to submit written comments are included on pages 8-9 of the DPU Order.

COMMENT DEADLINE: August 25th, 2023

On April 16, 2021, the Department of Public Utilities (“Department”) issued a Vote and Order opening this inquiry into procedural enhancements  to  our  public  notice requirements to increase public awareness of and participation in Department proceedings.  

The Department hosted the roundtable with the EFSB on August 25, 2022. 

As a further step in this proceeding, the Department seeks comments on the following draft policy. The Department developed the draft policy to balance the rights of parties to an administratively efficient  review of proposals, the interests of stakeholders and members of  the public, and the cost  of conducting a proceeding.   

The Department welcomes comments on any aspect of the draft policy. All written comments should be filed with the Department no later than August 25, 2023.

All comments must be submitted to the Department by email attachment to dpu.efiling@mass.gov, laurie.e.weisman@mass.gov, and scott.seigal@mass.gov. The text of the email must specify: (1) the docket number of the proceeding (D.P.U. 21-50); (2) the name and contact information of the person or company submitting the filing; and (3) a brief descriptive title of the document. 

More details available on the D.P.U. website

COMMENT DEADLINE: August 8th, 2023

TAKE ACTION: EEAC Listening Sessions

The Massachusetts Energy Efficiency Advisory Council (EEAC) will be holding two Public Comment Sessions, as it develops its priorities for the next Three-Year Plan. The purpose of these sessions is for the EEAC to hear from members of the public on issues related to the Massachusetts energy efficiency programs, branded as Mass Save®. Public comment on any topic related to the energy efficiency programs and 2025-2027 Three-Year Plan are welcome at each session.

Public Comment Session Format:
All listening sessions will be held virtually via Zoom.
Stakeholders who would like to provide public comment are asked to register for only one session, by emailing ma-eeac@mass.gov by 5 pm on August 8, 2023.
Submission of written public comment via email is also encouraged and will be posted on the EEAC website.

Each person providing public comment will be given 3 minutes to speak, in order to allow time for more to participate. Once everyone who has pre-registered has provided comment, others may have a chance to speak, as time allows.

10am session registration
6pm session registration
Wednesday, August 9th, 2023
10:00 am and 6:00 pm

COMMENT DEADLINE: July 26th, 2023

Take Action: TUE Hearing to Put Gas in the Past 

We must stop gas companies from continuing business as usual at the cost of our health, safety, and climate future. H.3237  and H.3238  will put a moratorium on new gas infrastructure expansion.

Individuals who wish to testify in-person or virtually may register to do so by filling out this form by 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, July 26th. Testimony is limited to three minutes per person. You will receive a Teams invitation and further instructions on how to participate virtually a day or two before the hearing.

Written testimony can be submitted via email to Lexi Concannon at Lexi.Concannon@masenate.gov. The deadline to submit written testimony is Friday, July 28th by 5:00 p.m.

The hearing is scheduled for Wednesday, July 26th, at 1:00pm in Hearing Rm. A-2

COMMENT DEADLINE: July 12th, 2023

Take Action: An Act relative to the future of clean heat in the Commonwealth. 

The TUE hearing at 1pm on Wednesday, July 12th includes H.3203 and S.2105, which establish a thermal transition trust fund to pay for residents to replace gas appliances with electric appliances (including heat pumps), prioritizing low- and moderate-income customers. It also pays to retrain gas pipeline employees to comparable jobs working on renewable thermal infrastructure, and mandates that any advertising that promotes the use of natural gas, renewable natural gas, or hydrogen must disclose the impacts on public health, including indoor air quality, and public safety hazards of natural gas, renewable natural gas or hydrogen and their effects on greenhouse gas emissions.

Individuals who wish to testify in-person or virtually may register to do so by filling out this form by 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, July 12th.

Written testimony can be submitted via email to Lexi Concannon at Lexi.Concannon@masenate.gov. The deadline to submit written testimony is Friday, July 14th by 5:00 p.m.

COMMENT DEADLINE: July 14th, 2023

Take Action: An Act establishing a zero carbon renovation fund. 

The TUE hearing at 9:30am on Monday, July 17th includes H.3232, which would allocate $300 million for a Zero Carbon Renovation Fund (ZCRF), administered by the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center, to jumpstart the market for zero carbon renovations. Such renovations would include (1) maximizing energy efficiency through building envelope upgrades, (2) electrification of building systems, (3) maximizing usage of on-site renewable energy, wherever possible, and (4) use of building retrofit materials that are low embodied carbon.

With an understanding that our sustainability transition must be an equitable one to be successful, the ZCRF would prioritize affordable housing, public housing, low- and moderate-income homes, schools, BIPOC- and women-owned businesses, and buildings located in Environmental Justice communities.

Individuals who wish to testify in-person or virtually may register to do so by filling out this form by 5:00 pm on Friday, July 14th.

Written testimony can be submitted via email to Lexi Concannon at Lexi.Concannon@masenate.gov. The deadline to submit written testimony is Wednesday, July 19th by 5:00 p.m.

COMMENT DEADLINE: July 7th, 2023

Take Action: Eversource has submitted for public review a Draft Environmental Impact Report (DEIR) for EEA# 16556, Western MA Gas Reliability Project in Springfield and Longmeadow. 

The comment period on the DEIR has been extended.  Comments will be accepted until Friday, July 7, 2023. Please submit comments by email to alexander.strysky@mass.gov or via the MEPA Public Comments Portal.

COMMENT DEADLINE: June 28th, 2023

Take Action: Stop Subsidizing Burning Wood for Energy in Massachusetts’ Clean Energy Programs!

Please sign up to testify and/or submit written comments in support of these bills:

  • S.2136/H.3210 closes the loophole in the new MLP greenhouse gas emissions standard that counts biomass as “non-carbon emitting” energy
  • S.2137/H.3211 ends subsidies for commercial-scale wood heating systems through Massachusetts’ alternative portfolio standard (APS)

With your help, Massachusetts can continue to be a leader in rejecting the false climate solution of burning our forests for energy.

The hearings will be held on Wednesday, June 28th at 10 am (House) and 1 pm (Senate). You can testify in person or virtually, and/or submit written comments. Either way, we now have to submit our testimony separately to the House and the Senate TUE committees, until they work things out.

Other actions you can take are:

  • Ask your state reps to cosponsor the bills
  • Sign on to a group letter to TUE supporting the bills (organizations only)

For more information and for talking points, please visit the NoToxicBiomass website.

Wednesday, June 28, 2023
10:00 am and 1:00 pm
Massachusetts State House and ONLINE

COMMENT DEADLINE: June 21st, 2023

TAKE ACTION: TUE Hearing on Solar and Siting Bills

Solar and Siting Bills
The Senate members of the Joint Committee on Telecommunications, Utilities, and Energy will be holding a hybrid public hearing on the below solar and siting legislation on Wednesday, June 21, 2023 at 9:30 A.M. in Hearing Room A1.    

Individuals who wish to testify in-person or virtually may register to do so by filling out this form by 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, June 20th. Testimony is limited to three minutes per person. You will receive a Teams invitation and further instructions on how to participate virtually a day or two before the hearing. 

Written testimony can be submitted via email to Lexi Concannon at Lexi.Concannon@masenate.gov. The deadline to submit written testimony is Friday, June 23rd by 5:00 p.m. When submitting written testimony, please send it as an attachment and use the following document title format: 
 Bill# – Your Organization’s Name – Support/Oppose

Those who do not plan to testify but want to watch the public hearing may attend in person or view the live stream under the Hearings & Events section of the malegislature.gov/events legislative website.

Wednesday, June 21, 2023
9:30 am
Massachusetts State House Hearing Room A1

»For more information on the bills

COMMENT DEADLINE: June 20th, 2023

TAKE ACTION: Massachusetts Clean Heat Standard

MassDEP is seeking stakeholder input to inform the development of a proposed CHS regulation and related heating fuel supplier reporting requirements. MassDEP will hold the first CHS Virtual Community Meetings on Tuesday June 20 at 10AM and 6PM. Use the links below to register:

  • Register for the June 20, 10AM meeting here.
  • Register for the June 20, 6PM meeting here.

Comments or questions about the CHS and/or heating fuel supplier reporting? Please submit them to climate.strategies@mass.gov.

COMMENT DEADLINE: June 15th, 2023

TAKE ACTION: Grid Modernization Advisory Council

The Grid Modernization Advisory Council (GMAC) reviews and provides recommendations on Massachusetts’ forthcoming electric-sector modernization plans. It is an integral part of increasing transparency and stakeholder engagement in the grid planning process.

Upcoming meeting: The GMAC will meet this Thursday, June 15, 2023, from 1-4 PM. All meeting materials, including a registration link, agenda, presentations, and background resources may be accessed on the GMAC website. Future meeting dates beyond this week are also available on the GMAC website. 

Public comment invitation: Members of the public are invited to comment at the upcoming GMAC meeting during a public comment period from 1:20 – 1:35 PM. If you have a comment you wish to make on behalf of yourself or your organization, please message MA-GMAC@mass.gov by Wednesday 6/14 at 2 PM with your name and affiliation to reserve a speaking slot. Speakers will have up to 3 minutes to speak on topics related to the GMAC. Members of the public may also send written comments to MA-GMAC@mass.gov. 

» Register here!

COMMENT DEADLINE: June 14th, 2023

TAKE ACTION: The Department of Public Utilities (DPU) has opened an inquiry to examine procedural enhancements to public notice requirements to increase public awareness of and participation in DPU proceedings.

The docket number for the inquiry is D.P.U. 21-50.  Links for information about the Request for Comments and the DPU Order opening this inquiry are available below.

Through this investigation, the DPU is soliciting input from stakeholders and members of the public on best practices for promoting public involvement in Department proceedings.   The DPU invites and encourages all interested persons to participate in this proceeding and seeks written comments on this topic by June 14, 2021.

The DPU anticipates that the Energy Facilities Siting Board will establish a similar inquiry into its public notice requirements and procedures, and envisions that the two agencies will coordinate on procedural matters regarding these companion proceedings.

Please see the press release issued by the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs.

 »https://www.mass.gov/resource/enhancing-public-engagement

COMMENT DEADLINE: May 30th, 2023

TAKE ACTION: Tell EPA to Protect our Waters from Power Plant Pollution!

For too long, coal plants have dumped unlimited amounts of heavy metals and other harmful pollutants into our rivers, lakes, streams, and other water bodies. This toxic pollution has contaminated drinking water sources and made it unsafe to fish in many waterbodies throughout the country.

In March 2023 the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) proposed new, more stringent wastewater treatment standards for coal-fired power plants. Coal plant companies are already urging EPA to weaken these Clean Water Act pollution limits. Add your voice today to tell the EPA to finalize the strongest possible coal plant water pollution standards!

» https://cleanwater.salsalabs.org/national-action-epa-elg-2023/index.html

COMMENT DEADLINE: May 5th, 2023

TAKE ACTION: Tell FERC To Reject Fossil Fuel Subsidies in New England

We have until May 5th to submit public comments opposing federal approval of the full auction results. This year, we focus our dissent on the Forward Capacity Market itself. Submitting a public comment is a simple and powerful way to join together in community, demand that our electric grid manager stop funding fossil fuels, and insist that our ratepayer dollars be put to better use.

Here is No Coal No Gas’s official statement on recent auction results. We hope that you will use this toolkit to learn about the forward capacity auction process and join us in submitting public comments!

[The FERC Docket Number for this case is #ER23-1435-000]

We have a resource with talking points here! Comments are most effective when they include a short personal story, a couple of facts or talking points that speak to you, and why the greater context of the climate crisis is important to consider in ISO-NE’s energy grid decisions.

 »Click here for the Public Comment Toolkit

COMMENT DEADLINE: May 1st, 2023

MassDEP has initiated a stakeholder process regarding a Massachusetts Clean Heat Standard (CHS). The Massachusetts Clean Energy and Climate Plan for 2050 tasks MassDEP with establishing a CHS to promote electrification and adoption of clean heat solutions, with implementation as early as 2024.

A newly published CHS web page includes background information, a stakeholder discussion document, and “straw” heating fuel supplier reporting requirements, with initial written comments requested by May 1, 2023. In addition to program design input, MassDEP also requests recommendations for soliciting further input, such as suggested topics, locations, and formats for stakeholder meetings/hearings.

Clean Heat Standard Web Page

If you have questions about the Clean Heat Standard stakeholder process, please contact climate.strategies@mass.gov.

Technical Potential of Solar Study – Solar Siting Survey

View October 25 Public Workshop on Technical Potential of Solar Study on Events Page

COMMENT DEADLINE: February 27, 2023, 5:00 pm

Virtual Public Hearing, February 15th, 2023 10 am and 5pm
310 CMR 7.74 Reducing CO2 Emissions from Electricity Generating Facilities
Agency: MassDEP

Name & Citation of Regulation: 310 CMR 7.74 Reducing CO2 Emissions from Electricity Generating Facilities

Brief Explanation and Rationale for Changes: On January 4, 2022, the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) filed proposed regulation amendments to 310 CMR 7.74 Reducing CO2 Emissions from Electricity Generating Facilities. The proposed amendments address CO2 emissions attributable to the production of useful net thermal energy by facilities regulated under 310 CMR 7.74.

Web Link to View Regulations and Background Information: Includes proposed regulation amendments, background document, and public hearing notice: https://www.mass.gov/service-details/massdep-public-hearings-comment-opportunities 

Here are the new amendment and a background document:

Public Hearing and Comment Period: 

Virtual public hearings will be held on February 15, 2023 at 10:00 AM EST and 5:00 PM EST

MassDEP will accept written comments until 5:00 PM EST on February 27, 2023. 

A public hearing notice with additional details is posted at the web link above.

Virtual Public Hearings: February 15, 2023, 10:00 AM and 5:00 PM
Public Comment Period: Ends February 27, 2023

COMMENT DEADLINE: February 10th

HEARING: February 8, 2023, 2:00 pm, (request participation by January 27th)
COMMENT DEADLINE: February 10, 2023, 5:00 pm
MA: Department of Energy Resources (DOER)

DOER Releases Ten Communities Demonstration Draft Regulation for Public Comment

The Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources (DOER) is pleased to release draft regulations, 225 CMR 24.00 Municipal Fossil Fuel Free Building Construction and Renovation Demonstration Project, and a proposed model rule for public comment.

An Act Driving Clean Energy and Offshore Wind requires the Massachusetts DOER to establish a demonstration project in which cities and towns may adopt and amend general or zoning ordinances or by-laws that require new building construction or major renovation projects to be fossil fuel-free.  The purpose of 225 CMR 24.00 is to establish the framework, requirements, and timeline for cities and towns to participate in the DOER’s Municipal Fossil Fuel Free Building Construction and Renovation Demonstration Project as authorized by St. 2022, c. 179, § 84.

You can find the draft regulations, the model rule and additional information on DOER’s website.

DOER will hold a virtual public hearing on February 8th, 2023 at 2:00 p.m. to receive verbal public comment. Please register in advance here. Interpretation services can be provided upon request. Please email a request to green.communities@mass.gov by January 27th, 2023.

DOER encourages written public comments on both the draft regulations and model rule which will be accepted until February 10th, 2023 at 5 p.m. EST. Please submit comments to green.communities@mass.gov with the subject COMMENT ON TEN COMMUNITIES DEMONSTRATION COMMENTS. Alternatively, comments can be submitted via mail to Energy Efficiency Division, Department of Energy Resources, 100 Cambridge Street, 9th Floor, Boston, MA 02114.

COMMENT DEADLINE: February 17th

Public Webinar: February 3, 2023, 9:30 am
COMMENT DEADLINE: February 17, 2023, 5:00 pm
MA: Department of Energy Resources (DOER)

DOER has Released a Forward Clean Energy Market Design Proposal
DOER has released a Forward Clean Energy Market (“FCEM”) design proposal begin the next step in achieving an implementable market proposal with our New England partners and power sector stakeholders. More information on the FCEM Design Proposal can be found here: Clean Energy Markets | Mass.gov.

DOER welcomes stakeholder review and conversation of the many complex components of this proposal. Please send written comments on the Design Proposal to joanna.k.troy@mass.gov by February 17, 2023. DOER plans on developing a public webinar to cover the overall design of the FCEM before the written comment deadline. More information about that webinar will be posted soon.

On February 3, 2023 at 9:30 AM Eastern Time (US and Canada), Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources (DOER), in partnership with Sustainable Energy Advantage (SEA) and the Brattle Group, are hosting a public webinar on the recently released Forward Clean Energy Market Design Proposal which can be found at https://www.mass.gov/info-details/clean-energy-markets. Please register and attend to hear an overview of the Design Proposal and for the opportunity for Q&A.

Register in advance for this webinar:https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_1ZFdMSusR9-nBWpyI3bpxQ

COMMENT DEADLINE: January 20, 2023
MA: Department of Environmental Protection (DEP)

The Berkshire County Sheriff’s Office Jail is converting the classification of generators from emergency to non-emergency so the engines can be enrolled in the ISO New England demand response power generation program.

This conversion requires an approval from MassDEP’s Air Quality Program.  Berkshire County Sheriff’s Office Jail is required to meet current emission standards and install emission reducing equipment.  Attached is a Fact Sheet explaining the project and below is a link to the application.  The Draft Plan Approval is finalized, and the 30-day comment period is commenced.  Comments will be accepted until 5:00 PM, January 20, 2023.

Please review documents at the following links:

You may review the application and the DRAFT at the following link:  

  • The Application is available in the Public Access Portal: Search EEA Projects (state.ma.us)/   THE DOCUMENTATION WILL BE POSTED TO THE WEBSITE 12/21/2022 THEREFORE THE COMMENT PERIOD ENDS JANUARY 20,2023
    • Type in “Berkshire County Sherriff’s Office Jail” under Search and/or Comment All applications Open for Public Comment – Hit search or Enter” – Hit search or Enter./
    • Open the Application dated 8/17/22 for review. The Draft Approval is also attached to this e-mail
    •  You may comment directly on this website.

COMMENT DEADLINE: January 4, 2023
MA: DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC UTILITIES (DPU)

Subject: Petition of Boston Gas Company d/b/a National Grid to the Department of Public Utilities for Review and Approval of its Long–Range Forecast and Supply Plan for the period of November 1, 2022, to October 31, 2027.

Public hearing schedule for January 4, 2023 at 2:00 pm EST. Public comments due same day, by 5:00 pm.

» Official filing notice here       
» All docket files here     
» NGrid initial filing here      
» Join Zoom meeting here   

COMMENT DEADLINE: January 13, 2023
The Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA)

Draft Environmental Justice strategy and maps will be available for public comment

EEA is pleased to announce that it is undertaking two significant initiatives: (1) release of the draft EEA secretariat-wide Environmental Justice (EJ) Strategy and (2) release of updated EJ Maps, to be shared with the Environmental Justice Council for a vote on November 9, 2022. Further explanations of these initiatives appear below. Please contact EEA’s Director of Environmental Justice, Rishi Reddi, at rishi.p.reddi@mass.gov or, EEA’s Deputy Director of EJ for External Stakeholder Coordination, Carline Lemoine at carline.lemoine2@mass.gov, with any further questions. All materials can be found through at EEA’s Environmental Justice webpage this week. 

Strategy The EEA EJ Strategy is required under Executive Order 552 and within EEA’s EJ Policy. The document was developed by a Secretariat-wide EJ Task Force that was convened in September 2020 comprising representatives of each of EEA’s agencies, major offices, and affiliated organizations.  The draft strategy contains chapters that pertain to each of these agencies and offices and is tailored to the unique mandate of each entity.  It also provides a consistent approach to common issues, such as the development of EJ metrics to measure progress, staff training for awareness of EJ issues, commitment to diversity in hiring, inclusion of EJ criteria in grant disbursement and commitment to provision of languages services.  The draft strategy will be available for public comment from November 9, 2022 to January 13, 2023 through a link available at EEA’s Environmental Justice webpage, including translated versions. EEA intends to hold in-person public meetings on November 28, 2022 (Boston) and December 15, 2022 (Springfield) and two remote meetings on January 10, 2023 (day and early evening). EEA plans to issue the final EJ Strategy in mid-March and invites you to review and provide comments on this important document which we hope will advance environmental justice across the commonwealth.  

COMMENT DEADLINE: January 17, 2023
ENERGY FACILITIES SITING BOARD (EFSB), DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC UTILITIES (DPU)

Subject: EFSB22-05 Eversource Longmeadow/Springfield expansion project noticed for hearing & comments/intervention

Hearing on 12/14 with comments & intervention due 1/17. Here is the English notice, they provided Spanish as well:  

https://fileservice.eea.comacloud.net/FileService.Api/file/FileRoom/15711470

Details: The Siting Board will conduct a remote public comment hearing regarding the Project using Zoom videoconferencing on Wednesday, December 14, 2022, at 6:00 pm. Attendees can join by clicking (or entering) the following link

https://us06web.zoom.us/j/84781554962

The Siting Board will accept written comments on the Project. Written comments will be most useful to the Siting Board if submitted by Monday, January 17, 2023. Persons or groups who wish to be involved in the Siting Board proceeding beyond providing comments at the public comment hearing or submitting written comments may seek either to intervene as a party or to participate as a limited participant. A petition to intervene or participate must be filed with the Siting Board in electronic format, by email or email attachment, to dpu.efiling@mass.gov and to andre.gibeau@mass.gov no later than the close of business (5:00 p.m.) on Monday, January 17, 2023. 

» Public Comment Toolkit for EFSB on Proposed Springfield-Longmeadow Pipeline.

COMMENT DEADLINE: December 7, 2022
MA: Department of Energy Resources (DOER)

Municipal Aggregation Guide Available for Review

The Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources (DOER) seeks public comment on its draft Municipal Aggregation Manual and Best Practices Guide. The Guide was developed in response to municipalities’ increased interest in establishing municipal aggregations. It seeks to provide information that supports the effective and efficient formation of municipal aggregations, equips municipalities to advocate for municipal interests when forming a municipal aggregation, and improves collaboration with DOER on municipal aggregation formation.

Comments should be submitted via email to Marian Swain, Deputy Director of Policy & Planning, at marian.swain@mass.gov by 5:00 pm, Wednesday, December 7. Please note that all comments received will be posted publicly on this webpage following the deadline.

COMMENT DEADLINE: December 5, 2022

US Environmental Protection Agency, Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund

The Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund provides competitive funding for financial and technical assistance to enable zero-emission technologies and projects that reduce or avoid greenhouse gas emissions and criteria air pollution, including in low-income and disadvantaged communities. Congress has appropriated $27 billion in FY 2022 to implement this new program. These funds are available to EPA to award grants until September 30, 2024. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) invites the public to comment on the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund program design and implementation. Responses may be used by the EPA to assist in developing program design and guidance.

See NFGiM Events page for listening sessions November 1 and 9.

COMMENT DEADLINE: November 18, 2022

MA-DOER, Clean Peak Energy Standard Distribution Circuit Multiplier Guideline Released for Public Comment

The Department of Energy Resources has posted a draft Clean Peak Distribution Circuit Multiplier Guideline for public comment. In addition to the Guideline, the Department has also posted the preliminary list of eligible circuits, based on the draft guideline. The Guideline and Eligible Circuits List can be found on the Department’s website. 

The deadline for submitting written comments on this guideline is Friday, November 18, 2022 by 5pm. Written comments should be submitted to DOER.CPS@mass.gov with “DCM Guideline Comments” in the subject line. As an alternative, the public may submit written comments via mail to the Department of Energy Resources, 100 Cambridge Street, Suite 1020, Boston, MA 02114, attention Samantha Meserve. Please be advised that there may be delays in receiving written comments via the mail.  If you have any questions, please direct them to DOER.CPS@mass.gov.

COMMENT DEADLINE: November 16, 2022
MA: Executive Office of Energy And Environmental Affairs

MA Climate Change Assessment for public comment

After over a year of extensive data analysis and stakeholder engagement, the Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy & Environmental Affairs (EEA) is sharing a draft of the MA Climate Change Assessment for public comment. The documents available for review are posted on the project website and include:

  • Draft Executive Summary – available in English, Spanish, Portuguese, Simplified Chinese, Haitian Creole, Vietnamese, and Cape Verdean Kriolu
  • Draft Main Report— available in English 
  • Draft Regional Report Summaries –available in English, Spanish, Portuguese, Simplified Chinese, Haitian Creole, Vietnamese, and Cape Verdean Kriolu
  • Draft Appendices— available in English 

Please submit your feedback by November 16 at 5pm using the survey form found on the project website. Please share widely with your networks; we encourage anyone who is interested to review and provide feedback. Thank you in advance for your time and input!  

COMMENT DEADLINE: November 10, 2022
MA: Department of Energy Resources

DOER – Written Comments on Long Duration Energy Storage Study

Section 80 of An Act Driving Climate Policy Forward (H.5060) requires the Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources (DOER) in consultation with the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC) to retain a consultant or consultant team to provide an overview of the existing energy storage market in the Commonwealth, a market report focused on emerging mid- and long-duration storage technologies, and a study concerning the potential benefits of mid- and long-duration storage to Massachusetts ratepayers as the Commonwealth seeks to achieve its Clean Energy and Climate Plan targets through 2050.  

MassCEC and DOER will be accepting written comments to receive input from interested stakeholders on the potential scope of the study through November 10. Please send written feedback to both grid@masscec.com and aurora.edington@mass.gov with an email titled “LDES Study Comments: Your Organization Name.” A set of slides with information on the 2022 Climate Bill language on the study, codified language on the definition of energy storage, and suggested feedback areas may be found here.

SURVEY DEADLINE: November 7, 2022
MA: Attorney General’s Office

Survey on Environmental Justice and Energy Equity

The MA Attorney General’s Office is looking at whether the Dept. of Public Utilities & Environmental Facilities Siting Board processes are accessible to everyone. They are inviting feedback about participation in government proceedings that affect our daily lives like energy utility rates and siting for energy infrastructure projects. Their stated goal is to promote environmental justice and energy equity. Berkshire Environmental Action Team (BEAT) encourages people across the state to fill out this 10 minute survey. Available in English and Spanish.

COMMENT DEADLINE: November 7, 2022
FED: Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC)

Comments on FERC Winter Gas-Electric Forum

ISO-New England, our region’s grid operator, filed a “Draft Problem Statement and Call to Action on LNG and Energy Adequacy” with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). In response, FERC held a “Winter Gas-Electric Forum” in Burlington, VT on September 8, 2022. The 8 hour long forum was broken up into 4 panels, with a mix of energy industry, governmental, and advocacy officials.

FERC is accepting public comment on the Forum and ISO-New England’s statement.

This is a critical time to make your voice heard! Several voices during the forum argued for more pipeline capacity for New England, even though our demand has never again reached it’s peak back in 2006.

Any party wishing to submit comments regarding the topics discussed at the forum may do so on or before November 7, 2022.

Comments may be filed electronically via the Internet.[1]  Instructions are available on the Commission’s website http://www.ferc.gov/docs-filing/efiling.asp.  For assistance, please contact FERC Online Support at FERCOnlineSupport@ferc.gov or toll free at 1-866-208-3676, or for TTY, (202) 502-8659. 

» See our special page with information on this proceeding

This includes links to view the forum and will soon include our synopsis and talking points.

COMMENT DEADLINE: November 1, 2022, (not firm – can submit after meeting also)

ISO New England Open Board Meeting

See NFGiM Events page for listing.

COMMENT DEADLINE: October 21, 2022, end of day
MA: Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA)

Clean Energy and Climate Plan for 2050 Proposals

Hearings on October 6th, 7th and 11th: view on Events Page

The Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) is developing the Clean Energy and Climate Plan for 2050 that will help the Commonwealth achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions.  We invite you to join in a set of public hearings to provide feedback on EEA’s proposals for 2050, including statewide emissions limit, emissions sublimits for specific sectors, goals for natural and working lands, and strategies to achieve these emissions limit, sublimits and goals. 

Each public hearing will be virtual and begin with the same presentation, followed by public oral comments.  Recordings of the presentation will be posted at www.mass.gov/2050CECP after the hearings. 

» Presentation slides

Written feedback on the proposals is accepted at www.mass.gov/2050CECP and gwsa@mass.gov until end of day October 21, 2022.