Bill > H2874

This bill proposes to study and implement pilot projects aimed at increasing the number of net-zero homes in Gateway Cities, which are defined as certain low-income communities in Massachusetts. The key provisions include: 1. A one-year study by the Department of Energy Resources, in consultation with the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center and the Department of Housing and Community Development, to identify existing incentives, resources, and gaps in helping low-income homeowners and renters achieve net-zero status in terms of energy consumption, greenhouse gas emissions, solid waste, and transportation. 2. Following the study, the Department of Energy Resources will conduct at least two pilot projects over the subsequent two years, enrolling a minimum of 150 low-income households (both homeowners and renters) in at least three Gateway Communities. These pilot projects will retrofit the existing housing to be net-zero energy buildings, providing access to renewable energy, energy efficiency measures, low-impact solid waste solutions, and transportation options. 3. After the completion of the pilot projects, the Department of Energy Resources will submit a report to the legislature with recommendations for expanding similar programs to include all low-income households across the Commonwealth. The purpose of this bill is to identify and address the barriers that low-income households face in achieving net-zero status and to develop programs and policies that can help them reduce their energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/191/H2874