Bill > S2296

This bill aims to encourage solar energy development on built and disturbed land by modifying existing Massachusetts energy regulations. The bill expands the definition of "Class III net metering facility" to allow solar projects on built land to have a generating capacity between 1 and 5 megawatts, and defines "built land" and "disturbed land" to include areas like parking lots, brownfields, landfills, and other previously developed or non-agricultural spaces. It provides regulatory incentives for solar projects on these types of land, including exempting such projects from certain existing capacity restrictions and net metering limitations. The bill requires the Department of Energy Resources to create additional financial incentives for solar facilities on built land, adjust solar incentives based on market conditions, and remove declining incentive blocks for these projects. Additionally, it mandates that the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center develop an incentive program for roof repairs associated with solar installations, with priority given to environmental justice communities. The executive office of environmental affairs is also tasked with investigating the use of federal funds to support equitable solar deployment on built land, with a report due by December 31, 2025.

Budget and Finance, Transportation and Infrastructure

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S2296