Bill > H3577

This bill establishes the Zero Carbon Renovation Fund, a new state fund administered by the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs to support comprehensive energy efficiency upgrades for existing buildings. The fund will prioritize renovations for affordable housing, low and moderate income homes, municipal buildings (especially public schools), and small businesses with state supplier diversity certifications. These "Zero Carbon Renovations" aim to make buildings highly energy efficient by implementing all-electric heating and cooking technologies, adding on-site renewable energy sources, and using low-embodied carbon materials. The fund can also cover preliminary remediation costs such as addressing mold, asbestos, electrical system upgrades, accessibility improvements, and structural issues. Priority will be given to projects in environmental justice communities and gateway cities. The legislation initially allocates $300,000,000 to the fund, with provisions ensuring that unspent money can roll over to subsequent fiscal years and can be supplemented by additional gifts, grants, or transfers. The fund will involve collaboration among multiple state agencies to implement and oversee the renovation projects, with a focus on reducing carbon emissions and improving building infrastructure across Massachusetts.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H3577