Energy and Climate Change (Global Warming)
To curb the alarming trend of global warming, we need to actively encourage expanded use of renewable energy and energy-efficiency programs.
Massachusetts emissions of carbon dioxide and other global warming gases are on the rise due to increasing fuel consumption for cars and trucks and oil and gas consumption for home and commercial heating. Additionally, the sea level continues to rise along the state’s coastline, and warmer average temperatures are contributing to the spread of West Nile virus and Lyme disease. The EPA estimates average temperatures in Massachusetts could rise another 4-5 degrees Fahrenheit by 2100 if global warming continues unabated, affecting the state from the tip of Cape Cod to the Berkshire Mountains.
Implementation of the Green Communities and Global Warming Solutions Acts is necessary to encourage expanded use of renewable energy and energy-efficiency programs that are essential to curb global warming.
A summary of the Green Communities Act
From the Conservation Law Foundation (CLF)
MA Statehouse passes Global /warming Solutions Act
News Release from Environment Massachusetts
Wind Energy
July 15, 2010 - Wind Siting Legislation Passes in the House
Yesterday, the House passed Wind Siting legislation (H. 4687) by a vote of 101-52 after fairly lengthy debate. Amendments adopted by the House changed the bill so it was more aligned with the version passed by the Senate. The bill will now go to conference committee to iron out differences. ELM supported the Senate version of the bill, believeing that as we grapple with climate change, it is important to get good wind projects sited in a timely manner. The bill included provisions to ensure strong enviromental protection and a streamlined siting process.
May 28, 2009 - First Offshore Wind Farm in the Country gets Green Light from State
A $1 billion proposal to build the first big U.S. offshore wind-power farm passed a key hurdle last Thursday by winning permit requirements to proceed to construction. Cape Wind Associates LLC has proposed constructing 130 wind turbines over 24 square miles (62 sq km) in Nantucket Sound. The project, designed to power about 400,000 homes, won unanimous approval by the Massachusetts Energy Facilities Siting Board in a 7-0 vote for a "composite certificate" that combines nine state and local permits needed for the project.
Cape Wind President Jim Gordon said the vote caps a seven-year state regulatory process. "I'm ecstatic," he said after the vote. "It paves the way for new clean energy jobs, action on climate change and a renewable energy future for Massachusetts and the region."
For the full press release from EEA, go here: Siting Board Grants State, Local Permits to Cape Wind
January 13, 2009 - Governor Patrick Sets New Goals for Wind Power
From the Governor’s website
Related Links
Climate Change Language that Persuades Americans
A tremendously useful PowerPoint presentation by Frank Luntz's nationally-respected polling firm. Clearly demonstrates language that is effective (as well as not effective) in persuading Americans that we should take action against climate change.
NSTAR Green
NSTAR is offering customers a new option to support electricity generated from renewable sources.