Massachusetts State House.
HYANNIS A group representing environmental groups praised the recent passage of a climate bill by the Massachusetts State Senate.
State director for Environment Massachusetts Ben Hellerstein expressed support for the bill’s passing.
Hellerstein stated that the legislation will provide a treasure trove data on large-scale energy use in large buildings. This will inform building owners, state leaders and local officials about efforts to reduce global warming pollution.
Environment Massachusetts supports a livable environment. According to the group’s findings, 40% of states greenhouse gas emissions come from buildings. These include the burning of fossil fuels for heating.
Hellerstein advocates for the replacement of these energy sources with cleaner alternatives like heat pumps that will reduce pollution.
The environmental official also expressed gratitude for State Senator Rebecca Rausch (D – Norfolk, Bristol and Middlesex) who led an amendment to the bill that will require owners of buildings over 25,000 square feet to report their energy usage every year.
Hellerstein stated that the amendment will allow the Department of Energy Resources (the Department of Energy Resources) to analyze the information and make it available for regulators.
The legislation supports clean energy initiatives like solar power and wind power in addition to the sections that deal with building emissions.
Before Governor Charlie Baker can sign the bill, there will be differences between the Drive Act and a previous climate bill passed in the State House of Representatives.
CapeCod.com NewsCenter, Brian Engles
