Green Communities Act Background

On July 2, 2008, Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick signed into law the Green Communities Act (the "Act,"). This Act launches the Commonwealth into a new era of clean energy development. It remakes the electricity market to reduce energy consumption through a dramatic increase in energy efficiency technology and renewable energy development. This bill is just one piece of a clean energy vision that the Governor and the Legislature are forging for the Commonwealth.

The Act requires that the Department of Energy Resources (DOER) complete numerous tasks within a relatively short period of time. In order to meet this obligation, DOER requires, and values, the input and participation of the many stakeholders having an interest in the issues and tasks assigned. We will update our plans and timeline with more detail and specific dates as they are confirmed, and we encourage participation from stakeholders. Stakeholders should continue to monitor the DOER website for developments. Over time, this website will be expanded and modified, as DOER continues to implement the provisions of the Act.

Stakeholder Meeting Dates and Comment Deadlines

See the appropriate linked pages for additional details on the above.

Procedures Regarding Stakeholder Input and Meetings

Stakeholders have already contacted DOER requesting opportunities to meet and discuss various issues in the Act, particularly issues concerning the Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) and Alternative Energy Portfolio Standard (APS). Given the relatively short timeframe and the many interested parties seeking an opportunity to be heard, DOER held two public forums, one focusing on the import feasibility study, and the other on the rulemaking process for the updated RPS and the new APS. These forums are in addition to those public hearings required under M.G.L., c. 30A, which are necessary for formal adoption of regulations. Notice of those formal proceedings will be published at such time as DOER has prepared draft regulations for public review.

In addition to both informal and formal meetings, DOER will solicit written comments from stakeholders on specific issues, and we will post those comments on this website. The website will also provide pertinent documents, reports, studies, and draft regulations and guidelines.

Implementation News (updated November 7, 2008):

DOER activity pages:

• RPS Import Feasibility Study
• RPS Class I and Class II Regulations
• Alternative Energy Portfolio Standard (APS) Regulations
• Green Communities Division 

Additional activities required by the Act will be added in future updates.