By Mr. Brady, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 1927) of Michael D. Brady, Kathleen R. LaNatra, Christopher Richard Flanagan and Norman J. Orrall for legislation relative to the separation of agricultural land for renewable energy purposes. Revenue.
This bill requires Mass Save program administrators to offer free "zero-carbon assessments" to building owners, identifying measures to eliminate fossil fuel use (like insulation, window upgrades, and electric appliances) and listing available rebates. The assessments include safety checks for gas appliances and carbon monoxide, resulting in a report showing cost savings, health benefits, and a sample energy-efficient plan combining efficiency upgrades, solar, and storage. Utilities must collect and publish detailed energy data by zip code, and contractors must meet quality standards with preference for women/minority-owned businesses and those serving environmental justice communities. The policy applies to energy efficiency plans starting in 2025-2027.
This bill allows the town of Brookline to create its own zoning rules focused on reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving energy efficiency in buildings. It directly affects Brookline residents, property owners, and developers by enabling local regulations on building materials, solar systems, heating/cooling equipment, and utility connections (like electric vehicle charging). Key provisions protect these local rules from being blocked by the state Attorney General, covering areas like emissions from construction, building energy use, and renewable energy infrastructure. The bill specifically authorizes Brookline to implement measures addressing climate impacts through zoning, without conflicting with state building codes or utility regulations.
This bill allows agricultural or horticultural landowners to separate up to 10% of their contiguous land (or 15 acres, whichever is smaller) for renewable energy projects without full property tax liability. Instead, landowners pay 50% of the "roll-back taxes" that would apply if the land reverted to agricultural use, provided the land was non-productive at the time of separation. If the renewable energy use ends permanently and the land isn’t returned to farming, full tax liability resumes. The bill directly affects landowners converting agricultural land to solar or wind projects, with clear limits on the land size and tax obligations.
By Representative Sabadosa of Northampton, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 3562) of Lindsay N. Sabadosa that the Secretary of Energy and Environmental Affairs perform a study on the feasibility of installing solar panels on municipal and state buildings and land. Telecommunications, Utilities and Energy.
By Mr. Barrett, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 2232) of Michael J. Barrett for legislation to exempt solar installations on federal military lands from renewable energy production caps. Telecommunications, Utilities and Energy.
By Representative Gregoire of Marlborough, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 3499) of Danielle W. Gregoire that the Department of Energy Resources ensure equity, accessibility, and promote participation by renters and low-income retail electric customers in the solar incentive program. Telecommunications, Utilities and Energy.
By Representative McMurtry of Dedham, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 3526) of Paul McMurtry relative to large-scale solar energy installations on agricultural or recreational land of the Commonwealth. Telecommunications, Utilities and Energy.
By Mr. Mark, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 2302) of Paul W. Mark for legislation to require state agencies that initiate construction of new facilities or renovation of existing facilities to install solar energy systems on or near such facilities. Telecommunications, Utilities and Energy.
By Mr. Eldridge, a petition (accompanied by resolve, Senate, No. 2267) of James B. Eldridge that provisions be made to conduct a review of the policies and procedures related to rooftop solar energy systems. Telecommunications, Utilities and Energy.
