Massachusetts Gears Up to Reduce Emissions

At the end of December, state officials presented a 136-page proposal, the Clean Energy and Climate Plan for 2020, to drastically reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in Massachusetts.  Over the next ten years, the goal is to curtail carbon expelled from homes, cars, and businesses by 25% below 1990 levels.  And after that… Massachusetts has plans to make the reduction to 80% below 1990 levels by 2050?!?!  This is not a mandated level, but a target mentioned in the 2020 plan.

Governor Deval Patrick signed the Global Warming Solutions Act (GWSA) in 2008.  The Act called for the Secretary of Energy and Environmental Affairs to establish a greenhouse gas target of between 10 and 25 percent below 1990 levels for 2020, and a plan to reach that target.  Secretary Ian Bowles chose the more aggressive target of 25%, solidifying Massachusetts’ destiny for a clean energy economy.

So where does the state see a 25% reduction in GHG emissions?

1. Buildings – 9.8 Percent  Decrease in Emissions
2. Electricity Supply – 7.7 Percent Decrease in Emissions
3. Transportation – 7.6 Percent Decrease in Emissions
4. Non-Energy Emissions – 2 Percent Decrease in Emissions

To date, Massachusetts has already achieved enormous progress toward their energy and emissions goals.  Since Governor Deval Patrick took office in 2007, the installed solar capacity has swelled from 3.55 MW to 77 MW by 2010.  In addition, the state’s energy efficiency programs have resulted in over $6 billion in savings for residential, commercial, industrial and municipal customers in the area.

Brightstar Solar can help you make clean, green solar electricity and do your part to reduce greenhouse gases in Massachusetts.  Our company offers a complimentary solar evaluation so you can decide if solar power is right for your home or business.  Rebates are not for “do-it yourself” projects and you must involve a licensed Massachusetts solar installer.  Please contact us directly to schedule an appointment.