Baker-Polito Administration Awards Grants for Municipal Clean Energy Projects

The Baker-Polito Administration awarded $250,000 in grants to support the development of clean energy projects in 20 cities and towns across Massachusetts. The grants, funded by the Department of Energy Resources’ (DOER) Municipal Energy Technical Assistance (META) program, are used by Massachusetts municipalities, regional school districts, and water/wastewater districts to aid in the management of projects or the performance of studies to support the development of clean energy in the Commonwealth.

“Meeting our ambitious target of net- zero emissions by 2050 will require an all hands-on deck approach, and municipal partners play a pivotal role in helping us achieve our climate goals,” said Governor Charlie Baker. “These grants provide crucial technical assistance to allow cities and towns across the Commonwealth to develop projects that will increase energy efficiency and clean energy use in municipal buildings and vehicles.”

“The municipalities receiving these grants will be in a position to develop and implement significant clean energy and energy conservation projects,” said Lieutenant Governor Karyn Polito. “Our municipal partners across the Commonwealth deserve immense credit for the work they do on a daily basis to move us toward our shared clean energy future.”

Open to all 351 cities and towns, META grants fund the services of expert consultants and contractors to assist with a diverse array of local energy projects. Applicants in the grant round that opened in July were eligible to apply for grants of up to $12,500.

“This technical assistance will help city and town officials across the Commonwealth create and implement sustainable, cost-effective, and innovative clean energy and energy efficiency projects for the benefit of Massachusetts communities,” said Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Kathleen Theoharides. “Energy innovation and investment at the local level is key to making meaningful change in reducing our carbon footprint and improving the environment for all residents across the Commonwealth.”

“State and local partnerships are critical to creating, developing, and implementing clean energy and energy efficiency projects that deliver benefits to residents throughout Massachusetts,” said Department of Energy Resources Commissioner Patrick Woodcock. “Technical assistance grants act as an informational and strategic resource for town and city officials to move energy projects forward in all aspects of development, planning, strategy, and execution.”

Projects and studies receiving funding will support the performance of solar photovoltaic site evaluation, heating system replacements, ASHRAE Level II audits, technical analysis of energy use at drinking water and wastewater facilities and technical assistance with efficient building planning, maintenance, and operation. Part of DOER’s Green Communities Division, the grants are funded through proceeds from the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative.

Baker-Polito Administration Awards Grants for Municipal Clean Energy Projects posted first on Green Energy Times