Governor Baker Signs Massachusetts’ Next Generation Roadmap Climate Bill
BOSTON, MA (March 26, 2021) – Governor Baker’s signature of the Next Generation Roadmap climate bill is a big win for climate action and clean energy. With additional offshore wind procurements in this sweeping legislation, Massachusetts is now set to develop 5,600 megawatts (MW) of this carbon-free, affordable, local resource.
As of today, the New England states have made enough offshore wind commitments to power over 4 million homes—roughly a quarter of our grid—by 2035. These actions from across our region will drive investment and economic growth and provide thousands of family-sustaining jobs. When developed responsibly to protect our environment, wildlife, and communities, offshore wind will be critical to stemming the tide of climate change and reduce our dependence on fossil fuels.
We thank Massachusetts policymakers for working hard to get this bill over the finish line. This law is an essential step to getting the New England region to a net zero future powered by offshore wind.
“The momentum for New England to solidify the competitive advantage for this local, vibrant industry continues to grow, with yesterday’s announcement from Massachusetts House Speaker Mariano on his commitment to increase economic and workforce investment in South Coast communities with the goal of establishing the area as a regional hub for offshore wind. We look forward to continuing to work with the region’s legislatures and governors to deepen regional collaboration and shape the growth of an offshore wind industry that is just, equitable, and responsible.” – Susannah Hatch, Regional Lead, New England for Offshore Wind
“Due to the tireless work of advocates and the dedication of the Legislature, Massachusetts is once again positioned as a national leader on climate action and clean energy production. To meet our ambitious and attainable state-wide and sector-specific emissions goals, Massachusetts will lean into the incredible potential of offshore wind to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels and grow our clean energy innovation economy in the coming years. The specific, bold policy commitments in the Next-Generation Roadmap represent a well-defined path forward to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, as well as an opportunity to address the inequitable legacy of historical environmental and clean energy policy.” – Jennifer Benson & Co-Chair, Massachusetts State Committee, New England for Offshore Wind
“The climate crisis demands bold action and the Commonwealth’s leaders are rising to the challenge. Responsibly developed offshore wind power must be a pillar of our clean energy future, and this bill is a step toward making it happen. We look forward to working with the Baker Administration and the Legislature to ensure that Massachusetts’ offshore wind industry centers environmental justice, fosters healthy communities and quality jobs, and protects wildlife every step of the way.” — Amber Hewett, Offshore Wind Energy Campaigns Director, National Wildlife Federation & Co-Chair, Massachusetts State Committee, New England for Offshore Wind
“At a time when the health impacts of inequity, pollution, and climate change have never been clearer, Massachusetts leaders have heeded the call of communities and businesses alike, and have responded with bold solutions that will drive positive impact. The bill they delivered today gives us a big green light to go big on building a healthier, safer, and more prosperous future for all Massachusetts residents.” – Winston Vaughan, Massachusetts Director of Climate Solutions, Health Care Without Harm
“As an environmental organization working to protect the natural resources of Cape Cod, a region on the front lines in dealing with coastal impacts from our growing climate crisis, we applaud the signing into law of this landmark climate legislation. We are especially pleased to see a commitment to increasing production of offshore wind to help meet the goal of reaching net zero by 2050.” – Andrew Gottlieb, Executive Director, Association to Preserve Cape Cod
“Rapid, responsible development of offshore wind is a major contributor to Massachusetts’ growing clean energy sector and a vitally important part of our path to net-zero by 2050. This legislation measurably advances our climate goals. Climate change has serious impacts to wildlife as well as people – more than 40% of Massachusetts’ breeding birds are highly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change.” – Heidi Ricci, Director of Policy, Mass Audubon
“Achieving aggressive goals take not only bold leadership but clear milestones, roadmaps, and action plans. For energy users who want to act but have limited resources, like the 400+ non-profits and public entities in PowerOptions’ non-profit energy consortium, the passing of this bill is a welcome start. Its roadmap will help them achieve clean energy goals in the most cost-effective manner with resources like offshore wind.” – Heather Takle, President, PowerOptions
“UMass Lowell wants to thank the entire Joint Committee on Telecommunications, Utilities, and Energy for their hard work and dedication in ensuring passage of this legislation. We would like to recognize Representative Thomas Golden for his leadership as former Chairman of this critical committee.” – Mary Usovicz, Director of Business Development, UMass Lowell