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Massachusetts lawmakers are working to make electricity more affordable. Both the Massachusetts House and Senate passed energy bills (S.3166 and H.5175) this year that would support grid reliability and lower electricity costs through measures such as flexible interconnection, a retail storage program, and modernized residential solar permitting. These smart reforms can cut red tape and make it easier for residents and businesses to install rooftop solar and other distributed energy resources.
As the conference committee works to reconcile the two versions before sending a final bill to Governor Maura Healey, lawmakers should take a close look at proposals to mandate new fixed charges. This under-the-radar policy could work against the bill’s thoughtful reforms and make it more difficult to achieve the goal of lowering electricity costs for Massachusetts residents and businesses.
Proposed fixed charges would:
Raise electricity bills for at least ~60% of Massachusetts ratepayers
