Massachusetts Declares Energy Emergency, Unveils Nearly $150 Million in Winter Bill Relief
Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey declared an energy emergency on Oct. 5 and signed an executive order rolling out nearly $150 million in winter energy-bill relief. Middle-income households heating with oil can receive a new one-time benefit of up to $680, reaching an estimated 50,000 homes; the low-income heating assistance program (HEAP) gains another $15 million, serving about 156,000 households. The state will also pause the solar incentive charge on residential electric bills for three months and cut the alternative energy portfolio standard by 50%, with about 85% of customers expected to see lower bills. Residents can apply via mass.gov/heatinghelp.
The order also directs the state energy department to expedite heating aid applications and raise benefit levels for low-income families, and to coordinate with utilities to suspend winter shutoffs for struggling households; the plan also subsidizes energy-efficiency retrofits for older homes to cut energy costs at the source. Healey said that with winter approaching, the state must ensure no family goes cold because it cannot afford heat.
(Source: Office of the Governor of Massachusetts)
Source: Office of the Governor of Massachusetts
Published by GSM · USA (original Chinese edition)
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