A sweeping Massachusetts climate and energy bill recently signed into law by Republican governor Charlie Baker allows local bans on fossil fuel-powered appliances.
The controversial measure survived debate in the state legislature. It makes it legal for 10 municipalities to ban fossil fuel-powered appliances in new buildings. A requirement that cities meet affordable housing quotas before they can ban fossil fuel infrastructure in new buildings, helped sway the governor who was wary of allowing bans of fossil fuel appliances. Another provision precludes life sciences labs and health care facilities from being affected by the bans, making the law more palatable to some lawmakers.
The law also requires electric utilities to buy 5,600 megawatts of new offshore wind capacity by 2027, up from a former goal of 4,000 megawatts. It also removes a controversial price cap that required every new wind project to offer cheaper electricity than the previous one.
Other parts of the bill aim to shore up the electric grid, decarbonize the Boston-area transit system by 2040, and require all new cars sold in the state to be zero-emissions by 2035.
Related Stories
Contractors | Oct 26, 2018
Three ways construction leaders harness digital transformation
The construction industry is lagging behind others when it comes to digital transformation. Some construction firms “are still using paper-based processes that can only be described as archaic,” according to a 2016 report by PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP’s Strategy1.
Contractors | Oct 24, 2018
How seasoned construction pros handle the cost of scaling up
Here’s how seasoned operators meet the new demand for homes, offices and new locations without drowning in new expenses.
Contractors | Oct 2, 2018
Nonresidential spending reaches new high in August
Total nonresidential spending stood at $762.7 billion in August, an increase of 8.4% compared to one year ago.
Contractors | Oct 2, 2018
Katerra adds a Denver-area GC to its growing stable
Bristlecone Construction brings self-performing expertise in concrete and framing.
Architects | Sep 14, 2018
We’ve entered the golden age of brain science. What does it mean for AEC firms?
New research from the SMPS Foundation explores the known principles and most recent research surrounding the human brain and behavioral science. The goal: to discover connections between the science and the AEC business.
Contractors | Sep 5, 2018
Lean, tech, talent training highlight contractor innovations
From 5D estimating tools to interactive punch lists, the nation’s largest construction and construction management firms continue to push technology to gain an edge.
Modular Building | Aug 6, 2018
More contractors are turning to offsite production for speed and quality
Skender launches an advanced manufacturing division. Katerra ups its bet on modular. Prefabrication comes to the rescue on multiple projects.
Architects | Aug 1, 2018
Client experience as competitive advantage for AEC firms
Clients are looking for solutions to their business problems from collaborative advisors. They’ve come to expect a higher level of service and detail than what was provided in the past.
Codes and Standards | Jul 31, 2018
Workers allegedly held in captivity by construction subcontractor in San Jose pay theft case
Contractor pays $250,000 in back wages in Dept. of Labor enforcement action.
Building Team | Jul 30, 2018
Construction tech is the new investment darling for VC funds
In the first half of 2018, venture capital firms invested $1.05 billion in global construction tech startups, setting a record high.
