Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities

Join staff from EEA, EFSB, DPU, and DOER at a series of four stakeholder sessions to learn more about changes to the siting and permitting process for energy facilities as required by the “2024 Climate Act”. Three hybrid and one virtual stakeholder sessions will be held on: ·         April 10- Standard Conditions for Consolidated Permits and Procedural Regulations, 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. ·        April 17- New Applications, 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. ·        April 24- Pre-filing Engagement Requirements, DPU and EFSB Intervenor Support Grant Program, and Guidance on Community Benefits Plans, 5:30-8:30 p.m. ·        May 5- Cumulative Impacts Analysis and Site Suitability Criteria, 5:30-8:30 p.m. Each stakeholder session will include a short presentation on the topics for that session along with an opportunity to comment and ask questions. Learn more about the topics covered, virtual attendance options, and session details: https://lnkd.in/epPj7Fim

Exciting News! We just launched our new Grants Management System to simplify the grant application process for municipalities, nonprofits, and businesses.     With an easy-to-use portal, applicants can find and manage grants all in one place. We’re starting with the EEA Dam and Seawall Program with more to come over 18 months! Make sure to set up a MyMassGov account to access the portal.    https://lnkd.in/eFikUGZR 

The Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Coordinating Council (EVICC) is holding four public hearings across Massachusetts to inform the council’s second report to the Legislature evaluating the state’s EV charging network and charging deployment strategies. Get more info at bit.ly/EVICCHearings

The Self-Certification Form for Net Metering customers looking to claim exceptions to the Single Parcel Rule is now available:https://lnkd.in/g4XsSGbX To learn more about the revisions to the Single Parcel Rule for Net Metering customers and if you may qualify, see the DPU’s press release on the changes to the Net Metering program here: https://lnkd.in/gtfCkFAu

Human trafficking is a real and serious problem. Our Transportation Safety Division is working with the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance and @tatnonprofit this January to educate and empower members transportation industries to combat human trafficking. If you suspect someone is in a human trafficking situation or you are the victim of human trafficking, call 911. The U.S. National Human Trafficking Hotline is also available at 888-373-7888 or text 233733. The hotline is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Support is provided in more than 200 languages, and all calls are confidential and answered live by highly trained anti-trafficking hotline advocates. Find out more about TAT and how you can help prevent human trafficking at www.tatnonprofit.org.

We have an exciting update to share: we have a new File Room that is up and running. Our new File Room is more user friendly and allows for easy keyword searches to find relevant dockets and documents on matters before the DPU.  We have put together this user guide to help you navigate the new File Room and learn more about the changes made.  https://lnkd.in/eXeXtShK

We're hiring! The DPU is looking for an analytical individual with an engineering or energy background to become a Public Utilities Engineer with the Pipeline Safety Division. Apply here: https://lnkd.in/eEwJStvU The PUE will be required to review operators’ programs, plans, procedures, policies, maps, records and other documents necessary to determine compliance with federal and state statutes and regulations. It will be necessary for the PUE to write reports and create such documents necessary for the admiration of the Pipeline Safety Program. Participation in hearings, rate cases, informal conferences, technical sessions, and operator training will occasionally be required. This position is hybrid with a mix of field and office time and includes outstanding comprehensive benefits. 

This winter has led to changes in gas bills. The costs of natural gas have fluctuated due to the rising market cost of gas and this season’s colder temperatures. For customers who have questions about their bills, please check out our informational page that breaks down the essential costs used to heat your home.  We understand the concern over rising energy costs and are taking steps to mitigate cost increases while we make the investments necessary for a modern, clean, reliable grid. Our Energy Burden Inquiry will help to provide relief to customers and reduce energy expenses for families. We encourage your participation in this effort by staying informed about upcoming workshops and comment periods listed on our Upcoming Events page. We are also committed to establishing discount rates for moderate income electric customers. Follow our News and Announcement page to stay tuned.   If you need assistance with paying your bills, you may qualify for the state’s Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP). It’s a free resource and helps eligible households pay a portion of their winter heating bills, no matter if they use oil, gas, or electric to heat their homes. Learn more:https://lnkd.in/eAcyjrH7 https://lnkd.in/exnwzHUF

Are you interested in learning more about networked geothermal? Attend MIT Environmental Solutions Initiative's two day course, done in collaboration with HEET.

Governor Healey’s state budget strengthens Massachusetts’ lead in climatetech, clean energy infrastructure, and climate resilience by investing in the people who will help us get there.