Massachusetts Takes Another Step Toward Economic Recovery

WASHINGTON, D.C. and BOSTON, Mass. — Today, the Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources released emergency regulations that expand and update the Solar Massachusetts Renewable Target Program (SMART), the state’s main incentive program for solar.

Following”¯is a”¯statement”¯from”¯David Gahl, senior director of state”¯affairs, northeast for the”¯Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA):”¯

“SEIA thanks Governor Baker, Secretary Theoharides, and Commissioner Woodcock for releasing the SMART program expansion during these difficult times. Amidst the COVID-19 crisis, the Baker-Polito Administration has doubled the size of the SMART program, a move that will help stabilize the solar industry — one of the bright spots in the Massachusetts economy — and keep people working. We appreciate the ongoing dialogue we’ve had with Governor Baker’s administration on this reform package, and we are examining the impact of certain new restrictions on the pace of larger-scale development in the Commonwealth.

“With this action today, Massachusetts took a positive step toward creating new solar jobs and meeting its aggressive clean energy goals, but there is more work to do on both fronts. We’re ready to work with the Governor and the legislature to find other solutions during this time of economic crisis.”

###”¯

About SEIA®: 

The Solar Energy Industries Association® (SEIA) is leading the transformation to a clean energy economy, creating the framework for solar to achieve 20% of U.S. electricity generation by 2030. SEIA works with its 1,000 member companies and other strategic partners to fight for policies that create jobs in every community and shape fair market rules that promote competition and the growth of reliable, low-cost solar power. Founded in 1974, SEIA is a national trade association building a comprehensive vision for the Solar+ Decade through research, education and advocacy. Visit SEIA online at www.seia.org.

Media Contact: 

Morgan Lyons, SEIA’s Senior Communications Manager, mlyons@seia.org (202) 556-2872