Massachusetts Climate Action
The Global Warming Solutions Act sets enforceable limits on the emissions of greenhouse gases and gives the Patrick Administration the authority to regulate emissions across all sectors of the economy. It sets a cap on emissions of 80% below 1990 levels by 2050 and requires the administration to set interim caps, including a 2020 limit that is between 10% and 25% below 1990 levels.
The Act includes many of ENE's policy priorities to reduce global warming pollution and grow Massachusetts' clean energy sector. Among its provisions, the Act:
- Charges the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EOEEA) with developing a series of statewide emissions reduction plans to achieve the 2020, 2030, 2040, and 2050 emissions limits
- Requires the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to determine emissions for 1990 by July 1, 2009 and to project 2020 emissions under a business as usual scenario
- Requires the DEP to establish an emissions registry and reporting system
For an ENE summary of the bill's key provisions see MA Global Warming Solutions Act.
For more information on the steps Massachusetts is taking to address climate change, including legislation to boost investments in energy efficiency and renewable sources, see the Massachusetts Energy Project. See also Biofuels for information on Massachusetts’ new biofuels legislation.
