Achieving the Massachusetts’ Electric Greenhouse Gas Limits

In 2022, the Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs set sector-specific greenhouse gas reduction targets for 2025 and 2030. For the electric power sector, a 53% reduction by 2025 and a 70% reduction by 2030 (from a 1990 baseline) are required. The Commonwealth’s most recent greenhouse gas inventory for 2021 found that the electric power sector had already surpassed its 2025 target and was on track to meet its 2030 target. Today greenhouse gas emissions generated during peak demand represent only a small portion of total electric sector emissions. However, as emissions from fossil-fuel power plants in the Commonwealth decline over time due to emissions limits on in-state electric generators and the increased contribution of renewable resources attributed to the Renewable Portfolio and Clean Energy Standards, peak generation will contribute an increasingly large share of remaining emissions.

Data source: Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA). 2022. Clean Energy and Climate Plan for 2050. Available at: https://www.mass.gov/doc/2050-clean-energy-and-climate-plan/download

Multiple avenues exist for reducing emissions produced during peak demand, such as the Commonwealth’s Clean Peak Standard (CPS), which provides incentives for technologies that reduce peak load or provide zero-emission energy at times of peak demand. Generator owners may also replace existing fossil fuel-fired generation used to meet peak demand (known as “peaker” plants) with clean energy. The conversion of peaker plants to clean energy sources aids in reducing peak emissions and offers an opportunity to repurpose existing infrastructure. Replacing fossil-fuel power plants with clean energy resources, like battery storage and clean energy hubs, has already begun at sites such as the West Springfield Generation Station, Mount Tom Power Plant, and Salem Harbor Station, highlighting the viability of this option. As fossil-fuel generators reduce emissions and renewable sales increase, replacements of this type, alongside Massachusetts initiatives like the CPS, will be needed to ensure the Commonwealth meets its 2030 electric sector emissions limit.

Jordan Burt

Researcher

This is a part of the AEC Blog series.

The Impact of the Clean Heat Standard on Heating Energy

Source: Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection. December 7, 2023. Massachusetts Clean Heat Standard Technical Session: Draft framework Review [PowerPoint Slide]. Available at: https://www.mass.gov/doc/presentation-framework-technical-session-slides/download

In 2022, Massachusetts adopted the Clean Energy and Climate Plan for 2025 and 2030 in which the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) was tasked with the development of a program that would reduce heating emissions in all sector. In 2023, DEP proposed a potential framework for a state-wide Clean Heat Standard (CHS), which would place the existing annual compliance obligations on energy suppliers. The obligations in the framework correspond to emissions reductions for both fuel and electric suppliers, with obligations first falling to fuel suppliers, and then adding requirements for electric suppliers as electrification progresses.

With the vast majority of Massachusetts residents relying on fossil fuel for their heating, the CHS provides a way to reduce emissions as it promotes movement away from fossil fuels and towards electrification. Opponents of the CHS argue that residents will be forced to convert to electric systems and left facing higher heating bills. While the CHS does not require homeowners and businesses to make clean heat choices, consumers will incur the incremental costs of transitioning to clean energy as fuel and electric providers begin to increase the percentage of clean heat they provide. However, the electrification goals of Massachusetts’ Climate Plan will reduce the number of customer relying on fossil fuels for heating, which will increase the costs to remaining consumers regardless of the CHS. Currently, fossil fuel heating results in higher energy bills than electric heating according to the Department of Energy Resources. Long-term health and financial savings of the CHS may outweigh the short-term costs to consumers as the clean energy transition begins.

Jordan Burt

Research Assistant

This is a part of the AEC Blog series

Emissions Reductions Through Renewable Generation

Source: (1) U.S. Energy Information Administration. 2023. “Energy-Related CO2 Emissions.” Available at: https://www.eia.gov/environment/emissions/state/; (2) U.S. Census Bureau. 2022. American Community Survey 1-Year Estimates [Table S0101]. Available at:https://data.census.gov/table/ACSST1Y2022.S0101?q=population&g=010XX00US$0400000&moe=false

Within the United States, the energy sector produces the majority of greenhouse gas emissions, with fossil fuel combustion for energy accounting for 73 percent of all greenhouse gas emissions in 2021. Energy-related emissions vary by state, but on a per capita basis, all but seven states produce less than ten metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (MT of CO2e) per capita. Nitrogen oxide and sulfur dioxide emissions (which are produced by fossil fuel-fired power plants and other sources) can undergo chemical reactions in the atmosphere creating pollutants such as PM2.5, which can then travel across state lines. This means residents in states that have lower levels of emissions may still face adverse environmental and health impacts from other states’ pollution. North Dakota, Wyoming, and West Virginia have the highest energy-related emissions, with each state producing more than 33 MT of CO2e per capita, which can potentially effect neighboring states.

One way to reduce emissions and improve health outcomes is to develop a greener grid nationwide with renewable generation. In 2022, the United States had over 11,400 operable solar, wind, and hydro units totaling 317 GW of electric capacity. As of August 2023, there were an additional 1,106 proposed solar, wind, and hydro projects planned for operation in the next ten years. The addition of these projects to the grid will help reduce the amount of electricity demand met with fossil fuel generation thereby reducing energy-related emissions. While renewable generation is crucial to reducing energy-related emissions, only 24 new projects are proposed in the states that have over 20 MT of CO2e per capita. With a goal of net zero emissions by 2050, the United States will need to reduce energy-related emissions in every state, with increased renewable energy deployment playing a critical role. High initial capital costs are one of largest barriers to the development of renewable energy. The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) provides a way to reduce this barrier with new incentives for renewable generation. While the IRA helps to make renewable projects economically feasible, if developers in high emissions states do not take advantage of these offers, the deployment of renewable energy facilities may be insufficient to achieve targeted emissions reductions.

Jordan Burt

Assistant Researcher

This is a part of the AEC Blog series

Forever Chemicals: Take a Sip

Source: Desikan, A., Carter, J., Kinser, S. Goldman, G. 2019. Abandoned Science, Broken Promises How the Trump Administration’s Neglect of Science Is Leaving Marginalized Communities Further Behind. Union of Concerned Scientists. Available at: https://www.ucsusa.org/sites/default/files/2019-10/abandoned-science-broken-promises-web-final.pdf

Per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) comprise a group of chemicals dubbed the “forever chemical” due to their persistence in the environment. PFAS, which have been produced since the 1940s and can be found in almost every aspect of daily life, have been linked to adverse health outcomes, such as decreased fertility, developmental delays, increased cancer risks, and reduced immune system responses. The United States Government Accountability Office found exposure to PFAS in non-white low-income communities varied across a sample of six states with PFAS standards, but at least 18 percent of water systems were contaminated. In states like Michigan, analysis shows non-white and low-income communities are disproportionately exposed to PFAS.

Non-white and low-income communities often face the brunt of environmental burdens—with many states having no PFAS regulation for drinking water, or having regulations set at limits that are above the proposed EPA levels. These communities will likely face higher PFAS exposure. Traditional water treatment technologies are unable to remove PFAS from drinking water, meaning households require advanced systems to reduce exposure. One such system that has been found effective at removing PFAS costs between $150 for point of use systems to $7,500 for whole-house systems. The price of systems such as this places them out of reach of communities that may suffer the most from PFAS contamination. With low-income and non-white communities already more susceptible to adverse health conditions, the need to address PFAS contamination in an decisive and equitable way represents an urgent public health concern.

Jordan Burt

Research Assistant

This is a part of the AEC Blog series

Proactive Steps for Warm Weather Energy Efficiency

Source: PJM. n.d. “How Energy Use Varies with the Seasons.” Available at: https://learn.pjm.com/three-priorities/keeping-the-lights-on/how-energy-use-varies

Household demand for electricity often increases in the winter months due to use of heating equipment and an increased need for lights. With winter at a close and warm weather on the horizon, electric demand is expected to decrease. However, low spring electric demand will quickly be replaced by high demand in the summer due to cooling needs, which often surpass average daily demand in the winter. Massachusetts residents may benefit from a potential electric price decrease from utilities this spring, but mindful energy use and energy efficiency can further reduce electric bills.

There are a variety of ways households can be proactive in increasing energy efficiency and reducing their electric bills this summer. The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) recommends servicing cooling systems (e.g., replacing air filters and checking evaporator coil) in the spring to ensure they will run efficiently in the summer. DOE also recommends keeping air conditioner thermostats as high as possible, as colder settings will not cool homes faster and can result in increased costs. Installing window treatments early in the season will also help to keep homes cool: 76 percent of the sunlight that shines on windows enters the home as heat.

For additional measures households can take to improve energy efficiency this spring see the DOE’s 10 Energy Saving Tips for Spring.

Jordan Burt

Research Assistant

This is a part of the AEC Blog series

Rising Prices: The Cause of Higher Heating Bills This Winter

Source: Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources. 2022. *Massachusetts Household Heating Costs.* Available at: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/massachusetts-household-heating-costs#comparing-heating-technologies-to-save-on-your-heating-bills-

Higher heating costs are predicted this winter by the Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources due to higher-than-average fuel and electricity prices. In the 2022/2023 Winter report, Massachusetts Household Heating Costs, the Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources predicts electricity rates to be 40 cents per kWh in the Commonwealth, compared to 27 cents last winter. The report indicates that the exact changes to heating costs will vary based on the technology used to heat the home. For example, households using heat pumps pay one third of the cost of those using electric resistance heating (see Figure 2).

In the wake of electricity price increases, Massachusetts’ electric utility National Grid announced a 64 percent jump in residential customers electric bills this winter. According to American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy, low-income and BIPOC households already face higher energy burdens, making them particularly vulnerable to increases in energy bills. To help mitigate the impact of rising prices, National Grid launched a Winter Customer Savings Initiative, which helps with bill management and provides payment assistances programs. Eligible homeowners and renters may also receive help with their energy bills through Massachusetts Home Energy Assistance Program.

Jordan Burt

Research Assistant

This is a part of the AEC Blog series

The Benefits of Trees for Temperature Reductions

Data source: Speak for the Trees Boston. 2016. “Exploring Tree Equity in Boston.”

Heat Islands are pockets of high temperatures created by infrastructure, such as roads and buildings, that absorbs and re-emits the sun’s heat. Heat islands are typically found in urban areas, where less greenery is available to deflect sun rays. The Applied Economics Clinic’s recent report, Boston Tree Equity Analysis, indicated that the average summer temperature is higher in the City of Boston, Massachusetts, where there is a lower percent of area covered by trees, known as a “tree canopy”. Trees, and other greenery, can help to reduce heat islands and energy use, by providing shade in warmer climates and acting as windbreakers from cold winter winds. Trees and vegetation also provide other benefits for communities, such as reducing air pollution, sequestering carbon, and reducing road maintenance costs.

Boston’s Open Space and Recreation Plan has goals for investing and improving Boston’s open spaces over the next seven years. One of the goals of this Plan is to increase the number of trees in the City to reduce the heat island effect. Requests can be made for trees to be planted by calling Parks and Recreation services, or by using the Boston 311 app, but the City recommends reviewing the requirements for tree locations before doing so.

Jordan Burt

Research Assistant

This is a part of the AEC Blog series

Peaker Plant Pollution: Ways to Beat the Peak

*Reproduced from: PSE Healthy Energy. 2020. “Massachusetts Peaker Power Plants: Energy Storage Replacement Opportunities”. Available at:* *https://www.psehealthyenergy.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Massachusetts.pdf*

Massachusetts is home to 23 peaker plants across the Commonwealth. “Peaker” plants are electric generators that are called upon during times of maximum customer demand, which typically occurs between 4 PM and 9 PM on weekdays. Peakers produce the highest levels of emission when run compared to other plants on the grid, as they are often older and many use more emissions-intensive fossil fuels like oil, making them less efficient and more costly to operate. Emissions from these plants are linked to a variety of adverse health effects, like asthma and respiratory symptoms.

As hot temperatures, and other extreme weather, lead to spikes in energy demand, Massachusetts will see increasingly higher electric demand on hot summer days. However, there are steps consumers can take to reduce peak demand and associated peaker plant pollution. Text and email alerts such as Shave The Peak from the Green Energy Consumer Alliance or the Metropolitan Area Planning Council’s Peak Electricity Demand Notification program let consumers known when it’s a peak days so that they can reduce energy use. Mass Save, a Massachusetts initiative aimed at helping residents with energy efficiency improvements, offers rebates to control household smart thermostats during peak times to help reduce demand. Consumers can also help reduce the peak by shifting when they use appliances, charging electric cars off peak, and generally reducing electricity consumption during peak windows.

Jordan Burt

Research Assistant

This is a part of the AEC Blog series

Energy Burden Transparency in the Housing Market

Reproduced from: Sussman, R., Bastian, H., Conrad, S., Cooper, E., Tong, E., Sherpa, A. and Porfalatoun, S. 2022. Energy Labels Affect Behavior on Rental Listing Websites: A Controlled Experiment. American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy. Available at: *https://www.aceee.org/sites/default/files/pdfs/b2204.pdf*

Low-income households face disproportionately higher energy burdens compared to households with higher incomes, in part because low-income housing tends to be more energy inefficient (i.e., relying on old heating systems, poor insulation, and less efficient appliances).

A recent study by the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE) found that renters are more likely to choose apartments with better energy scores (a measure of building energy efficiency that ranges from 1 to 10) when energy score information is provided. For example, those looking for rental units at or below $750 per month were willing to pay 1.5 percent more in rent (about $11 more) for a one point increase in energy score.

Apartments with high energy scores save tenants money and reduce their energy burden through cheaper energy bills. Encouraging landlords, or even better, requiring them to transparently report energy costs in rental listings, would allow renters to make informed decisions, reducing energy burden for low-income households and increasing energy savings in the process.

Tanya Stasio

Researcher

Jordan Burt

Research Assistant

This is a part of the AEC Blog series