MA Clean energy siting commission suggests measures to cut red tape

In an extensive report, the Commission on Energy Infrastructure Siting and Permitting released its recommendations to Governor Healey’s office on Monday to improve siting and permitting for clean energy infrastructure.

Massachusetts has a mandated emissions limit of net-zero emissions by 2050. Challenges in siting and permitting are often cited as a major obstacle to the timely deployment of clean energy; to meet these limits, the Commonwealth must streamline permitting processes.

The Commission’s recommendations include:

• Setting mandatory timeframes for permit approvals
• Consolidating myriad local permits into one 
• Requiring developers to meaningfully engage with communities early in the development process
• Creating guidance for suitability of sites for energy infrastructure. 

The Commission was created when Governor Healey signed Executive Order 620 in September 2023, to advance clean energy in the state. 

“The speedy deployment of clean energy infrastructure is key to protecting Massachusetts’ air, water and wildlife,” said Johanna Neumann, Acting Director of Environment Massachusetts. “It’s time to cut the red tape and streamline permitting so we can get our commonwealth to run on 100% renewable energy as quickly as possible.”

The Commission’s recommendations come as the state awaits pending clean energy legislation at the State House from the Telecommunications, Utilities, and Energy Committee.