Pending legislation in the Massachusetts State House would promote net-zero housing and position the state as a leader in energy efficiency. Multiple bills under consideration would create a program to convert low-income housing into energy neutral buildings, enact energy performance standards for large buildings and many appliances, and encourage adoption of heat pumps for heating and cooling.
One bill would require owners of buildings larger than 15,000 square feet to report their energy consumption. These buildings would also have to meet performance standards determined by the state energy department.
The state has already set an aggressive goal of reducing emissions 80% by 2050.