Senator Eldridge Statement of Support for Communities Passing  Moratoriums on New Fossil Fuel Infrastructure

Eldridge highlights Acton’s leadership on embracing 100% clean energy for municipalities

As the Senate chair of the Massachusetts Clean Energy Caucus (CEC), I am proud to support any Massachusetts community’s decision to pursue a ban on new gas infrastructure. Understanding the importance of forward-thinking legislation, I filed SD.710, An Act creating a local option for all-electric buildings and homes, which will have an impact on leading the Commonwealth towards a clean energy future.

The initiative taken by the town of Acton is commendable, and should serve as an example for other cities and towns that are looking to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions and environmental impact. It is critical to highlight that last year, the residents of Acton overwhelmingly approved a new elementary school and fire station — both employing geothermal and solar technologies to generate renewable power. Such projects demonstrate that the needs of local residents can continue to be met without reliance on fossil fuel infrastructure as we transition to non-emitting sources of energy — which yield not only emission reductions and environmental benefits, but green jobs as well.

Last year, the Massachusetts Attorney General ruled that municipalities do not have the legal authority to prohibit fossil fuel infrastructure. In direct response to this ruling, I have been working closely with the Acton legislative delegation to file SD.710/HD.1296, An Act to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by permitting local option all-electric buildings and home ordinances. This bill would give all Massachusetts municipalities the power to vote on banning new fossil fuel infrastructure within their city/town. Thus, the passage of SD.710/HD.1296 is of the utmost importance. We must ensure that municipalities who seek to combat the climate crisis through such means will not face limitations in doing so.