Energy issues are back in vogue on Beacon Hill as Massachusetts residents and small businesses’ bills begin to rise again during the winter months. While members of the House plan to meet this week to discuss legislation addressing the cost of energy, Governor Healey recently announced the delay of the implementation of the state’s clean heat standard.

The Healey administration rolled back the state’s clean heat standard start date from 2026 to 2028. This policy was designed to reduce carbon emissions by discouraging fossil fuel use and shifting to electrification in the hopes of meeting the state’s self-imposed climate mandates. NFIB opposed various proposals calling for a clean heat standard because it adds cost to various types of heating fuels (oil, gas, propane, etc.). An independent analysis of the

Massachusetts clean heat standard claims it could cost households upwards of $450 per year. A similar clean heat standard policy in Vermont was estimated by state officials to cost an additional 70 cents per gallon of heating fuel, what some argue was a “low ball” estimate.

For the time being, the delay will prevent further increases on heating bills for Massachusetts residents and businesses. But it is important to remember this is only a delay and will require additional pressure on Beacon Hill to permanently shelve this costly proposal before it goes into effect in 2028.

>>>>> We also request that you take a moment to contact your elected officials, asking them to support legislation currently before lawmakers aiming to lower your energy bills: NFIB | Support Lowering Energy Bills!