Governor Maura Healey Declares State of Energy Emergency
Increased Assistance Amid Rising Costs
Governor Maura Healey declared a “state of energy emergency” on Monday, announcing enhanced home heating assistance for many residents in Massachusetts as heating oil prices soar this winter.
Key Measures:
- An executive order will remove the SMART program charge from residential electric bills for three months.
- The Alternative Portfolio Standard charge will be cut by 50% this winter.
Context of the Crisis:
- Healey highlighted that one in five households in Massachusetts relies on heating oil, which has seen a 73% price increase compared to last year. Homeowners may face up to $700 more for a single fill-up.
- Energy prices in Massachusetts rank among the highest in the U.S., prompting Healey to address these issues as she campaigns for reelection against Republican Mike Minogue.
Federal Assistance Request:
Healey has urged Congress to approve an additional $3 billion for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program, aiming to increase total funding to $7 billion.
Increased Eligibility for Assistance:
The executive order will expand eligibility for the Home Energy Assistance Program:
- Families of four with incomes up to $103,049 can receive $870 to $1,450 for oil or propane, or $600 to $1,000 for gas or electric heating.
- New benefits will allow families making up to $171,749 to receive up to $680 off their bills.
Funding and Future Support:
While specifics on costs were not disclosed, it’s estimated that around 85% of ratepayers could see lower energy bills. The state plans to fund these initiatives through compliance payments from electricity suppliers failing to meet clean energy quotas.
New Emergency Fund:
The state is collaborating with Citizens Energy Corporation to establish an Emergency Winter Warmth Fund with an initial contribution of $100,000 to assist families facing heating challenges.
Legislative Actions:
Ongoing negotiations among lawmakers focus on energy savings and efficiency programs. Healey expressed urgency for legislative action, emphasizing the need to relieve financial pressure on residents.
Call for Immediate Action:
In her statements, Healey stressed the importance of immediate measures to support families, and she has called for federal actions concerning energy policies and infrastructure that could help alleviate costs for residents.
Conclusion
Governor Healey’s proactive measures aim to provide immediate relief to Massachusetts residents struggling with soaring energy prices, while also pressing for broader solutions at the federal level.
