In August, the Healey-Driscoll Administration announced more than $8 million to cities and towns across Massachusetts to fund energy efficiency and clean energy projects. The Department of Energy Resources (DOER) selected 57 municipalities to receive Green Communities Competitive Grants; Hopedale was one of those municipalities and received a $250,000 grant. 

 With today’s announcement, DOER will have awarded more than $208 million to Green Communities in Designation and Competitive Grants since 2010. These funds have helped reduce municipal energy costs by over $30 million annually and have reduced pollution.

“Our administration is committed to helping cities and towns lower energy costs and make public buildings more efficient,” said Governor Maura Healey. “These investments will reduce energy use, save money and help communities make the most of every taxpayer dollar.”

“Communities across Massachusetts are finding innovative ways to reduce energy use and lower costs,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “These grants will help local leaders make practical upgrades that improve public buildings and deliver long-term energy savings.”

"The important work of these 57 cities and towns demonstrate their commitment to clean energy initiatives that deliver lower costs and energy efficient, climate-resilient buildings for their residents, students and visitors,” said DOER Commissioner Elizabeth Mahony. “We are proud to support our Green Communities with grants and assistance that help make local clean energy and energy efficiency projects possible.”

The projects are expected to save about $701,411 each year in energy costs and leverage $3.2 million in utility incentives. Annual energy savings of 28,141 MMBtus is equivalent to the energy use of 320 Massachusetts households. These projects also reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 1,634 metric tons annually, which is roughly equivalent to 3,783 barrels of oil consumed.

Eligible projects include installing high-efficiency lighting and building weatherization, upgrading to energy management systems, insulating pipes and attic spaces, and transitioning HVAC systems away from fossil fuels by installing air- or ground-source heat pumps.

Under the Green Communities Act, DOER’s Green Communities Designation and Grant Program can make available up to $20 million annually to qualified cities and towns.

DOER accepts competitive grant applications in two blocks annually. Additional information on awarded projects and funding amounts can be found on DOER’s website.

Submitted by Mass. Dept. of Energy Resources