The Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities (DPU) has issued an order on the Phase II regulations for the state’s Solar Massachusetts Renewable Target (SMART) Program.
The order updates the SMART Program so the state will be better equipped to reach its 2030 and 2050 Clean Energy and Climate Plan Goals. It will also create new community solar programs, which allow low-income and environmental justice populations easier access to SMART.
The Healey-Driscoll Administration was awarded $156 million for the Massachusetts Solar for All program, which is expected to deploy 125 MW of solar and lower energy costs by 20 percent for more than 31,000 low-income and disadvantaged households.
The SMART Program, implemented in 2018, is the state’s primary way to create and support the development of solar energy in Massachusetts.
“The changes to the SMART Program outlined in the Department’s Order are important to advancing the Commonwealth’s clean energy goals,” said Commissioner Cecile Fraser, in a statement. “With this order, more low-income customers will be able to share in solar’s benefits as we drive down emissions and improve reliability.”
The order will approve Low-Income Community Shared Solar (LICSS) programs offered by utilities and through municipal aggregation plans.
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