The previous edition examined where Massachusetts obtains its energy and this edition assesses how energy is used. Total energy consumption includes gasoline and diesel used for transportation, natural gas and heating oil consumed in buildings, fuels used by industry and electricity delivered to customers. Electricity represents only one part of that total. That distinction produces a result that may surprise many readers: transportation is Massachusetts’ largest energy-consuming sector when...

Electricity consumed in Berkshire County is part of a broader regional system operated by ISO New England (ISO-NE), which manages the electric grid and wholesale power markets across the six New England states. As a result, the reliability, cost, and composition of our electricity supply are shaped not only by in-state generation, but by regional resources, transmission constraints, and imports from neighboring states and Canada. Figure 1. ISO-NE Electricity Supply Mix (2024) Massachusetts...

Massachusetts is considering legislation to establish a state climate bank that would help finance energy efficiency improvements and clean energy projects for communities, businesses, and public infrastructure. The goal is to expand access to affordable financing for projects that reduce emissions and support the state’s transition to cleaner energy. The proposed bank would provide low-interest financing and work with private lenders to support investments such as building energy upgrades,...