Dear Friends,
Right now, you have a real chance to protect one of Massachusetts' most effective climate tools, and it will take less than 10 minutes.
The state Senate is in the final stages of writing their version of the Energy Affordability Bill (aka the Climate Bill). While the House version, passed in March, included some positive elements, it also proposed a disastrous $1 billion cut to Mass Save.
These funds are essential for weatherization and heat pump subsidies that make clean energy affordable for everyone, including low- and moderate-income households and renters. Community institutions—including houses of worship—have greatly benefited as well.
MassIPL has helped religious communities assess 445 buildings, qualifying them for $4.2 million in Mass Save incentives across 149 completed projects so far. We've helped faith communities collectively save over $220,000 a year on utility bills, freeing up funds for ministry and community work.
All of these benefits would be jeopardized by the deep budget cut.
Every dollar invested in Mass Save returns $3 in lifetime benefits through reduced energy costs, less pollution, and better health outcomes. For most residents, it's the only affordable path to lower energy bills. And because the program reduces overall demand on the grid, everyone's bills are lower, even for those that never use it directly.
Now that the Senate is working on its version of the law, we have a brief, critical window to advocate for the full restoration of these funds before the bill is finalized.
Stay tuned for updates on the Senate bill and the Conference Committee, where the House and Senate versions will be reconciled.
In faith and action,
Mobilization Working Group
Massachusetts Interfaith Power and Light
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Take a look at our new digital home, built around Pray, Act, Mobilize.
Nearly 50 congregations surveyed, a new website coming soon, and August office hours — a look at what the MassIPL team accomplished this summer.
