Massachusetts Comments

July 24, 2014

The Honorable Brian S. Dempsey, Chairman
House Committee on Ways and Means
State House, Room 237
Boston, MA 02133                                                     

Re: S. 2214

Dear Chairman Dempsey:

I am writing on behalf of the Massachusetts geothermal heating and cooling industry to express support for S. 2214, “An Act relative to credit for thermal energy generated with renewable fuels.” The bill recently passed the Senate, after a favorable report and unanimous vote of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means.

The Geothermal Exchange Organization (GEO) is a non-profit national trade association that advocates for policies that recognize the renewable and highly efficient attributes of geothermal heat pump technology. We urge your Committee’s approval of S. 2214, so it can move to the full Houser for final action.

1. 2214 creates a new definition, “useful thermal energy,” in the State’s Alternative Energy Portfolio Standard (APS) that recognizes the renewable energy captured by a geothermal heating and cooling system. This energy would then meet the definition of an “alternative energy generating source,” allowing geothermal heat pump systems to qualify for financial incentives under the APS.

Because current APS requirements have not been met under existing standards, the addition of “geothermal energy” to the definition will reduce compliance costs for ratepayers served by retail electricity suppliers. The bill ensures that Massachusetts will take its place as a leader in using the renewable energy provided by geothermal heating and cooling systems. It will also help expand the market, create good jobs, provide significant savings to consumers, and protect the environment.

Thanks for your consideration of this legislation. Again, we urge your swift approval of S. 2214 by your Committee so it can be considered by the full House. Please contact me if you need more information.

Sincerely,

Douglas Dougherty
President and CEO