Massachusetts has become a testing ground for life after gas — and for how complicated that transition can become, as utilities continue spending heavily on gas infrastructure even after 10 communities adopted fossil fuel-free rules for most new buildings and major renovations.
Gas companies have still spent about $100 million on infrastructure in nine Massachusetts communities even though all 10 adopted fossil fuel-free rules for most new buildings and major renovations, according to CommonWealth Beacon.
What’s happening?
Buildings are responsible for 36% of Massachusetts emissions, and communities such as Arlington, Cambridge, Newton, and Northampton are trying to cut that pollution by limiting fossil fuel hookups in new construction.
Those local restrictions have not stopped investment in gas infrastructure. Since the ordinances took effect, Eversource and National Grid have put roughly $100 million into those areas, with another $50 million expected this year…