Attorney General Maura Healey released a study on Wednesday that calls into doubt the need for a natural gas pipeline into the area, saying that cleaner alternatives can tackle the region’s energy needs through 2030.
The study was designed to determine whether the region is facing electric reliability challenges through 2030, as well as identifying the most cost-effective and clean solutions for addressing any of those challenges. The study shows that Massachusetts does not need to increase gas capacity to meet reliability needs, and that electric ratepayers shouldn’t foot the bill for additional pipelines, Healy said in a statement.
The study was conducted by the Analysis Group and found that reliability can be maintained in even the coldest months through 2030. The study found that not only is the natural gas pipeline not needed to meet reliability standards but could result in less customer savings and drive up emissions compared to an alternative approach that emphasizes investments in energy efficiency.
