Energy

Massachusetts is aiming to achieve net-zero emission by 2050 largely by electrifying things currently powered by fossil fuels. While the region's electrical grid is not ready to serve that heightened demand, the Bay State's utility companies late last week rolled out their plans to upgrade the grid so it doesn't impede the state's clean energy transition.

Ameresco, a clean energy company based in Framingham, closed on a $300-million loan to fund development and construction on its for clean energy projects. The loan is through HASI, a Maryland climate-positive investment firm.

Another offshore wind developer took a major step Tuesday toward scrapping its initial plans for an installation in waters off the coast of Martha's Vineyard.

The Healey administration and state utility companies released their formal request for proposals for more offshore wind power Wednesday, kicking off a bidding process that will unfold over the course of 2024.

State regulators have consented to a developer backing off its contracts for a 1,200-megawatt offshore wind installation, and introduced a procurement plan that weighs bidders' past failures to complete projects without outright barring them from participation.

Commonwealth Fusion Systems of Devens purchased a 12-acre development site adjacent to its manufacturing and development facility.

In its bid to win Department of Public Utilities approval to scrap energy contracts for a 1,200-megawatt offshore wind installation, Commonwealth Wind has secured the backing of a potentially influential figure: another arm of the Healey administration.

The City of Gardner received a $200,000 Community Compact Municipal Fiber Grant from the Massachusetts state government to improve communications between City departments.

Boston utility company Eversource has begun drilling 90 bore holes, each 600-700 feet deep, as part of its effort to connect 140 customers in Framingham with geothermal energy.

Westborough-based Massachusetts Broadband Institute has added Winchendon among its second round of communities to its Digital Equity Planning Program, which provides consultation to Massachusetts cities and towns to identify barriers to internet access and reduce the digital divide.