As representatives of 750 businesses in the Commonwealth, the BSA supports the climate bill, including interim emissions reduction targets, accelerated renewable energy production, environmental justice standards, natural gas utility safety, increased funding for the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center, and many other important provisions.

As representatives of 4,500 architectural and allied professionals in eastern Massachusetts—New England’s largest building industry association—we also support the many specific aspects of the bill pertaining to buildings and the regulation of buildings. Of utmost relevance to our industry and importance to meeting the Commonwealth’s climate goals are:

1. Promulgation of a net zero stretch energy code that cities and towns may adopt;

2. Shifting of responsibility to the Department of Energy Resources (DOER) to develop the net zero stretch energy code;

3. Expanding the BBRS by adding 4 new members, with a focus on energy efficiency.

The work of our members has shown that net zero energy buildings are practical, affordable, and possible for essentially every building type. This climate bill will help net zero buildings proliferate throughout Massachusetts. Buildings must be employed as a tool to solve the climate crisis, to protect us from extreme weather, and to correct for social injustices. Sustainable design, once considered a fad, is now the cornerstone of best practice. Climate action has become an imperative.

Please read the full letter to Governor Baker with information to support our position on these issues here.