But, a Massachusetts energy efficiency initiative offers them an opportunity to lower energy costs and reduce emissions.
Through the Mass Save partnership, electric and gas utility companies work with the Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources to offer energy-efficiency improvements.
After getting a home assessment, which can be done virtually, participants receive recommendations for weatherization, lighting and more. Rebates and incentives are available, including to low- or moderate-income residents. Mass Save defines low income as 60 percent of the state median or lower, and moderate income is set at 60 to 80 percent of the median.
Following are some questions and answers about Mass Save compiled by The Eagle from interviews.
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Pittsfield Generating, on Merrill Road, runs primarily on natural gas. In 2019, it emitted 39,176.89 metric tons of carbon dioxide and 6.65 metric tons of nitrous oxide while operating just under 6 percent of the time, according to the Environmental Protection Agency.
Though they run just a small fraction of the time, âpeakerâ power plants often fire up on the hottest days of summer or the coldest days of winter. And when they are on, they typically are among the worst polluters.
Local climate advocates have started a push to convert three Berkshire peakers to cleaner alternatives.
The Berkshire Environmental Action Team wants the plants to switch to using renewable energy and battery storage. To make that pitch, itâs seeking to build a coalition that already includes the Berkshire NAACP branchâs environmental justice committee, Masspirg Students, Indivisible Pittsfield and a number of local climate action groups.