A Berkshire Environmental Action Team campaign Put Peakers in the Past is demanding that the three peaking power plants located in Berkshire County revert to only renewable and clean alternatives. Peaking plants are used to meet periods of high energy demand. The decades-old plants at Pittsfield Generating Co. on Merrill Road, the Eversource substation on Doreen Street and the EP Energy plant on Woodland Road in Lee run off fossil fuels such as natural gas, oil, and kerosene. Pittsfield Generating is a co-generating plant that also provides steam energy. Rosemary Wessel, program director for BEAT s No Fracked Gas in Mass campaign, said this sparks concern from environmentalists because the fuels emit excess nitrogen oxides and contribute to the region s greenhouse gas emissions.
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.