Alternative Energy Portfolio Standard

Last updated: August 28, 2018

Program Overview

Implementing Sector:State
Category:Regulatory Policy
State:Massachusetts
Incentive Type:Other Policy
Web Site:http://www.mass.gov/energy/rps
Eligible Renewable/Other Technologies:Biomass, Geothermal Heat Pumps, Combined Heat & Power

Authorities

Name:M.G.L. ch. 25A § 11F 1/2
Date Enacted:07/2008
Effective Date:01/2009
Name:225 CMR 16.00
Date Enacted:03/2009

Summary

In July 2008, Governor Patrick signed a major energy reform bill, the Green Communities Act (S.B. 2768). As part of that legislation, Massachusetts created the Alternative Energy Portfolio Standard (APS), which requires meeting 5% of the state's electric load with "alternative energy" by 2020, according to the following schedule:

  • 1.00% by 2009
  • 1.50% by 2010
  • 2.00% by 2011
  • 2.50% by 2012
  • 3.00% by 2013
  • 3.50% by 2014
  • 3.75% by 2015
  • 4.00% by 2016
  • 4.25% by 2017
  • 4.50% by 2018
  • 4.75% by 2019
  • 5.00% by 2020

The “alternative energy generating sources” include combined heat and power (CHP) projects, flywheel energy storage, energy efficient steam technology. and renewable technologies that generate useful thermal energy. These projects must be new (start date after January 1, 2008) and must receive a statement of qualification from the Department of Energy Resources to qualify.

From 2009 to 2014, ~99% of compliance was met using efficient CHP technologies.

Solar system price checker

Design Your Solar Home

START

Market Trend

12 3

Input your address to see if it is solar friendly and how much you can save with solar.

Great. Your address is perfect for solar. Solar incentive is still available. Select monthly utility cost and calculate the size of solar system you will need now.

Whoa ! Going solar is definitely a smart decision.

kw System size years Payback period Lifetime savings

No money down, 100% finance is available.