Governor Baker Testifies in Favor of Energy Bills - Netmetering Caps, Wind Energy Hydropower

Reports surrounding Governor Baker's testimony On Tuesday seemed reasonably positive. The Governor spoke favorably about "testing" the market for Offshore wind projects, and he also testified favorably regarding raising netmetering caps, which would allow homeowners, business, and governments to benefit through utility energy credits when they produce excess solar energy. 171 communities have reached the current cap, a situation which can misrepresent and stunt the growing solar market. There is some debate over the Governor's support of Canadian Hydropower. Competing values include local jobs, environmental impacts, and depressing other renewable sources. Governor Baker reaffirmed a commitment to meeting the state's long term goals of 25% energy reduction of 1995 levels by 2020. More information: http://www.wcvb.com/news/baker-testifies-in-favor-of-renewable-energy-bills/35560912 http://www.masslive.com/politics/index.ssf/2015/09/gov_charlie_baker_pitches_ener.html