Massachusetts Joins Climate Leader States; Opens Official Investigation Into Future of Gas

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

MEDIA CONTACT: Stefanie Spear, sspear@asyousow.org, 216-387-1609

BERKELEY, CALIFORNIA—OCT. 30, 2020—The Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities (DPU) Thursday announced it is opening an official investigation into the role of gas utilities in consideration of the state’s climate goals. It joins other climate leaders in California and New York in taking a proactive approach to evaluating how the clean energy transition will impact gas reliance and the implications of a rapid shift away from fossil gas use. In the U.S. about 10% of greenhouse gas emissions are attributable to the burning of natural gas in homes and businesses for heating and cooking, before accounting for upstream losses.

Investors worth more than $40 billion in assets under management supported the Massachusetts Attorney General’s petition requesting the DPU take action on this critical issue. 

Lila Holzman, energy program manager of As You Sow, made the following statement:

“The natural gas industry emits unacceptable greenhouse gases across its entire value chain, from wellhead to kitchen stove. Investors are eager to see gas-reliant companies transition to align with vital climate goals. The question is how? The undertaking announced by the Massachusetts DPU is a key step to assuring the clean energy transition will move forward responsibly, with careful consideration for impacts to all stakeholders including customers and workers.”

Daniel Stewart, research associate of As You Sow, made the following statement:

“This Massachusetts DPU investigation announcement sends a clear signal that the environment in which utilities operate is changing rapidly. Policy, economic, and technological drivers combined with investor pressure and concern for the climate are raising increasing questions about how gas-reliant businesses will brace for disruption. Utility commissions and regulations can help move companies through this urgent transition; planning must start now.” 

For more information on As You Sow’s work on climate change, click here.

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As You Sow is a nonprofit organization that promotes environmental and social corporate responsibility through shareholder advocacy, coalition building and innovative legal strategies. Click here to see As You Sow’s shareholder resolution tracker.