A bill proposed by Rep. Andy X. Vargas to help pay for energy efficiency renovation of public buildings is set to be heard Wednesday by House members of the Joint Committee on Telecommunications, Utilities and Energy.
Vargas’ bill would create a “Zero Carbon Renovation Fund” to pay “costs associated with the renovation of existing buildings including affordable housing, public housing, homes rented or owned by low- and moderate-income households, municipal buildings.” Covered buildings would include public schools and small businesses with Massachusetts State Supplier Diversity Office Certifications. Money from the fund could also be used where such buildings first require “mitigation of mold, asbestos, insect and animal infestation, lead paint, electric system upgrades to meet current code or facilitate building electrification, accessibility upgrades required for compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act.”
The Zero Carbon Renovation Fund would be administered by the Massachusetts Clean Energy Technology Center in consultation with the Department of Energy Resources.
The Joint Committee on Telecommunications, Utilities and Energy meetings Wednesday, July 19, 10 a.m., both in-person at State House Hearing Room A-2 and online. Written testimony is also accepted.