Marlborough Receives Nearly $200,000 in Money for Clean Energy

MARLBOROUGH, MA—Marlborough is among 47 communities that was awarded part of the $9,580,000 from the state for clean energy projects. Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) Secretary Matthew Beaton awarded Green Communities competitive grants to municipalities across Massachusetts to fund clean energy projects. The Department of Energy Resources (DOER) has awarded over $60 million to Green Communities in designation and competitive grants since 2010.

Marlborough is receiving $194,336 toward clean energy for the city.

“Cities and towns are on the forefront of clean energy adaptation across the Commonwealth and are vital partners in meeting Massachusetts’ ambitious energy goals and emissions commitments,” said Governor Charlie Baker, in a statement. “These grants will allow the Green Communities to build upon the impressive efforts undertaken to earn their distinguished designation.”

“Green Communities are champions for clean energy practices across the Massachusetts and should be commended for their efforts to reduce energy use and costs,” said Lieutenant Governor Karyn Polito in the announcement. “Achieving the Commonwealth’s ambitious greenhouse gas emission reduction commitments will only be possible with the help of our partner communities in this program.”

Under the Green Communities Act, cities and towns must meet five criteria to be designated a Green Community and receive funding. The grants provide financial support for energy efficiency and renewable energy projects that further the designated communities’ clean energy goals. 155 Massachusetts cities and towns have currently earned the Green Communities designation, representing 54 percent of Massachusetts’ population. This fifth annual round of DOER Green Communities competitive grants is awarded to existing Green Communities that have successfully invested their initial designation grants and previous competitive grant awards. Grants are capped at $250,000 per municipality.