Peabody Embarks On Road To Net-Zero Emissions

PEABODY, MA — Peabody is set to embark on a plan to reach net-zero emissions through a Metropolitan Area Planning Council project along with fellow municipal utility communities Belmont, Ipswich and Marblehead.

The Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs grant to Peabody's Community Development department will help the city develop the net-zero roadmap and engage community members about how to reach climate goals.

"We were very excited about receiving this grant," said Curt Bellavance, Director of Community Development for the City of Peabody. "It is critical that we plan ahead for climate change and working with MAPC has provided the city with the technical assistance to move forward.

"There's more work to be done on all levels and having a plan in place is just the beginning."

"Working with MAPC and the City of Peabody to develop our roadmap to net zero is the right thing to do," said Charles Orphanos, PMLP manager. "It has always been our goal to keep rates low and to maintain our commitment to environmental concerns."

As part of the launch, community members are invited to join a virtual workshop on Dec. 14 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Those interested can register in advance here.

"MAPC is excited to support Peabody's efforts to develop a roadmap to net zero, joining the growing number of communities across the region that are accelerating efforts to fight climate change at the local level," MAPC Director of Clean Energy Cammy Peterson said. "This project will provide clear, actionable emissions reduction strategies and we look forward to continuing our work with the city, PMLP, and the Peabody community."

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(Scott Souza is a Patch field editor covering Beverly, Danvers, Marblehead, Peabody, Salem and Swampscott. He can be reached at Scott.Souza@Patch.com. Twitter: @Scott_Souza.)