Community Corner
Worcester Awarded Second Mass Save Community First Partnership Grant
The city will continue offering free energy guidance to residents and businesses after receiving the grant.
WORCESTER, MA — Worcester will continue offering free energy guidance to residents and businesses after receiving its second Mass Save Community First Partnership grant.
The 2025-2027 grant, one of 58 awarded statewide by Mass Save sponsors National Grid and Eversource, will continue funding the city’s Smart Energy Advice program, the city said. The Department of Sustainability and Resilience runs the program.
“We're excited to keep this program going, especially with energy costs so high these past few years,” Chief Sustainability Officer John Odell said. “Whether you’re a homeowner trying to make your house more efficient, someone who needs help paying your bill, or a small business owner looking for ways to cut costs and improve your bottom line, it’s a great place to turn to for help or advice.”
Since its 2023 launch, the program’s Energy Advocate has worked with more than 1,000 people and helped over 450 low- and moderate-income households improve their homes’ efficiency, comfort and health, according to the city.
The free program is available to residents, renters, landlords, small businesses and nonprofits, including people who speak languages other than English. Assistance is available by phone, email, in person and at community events.
The Energy Advocate can help people schedule Mass Save energy assessments, seek incentives and rebates, apply for the zero-percent HEAT Loan and explore heat pumps or solar options. The program also offers guidance on energy bills, electricity suppliers, income-based discount rates and payment plans.
Participants can also receive referrals to the Worcester Community Action Council, Worcester Community Housing Resources and the Worcester Lead Abatement Program.
Worcester became a Mass Save Designated Equity Community in 2025, making additional incentives available to city residents. Benefits may include fully covered insulation and air sealing, free or discounted heat pump upgrades and zero-percent financing for certain projects, according to the city. Eligibility and incentives are based on income.
See Also:
