Meet the 103 Green Communities
One-hundred-three cities and towns from all regions of the state, ranging in population from 393 to 617,594 residents, are now designated as Commonwealth "Green Communities." Seventeen cities and towns were added in July to the fourth group of successful December, 2011 applicants. The newest Green Communities, which met five program criteria, are now ranked as clean energy leaders and are eligible for municipal renewable power and energy efficiency grants.-
About the Green Communities Division
The Green Communities Division's charge is to guide all 351 cities and towns along a path of enhanced energy efficiency and renewable energy toward zero net energy. -
Green Communities Designation and Grant Program
The Green Communities Designation and Grant Program, an initiative of the Green Communities Division, works with municipalities toward qualification as a Green Community and provides funding to qualified municipalities for energy efficiency and renewable energy initiatives. -
Municipal Energy Efficiency
DOER's Green Communities Division is available to work with all local and regional government entities to pursue energy efficiency improvements. DOER collaborates with Mass Save to administer efficiency services to local and regional government entities. We also provide a range of educational materials to assist in efficiency planning and implementation, including ideas for municipalities aiming for Green Community designation. -
Energy Management Services (EMS)
Energy Management Services (energy saving performance contracting) is a streamlined procurement process used by public agencies to conduct solicitations under G.L. 25A, §11C (RFP) or §11I (RFQ) for the purpose of financing and implementing cost-saving energy-efficiency improvements and renewable electricity generation projects. DOER staff can assist jurisdictions to help them prevent problems during the procurement process. -
MassEnergyInsight
MassEnergyInsight is a web-based tool to help cities and towns manage energy use of municipally owned buildings, streetlights, and vehicles. -
Green Ribbon Schools Recognition
The U.S. Department of Education's Green Ribbon Schools award honors K-12 schools for exemplary reduction in environmental impact and costs, improvements in the health and wellness of students and staff, and delivery of effective environmental and sustainability education that incorporates Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM), civic skills, and green career pathways. In 2012, for the first time, schools across Massachusetts are eligible to apply.
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Find Your Green Communities Regional Coordinator
The Green Communities regional coordinators provide hands-on, focused assistance to help cities and towns decrease energy bills through local policies and targeted investments that encourage greater energy efficiency and use of renewable energy. Find your regional coordinator through the Massachusetts region associated with your community. -
Green Communities' Library
Collaboration is essential to build Green Communities in Massachusetts. The plans and processes featured in this library are examples provided by cities and towns to share with other municipalities throughout the Commonwealth. Use these samples as reference tools to mobilize your community. -
Resources for Municipalities
Many companies and organizations, including local utilities, offer resources and support to help cities and towns advance energy efficiency projects.
