A critical discussion on biomass energy took center stage at the Massachusetts Joint Committee on Telecommunications, Utilities, and Energy meeting on June 18, 2025. Advocates and experts urged lawmakers to swiftly pass two significant bills aimed at removing woody biomass from clean energy programs, citing urgent public health and environmental concerns.

James McCaffrey, representing the Springfield Climate Justice Coalition, emphasized the pressing need for Senate Bill 2288 and House Bill 3549, which aim to address the harmful impacts of biomass energy. He highlighted a looming deadline of January 1, 2026, when new greenhouse gas emission standards for municipal light plants (MLPs) will take effect. McCaffrey pointed out that the proposed Palmer Renewable Energy biomass plant in Springfield poses a significant threat to the community, as it has faced legal challenges regarding its permits for years. He warned that the current legislation could inadvertently support this polluting project, urging immediate action to close existing loopholes.

Carrie Petan from the Green Energy Consumers Alliance echoed these sentiments, presenting alarming statistics about the health risks associated with biomass. She noted that PM 2.5 emissions from woody biomass are linked to serious health issues, including cancer and heart disease, and called for an end to subsidies for wood-burning systems. Petan argued that resources should instead be directed toward cleaner energy solutions like solar and wind.

Paul Deaton, representing the Sierra Club, reinforced the urgency of the situation, likening the proposed biomass plant to the mythical Minotaur, which demands continuous fuel. He urged lawmakers to act decisively to prevent public financial support for such projects, warning that failure to do so would lead to detrimental health impacts and environmental degradation.

The testimonies reflect a growing consensus among environmental advocates that immediate legislative action is necessary to protect public health and advance Massachusetts' climate goals. As discussions continue, the fate of the biomass bills remains a pivotal issue for the state's energy future.