With summer air conditioning season underway, let’s discuss: What makes Massachusetts electricity costs so high? Rates in this state are about twice the national average. Is that because we consume less? Because we have the best energy programs? How can we respond, in personal choices, as well as with policy changes? And how do high rates impact the state’s transition to heat pumps and electric vehicles, essential for climate? Electricity providers may soon offer time-varying electric rates with new electric meters now being installed. Shifting when we use electricity could reduce power grid peaks, lower electric rates for everyone, and allow some high-polluting peak power stations to be closed permanently. Heat pumps and EVs would become more financially compelling, benefiting the climate. But will these new rates benefit justice communities? Are they too complicated? Or might new AI-enabled apps and devices make this easier to do? Let’s consider the possibilities.
Harvey Michaels, a member of JCAN’s “Legs and Regs” committee, will lead the discussion, following some introductory material. He serves as lecturer of energy management innovation within MIT’s Sloan sustainability program, and also advises energy and climate policymakers on electric rate innovations and utility energy efficiency policies. His focus this year has been the needed transition to heat pumps and EVs, and how AI-enabled smart homes may help. Harvey’s earlier career included leadership of several energy efficiency companies.
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