Massachusetts Natural Gas Laws and Incentives
State Laws and Regulations
Hybrid Electric (HEV) Alternative Fuel Vehicle (AFV) Acquisition Requirements
When purchasing new motor vehicles, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts must purchase HEVs or AFVs to the maximum extent feasible and consistent with the ability of such vehicles to perform their intended functions. HEVs and AFVs must be acquired at a rate of at least 5% annually for all new motor vehicle purchases so that not less than 50% of the motor vehicles owned and operated by the Commonwealth will be HEVs or AFVs by the year 2018. (Reference Massachusetts Session Law 169, 2008)
State Agency Energy Plan
In order to reduce the energy consumption and greenhouse gas impact of state government, Massachusetts agencies must prioritize programs and practices that result in a reduction of fossil fuel-based energy consumption and emissions from such consumption, including promoting sustainable transportation practices and switching to bio-based and other alternative fuels. (Reference Executive Order 484, 2007)
Alternative Fuel Vehicle (AFV) Acquisition Requirement
State fleets must acquire AFVs according to the requirements of the Energy Policy Act (EPAct) of 1992. At least 75% of non-excluded vehicles purchased by the Massachusetts Department of Procurement and General Services (DPGS) must be the cleanest AFVs available and practical; at least 10% of the total non-excluded vehicles purchased by DPGS must be zero emission vehicles. (Reference Executive Order 388, 1997)
Deregulation of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) as a Motor Fuel
The sale of CNG by a fueling station for use as fuel to operate a motor vehicle is deregulated; however, separate records, books, and accounts of such sales must be kept. Investments in related infrastructure must not reduce the availability or increase the cost of natural gas to customers who purchase natural gas for use other than as fuel to operate a motor vehicle. (Reference Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 164, Section 94.5)
Utilities/Private Incentives
Natural Gas Vehicle (NGV) and Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Infrastructure Technical Assistance
National Grid/KeySpan Energy Delivery (KeySpan) provides technical assistance to customers interested in purchasing NGVs or building CNG fueling stations. Rebates or incentives are available on a case-by-case basis. KeySpan has 12 CNG fueling stations open to the public and has established a CNG training curriculum for mechanics, technicians, and fleet managers at Wentworth Institute of Technology in Boston.
