Massachusetts has passed a bold energy storage mandate. It requires investor-owned utilities to secure 5,000 megawatts (MW) of storage by 2030. This includes 3,500 MW of mid-duration, 750 MW of long-duration, and another 750 MW for multi-day storage. The goal is to modernize the grid and integrate renewable energy fully.
The state’s Department of Energy Resources (DOER) and electric distribution companies (EDCs) have released a draft request for proposals (RFP), expressing interest to buy 1,500 MW of mid-duration battery energy storage systems (BESS).
By locking in contracts early, the state wants a resilient energy system to handle solar and wind power fluctuations. Since renewables generate power intermittently, storage systems are vital for grid stability. The new law urges utilities to secure agreements quickly and cuts red tape by streamlining permitting and siting processes.
