In Massachusetts, GOP Gov. Charlie Baker has been taking steps to build resiliency in light of a changing climate. Most recently, three Western Massachusetts communitiesPittsfield, Palmer, and Montaguewere awarded state grants to study the feasibility of building microgrids. A microgrid is a small-scale power system that can operate independently of the region’s bulk power grid. During emergencies, they can keep hospitals, public safety complexes, gas stations and other core services running even during times when the rest of the system is down due to stormslikely to increase in intensity and frequency due to climate change.
“Diversifying Massachusetts’ energy portfolio and increasing our resilience helps us continue leading the way on preparing for the impacts of climate change,” said Baker’s statement.