August 19, 2008 Bay State leaders present new energy initiatives Play video

(Peter Howe, NECN: Bridgewater, MA) - Today in Massachusetts, leaders took a closer look at ways to cut down on energy use, boost renewable power sources, and improve the environment. Plans could not only help residents save money, but they could also provide new career opportunities at a time when many are struggling under rising prices.

The clean, green energy future was the agenda as state officials held an energy summit at Bridgewater state college. Senator John Kerry, who four years ago was seeking to lead the free world, was back bullish about what the Bay State can do

We have a stronger science and technology base than a lot of other states, and I'm very excited about the possibilities for Massachusetts because of what we can do.

The energy summit here in Bridgewater came as Massachusetts legislators have been on a tear in recent weeks, sending governor Patrick a half dozen energy and environment related bills

Measures pushing utilities to promote conservation. Adding Massachusetts to a regional greenhouse gas initiative, with a 2050 goal to cut greenhouse emissions. And eliminating gas tax on cellulosic ethanol.

Also an ocean management plan allowing offshore wind and wave power, a billion dollar bond for environment projects and parkland, and 13 million annually for a green jobs placement center.

Ian Bowles: I think this is the greenest legislative session in the commonwealth's history. We really got a robust new framework

Boston utility N-star runs 10 energy efficiency programs they're now seeking to expand 16 percent, or 2 million annually

All this also means jobs, big time. Nick Darbeloff of the New England clean energy council says if his sector keeps growing at its current pace, by 2017 it'll be the third biggest Massachusetts industry ... Right after finance and software.

Meanwhile, Boston mayor Tom Menino's also focusing on energy ... Planning a food and fuel summit September 27 at Madison park high school to help people juggle soaring bills for heating oil and food. There'll be workshops on home winterizing and smart shopping.

Senator Kerry's working on that, too.

I was recently in Saudi Arabia met with the king of Saudi Arabia and I asked him if he'd be willing to give us a little rebate and put some money back into Massachusetts to help us with home heating oil this winter. And they're actually thinking about it. We'll see what happens on that.