The legislation promotes private investment in solar mobility by allowing non-exclusive access to rights-of-way for companies developing these networks, provided they meet specific criteria related to environmental efficiency and safety. It stipulates that these networks must be privately funded and operated, enhancing accountability and minimizing government expenditure while aiming to achieve higher performance metrics than existing transport modes.
Summary
Bill S2159, titled 'An Act relative to solar-powered mobility networks', aims to transition the transportation sector in Massachusetts from fossil fuel dependency towards a sustainable economy utilizing solar energy. The bill mandates the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs to regulate the development and operation of solar-powered mobility networks. If no suitable commercial enterprises step forward within six months, the office is authorized to initiate pilot networks itself.
Contention
A notable aspect of S2159 is that the bill establishes strict efficiency standards—requiring networks to exceed 120 passenger miles per gallon and generate significant amounts of renewable energy. Critics may argue that these stringent requirements could limit participation to only those entities capable of meeting such high benchmarks, potentially stifling innovation or reducing competition. Additionally, the limitation of taxes and fees to 5 percent of gross revenues could be contentious among local governments seeking to derive revenue from these new transport networks.
Replaced by
Order relative to authorizing the joint committee on Telecommunications, Utilities and Energy to make an investigation and study of certain current Senate documents relative to matters of telecommunications, utilities and energy.