Past Councillors Corner Articles »
In Boston, the month of April is marked by events that inspire environmental awareness and appreciation. From Earth Day to Boston Shines, residents are truly focused on working towards fostering a healthier, more sustainable environment. However it is imperative for Bostonians to pursue green initiatives, not just in April, but throughout the entire year. With this in mind I filed an order at the April 16th City Council Meeting calling for a hearing on Energy Management.

As a City we are committed to reducing energy costs and carbon emissions. With Boston facing rising energy costs and serious fiscal restraints, it is incumbent upon the City Council to identify ways to increase government efficiency and savings. The practice of Performance Contracting will allow for these reductions as well as eliminating capital expenditures to upgrade outdated equipment in City buildings.

Under Performance Contracting, the City will enter into an agreement with a private energy service company (ESCO). The ESCO will identify energy-saving opportunities and recommend a package of improvements to be paid for through a leasing arrangement or public bond financing. The ESCO will guarantee that savings meet or exceed annual payments to cover all project costs or they will pay the City the difference. Performance Contracting cost savings are guaranteed under Massachusetts General Law 25A Section 11i.

With 300 City owned buildings and facilities these cost savings and performance incentives can be significant. Other cities and towns in the Commonwealth, including Quincy and Newton are taking advantage of Performance Contracting. Updating old equipment will make energy efficiencies a reality especially in school buildings where much of the HVAC equipment is over thirty years old. Reducing energy costs and capital outlay associated with upgrading old equipment will also redirect scarce City resources to other areas such as Public Safety, Schools, and Parks.

The City through the Mayor's Office of the Environment has instituted a Climate Action Plan calling for reduced green house emissions throughout Boston in both public and private buildings. Performance Contracting is big green step in the right direction. The Boston City Council will convene for a public hearing in the near future with all appropriate parties to explore the implementation of Performance Contracting for energy efficiency and reduction of carbon emissions.