Advocates push Mass Save overhaul: free zero‑carbon assessments, concierge service and on‑bill financing

Multiple residents, municipal energy navigators and nonprofit groups urged the committee to require Mass Save to provide free, comprehensive zero‑carbon assessments and a customer "concierge" to guide homeowners and renters through multi‑contractor retrofits.

Dan Zaken of 350 Mass said the current Mass Save approach is valuable but needs improvements: "Mass Save is working in significant ways, but we need major improvements to accelerate the process and save residents money faster," he said, urging integrated assessments that include heat pumps, solar, storage and financing options. Jonathan Leaning, a low‑income resident who used LIHEAP, described a successful experience where an assigned caseworker navigated contractors and paperwork; he urged a similar service for Mass Save recipients: "For me personally, having this person with LIHEAP… made it super easy. Why not Mass Save?"

Multiple witnesses recommended policy changes: instant point‑of‑sale rebates for heat pumps, on‑bill repayment options, bulk purchasing for solar/heat pumps, inclusion of community and balcony solar, and allowing high‑quality window heat pumps to qualify for rebates if UL‑listed or part of bulk purchases. Testimony repeatedly warned that homeowners and renters face a confusing contractor marketplace and paperwork burden that discourages uptake.

Several municipal and nonprofit implementers (e.g., MAPC, BCAN) sought better ZIP‑code level transparency and data from Mass Save to target equity investments. Mark Tyen and others said expanded technical assessments would be a low‑cost way to improve program targeting and avoid costly missteps by consumers.

Ending: Witnesses asked for statutory direction to Mass Save to expand audits, create a vetted‑installer list, fund concierge navigation supports, and pursue financing models that reduce upfront costs for low‑and‑moderate‑income households.