Healey Seeks Faster Pipeline Review Amid Energy Costs Debate
Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey is urging the federal government to expedite its review of the Algonquin gas pipeline expansion project. In a letter to U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright, Healey expressed her support for the project, citing the potential benefits it could bring to Massachusetts residents.
The project, known as the Reliable Affordable Resilient Enhancement (RARE) Project, is expected to provide natural gas supply to 600,000 customers and reduce reliance on costly imported liquified natural gas. The governor claims that the expansion of the pipeline will lower costs for customers by an estimated $400 million over ten years.
Healey's request comes as she faces opposition from environmental advocates who have criticized her support for expanding fossil fuel infrastructure in Massachusetts. A multistate coalition of over 90 environmental groups has demanded that New England governors oppose expansions of natural gas in the Northeast.