MassDEP Announces Their Newest Program

The Sewer Thermal Energy Network is a mutual benefit organization focused on expanding the market for sewage thermal energy use (STEU). To that end, it is our pleasure to inform you of a Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection's (MassDEP) announcement of their newest program. Included below is a link offering more explanation and connection. The program will start by mid-summer 2025.

New Program Can Provide Funding Assistance in 3 Project Phases

The state of Massachusetts is promoting sewage thermal energy use (STEU), what they call Wastewater Energy Recovery (WWER), an apt name. This is a pilot program offering incentives, in the form of grants. These incentives are in three phases and the amount of subsidy for each phase increases. The pilot program grant structure is as follows (all limits and conditions must be confirmed by MassDEP).

1. Study Phase (Energy Assessment) grant - up to $15,000
2. Design Phase Assistance - up to $100,000
3. Construction Phase - up to $750,000

STEN feels it important to note that these funds are state authorized, meaning the current uncertainty of federal funding is not a concern. The current program fund total is $5 M. The pilot project grants (WWER Grants) are being offered by the Clean Energy Results Program (CERP), a collaborative program in partnership with MA DOER and the Mass Clean Energy Center.

For more information feel free to contact Michael DiBara, the program head at MassDEP directly. STEN, as a mutual benefit organization, has members that can provide assistance with services in each of the three program phases. Rest assured STEN will keep you informed of program updates and clarifications. We invite you to send a message to begin a conversation that will give you the answers you need.