The Massachusetts Solar Canopy Working Group was established under the 2024 Climate Act to develop recommendations for promoting the construction and operation of solar power canopies throughout the state. These canopies, typically installed over parking lots and transit hubs, can generate clean electricity while providing benefits such as shading and protection from the elements. The Working Group conducted public meetings and stakeholder outreach to identify financial, technical, and regulatory challenges, ultimately producing a supplemental report that includes findings and recommendations aimed at enhancing the viability of solar canopies in Massachusetts.

Key recommendations from the report include financial assistance measures such as revising the SMART program to improve compensation structures for canopy projects, establishing a competitive grant program for innovative small-scale canopies, and creating a state revolving loan fund for municipalities. Additionally, the report suggests improvements in permitting and interconnection processes, including the adoption of model solar bylaws and the establishment of flexible interconnection standards. The Working Group emphasizes the importance of these initiatives in helping Massachusetts meet its climate goals while transforming developed areas into clean energy assets.