WESTFORD — The Town has been awarded $198,676 through the Massachusetts Gap Energy Grant Program to support energy efficiency and clean energy improvements.
According to a press release from the Town, the funding provided by the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection’s Clean Energy Results Program will help finance upgrades at the Blanchard Wastewater Treatment Facility. This includes the replacement of a gas furnace with a combined air-source heat pump and gas furnace system. The project is part of a larger roof replacement effort and is expected to partially electrify the facility’s heating system.
Officials said the grant will allow the town to move forward with improvements aimed at reducing energy consumption, increasing operational efficiency and supporting long-term sustainability goals.
The Gap Energy Grant Program is designed to fund projects that might otherwise be delayed or not implemented. Communities can combine the grants with utility incentives and other funding sources to complete energy-related projects.
“Westford is committed to pursuing opportunities that improve sustainability while being fiscally responsible,” Town Manager Kristen Las said in a statement. “Programs like the Gap Energy Grant allow us to leverage outside funding to implement projects that benefit both our community and the environment.”
The award is part of a broader $8.7 million initiative announced by the Healey-Driscoll administration to fund 34 energy efficiency and renewable energy projects across Massachusetts. The funding supports municipalities, schools, nonprofits and small businesses working to modernize operations and reduce energy use.
“These investments are helping turn energy efficiency and clean energy upgrades into real savings for communities and small businesses,” Gov. Maura Healey said in a statement.
Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll said the grants help communities cut energy costs and reinvest savings locally, while advancing climate goals.
“Gap Energy grants are proof that getting to net zero can happen on the local level,” Driscoll said. “We’re helping our cities and towns cut energy costs, giving them the opportunity to reinvest those savings.”
The funded projects are expected to collectively save recipients more than $1.6 million annually in energy costs, generate more than 10.6 million kilowatt-hours of electricity savings and reduce carbon emissions by 2,440 metric tons.
Town officials said the town will continue seeking additional funding opportunities to support infrastructure improvements, energy efficiency and environmental sustainability.
