By Carlie Lombardi

On April 7, the Open Space, Environment, and Energy Committee tackled several major sustainability topics, including infrastructure upgrades by Eversource, invasive species management, and changes to the city’s yard waste pickup calendar.

Eversource discusses project costs, energy demand, and community disruption

Representatives from Eversource joined the committee to provide updates on major energy infrastructure projects, including upgrades to the Prospect Street Substation and modernization of underground cables. While much of the equipment for these projects was ordered years ago and is unaffected by recent geopolitical tensions, Eversource acknowledged that ongoing trade disruptions and global demand for energy technology may increase costs for future projects.

Committee members voiced concern that rising project costs could ultimately be passed on to ratepayers. In response, Eversource representatives said that costs are typically spread across the state and spread out over the lifespan of each project.

Discussions also focused on shifting demand projections, especially as some previously planned life science developments are converted to other commercial uses. Eversource said it is monitoring these changes and believes its current 10-year plan, including the upcoming completion of the expanded Substation 402, can support increased residential density near new and existing transit spots.

Mass Save budget cuts and rate stability

Much of the conversation also focused on Eversource’s delivery charges, which have risen in recent years. The Mass Save energy efficiency program has seen budget cuts of $500 million statewide. Officials explained that while more people are using Mass Save benefits, the growing cost of participation has driven up utility bills.

Somerville Director of Sustainability Christine Blais reminded residents that Somerville’s Community Choice Electricity program locks in rates through 2028, offering some protection from volatility in energy markets.

Push for invasive species position ends in disappointment

The committee also formally closed a long pending proposal to create a dedicated city position for managing invasive plant species. Committee member, Willie Burnley Jr., who first submitted the order 15 months ago, expressed frustration at the lack of progress.

Members and advocates agreed on the importance of invasive species management, especially for aggressive spreaders like black swallow-wort and Japanese knotweed, but pointed out budget constraints and suggested leveraging volunteers and educational outreach instead.

Members called for stronger public outreach, including multilingual educational materials and better online resources. “This is the type of thing that’s incredibly difficult to get ahead of,” said Councilor Jake Wilson, who suggested expanding volunteer education efforts as a stopgap.

Yard waste pickup expanded after community push

In a rare win for residents, officials announced that the city will extend yard waste pickup through December and begin weekly collections earlier in October. The change comes after advocacy from Councilor Lance Davis, and will be implemented as a cost neutral pilot program in 2025.

Looking ahead

While much of the conversation touched on the challenges of balancing sustainability goals with limited resources, committee members remained optimistic about continued collaboration with Eversource, city departments, and community groups.