The MBTA, and Solar Power

From the Globe: A Superior court judge ruled this week that an attempt by the 22 labor unions at the T, to block the biggest cost saving measures in transportation reform, which take effect on Jan 1, found the plaintiffs have failed to demonstrate a reasonable likelihood of success on the merits of their complaint.

The bottom line is that the lifetime free health care for retires will end. The Unions are claiming cuts in benefits are unconstitutional and violate existing contracts. While the fight is not over, the 30 million in savings is something we can cheer about next year, if the unions don't get their way.

The 68 million dollar Commonwealth Solar fund, expected to last 3 or 4 years, ran out in October, that translated into 1,200 projects. The new fund, 4 million a year will run for the foreseeable future, according to Mass Department of Energy. Although still very expensive, getting some incentive from the State should help keep the solar industry moving and help homeowners reduce the cost of investment. The utilities are mandated to buy back whatever electricity you don't use.