Kudos to state Sen. Julian Cyr for offering the Community Empowerment amendment to a senate bill last week that will give Massachusetts communities more choices to determine their energy future. The legislation that the senator sponsored and got passed will give towns the power to receive the direct benefits of renewable energy projects.

The concept behind the legislation was conceived by members of the Vineyard Power Cooperative, and if passed by the house will provide a great opportunity for communities on the Cape, Islands, and South Coast, who are particularly aware of the effects of climate change and sea level rise. Empowering communities to make their own energy choices provides a unique tool for Massachusetts municipalities and citizens to reduce carbon emissions and make a meaningful step forward in the fight against climate change.

As residents of this region, we should all be thankful to Senator Cyr for his vision and leadership in getting this legislation through the senate.

Susan Wasserman
West Tisbury