How the gas system can adapt to net-zero future

An op-ed on shrinking the gas network while managing costs, customer choices, and the transition to electric heating.

In this May 2022 op-ed, Michael J. Walsh argues that Massachusetts needs a plan for a smaller gas system. He examines the utilities’ future-of-gas proposals and asks how declining demand will affect customers who remain connected.

The article considers targeted pipeline retirement, electric heating, and limited use of other fuels during the transition. It also discusses district heating as a possible role for utilities and questions the proposed reliance on renewable gas and hydrogen.