Palmer Renewable Energy Biomass Plant

At a glance

• What: the proposed Palmer Renewable Energy biomass plant, reviewed by City Council committees on Oct 27, 2026.
• Where it stands: building permits were reinstated after an Appeals Court decision; state and federal approvals are still outstanding and whether a special permit is required is disputed.
• Next: proceedings are noted for Nov 9 and Dec 8, 2026. Councilor Fenton suggested a Committee of the Whole executive session on litigation strategy. Bills S.2136, S.2137, H.3210 and H.3211 were reviewed. No votes are recorded.

Sources

• 2026-10-27 - Joint Public Safety and Health and Human Services (agenda and final minutes)

Log

• 2026-10-27 - Joint Public Safety and Health and Human Services - Committees reviewed the reinstated permits, outstanding approvals, the disputed special-permit question and upcoming proceedings; executive session on litigation strategy suggested. No vote.

2026-10-27 - Joint Public Safety and Health and Human Services

Fenton recounted the 17-year history: permit revoked in 2011-12, Appeals Court loss and SJC denial, and reinstated building permits. Still pending are state air quality, federal and tax-credit approvals; Fenton holds that a Council special permit is still required. Flagged dates: court proceeding November 9 and a state air quality matter December 8. Councilors backed a Committee of the Whole executive session on litigation strategy and support for state bills S.2136, S.2137, H.3210 and H.3211; Fenton advised against a resolution of opposition now to stay impartial.