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Episode 207

Paul Craney Asks, "Is Net Zero Just Politician Speak for Zero Dollars Left in Your Pocket?"

February 26, 2026

In this week’s episode, Jennifer welcomes Paul Craney, Executive Director of the Mass Fiscal Alliance Foundation. Paul is known for his relentless advocacy on fiscal responsibility, governmental transparency, and energy policy throughout Massachusetts and the broader New England region. Leading a nonprofit dedicated to informing citizens and policymakers, Paul consistently delivers in-depth research and analysis on tax policy, regulatory issues, and the escalating costs of energy mandates. Through his work at Mass Fiscal, he seeks to encourage practical solutions that foster economic growth while respecting individual liberty.

Jennifer and Paul explore the escalating utility costs impacting Massachusetts families and businesses as a result of the state’s net zero by 2050 mandate. This episode covers detailed findings from Mass Fiscal’s white papers and studies, revealing the controversial cost of climate policies and the lack of transparency from state leadership. Paul voices concern over the impact of green energy legislation, critiques the timeline for implementing policies until after key elections, and unpacks the consequences for local communities facing state overreach. Listeners will gain a comprehensive look at the debate over alternate energy, the real costs attributed to solar and wind, and the pattern of outmigration from Massachusetts due to economic burdens. The conversation challenges current leadership and calls attention to the need for reliable, affordable power solutions.

“It’s obvious, right? A lot of times in politics your eyes and your ears hear and see things, but then you go with your gut. Then politicians tell you, ‘Don’t believe what you’re reading, what you’re seeing or what your gut is telling you’.”

 - Paul Craney

This week on Political Contessa:

  • Net zero by 2050 as Massachusetts law and its ripple effects
  • The fiscal reality: projected $815 billion cost for net zero implementation in New England
  • Governor Healey’s delay of the Clean Heat Standard until after elections
  • The increasing annual utility bills driven by climate policies
  • The structure and consequences of Massachusetts’ solar incentives
  • The new law overruling local zoning for battery installation and “battery factory” expansion
  • The impact on businesses and families: outmigration and economic burden
  • The necessity for government transparency and the consequences for a lack of accountability

Connect with Paul Craney and Resources Mentioned:

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