MassCEC Launches Programs to Help Homeowners Build Energy-Efficient ADUs
BOSTON — The Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC) announced the launch of two resources — the Massachusetts ADU Resource Center and the Pioneer Valley ADU Accelerator — designed to help homeowners plan and build accessory dwelling units (ADUs). Together, these tools will address the most common early barriers homeowners face, including feasibility assessment, understanding costs, navigating permitting, and finding qualified professionals.
“Accessory dwelling units are one of the most practical ways we can create more housing, lower costs, and help more people stay in the communities they love,” Gov. Maura Healey said. “We made ADUs legal by right across Massachusetts because we know they can make a real difference for families, seniors, and homeowners. These new tools will help more residents move projects from idea to reality and make it easier to build the housing our state needs.”
The Massachusetts ADU Resource Center is a statewide website that centralizes information to make it easier for property owners to plan and build an ADU. The website includes typical cost ranges and a property look-up tool to help owners understand what they can build and what they may be able to afford.
The Pioneer Valley ADU Accelerator makes it easier for property owners in Hampden, Hampshire, and Franklin counties to build ADUs by providing one-on-one support and a curated list of manufacturers and builders who offer repeatable ADU designs and transparent pricing. The program will also gather participant feedback to identify systemic barriers and inform future state policies, with lessons from the region intended to benefit homeowners across Massachusetts.
“Accessory dwelling units are a common sense solution to our housing shortage because they create real housing options for families, older adults, and young people while giving homeowners more flexibility,” Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities Secretary Juana Matias said. “By giving homeowners clearer information, practical tools, and hands-on support, these programs make it easier to move from interest to action and help more communities say yes to the housing we need.”
MassCEC CEO Ben Downing added that the center “is focused on connecting residents with practical opportunities to adopt affordable clean energy solutions in their everyday lives. Through the ADU Resource Center and ADU Accelerator, we’re helping homeowners move from interest to action, while supporting the growth of an innovative housing sector in Massachusetts.”
