Springfield residents, environmental groups, and public health experts have widely opposed the biomass facility. Photo: CLF
October 22, 2025 (Boston, MA) – In a disappointing turn for the City of Springfield, the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court (SJC) has declined to hear a case challenging ancient building permits issued to the Palmer Renewable Energy biomass facility. The Court’s denial comes despite continued community opposition and ongoing concerns about pollution and health risks.
Conservation Law Foundation (CLF) has represented the Springfield City Council in the challenge to Palmer’s attempt to build the polluting facility, which would be located right across the street from homes, parks, and schools.
“We are deeply disappointed by this outcome,” said Alexandra St. Pierre, director of communities and toxics for CLF. “For years, Springfield residents have fought to stop this facility from contributing to further harm to their health and environment. The Palmer facility will only worsen the public health burdens that residents have long endured. This case isn’t just about permits or legal technicalities. It’s about insisting that communities be protected, heard, and respected.”
The SJC’s decision may end this particular legal battle, but it does not mark the end of the fight. The case will now be remanded back to the Springfield Zoning Board of Appeals to amend its decision, and other critical steps in the process remain before the facility can be built.
“While the SJC’s decision to deny our FAR is unfortunate, it is only the latest development in this decades-long fight,” said Springfield City Council President and Attorney Michael A. Fenton. “We will now evaluate our options and turn to our state and federal partners for help to stop this incinerator. Springfield residents deserve clean air.”
Palmer’s permits – first issued in 2011 – have been at the center of legal battles for years, and a recent Massachusetts Appeals Court decision reversed an earlier ruling that found them expired. Springfield residents, environmental groups, and public health experts have widely opposed the biomass facility and warned of its long-term impact on local air quality and respiratory health.
CLF experts are available for further comment.
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