Boston Herald

Gov. Deval Patrick has signed an energy bill that requires Massachusetts utilities to buy more of their electricity in competitively bid, long-term contracts with renewable energy providers.

Patrick said Friday the new law will protect ratepayers while also helping the environment by requiring more use of clean energy sources.

Starting in 2016, utilities would be required to purchase 7 percent of their power from long-term renewable contracts, up from 3 percent.