MassCEC Appoints Ben Downing as Chief Executive for Climate Push

The Massachusetts Clean Energy Center has named Ben Downing as its next Chief Executive Officer, marking a leadership change at a time of continued investment in Massachusetts clean energy, climate technology, and clean energy jobs across the state. Downing will assume the role in April 2026.

MassCEC is a quasi-public agency that supports clean-energy companies, funds early-stage technologies, and works to expand the state’s renewable energy sector.

Since its creation, the agency has awarded close to $1 billion through grants and programs and has helped attract billions more in public and private investment to Massachusetts, strengthening the climate economy.

• MassCEC appoints Ben Downing as CEO to accelerate climate push
• Leadership change comes amid major Massachusetts clean energy investments
• Ben Downing to lead clean energy jobs and climate technology expansion

Downing currently serves as Chief Growth Officer at The Engine, an MIT-affiliated incubator focused on tough-tech and climatetech startups. In that role, he worked with companies developing energy storage, grid innovation, advanced materials, and carbon-reduction solutions, contributing to clean energy investment growth.

Before entering the private sector, Downing represented the Berkshires in the Massachusetts State Senate. As chair of the Joint Committee on Telecommunications, Utilities, and Energy, he helped shape offshore wind policy and expand the state’s renewable energy standards.

Governor Maura Healey said Downing’s experience in policy and innovation will help advance the Massachusetts climate goals. Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll highlighted his focus on workforce growth and regional development.

Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Rebecca Tepper, who chairs the MassCEC board, said the agency will continue driving clean energy workforce development and expanding public-private partnerships.

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The leadership change comes as the state moves forward with large-scale offshore wind projects, electric vehicle infrastructure expansion, and building decarbonization efforts. Officials say sustained collaboration and strategic funding will be key to maintaining Massachusetts’ position as a national leader in climate innovation.