SECTION 1. The department of energy resources, in consultation with the Massachusetts clean energy center and the carbon reduction research center, shall study the feasibility of optimizing the deployment and utilization of both new and existing long-duration energy storage systems in the commonwealth capable of absorbing energy, storing it for a period of time and thereafter dispatching the energy for a minimum period of five hours or greater.  The goal of said systems would be to a) enhance the reliable delivery of electricity to Massachusetts consumers; b) improve the reliability and integration of intermittent renewable energy or clean energy generation; c) reduce carbon emissions; and d) minimize ratepayer costs. The study shall determine the commercial availability of said systems, including performance under frequent deployment, barriers to deployment or utilization, and incentives that could facilitate their deployment or utilization.  The department of energy resources shall submit recommendations to the clerks of the house of representatives and senate and to the house and senate chairs of the joint committee on telecommunications, utilities, and energy no later than December 31, 2021.