Municipal electricity aggregation is a mechanism by which a city or town can bundle the electricity supply needs of residents and businesses in their community and procure the electricity in bulk, typically for a multi-year term.
Municipal aggregation is allowed under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 164 Section 134. More than 160 cities and towns in Massachusetts already have active electricity aggregation programs, and other nearby communities are pursuing similar programs.
By default, customers receive “Basic Service” electricity supply from Eversource. Under an aggregation program like Milton Community Electricity Aggregation, all customers receiving Basic Service are automatically transitioned to the aggregation’s standard option. However, before the aggregation begins, all customers must be given the chance to stay with Basic Service, known as “opting-out”. After customers are enrolled, they can still opt out of the program at any time without penalty.
Milton Community Electricity Aggregation Implementation
In 2018, the Town Meeting authorized the creation of a community electricity aggregation program in Milton. The Town then selected consultant Good Energy, L.P. to assist with all aspects of program implementation. The Town developed a draft aggregation plan and subsequently solicited public input. As required by law, the plan was reviewed with the MA Department of Energy Resources (DOER) and submitted to the Department of Public Utilities (DPU) for review. The DPU concluded its review in early 2021, allowing the program to launch in September.
Milton conducted a competitive bid for electricity supply and secured a supply contract to start in September 2021. As part of launching the program, the Town of Milton will conduct an education and outreach program to notify eligible residents and businesses about the program, and their right to opt out of the program before the start.
This postcard was sent to all eligible customers in Milton in June 2021, notifying them that the program will start in September 2021.
The Customer Notification Letter was also sent to all customers who were eligible for automatic enrollment, notifying them of program options, goals and benefits, product rates, and how to opt out of the program before it began.