The Energy Consumer's Bulletin- a New England energy news blog

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Green municipal aggregation (3)

Communities choosing renewable energy is now a big thing

Massachusetts is one of a few states allowing cities and towns to aggregate consumers for the purchase of electricity. In the last year, we have seen a good number of communities take the opportunity to do just that in ways that are bringing on significantly more renewable energy than required by state law.  The first to commit was Melrose, followed by Dedham. Both started their programs in January 2016. But this year, many more are following suit in the world of “Green Municipal Aggregation” or “Community Choice Energy”.  This summer, programs are starting in Arlington, Brookline, Cambridge, Lexington, Somerville, Sudbury, and Winchester.

Picture of Larry Chretien Larry Chretien

Green Municipal Aggregation: Communities Getting Good Energy

Many cities and towns around Massachusetts are getting into municipal aggregation, a community-wide, bulk purchase of electricity. But the City of Melrose and the Town of Dedham have taken the concept a step beyond all others. With the guidance of their consultant, Good Energy, Melrose and Dedham will be supplied with 16% local, post-1997 renewable energy instead of the 11% required by state law. That important 5% additional increment will be supplied by Mass Energy. The increase from 11% to 16% is actually a 45% increase in the amount of renewable energy!

Picture of Larry Chretien Larry Chretien