March 21, 2024

Note:  Due to time constraints please take Standard  Power first.

Motion to Elect Chair and Vice- Chair for 2024

ARTICLE 14 - LITCHFIELD COMMUNITY POWER

 To see if the Town will vote to adopt the Litchfield Community Power Plan, which authorizes the Selectboard to develop and implement Litchfield Community Power as described therein (pursuant to RSA 53-E:7). The program would provide a new default electric supply and new renewable energy supply options for customers in Litchfield. There is no cost to the Town budget, and no obligation to participate. Customers can opt out at any time and return to utility default service. Majority vote required.

                                                  Yes - 1,779    No - 758     PASSED

Litchfield Community Power Program - Update

The program has not launched, and will not begin the launch process until the Town enters into an electric services agreement (ESA), complete with the selection of a supplier and all program rates and terms. This date has not been set, but the first opportunity for Litchfield to sign an ESA is likely late June or early July for a fall program start, and could be delayed if rates are not initially favorable. The contract will require the approval from the Board of Selectmen who will not approve a rate higher than the current Utility rate. Commencement of service is typically 90 days after the ESA is signed but can be longer or shorter.  

Eligible customers, customers on utility default supply, will be able to opt out of the program starting about 45 days before commencement of service, and any time thereafter. They will receive a letter in the mail with all rates, terms and instructions for opting out, and the letter includes a postage paid return opt out card as well as telephone numbers and a web address for support and forms to opt out. Customers have a minimum of 30 days to opt out prior to a program commencing service, but can opt out any time after that, effective on their next available monthly meter read date. The actual dates will depend on the program launch timeline. 

The utilities set their 6-month rates in June for August, so Litchfield can factor them into their decision to sign an ESA in late June or after that for a fall start. We do not know utility rates for the entire contract period.  

Customers that are already using a competitive supply, are not eligible for automatic enrollment.  Questions may be directed to the Energy Committee at ec@litchfieldnh.gov.