Chelmsford Gears Up for Energy Aggregation Program Launch

Chelmsford residents will soon have options when it comes to receiving their electricity.

Beginning with the first meter-read date after Feb. 1, 2016, all metered basic service residential and commercial utility electricity customers in Chelmsford will be automatically enrolled in Chelmsford Choice, the town’s municipal energy aggregation program. The program harnesses the power of bulk buying to secure a favorable electricity rate for its residents and local businesses.

After Feb. 1, eligible customers will receive their electricity supply from Constellation Energy Power Choice, Inc., instead of through National Grid. Anyone currently in an electricity supply contract with another vendor will not be automatically enrolled in the new program.

Chelmsford negotiated a price of $9.30 per kilowatt hour for all residential customers and small, medium and large business customers. The price is locked in for 24 months.

There are actually two options with Chelmsford Choice:

• Chelmsford Choice: The standard option. This is the program to which all participants are automatically enrolled. Like National Grid Basic Service, Chelmsford Choice meets the minimum Massachusetts RPS requirements for renewable energy.
• Chelmsford Choice Plus: This option allows you to make your electricity 100 percent green. Additionally, it includes 20 percent energy from new New England wind projects, which puts it 20 years ahead of state renewable energy requirements. Chelmsford Choice Plus is available for 10.4 cents/kWh. You may choose Chelmsford Choice Plus by contacting Constellation directly at 1-844-830-3344.

There is no penalty to opt out of the program. You can do so in the following ways:

• Opt out before the program begins: Before January 22, 2016, sign and return the postcard that you received in the mail or click here.
• Opt out after January 22, 2016: Call Constellation at 1-844-830-3344 or click here.

For more info about the program, including an FAQ, check out the announcement on the town website.