Village of Owego explores residential bulk electricity purchasing program

At two public sessions to be held at the Owego Public Works building on Wednesday, July 12, residents of the Village of Owego can learn about Community Choice Aggregation, the new residential bulk electricity purchasing program. The sessions will be held from 2 to 3 p.m. and 6 to 7 p.m. at the Owego Public Works Building located at 20 Elm St. in Owego. Residents are encouraged to bring their questions and electricity bills.

The Village Board passed a resolution to explore Community Choice Aggregation (CCA). CCA is a new opportunity in the state that allows cities, towns, and villages to pool the electricity accounts of residents and small businesses within their municipal boundaries. The bulk purchasing of electricity increases a consumer’s individual buying power, which will result in lower electricity rates for residents.

CCA Programs also help protect residents from bad energy deals. Additionally, communities have the power to customize their programs based on their values and priorities, such as sourcing renewable, ‘green’ energy. Consumers who do not wish to participate in the program can opt-out, remaining with the utility.

The Municipal Electric and Gas Alliance (MEGA) was selected by the Village of Owego to fulfill the role of CCA Administrator, overseeing the creation, development, and implementation of the program. No taxpayer or government funds will be used in the creation or operation of the program.

Join representatives from MEGA and Village Board at the public education sessions on July 12 or visit megacca.org to learn more.