Council renews electric aggregation authorization with 12‑month recommendation and 100% renewable offset

Staff and the city’s energy consultant summarized the electric aggregation program’s performance and recommended a 12‑month renewal on March 17 as Worthington evaluates sharp capacity price increases affecting the wholesale market.

The consultant reported that the city’s aggregation has saved participants an average of about $752 per household since inception and that the program includes purchase of renewable energy certificates (RECs) to offset participant generation on a 100% national wind basis. However, wholesale capacity prices have risen sharply in recent auctions, driven in part by increased demand from large users including data centers, the consultant said. That rise means near‑term supply costs are higher than in previous years.

Because of the market uncertainty, the consultant told council the recommendation is for a 12‑month term so the city can reassess pricing and capacity costs in the short term rather than lock in higher multi‑year rates. Staff confirmed the resolution gives the city manager authority to sign a supply agreement consistent with the resolution’s criteria, including continued 100% REC offsets, no‑cost opt‑out for participants, net‑metering and budget‑billing accommodations.

Council adopted Resolution 08‑2025 by voice vote. Staff said the resolution does not lock in a single price in the text; rather it authorizes staff to enter a contract consistent with the criteria discussed and shown in the consultant’s memo. Council confirmed that residents may opt out at no cost if they prefer to shop elsewhere.