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Hilliard council approves resolution to renew citywide electric aggregation as market shifts
Summary
Council voted 6–1 to authorize the city manager to pursue a competitive retail electric aggregation contract after Energy Alliances presented market data showing rising capacity and energy costs; staff recommended a shorter term to allow flexibility.
HILLIARD, Ohio — The Hilliard City Council voted 6–1 on May 27 to authorize the city manager to enter an agreement for competitive retail electric aggregation services as the city weighs short-term contracts to respond to rapidly rising wholesale capacity and energy prices.
Energy Alliances representative Richard Sarace told the council that since the program began in October 2023 “the average individual has saved about a little bit over $327” and that the community has saved roughly $2,700,000 to date. He said the wholesale capacity price that utilities factor into retail offers has spiked and is expected to remain elevated for the next 1–3 years, creating “significant concern that there is enough generation” and driving up supplier bids.
The council resolution gives the city manager authority to execute a supplier contract when market conditions are favorable. Sarace and staff recommended a minimum 12-month term, with the option of a somewhat longer term to December 2026 if council chooses, so the city can lock savings while keeping flexibility if market prices fall. Sarace described the trade-offs: longer terms can offer more price certainty but increase the risk of missing future market dips.
Council members asked about reporting and oversight. Sarace confirmed quarterly performance reports are produced; staff said those reports have been sent to council and will continue. Council members also confirmed residents may opt out at any time and that new residents can opt in after account changes.
Council discussion reviewed supplier responses to the city’s RFP and noted that proposals include the renewable energy credits required by the program the voters approved in February. Sarace said the team received three bids and continued negotiations to improve pricing before a final selection.
The resolution passed with Council Member Carrier voting no and six members voting yes. Staff said the city’s deadline to finalize enrollment changes would fall in July (roughly 45 days before the program rollover), and the manager was authorized to act quickly if suppliers presented acceptable final terms.
