Needham committee reports strong turnout for town power-choice sessions; opt-out deadline Feb. 8

The Climate Action Committee on Feb. 3 reviewed outreach and early response to the Town of Needham's power-choice program and reminded residents that the deadline to change their program option before the program starts is Feb. 8.

Committee members said staff ran three public information sessions in January that drew about 300 attendees in total and generated many follow-up questions. Gabby, the town's sustainability manager, told the committee the tone of the sessions was positive and that many attendees felt they had enough information to make an informed choice.

The committee heard that the town has printed half-page informational cards and social-media graphics for the program and has distributed materials at the Public Services Administration Building and the library. Gabby said staff will continue social-media outreach through February and will distribute printed cards at partner locations.

Committee members asked about early data on sign-ups. Gabby said the town expects a summary report in mid-March because many residents use mailed opt-out cards, which take additional processing time.

Members also discussed third-party solicitations. Committee members said they emphasized at the public sessions that residents should look for the town seal on any materials; if the town seal is not present, it is not the Needham power-choice program. That guidance was repeated as a consumer-protection point and to discourage signing with unrelated third-party marketers.

The committee reiterated that while residents may change their program selection before the Feb. 8 pre-launch deadline, they can opt out of the program at any time after enrollment if they later decide to leave.

The committee did not adopt new policy at the meeting; staff said they will report back in March with enrollment and opt-out figures when the vendor provides the processed summary.