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NOPEC presents electric and gas aggregation option; ballot deadline for placement is Aug. 6
Summary
NOPEC representatives briefed Plain City Council on energy aggregation, explaining opt-out mechanics, supplier selection, and that communities typically see high ballot-approval rates; staff will add the item to the June 4 work session agenda.
Brenda Fargo, a NOPEC representative, and Anthony Jones of AJC Solutions described electric and gas aggregation options for Plain City during the May 12 meeting, explaining how aggregation pools municipal purchasing power to negotiate energy-supply terms and that an opt-out enrollment model is permitted in Ohio.
Fargo said NOPEC represents 246 communities across 20 Ohio counties and that roughly 44% of aggregation programs in the state are administered through NOPEC. She explained the distinction between energy generation and distribution and said aggregation typically focuses on supply contracts to obtain more favorable pricing through bulk purchasing. Fargo noted historically that about 80–85% of aggregation ballot issues are approved by voters.
NOPEC outlined the general steps for pursuing aggregation: 1) voter approval to establish an aggregation program, 2) a separate selection of an electric and/or gas supplier, and 3) adoption of a Plan of Operation and Governance and certification by the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio. Fargo said communities may join NOPEC before placing ballot language and that NOPEC or the supplier would handle customer notifications and opt-out notices.
Council asked whether residents could opt into different product offerings and Fargo confirmed residents would be able to choose among product options. She also explained the differences between NOPEC and private brokers, emphasizing NOPEC’s governance structure and that brokers often include fees added to supply pricing.
Mayor Jody Carney asked staff to place electric and gas aggregation on the agenda for the June 4 work session so Council can consider whether to pursue a ballot issue for the August 6 deadline.
