Plymouth hears pitch to support state bill enabling community choice aggregation

A representative of the township's Environmental Advisory Board presented a resolution at the Aug. 3 workshop asking Plymouth Township to signal support for state legislation that would enable municipal community choice aggregation (CCA) for electricity procurement. The presenter said CCA gives municipalities a role in negotiating generation supply and can be used to increase renewable generation while potentially lowering rates.

"By adopting the resolution, we're hopeful that this resolution will be submitted to the people working on the legislation to show support," the presenter said, urging a nonbinding show of support for the concept while noting there would be no immediate commitment by the township. He cited other states that have adopted CCA and said those jurisdictions saw, on average, about a 6% reduction in electricity rates.

During questions, council members raised concerns about administrative burden, vendor selection and the opt‑out default. The presenter said a third‑party entity would handle procurement, customer education and outreach and that PECO would continue to provide distribution and billing; the program described would automatically enroll residents with an opt‑out option. "Well, actually, no. It's an opt out only program," the presenter told council when clarifying enrollment mechanics.

Council members asked for more time to review the packet material. The presenter reiterated the request was only for a statement of support for the legislative concept so sponsors could gauge municipal backing; staff said any future township participation would be considered only after state legislation is finalized and council had an opportunity to approve participation.