Springdale council adopts ordinance to join Utah Community Clean Energy Program; $4/month default charge explained

The Springdale Town Council voted to adopt Ordinance 2026‑11 on April 8, enacting the town’s participation in the Utah Community Clean Energy Program (the multi‑city 'Community Clean Energy Program' recently approved by the Utah Public Service Commission). The ordinance makes residents and businesses automatically eligible for the program, with an opt‑out process explained in forthcoming notices by Rocky Mountain Power.

Tom Dansie, who led the presentation, summarized the program’s initial cost structure: “the flat rate is going to be $4 a month above your normal fee,” he said, explaining that $3.88 of that fee funds procurement of new renewable resources and $0.12 supports eligible low‑income customers so they do not see a bill increase. Presenters said the Public Service Commission set the initial $4/month rate and that consultants project program costs could fall substantially after two to three years as resources come online.

Council members debated participation thresholds, notification timing and protections for net‑metering customers (exhibit language excludes Schedule 135/net‑metering). Staff described the notice and opt‑out schedule: customers should receive two mailed notices (November and December) and a subsequent bill showing the program rate; residents can opt out during the initial notices and for a four‑month window after billing starts without penalty, after which a $30 residential termination fee would apply.

Councilmembers who supported the ordinance said joining preserves residents’ ability to choose renewable energy while keeping costs stable and enabling regional contracting for renewable resources. With the vote, Springdale becomes one of the early adopters among the group of participating communities; staff will post links to Utah Renewable Communities materials and the program FAQs for residents.