Solar Resources
Municipal Electric Aggregation: Affordable, Clean Energy for Communities
Municipal electric aggregation, also known as Community Choice Aggregation (CCA), is an innovative energy procurement program that enables local governments to negotiate electricity rates and renewable energy options on behalf of their residents and businesses. The result? Lower costs, cleaner energy, and a stronger local economy.
Benefits of Community Choice Aggregation
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Lower Energy Costs: Group purchasing leads to lower, fixed electricity rates.
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Clean Energy Access: Communities can transition to renewable energy sources.
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Environmental Impact: Reduced greenhouse gas emissions and less reliance on fossil fuels.
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Local Economic Growth: Creates jobs and supports local energy projects.​​
How Does CCA Work?
CCA is designed for states with deregulated electricity markets, where customers can choose their energy suppliers. Here’s how it works:
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Aggregation: Municipalities group residents and businesses into a single purchasing entity.
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Negotiation: Local governments negotiate lower electricity rates and renewable energy options with suppliers.
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Utility Partnership: Existing utilities handle energy delivery, billing, and maintenance.
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Enrollment: Residents are automatically enrolled but can opt out anytime.
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CCA programs are funded through energy revenues, not taxpayer dollars, ensuring a cost-effective, market-driven solution for communities.
Common Features of CCA Programs
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State Legislation: CCA programs must be enabled by state law.
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Opt-Out Model: All residents are enrolled automatically but can opt out if desired.
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Local Control: Municipalities decide on electricity supply, renewable energy adoption, and local job creation initiatives.
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Utility Partnership: Utilities continue to handle delivery, billing, and repairs.
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No Taxpayer Funding: Programs are funded through energy revenues, not public funds.
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Environmental Mandates: Programs comply with state renewable portfolio standards and greenhouse gas reduction goals.
Powering Communities with Smarter Energy Choices
Community Choice Aggregation (CCA) lets local governments pool resources to secure cleaner, more affordable energy for residents and businesses. NYSERDA’s CCA Toolkit offers everything you need to start and manage a CCA program in New York State.