An Act supporting load aggregation programs in the Commonwealth

This bill authorizes Massachusetts municipalities to create electricity load aggregation programs, allowing towns and cities to group their residents together to purchase power directly from suppliers. Under the new rules, these programs operate on an opt-out basis, meaning all customers in the area are included unless they choose to leave, and they can negotiate for lower rates or renewable energy options that individuals might not access alone. The legislation requires local governments to develop detailed plans for these programs and obtain approval through a majority vote at town or city meetings before implementation. Importantly, the law clarifies that these municipal groups are not considered utilities and are exempt from certain wholesale regulations, while also ensuring that existing municipal lighting plants are not required to participate in such aggregations.