Program implementation process
Implementing a municipal electricity aggregation program like Montague Power Choice is a regulated process that is overseen by the Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities (DPU).
The implementation process can take as long as a year to complete, and it includes a regulatory review and approval process that typically requires several months. The list below includes key milestones in the program implementation process.
1. Public vote
Montague must take a public vote to pursue aggregation.
- A public vote was held to authorize the establishment of a municipal electricity aggregation program.
2. DOER advisory meeting
The Town must participate in an advisory meeting with the Department of Energy Resources (DOER) while developing its Aggregation Plan.
- Montague participated in an advisory meeting with the DOER on July 9, 2026.
3. Public review and comment
To obtain the regulatory approval needed to launch Montague Power Choice, the Town must first create an Aggregation Plan and make it and other aggregation documents available for public review and comment.
The Aggregation Plan is a high-level authorization document that lays out the program structure and demonstrates how Montague will meet regulatory requirements.
- Montague’s Aggregation Plan and other aggregation documents are available for a 30-day public review and comment period from August 17 – September 16, 2026, and will be presented to the public on August 31, 2026.
4. Regulatory review and approval
Montague must submit its Aggregation Plan to the Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities (DPU) for approval before the program can launch. This regulatory review process typically takes several months.
5. Signing an electricity supply contract
Once the regulatory review process is complete and Montague’s Aggregation Plan has received approval from the DPU, Montague will implement a competitive procurement process to select and sign a contract with an electricity supplier.
During the electricity supply procurement process, program details will be finalized, including the launch date and the price for each program option.
6. Public notification and education
After the electricity supply contract is signed, a formal notification will be sent from the Town to electricity account holders with Eversource’s Basic Service who are eligible for automatic enrollment in the program. (The automatic enrollment model is state law.) The notice will include information about program options and prices and how to opt out if you do not wish to participate. The notice will bear the Town Seal.
In addition, Montague will conduct a public outreach about the program, which will include a media release and public information sessions where community members can ask questions.
Electricity customers with private electricity supply contracts can begin requesting enrollment during this time as well.
7. Program launch
At the conclusion of the public education effort, Montague Power Choice will launch. Montague is targeting 2027 for program launch, depending on the duration of the state regulatory review and approval process.
