Show All Answers

1. Would CCA replace Eversource as my electric utility?

No. Eversource will remain the main electric utility for Sherborn and will continue to deliver your electricity, address any power outages and bill your household.

2. Would I have to do anything if CCA is adopted in Sherborn?

If you are an Eversource Basic Service customer you will be automatically enrolled into the standard (default) option of the CCA plan without having to take any action. If you are interested in any of the other program options offered, you would need to opt into them by phone or online.

3. Do I have to participate?

No. You can opt-out either before the program starts or later, and return to Eversource Basic Service by calling or going online. There are no penalties or fees for opting out entirely or for changing your selection within the CCA.

4. What if I want to increase my commitment to 100% clean energy?

You can opt up online or with a phone call.

5. What if I want to stay with the CCA program but save money and participate only in the basic plan with the minimum mandated percentage of renewable energy?

You can opt down online or with a phone call.

6. I already have a contract with a commercial electricity supplier - can I still participate?

You won't be automatically enrolled, but you can opt-in later. It is advisable to first check the terms of your existing contract as some contracts require minimum enrollment periods and charge early termination fees.

7. How much money could I save? Are savings guaranteed?

While the program should offer the potential for savings compared with Eversource's Basic Service rate, savings cannot be predicted or guaranteed. This is because the program price would be fixed long-term, while Eversource Basic Service prices change every 6 months. As a result, the program price may not always be below the Eversource Basic Service price. Over the duration of the contract, however, consumers routinely see a cost advantage and appreciate the cost stability.

8. How much would the additional renewable electricity cost?

The cost is determined by several factors, including the market price for renewable electricity when Sherborn signs its supply contract, the amount of additional renewable electricity included, and the amount of electricity you use each month. The only way to find out the price for Sherborn is a yes vote at the town meeting, authorizing us to engage with a broker. The broker then negotiates for the lowest price. At no point is Sherborn obligated to continue until a contract is signed.

9. Will I know the price of each program option before I am enrolled?

Yes. If you are an Eversource Basic Service customer, you would receive a letter in the mail with program information, including pricing, before the program would launch. This information would also be shown on the program website and Sherborn would make public presentations before the program launch.

10. What is the minimum amount of renewable electricity required by state law?

For 2020, Massachusetts requires that renewable electricity must be purchased from New England renewable energy projects to match 16% of your electricity use. This amount will gradually increase to 35% by 2030.

11. How long would the CCA program last?

It depends on the contract term. Sherborn would evaluate the bids received from electricity suppliers and select the contract duration that provides the best value for the town's customers.

12. I have solar panels on my property. If I participate, would I continue to receive net metering credits?

Yes. Net metering will work the same way. Your net metering credits would continue to appear on your Eversource bill and be calculated based on Eversource's Basic Service price, not the program price.