Minooka offers ‘opt-in’ electricity buying program
By Kris Stadalsky For The Herald-News September 27, 2012 9:02AM
Updated: November 2, 2012 6:05AM
MINOOKA — Even though a March referendum creating an electricity group buying plan failed, residents and small commercial businesses can still take advantage of lower rates in a new program approved Tuesday night.
The first program was set up on an “opt-out” basis, meaning everyone would be automatically enrolled unless they advised the alternate electric supplier otherwise.
“The difference is you have to ‘opt-in’ to participate now,” said Village Administrator Dan Duffy. “You have to tell us you want to ‘opt-in’ our program.”
By joining other area municipalities, Minooka can go out to bid for the best electricity rates. Putting competitive pressure on electric suppliers results in lowered rates and savings are passed on to customers.
The rates should be even lower than alternate suppliers who solicit residents individually, Duffy said.
Electricity will still be transported to customers through ComEd equipment. It will continue to operate and maintain the infrastructure and handle interruptions and outages. Billing will continue to come from ComEd as well.
Once the village selects a provider, it will enter in an agreement on behalf of residents and lock in a rate for a specific time period.
The supplier will notify village residents and small commercial businesses by mail of the opportunity and how to opt in.
