A crucial point of interest was the board’s discussion on energy procurement and market volatility. The board highlighted the procurement of over two million megawatt-hours per year of non-carbon energy since 2020, with many Municipal Light Plants (MLPs) reaching 50% noncarbon in their total portfolio. The impact of climate change on hydro prices, increased demand for natural gas due to electrification, and the potential effects on gas prices in different seasons were also deliberated. Additionally, the board discussed the recent purchase of energy from Hydro Quebec, expressing concerns about the future hydrogeneration capabilities due to climate change and other factors.

The board delved into the implications of a power project from Central Maine to Massachusetts, which is expected to lower locational marginal pricing in Maine and benefit Massachusetts. They also reviewed their energy purchasing approach, which utilizes a forward price curve to negotiate energy transactions. This curve takes into account financial and fundamental market factors, with recent prices ranging from the high $70s to $90 per megawatt hour. The procurement of additional energy from Hydro Quebec was noted, with an emphasis on the uncertainty surrounding Hydro Quebec’s future hydrogeneration capabilities.

Another major topic was the board’s focus on EV infrastructure and usage. The board introduced a proposal for a direct current fast charger (DCFC) demand charge rate, which aims to encourage off-peak charging among businesses installing DCFC chargers. The board discussed the potential impacts on wholesale power costs and the need for data collection on EV charging usage to manage peak demand. Moreover, the creation of a new EV charging rate, effective from June 1, 2024, was approved, along with discussions on the Northeast Public Power Association (NEPPA) annual conference and related travel approvals.

Tree trimming services were also on the agenda, with the board deciding to outsource these services to Northern Tree Service LLC, selecting an hourly rate bid structure. The procurement of assignment tools was discussed, with Stuart C Irby Company LLC winning the bid. The board unanimously approved the procurement of tools from Milwaukee, focusing on the brand due to its warranty and standardization benefits, despite Irby’s slightly higher cost compared to West CO.

In terms of equipment, the board awarded contracts for single-phase pole-mounted Transformers to United Utility Supply Co and Flowers and Associates for $232,450, selecting these suppliers for their competitive pricing and shorter lead times. Contracts for pad-mounted Transformers were also awarded to United Utility Supply Co, Flowers and Associates, and Switch Gear US LLC for a total of $25,195. The surplus inventory and delivery schedules were discussed, with the board expressing satisfaction with the current inventory levels and planned replacement programs.

Policy reviews were a focus as well, with the board reviewing and approving revisions to Policy 19, Policy 12, and the introduction of a new Policy 32. These revisions aimed to clarify roles and responsibilities, and address the board’s responses to public comments. A debate ensued regarding the wording of the board’s response to public comments, leading to a modification from “will not respond” to “may choose to respond,” pending legal confirmation.

The board also tackled the handling of public comments during meetings, considering the potential for disruptive conduct and the appropriate responses. There was praise for the line crew’s performance at the annual line worker Rodeo, where they placed second out of 12 MLPs, and updates were provided on various organizational roles, including engineering and marketing manager positions. Discussions on land acquisition for solar, storage, and generation projects were held, with particular interest in a 41-acre parcel and due diligence on its wet conditions.

Lastly, the board discussed upcoming events, such as the Friends and Family Day and the Reading Climate Advisory Committee’s involvement. The Strategic Power Supply and Load Management Committee’s recent meetings were addressed, covering topics like the Yil cell with carbon capture program, financials, milestones, and risks. Plans for future joint meetings with the Reading Climate Advisory Committee were scheduled, including executive sessions to discuss trade secrets and proprietary information related to carbon capture fuel cells. The timing and frequency of these joint meetings were debated, with considerations for including public comment.