Public commenter Rebecca Liberman opened the meeting by addressing the need for instant rebates at the point of purchase for efficient heating systems and appliances, emphasizing the benefits for both low-income residents and the RMLD’s move towards electrification over gas.

Vincent Rucci of Energy New England presented on various initiatives including renewable energy projects and the Home Efficiency Rebate (HER) and Home Electrification and Appliance Rebate (HEAR) programs. Discussions also explored a loan program for energy-efficient upgrades, with a focus on potential funding sources and income qualifications.

The board engaged in a dialogue over the expansion of an insulation program’s availability. There was also an update on the overall incentive program and the development of a loan program by the IR team.

A letter submitted to the Commonwealth D concerning a proposed heat standard was critically examined due to its exclusion of Municipal Light plants and potential implications for the board’s rate-setting abilities. The board also expressed concerns regarding transformer efficiency gains and the extended lead times required for acquisition.

Legislative activity relating to energy was discussed, with expectations of an increase in bills linked to electrification and regulatory rollouts. The board noted their efforts in advocating for Municipal Light plants and engaging with state legislators to address regulatory changes.

The discussion also encompassed the need for reconfiguring the RMLD campus due to growth and maintenance needs. The board considered the potential sale or reconfiguration of the campus, with two of the three property owners being open to selling and the other open to relocating. The collaboration with the town planning office was stressed, alongside a grant application for $100,000, plans for Eastern Gateway development, and the potential contribution of $150,000 for area concepts. Plans to issue an RFP from the town’s side were mentioned, with a potential $50,000 contribution.

The board deliberated on strategies for in-territory generation and storage, highlighting the challenges and the region’s transition mode. The impact of the 2021 climate bill and the legislative and regulatory environment were considered, along with the growth of energy load and the shift in energy efficiency.

The board approved a budget increase for security access control upgrades and office renovations. The general manager recommended awarding a project for a video surveillance and access control system to Signate Electrical Systems LLC for $782,000, deemed essential for security. There were concerns about the high cost and the limited number of bidders.

A contract for an electric vehicle DC fast charger was awarded to Vol Trek LLC for $4,825, intended for internal use to support the municipal fleet’s electrification. The board debated its potential for public use and the decision-making process regarding electrification.

The introduction of a DC fast charger was discussed as a revenue-generating opportunity, with the board expressing interest in the growth of the electric vehicle market and the integration of EVs into their service territory.

Policy revisions were on the agenda, with the board debating a proposed public comment policy, including provisions on speaking time and the management of disruptive behavior. The board opted to postpone the policy revisions discussion to the next meeting for further review.