Municipal Electric and Gas Alliance

April 2024 Edition

From March Madness to Solar Eclipse, MEGA Has You Covered

The NCAA Women's Basketball Regionals in Albany County were a huge success, with thousands watching in person and millions watching. The games and the players electrified audiences across the nation.

This week, a different phenomenon is sweeping the state and nation – the solar eclipse. Nearly half of New York's counties were on the path of totality as the solar eclipse cut a 124-mile path across upstate New York.

MEGA provides electricity, natural gas, and renewable energy services to 16 counties and nearly 200 local governments and schools in the path of the total solar eclipse. These MEGA members, and the others from across the state, can rest assured that they are getting the most competitive, stable, and predictable supply of energy available when they signed on or renewed with the MEGA program.

Whether you were in the path of totality, or somewhere on the periphery, MEGA is here to serve local and school leaders across this great state of New York. If you are not already a MEGA member, visit us and find out how you can join.

Reflecting on yesterday's eclipse, we hope you enjoyed witnessing one of the most historically stellar moments of our lives and the infinite wonders of the sun, the most powerful ball of energy in the universe.

Photo source

Electricity Pricing is Inching Up Amidst Demand Growth

Avoid Volatility and Price Shocks with Long-Term Planning

Electricity pricing in New York continued its climb throughout March and into early April 2024. Longer-term rates (CY2025+) have increased 10% since last month, driven by warm weather forecasts for this summer, a shifting electricity generation landscape, and anticipated demand growth in New York over the next several years.

Over the past two decades, electricity demand has minimally increased. Looking ahead, the growth of AI data centers, EVs, and electrification are putting increasing stress on an electric grid that may not be ready to match demand. In just the past year, projections from U.S. utilities and grid operators of how much electricity demand will grow over the next five years have nearly doubled, up from 2.6 percent to 4.7 percent.

The increasing uncertainty of grid reliability and demand growth will continue to put bullish pressure on electricity pricing. Creating a long-term purchasing strategy now will help avoid market volatility and the anticipated rising electric rates. For more details, or to discuss your individual energy strategy, please reach out to us at info@megaenergy.org.

Energy Specialist for Local Governments and Schools

The Municipal Electric & Gas Alliance (MEGA) is seeking an enthusiastic and committed early career professional to join our team as an Energy Specialist for Local Governments and Schools. This role is specifically designed for individuals passionate about serving local governments throughout New York State, assisting them in purchasing electricity, natural gas, and renewable energy. The ideal candidate will possess a basic understanding of the energy industry, be familiar with the operations of local governments in New York State and be a proactive communicator eager to learn and grow within the role.

See the full job description here or on LinkedIn.

Let MEGA Help You Navigative the State Energy Transition

Resources for Local Leaders

The global shift from traditional fossil fuel-based energy systems to cleaner, more sustainable sources of energy, such as renewable energy and low-carbon technologies, is complex to navigate. We know where we are today and what the goals are for the future, but getting from here to there is not a straight path.

This transition involves a fundamental restructuring of energy production, distribution, and consumption patterns to mitigate climate change, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and promote energy security and resilience. New York State’s Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act (CLCPA) has set aggressive goals for reducing emissions and increasing renewable energy use, putting pressure on local governments and schools to consider today’s supply options while planning for future alternatives.

Several state agencies and authorities will play an important role in shaping the future of New York State’s energy landscape.

NYS Energy Research Development Authority (NYSERDA)

NYSERDA is a key player in advancing energy innovation and sustainability across the state. Established in 1975, NYSERDA encourages the deployment of renewable energy technologies, administers energy efficiency programs, and develops energy-focused initiatives to address climate change. Visit www.nyserda.ny.gov/Clean-Energy-Communities.

Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC)

The DEC serves as the primary regulatory agency tasked with protecting and enhancing the state's natural resources. Established in 1970, the DEC oversees initiatives related to land conservation, wildlife protection, and environmental justice, all of which are essential components of the State’s broader strategy to combat climate change and achieve the CLCPA’s objectives. Visit climatesmart.ny.gov.

The New York Power Authority (NYPA)

NYPA is one of the largest state-owned electric utilities in the nation. Established in 1931, NYPA operates and maintains various power generation facilities across the state, including hydroelectric plants, and actively invests in projects to expand clean energy generation capacity, upgrade the transmission grid, and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Visit www.nypa.gov.

Public Service Commission

The PSC is the state’s regulatory body responsible for overseeing utility companies operating within the state, including six major electric and gas utilities, five major gas-only utilities, and nearly 40 municipal utilities. Visit www.Dps.ny.gov.

NYS Independent System Operator (NYISO)

The NYS ISO is a private nonprofit organization responsible for operating the state's electricity grid and wholesale electricity markets. Established in 1999, NYISO is charged with ensuring the reliable and efficient transmission of electricity across the state, balancing supply and demand in real-time while fostering competition among market participants. Visit www.nyiso.com/markets.

Conclusion

Navigating the transition to a clean energy economy requires a collaborative effort involving various state agencies and authorities. As the state continues its transition towards a cleaner and more resilient energy future, collaboration and innovation among these organizations will remain essential in addressing the challenges and opportunities in the evolving energy marketplace.

Supporting the Associations that Serve Local Leaders

From Apil 17th - 19th, MEGA will be at the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) Conference in Albany. In May, we will be at the County Finance School, the Tug Hill Commission, and the State Association of Municipal Purchasing Officials. If you are at any of these conferences, come say hello.

For more information, to book a consultation, invite us to a meeting, or to get pricing, email info@megaenergy.org or call Mark LaVigne at 518-429-0189 or Aleks Urosevic at 847-274-2283.

Our Partners:

Visit MEGAEnergy.org to learn more!