Rocky Mountain Power announced Tuesday that customers in 16 Utah communities will be automatically enrolled in a new community clean energy program starting January 1, 2027, unless they choose to opt out. The initiative, a collaboration with the Utah Renewable Communities coalition, aims to advance renewable energy solutions through solar, wind, geothermal, and hydroelectric resources.
Legislative Origins and Goals
The Community Clean Energy Program was developed following the 2019 passage of the Community Renewable Energy Act by the Utah Legislature. This legislation was intended to provide a pathway for local municipalities to achieve a net 100% renewable energy portfolio by the year 2030. The program, which has received approval from the Utah Public Service Commission, works to add new clean energy resources to the power grid to support the growing energy needs of the state while protecting the environment.
Participating Communities and Notification
Participating communities include Alta, Castle Valley, Emigration Canyon, Francis, Grand County, Holladay, Midvale, Millcreek, Moab, Oakley, Ogden, Park City, Salt Lake City, Salt Lake County, Springdale, and Summit County. Residents and business owners in these specific areas will receive detailed information regarding their enrollment via mail and email during November and December 2026.
Enrollment and Cancellation Terms
The program operates as an opt-out system, meaning enrollment is automatic for eligible customers. To prevent enrollment, residents must take action through Rocky Mountain Power's website, by phone, or by mail. While customers may cancel their participation at any time, those who wish to avoid a termination fee must act before May 1, 2027, during the initial phase of the program.
Residential Program Costs
Residential customers will see a monthly charge of $4.00 added to their bills to fund the program. For households enrolled in the Schedule 3 Low-Income Lifeline Program, also known as the Home Electric Lifeline Program, an enhanced monthly bill credit of $4.00 will be applied to offset the program costs. According to Rocky Mountain Power, for a customer using 500 kWh monthly, the total bill would increase from $62.86 to $66.86 without the credit, but would be $43.86 with both the program charge and the enhanced credit applied.
Business and Termination Fees
The cost structure for business customers varies depending on the specific rate schedule. For certain residential rates, such as Schedule 1, a one-time termination fee of $30 will be incurred if the customer cancels after May 1, 2027. Business customers on Schedule 23 or Schedule 10 will face a $30 fee, while others, such as those on Schedule 15, will see a fee calculated at $0.96 per average kilowatt. Other business categories, including Schedule 11 and Schedule 12, face a fee of $0.15 per lamp.
Future Implementation and Oversight
The program seeks to meet the 100% renewable energy goal through a phased approach involving several different projects. These projects will integrate various clean energy sources into the existing grid to meet the specific needs of participating communities. The Utah Public Service Commission maintains oversight of the program, and program rates may be adjusted once per year following approval from the Commission.
