Community Choice Aggregation (CCA), also known as municipal aggregation or community power, is a program that leverages a community’s purchasing power to procure electricity. When participating in CCA, cities, towns, or counties procure energy on behalf of their residents and businesses. This approach capitalizes on the bulk purchasing power of the community, effectively reducing electricity costs through economies of scale. Electricity continues to be distributed by the utility companies through their established transmission and distribution systems, ensuring reliable and uninterrupted service to customers.

Legislative & Regulatory Context in New Hampshire

New Hampshire enabled CCA legislation under RSA 53‑E, which provides municipalities with the legal framework to plan, hold public hearings, and submit a CCA program plan. Salem’s Town Council formed an Electric Aggregation Committee and adopted a final plan in December 2024.[1] The plan was approved for consideration at Town Meeting in March 2025, with launch expected later in summer/fall 2025.[2] Salem is now on track to roll out its aggregation in November 2025.

Benefits & Market Opportunity

Municipalities often secure lower or more reliable supply rates than utility default services by negotiating on behalf of multiple customers. Community Choice Aggregation (CCA) levels the playing field by offering competitive rates to consumers and small businesses; often with longer term contracts. Additionally, residents can benefit from optional green-power products, which include a higher percentage of renewable energy. The utility still handles delivery and billing.

Challenges & Risks to Consider

Savings may vary depending on market conditions and contractual terms. In New Hampshire, net-metered customers and customers already on competitive supply are generally advised to opt out of Community Choice Aggregation programs. If they enroll, they risk losing their net-metering credits or may incur penalties to exit their current supply contracts. These customers should review their agreements carefully and contact the program administrator with any questions. Effective outreach and consumer education are vital for individuals to fully understand their rights and any changes to their billing.

Freedom Energy Advocates for Communities

Freedom Energy Logistics has nearly two decades of experience navigating competitive energy markets. Our team provides transparent pricing strategies, comprehensive outreach support, and clear communications to help municipalities educate their residents. We work closely with local officials to structure contracts responsibly, align renewable options with community goals, and maintain open lines of support throughout the program.

This balanced approach positions Freedom Energy Logistics as a knowledgeable, trusted energy advisor, helping communities maximize the benefits of CCA while addressing its challenges.

Salem, NH residents are well positioned to benefit from participating

Salem, NH residents are well positioned to benefit from participating. According to Salem’s Electric Aggregation Plan adopted in December 2024,[3] a large share of Salem households currently receive default electricity service from Liberty Utilities. This positions the town to gain significantly from CCA by securing competitive supply contracts and renewable options. Committees have already been established, the plan has been written, public hearings have been held, and voters have approved the program. Competitive supplier bidding can result in improved renewable content or rate stability, as well as potential cost reductions for residents.[4]

Unlock the full potential of CCA for your community:

• Competitive supply procurement.
• Robust community outreach with clear communication.
• Regulatory alignment & support.
• Risk management and clear understanding of responsibilities.
• Realize the benefits of CCA.

Community Choice Aggregation represents an important opportunity for Salem and other New Hampshire communities to shape their energy future. By working together, municipalities, residents and businesses can achieve greater price stability, expanded renewable options, and stronger local engagement.

References:

[1] https://salemnh.gov/DocumentCenter/View/5998/Salem-FINAL-Electric-Aggregation-Plan-31125

[2] https://www.puc.nh.gov/energy-information/community-power-aggregation

[3] https://salemnh.gov/DocumentCenter/View/5998/Salem-FINAL-Electric-Aggregation-Plan-31125

[4] https://www.puc.nh.gov/energy-information/community-power-aggregation