August 2024 MA Muni Minute

Inside this Edition

Peak Demand Notifications

The Northeast has seen some HOT summer days, with a few nearing the season’s peak. According to ISO-NE, the highest demand so far was on June 20, 2024, at 23,670 MW during the 4-5 PM hour. (Please note, this data is preliminary and subject to change.)

Many of Freedom’s clients have enrolled in our peak notifications program, running from June to September. These notifications include an outlook and curtailment recommendations, allowing municipalities to plan ahead and reduce their peak demand charges. Our VP of Procurement, Howard Plante, sends out an email and/or text assessing the likelihood of hitting the annual peak demand for electricity on a given day, along with the expected timeframe.

What can we expect for the rest of the summer? Although it’s late in the season, severe temperatures are still possible. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) predicted a 60% chance of above-average temperatures for June through September this year.

If you’re interested in reducing your municipal load this summer and haven’t enrolled yet, there’s still time to sign up for our notifications.

Climate Resiliency Funding — $52 Million Awarded to Communities Under the Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness Program

Earlier this month, the Healey-Driscoll administration announced a historic $52.4 million commitment in grants to advance climate resilience across Massachusetts. This investment marks the largest in the history of the Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness (MVP) Program.

The MVP Program combines local leadership and expertise with significant state resources to address the ongoing impacts of climate change, including inland flooding, more frequent and severe storms, rising sea levels, drought, and extreme temperatures. The MVP Action Grant will fund priority climate change adaptation measures identified through the MVP Planning process or a similar climate change vulnerability assessment and action plan. A total of 71 projects have been awarded grants, including 62 for municipalities, seven for regional planning agencies, and two for tribes.

To see which communities will receive funding to complete the MVP action process, check out this recent media release.

Nouria and Freedom Energy: Sustained Customer Excellence

Nouria Energy and Freedom Energy have partnered for over 13 years to support Nouria’s growth and mission to enhance customer experience. Nouria Energy, a valued Freedom Energy client, serves local communities across Massachusetts and the Northeast through its gas stations, services, and convenience stores. Watch the video to see how this long-standing collaboration helps deliver valuable services to MA customers.

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Freedom Energy Logistics Named Among America’s Fastest-Growing Private Companies Joining the Ranks of the 2024 Inc. 5000

Inc. Magazine announced on Aug 13, 2024, that Freedom Energy was named to its annual list of the fastest-growing private companies in America. The prestigious ranking provides a data-driven look at the most successful companies within the economy’s most dynamic segment—its independent, entrepreneurial businesses. With our headquarters in Auburn, New Hampshire, our local office is in Westborough, MA. See the press release here.

CEO Bart Fromuth stated, “We extend our gratitude to Freedom’s team, strategic partners, our clients, and the community for contributing to our ongoing success. Our sustained growth is a testament to Freedom’s exceptional team, unwavering commitment to client advocacy, and our investment in innovative, sustainable energy solutions and our employees.”

Freedom Energy Community Involvement

Over the past several months, our team has been actively engaged across Massachusetts, networking and supporting nonprofits. Here’s a snapshot of what we’ve been up to.

Mass Energy Summit

Earlier this summer, Freedom Energy Logistics sponsored the Mass Energy Summit, organized by Worcester Business Journal. The event sparked engaging discussions on power generation, renewable energy options, and leveraging energy incentives for a sustainable future. The summit provided an excellent opportunity to connect with industry professionals and explore the latest trends in the energy sector. We’re grateful for the chance to contribute to these vital conversations and remain committed to advancing a sustainable energy future together.

Breaking Barriers, Building Resilience: A NEWIEE Event Recap

Freedom Energy Logistics participated in the WSTA 2024 event, “Breaking Barriers, Building Resilience,” hosted by New England Women in Energy and the Environment (NEWIEE). The evening was filled with inspiring discussions and insights from leaders in the energy sector, all dedicated to empowering women and fostering diversity and inclusion. The event featured keynote speakers and panelists who shared their experiences and strategies for overcoming challenges in the industry. Held at the College of the Holy Cross, the gathering emphasized the importance of collaboration in building a more resilient and inclusive energy community.

Engaging Young Minds at the McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center

Our team had an inspiring day at the McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center, a nonprofit that honors the legacy of Alan Shepard, a proud New England native and the first American in space. We interacted with young, curious minds, educating them about renewable energy sources. The enthusiasm and excitement of the kids as they learned about solar, wind, and hydro energy, and how to protect our planet, were truly motivating.

We also hosted a raffle where kids collected stamps and asked questions about energy, eagerly sharing ideas and facts. The event included a coloring area, where both kids and adults enjoyed a creative and relaxing experience. This blend of education and creativity made the day even more special.

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