In an effort to save both money and electricity, Bucks County recently joined the Sustainable Energy Partnership of Southeast Pennsylvania, with an eye toward conserving energy at a lower cost.
Along with Chester, Delaware and Montgomery counties, the partnership’s goals include meeting renewable energy targets, lowering energy costs, expanding membership in the organization, developing a more cost effective plan for buying energy and avoiding “overextending county resources,” according to Bucks officials.
“We should begin purchasing electricity through the partnership in the second quarter of 2024,” said Bob Harvie, chairman of the Bucks County Board of Commissioners. “We’re very excited about it.”
The partnership formed in 2020 and in October formed an energy board to further its purposes. The Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission will coordinate the board.
By working together, county governments plan to negotiate lower and more stable energy prices, as well as increase their access to renewable energy.
“Since taking office, this administration has made a steadfast commitment to sustainability,” said Harvie, in a statement. “From making it a focal point of our Transition Report to signing onto the Sierra Club’s Ready For 100 campaign, to hiring Bucks County’s first sustainability officer, we have been all-in on responsible energy solutions.”
Harvie said joining the partnership is “one of the initiatives I am most proud of,” and he credited his fellow commissioners, Diane Marseglia and Gene DiGirolamo for their support.
With a dedicated wholesale account, larger local governments can access “low, transparent, and stable electricity prices,” said the county. “It will also help the counties meet renewable energy targets through access to large-scale renewables and add additional parties, such as municipalities, authorities and schools, in the future.”
Enel X, a consulting firm, will guide the partnership on “ongoing energy market intelligence, guidance and direction,” said the county. Enel X also advises Philadelphia among other clients.
The partnership’s energy board will meet quarterly with Enel X to evaluate market conditions, approve procurements and develop strategies, officials said.
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