Manchester Exploring Ways To Reduce Electric Bills

Officials with Manchester Township are taking a look at participating in an energy aggregation program, in light of rising costs being cited by one of the area's largest energy providers.

"JCP&L is looking for another 4.5 percent out of our pockets after Sandy, so I think now is the time to look into this," said Councilman Brendan Weiner.

Just last week, officials with Jersey Central Power & Light asked the state for permission to raise homeowners' rates about 4.5 percent to recover costs related to Sandy. This proposed hike would follow another requested in November, which company officials said were needed after Irene.

Councilman James A. Vaccaro, Sr. said that the Manchester Coordinating Council is planning on drafting a letter to the BPU objecting to the proposed rate hike and Weiner said they are closely watching efforts in Plumsted Township to see if  a similar program would work in the township. According to a statement from the mayor's office, residents there saved an average of 10 percent off their overall electricity bills.

However, Weiner acknowledged that proposed energy aggregation participation programs in other municipalities have been met with mixed reactions.

One resident at the meeting last night voiced objection to the energy aggregation investigation, noting: "I don't like when government gets involved with businesses."

In other business, Weiner said that the Rotary Club will be hosting a fish fry on March 8. The event will be held at the firehouse at 545 Commonwealth Blvd at 5:00 p.m. The event will feature a 50/50 and gift auction. For tickets, which are $15 for adults and $8 for children, call 732-232-9542.