The Lancaster Choice Energy (LCE) program is regularly lowering electricity generation rates and is setting its sights on even more savings for residents this year.
LCE provides electric service to about 95 percent of Lancaster residents. The new utility offers these customers a number of benefits which were not previously available, including cleaner, “greener” electricity and local control. LCE has partnered with the existing regional investor-owned utility company, Southern California Edison (SCE).
The partnership between LCE and SCE involves two parts to every Lancaster electric bill: the electricity source (generation), and the cost of transmission and delivery. Formerly, SCE provided both portions. The new LCE program handles the first segment (electricity source), while SCE manages the second (transmission and delivery).
With the rate reduction that went into effect on Jan. 1, LCE has been able to lower the cost of the electricity portion of the bill by an average of three percent. However, even though LCE has reduced its rates, if the costs of transmission and delivery rise, it is possible that Lancaster residents may see slightly higher electricity bills.
LCE has set a number of goals for 2016. This year sPower, a prominent renewable energy company, will begin construction of a 10-Megawatt solar project in Lancaster. The project will reportedly generate electricity exclusively for LCE, as well as creating numerous local jobs in the alternative energy sector.
This spring, LCE is expected to launch its Smart Choice campaign to encourage the community move toward 100-percent renewable energy choices. The Smart Choice option amounts to an extra $10 per month for residential customers, or an additional 1.5 cents per KWh for business customers. The Smart Choice plan is said to align with the city’ quest of becoming a Net-Zero municipality.
For more details about LCE updates, billing or the Smart Choice program, visit www.LancasterChoiceEnergy.com, call (661) 723-6084 or simply visit the LCE counter at Lancaster City Hall, 44933 Fern Ave.
