*For Immediate Release*

ReSource Ipswich
Ipswich, MA has developed the first decarbonization program in the state.

Decarbonization, the act of actively and intentionally reducing carbon, is a critical component of meeting the aggressive 2050 climate goals. Ipswich, MA has developed the first-in-state decarbonization action plan: ReSource Ipswich, in partnership with the Center for EcoTechnology (CET) and the Massachusetts Municipal Wholesale Electric Company (MMWEC).

“Ipswich is very fortunate to have a locally-owned, electric utility,” said Ipswich Electric Light Manager Jonathan Blair. “As a public power provider we are fundamentally committed to deliver high reliability, affordable rates, and excellent customer service. In addition, as a community partner we recognize that our world is changing and we must adapt.  By focusing on a “triple bottom line” strategy, we strive to go beyond our basic mission and seek solutions at the intersection of social, economic, and environmental interests to build a more resilient community.”

Ipswich Electric Light Department (ELD) is a member of the Massachusetts Municipal Wholesale Electric Company (MMWEC), a joint action program for municipal light plants. ELD management wanted to build upon current programming and reflect a broader scope of community goals (i.e. energy efficiency and electrification plus waste reduction and water conservation), and squarely align financial incentives with solutions that yield social, economic, and environmental benefits, and that contribute to a more resilient community.

“MMWEC is proud to support the Ipswich Electric Light Department’s new ReSource Ipswich program and its unique, all-encompassing approach to addressing climate change,” said MMWEC CEO Ronald C. DeCurzio.  “CET has been a strong strategic partner of MMWEC’s, and this program is a great example of how MMWEC and CET can help MMWEC’s member utilities customize their own solutions related to climate change and energy efficiency.”

With program design services from CET, who also administer the program, ReSource Ipswich launched in March 2021. This first-in-Massachusetts whole property decarbonization program currently encompasses incentives, educational materials, and local discounts for upgrading and decarbonizing the building envelope, HVAC systems, appliances, yard equipment, vehicles, waste management, and water usage.

“Ipswich is a leader in what’s possible for municipal light plants,” said CET President John Majercak. “We couldn’t ask for a better partner and we look forward to other communities taking advantage of the ReSource model as well.”

“Together with our customers, we are prepared to meet tomorrow’s challenges head-on and transform them into opportunities for enduring success,” continued Blair. “Ultimately, if we are going to achieve ambitious goals we cannot be satisfied with incremental change; big problems demand transformational ideas and we are happy to partner with CET and MMWEC to explore innovative solutions.”

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For Questions: Ashley Muspratt, Director of Innovation

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