What can Massachusetts cities and towns expect from the coming winter, and what could it mean for their energy budgets? Adam and John are joined by Brandon Fong, principal of the Commodities Group at Constellation (the MMA’s partner in its MunEnergy program), to talk about the forces shaping New England’s energy market. Fong explains how a Super El Niño could mean warmer-than-average temperatures this winter across New England generally, but it doesn’t eliminate the risk of extreme cold snaps. And even a few days of intense demand can put pressure on the region’s natural-gas supply and send electricity prices higher.
What can Massachusetts cities and towns expect from the coming winter, and what could it mean for their energy budgets?
Adam and John are joined by Brandon Fong, principal of the Commodities Group at Constellation (the MMA’s partner in its MunEnergy program), to talk about the forces shaping New England’s energy market.
Fong explains how a Super El Niño could mean warmer-than-average temperatures this winter across New England generally, but it doesn’t eliminate the risk of extreme cold snaps. And even a few days of intense demand can put pressure on the region’s natural-gas supply and send electricity prices higher.
The conversation explores why New England’s energy market is so closely connected to global events, and Fong discusses what municipalities can control, including energy procurement strategies, contract terms, demand management, and reducing the amount of electricity they use during the most expensive periods. He also explains how the region is working toward a more diversified and resilient grid, as wind, solar, hydro, batteries, and other technologies become increasingly important.
For Further Reading:
MunEnergy to discuss energy strategies in Oct. 20 webinar: https://www.mma.org/munenergy-to-discuss-energy-strategies-in-oct-20-webinar/