County hears update on Utah Renewable Communities program; opt-out notices expected

Commissioners received an update on the Utah Renewable Communities program and outreach plans ahead of a future county decision.

A commissioner (speaker 2) explained the program's status and what it means for residents: the county (or city) decides whether to participate, participation has been underway in some places, and if the county approves the local resolution there is a 90-day window referenced in the program materials. The commissioner estimated the incremental cost for residential customers at about $3 to $4 per month and noted customers will receive at least two opt-out notices before the program launches. "So it's automatic. Everybody opts in... customers will be able to opt out," the commissioner said.

The commissioner distinguished the renewable communities product from existing local green programs such as Blue Sky or local solar: "It adds new resources to the grid" and is more scalable. A workshop for public information officers is scheduled for March 26 to coordinate outreach materials for residents.

Why it matters: If the county approves participating, residential customers would see a small monthly increase but retain the right to opt out; businesses may experience different cost effects. Commissioners and staff emphasized outreach and clarity for residents ahead of any required local resolution.

Next steps: Staff will bring a resolution or ordinance to the commission agenda if the county moves forward; outreach materials will be developed in coordination with PIOs.