Over 100 Companies Join Energy Buying Group MassMEC to Save on Cost of Winter Utility Bills
December 3, 2014
Mass. manufacturers make the switch to state sponsored energy buying program as electricity prices spike
Boston (December 3, 2014) – The Massachusetts Manufacturing Energy Collaborative (MassMEC), a buying group of manufacturers that reduces energy costs by purchasing energy supply in bulk, today announced that more than 100 businesses have signed on to participate in the collaborative to save on the rising cost of electricity and natural gas this winter.
Members across the Commonwealth range from metal manufacturers, restaurants and breweries, to hospitals and real estate properties. It includes Watch City Ventures in Waltham, Accurounds in Avon, and Steward Health Care Systems and Hajjar Management Co in Boston, among dozens of others.
MassMEC, which was first announced by Governor Deval Patrick in April, enables manufacturing companies and businesses to lower their energy costs by negotiating volume rates from electricity and natural gas suppliers. It also provides no-cost renewable energy reviews and consultations.
“With electricity prices rising this winter, more and more manufacturers are making the switch to MassMEC to save on their utility bills,” said Shaun Pandit, president of EarlyBird Power and manager of MassMEC. “MassMEC is now providing over 100 manufacturers and companies with energy consultations, electricity and natural gas procurement services and renewable energy analysis to help them save on energy.”
Lynne Mastera from Precix Inc, a New Bedford-based manufacturer of high performance o-rings and seals for automotive, aerospace and energy markets, faced sky-high electric costs and contacted MassMEC for advice. The buying group provided a winter hedge that will save up to $62,700 against their utility’s variable rate, and up to $35,800 against the average supplier.
“Energy costs, especially this winter, represent a huge percentage of our expenses,” said Lynne. “The MassMEC team provided straightforward information and advice, guiding our company toward securing the best electric rate. These savings are critical for saving on our bottom line and investing other areas of the company with funds to benefit consumers.”
MassMEC recently saved Crusader Papers, a converter and distributor based in North Andover, over $12,000 this winter on electricity bills, compared to the forecasted utility rates. Rob Martin from Ipswich brewery also reached MassMEC for the best pricing on heating, and chose a deal that will reduce his company’s energy costs by at least $4,800 throughout the winter.
MassDevelopment, the state’s finance and development agency that created MassMEC, selected EarlyBird Power to manage the Collaborative following a competitive bidding process. EarlyBird Power is a Milton-based energy market expert that provides energy management and sustainability solutions to commercial, municipal and industrial clients. A licensed broker in natural gas and electricity in every deregulated state, EarlyBird uses its market expertise and relationships with wholesale suppliers to help clients save money and “go green.”
MassMEC is also a product of the Advanced Manufacturing Collaborative, a Patrick Administration initiative that brings together members of the private and public sectors to support Massachusetts manufacturers.
About EarlyBird Power EarlyBird Power is a Milton-based energy market expert that provides energy management and sustainability solutions to commercial, municipal and industrial clients. A licensed electricity and natural gas broker in every deregulated state, EarlyBird assists businesses across the United States with procuring the lowest priced electricity or natural gas supply. EarlyBird monitors market opportunities and risks, market trends, and pricing to serve clients, ensuring the best possible rate, optimal services, and hassle-free transactions.
About MassDevelopment MassDevelopment, the state’s finance and development agency, works with businesses, nonprofits, financial institutions, and communities to stimulate economic growth across the Commonwealth. During FY2013, MassDevelopment financed or managed 350 projects generating investment of more than $2.4 billion in the Massachusetts economy. These projects are projected to create more than 7,000 jobs, and build or rehabilitate 800 residential units.
