Argos Town Council members approved an ordinance last Wednesday that would put the Indiana Municipal Power Agency (IMPA) in the driver’s seat of any future renewable energy agreements.
Town Attorney Derek Jones reminded council members that they passed a Net Metering Ordinance in March of 2016. That document contained information about the Town’s role in the potential installation of wind power, solar energy or other renewable sources within the corporate limits.
The ordinance he presented last week repealed the initial ordinance and handed responsibility over to the town’s electricity provider, IMPA.
IMPA officials informed Town Superintendent Jamie Lindstrom that they’d prefer to use power purchasing agreements and deal directly with any customers interested in utilizing renewable energy.
Lindstrom explained that the way the 2016 ordinance is set up, if more than one individual approached the town with a request to install a renewable energy source, IMPA would need to execute a power purchasing agreement anyways. He noted that this will eliminate some unnecessary steps and make the process simpler for all parties involved.
Jones added that it essentially takes the Town out of the “middle man” position.
While no Argos residents or business owners currently utilize any kind of renewable energy, Lindstrom said they wanted to be proactive, in the event that an installation request comes in.
Members suspended the rules and provided unanimous approval on all three readings of the ordinance.
