July-August 2019
New Battery Energy Storage System Online
Photo Credit: Jeff Scher for NextEra Energy Resources
In July, state and local officials and representatives from NextEra Energy Resources joined RMLD at a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the completion and electrification of the 5-megawatt Minuteman Battery Energy Storage System (BESS). The unit will support "shredding the peak."
 
Peaks occur when the highest level of electricity is consumed in our region both monthly and annually. Reducing RMLD’s usage during peaks helps to offset current and future transmission and capacity costs, a direct benefit to RMLD customers. 
 
Summer Energy-Saving Tips
It's common for electricity use to increase in the summer when the weather is hot and ACs are working hard to keep our homes and businesses cool. Here are a few tips to help you save energy during the hot summer weather:

  • Consider getting an energy assessment to learn about your energy use and see where you can save. Click here for info on RMLD's Commercial Energy Assessment incentive.
  • Keep blinds of south-facing windows closed during the day to keep the heat from the sun out.
  • Use a programmable or smart thermostat to control the temperature, and keep the building warmer during off-hours.
  • Keep hot air out by sealing air leaks around doors and windows with caulk and weatherstripping.
  • Use fans to increase cooling efficiency, but be sure to turn them off when you leave the room.
  • Upgrade to energy efficient LED lighting - LED lights use less energy and do not produce heat. Click here to learn about RMLD's commercial lighting rebate.
New Solar Resources Available at RMLD.com
Since the launch of the new MLP Solar Rebate Program in May, RMLD has received many questions from customers ranging from basic information such as the average cost to install solar, to specifics on the MLP Solar Rebate application process. To assist customers with all levels of solar related questions, we have published a new Solar Guide on our website.

Electric Car Show Coming to Wilmington Farmers Market
Plug-in electric vehicles (PEVs) continue to increase in popularity due to their cost saving potential and environmental benefits. According to Forbes, 2018 saw an 81% increase in electric vehicle sales from 2017.

RMLD is excited to partner with the Wilmington Farmers Market for the second year to present an Electric Car Show. Join us to view an assortment of plug-in electric vehicles, talk to current PEV owners about their experiences, and learn about available incentives and EV charging. Click here to learn more.
Last Call for High School Art Contest
Students who wish to participate in RMLD's 125th Anniversary High School Art Contest have until August 15th to register. Various art mediums will be accepted, including, but not limited to: drawings, paintings, photography, and graphic art. Finished artwork is due by Friday, August 30, 2019 at 12:00 pm.

Each student who submits artwork by the deadline will receive a certificate for ten hours of community service. Three to five winners will be selected based on the number of submissions received and the content of the artwork. Each winner will receive a gift card of up to $100 for qualified school or art supplies. One submission will be selected to be featured on the cover of RMLD’s Annual Report.  CLICK HERE to learn more and register.
Upcoming Events:
RMLD will be at the following upcoming community events. Stop by and see us!
 
North Reading Farmers Market - August 7, 2019, 3:30 pm - 7 pm
Ipswich River Park, North Reading

Reading Public Library Vehicle Day - August 13, 2019, 7:30 am - 9 am
64 Middlesex Avenue, Reading
 
Reading Fall Street Faire - September 8, 2019, 12 pm - 5 pm
Reading Center Area
Holiday Closings:

Monday, September 2nd - Labor Day
Summer Hours:
From May 20, 2019 through August 30, 2019, RMLD's business hours are as follows:

Monday - Thursday: 7:30 am - 5:00 pm
Friday: 7:30 am - 12:00 pm

RMLD is available 24/7/365 to respond to emergencies and outages. 
Reading Municipal Light Department | 781-942-6598 | www.rmld.com