Ogden Joins 6 Utah Cities in Clean Energy Push

Seven Utah communities are taking control of their energy future, and Ogden just became the latest to say yes to cleaner air and local power.

The Ogden City Council voted 6-1 Tuesday to join the Community Clean Energy Program, a collaboration with Rocky Mountain Power that lets communities pool resources to develop renewable energy. Six other cities, including Salt Lake City, Park City, and Moab, have already signed on.

"For years, you didn't ask if you want coal or gas when signing up for power. You just got what they delivered to you," said Ogden City Councilman Dave Graf. "Now we've got an opportunity to say yes to something that's sustainable and something that doesn't get pinched by international conflict and politics."

Starting in early 2027, residential customers in participating communities will see an extra $4 on their monthly power bills. That money gets pooled together to finance new renewable energy projects specifically serving these communities. Businesses will pay based on their energy usage.

The seven communities that have joined represent about 74% of the energy consumption among the 19 cities considering the program. That's enough to move forward, though 12 more communities have until June 2 to decide whether to participate.

The Ripple Effect

This isn't just about one city going green. The pooled funds will help build renewable energy infrastructure that benefits air quality across Utah for generations.

Program coordinator Glade Sowards hopes to complete the first power purchase agreement for new renewable energy by fall 2025, with the first projects coming online around 2028 or 2029. The initial funding will establish the administrative framework and reserves needed to run the program effectively.

Ogden's sustainability coordinator Lorenzo Long emphasized that the program allows communities to meet their energy needs "while still keeping power reliable and accessible and promoting air quality improvements across Utah."

Customers can opt out if they choose. Anyone who opts out before bills start in 2027 or within the first four months won't face charges. After that window, a $30 termination fee applies. Ogden officials plan an educational campaign to ensure residents understand their options when the time comes.

Rocky Mountain Power will begin sending notices to customers in participating communities around November 2026, giving them plenty of time to make informed decisions about their participation.

The program shows what happens when communities work together to build the future they want to see.