The State of Delaware signed a 36-month deal with Washington Gas Energy Services to cover about 800 million kwh.  The deal begins July 1.

          "The deal helped the state save over $13 million on electricity costs over their prior contracted rate while helping Delaware advance its renewable energy goals," World Energy Solutions told us yesterday.

          By the kilowatt, the deal will give Delaware a rate of 7.52¢ -- a drop of about 18% from the current year's contract rates, according to state calculations.

          The deal was made through World Energy's auction process.

          As a part of the deal, 25% of the load will come from renewable sources, bringing Delaware's total to over 30%.

          "We are very pleased with the results of today's auction," said Ann Visalli, director of the state's Office of Management & Budget.  "By combining our electricity purchase with all of our aggregation partners, we were able to secure very favorable prices from electricity generators using the innovative reverse auction methodology."

          Gov Jack Markell, D, long a proponent of growing green energy in the state, likes both the price and renewable component.

          "These electricity agreements not only save taxpayers' money but allow the state to increase the amount of clean power it uses in state facilities.  I am pleased we were able to make energy purchases that represent a win-win for Delawareans," said Markell.