Jeannie Oliver advocates for New Hampshire's fourth resident owned community solar project

The Plymouth Zoning Board of Adjustment meeting on April 1, 2025, featured a significant discussion regarding a proposed community solar project aimed at supporting low to moderate-income households. Jeannie Oliver, vice president of ROC New Hampshire, expressed strong support for the initiative, highlighting its potential benefits for resident-owned communities across the state.

Oliver noted that this project would be the fourth of its kind in New Hampshire, emphasizing the importance of community solar in reducing energy costs for households that often struggle with high utility bills. She explained that while the solar project does not directly offset electric bills like traditional rooftop solar, it will help lower lot rents through group net metering, thereby avoiding any negative impact on residents' income and benefits.

The project is part of a broader effort to enhance community infrastructure and resilience, with ROC New Hampshire providing technical assistance to ensure its success. Oliver's testimony underscored the commitment of these communities to improve their living conditions and manage their resources effectively.

The meeting also included an invitation for additional public comments, but no opposition to the project was voiced. The board will consider the application further, reflecting the community's enthusiasm for sustainable energy solutions that support vulnerable populations.