Senate Bill 106 aims to boost New Hampshire's industrial energy competitiveness

In a recent meeting of the New Hampshire Legislature's House Science, Technology and Energy Committee, discussions centered around Senate Bill 106, which aims to enhance the state's renewable energy landscape and bolster its economic competitiveness. The bill proposes two significant changes: increasing the cap for renewable energy installations on industrial and commercial facilities from 1 megawatt to 5 megawatts, and extending the net metering program to make these installations financially viable.

Senator Lang, representing District 2, emphasized the urgency of adopting policies that support local manufacturing and energy self-generation. He pointed out that New Hampshire faces some of the highest energy costs in the nation, with prices rising 60% over the past decade, compared to the national average of 26%. This situation places New Hampshire among the top ten states for electricity costs, alongside California and Hawaii. The senator argued that high energy prices are a significant burden for businesses, particularly in the manufacturing sector, limiting their ability to expand, invest, and hire within the state.

The core of Senate Bill 106 is to empower large energy users to generate their own power, allowing them to consume most of the energy they produce while only utilizing net metering for excess energy. This approach is expected to provide businesses with greater control over their energy costs, enabling them to plan for the future with more financial predictability. By generating their own power, businesses can mitigate the impact of fluctuating energy prices, ultimately supporting their bottom line and fostering local economic growth.

Michael Skelton, representing the Business and Industry Association of New Hampshire, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the importance of addressing energy costs to maintain the state's economic competitiveness. He noted that the association represents over 400 employers, contributing significantly to the state's economy. Skelton stressed that the mission of the BIA is to ensure New Hampshire can compete effectively with other states for jobs and investment.

The discussions around Senate Bill 106 reflect a broader recognition of the need for New Hampshire to adapt its energy policies to support local businesses and attract new investments. As the committee continues to evaluate the bill, the implications for the state's economic landscape and energy independence remain a focal point for lawmakers and stakeholders alike. The anticipated next steps include further testimonies from industry representatives and a deeper examination of the bill's potential impact on New Hampshire's economy.