New Hampshire Energy Department assesses net metering bill's technical and policy inconsistencies

The House Science, Technology and Energy Committee of the New Hampshire Legislature convened on April 14, 2025, to discuss a proposed bill aimed at addressing energy sustainability and net metering regulations. The meeting featured testimonies from various stakeholders, including county representatives and officials from the New Hampshire Department of Energy.

The session began with a representative emphasizing the bill's intent to alleviate the tax burden on county taxpayers, clarifying that funds would not be diverted to unrelated projects. However, when questioned about public demand for sustainable energy solutions, it was noted that there has been minimal interaction from the public at the county level regarding energy sustainability concerns.

Josh Elliott from the New Hampshire Department of Energy provided a detailed analysis of the bill, stating the department's neutral stance. He highlighted several technical and policy issues within the proposed legislation. Elliott pointed out ambiguities in the definition of "institutional" entities and inconsistencies regarding eligibility for net metering tariffs. He noted that certain provisions in the bill could create gaps in eligibility, potentially allowing entities to bypass intended restrictions.

Elliott also raised concerns about the lack of limitations on the grouping of commercial and industrial entities under the bill, contrasting it with previous legislation that imposed stricter criteria. He discussed the implications of grandfathering provisions, which could undermine decisions made by the Public Utilities Commission regarding net metering rates.

The discussion further delved into the potential for cost shifting, where benefits provided to certain energy users might inadvertently increase costs for others. Elliott emphasized the need for careful consideration of these dynamics, as the bill could disproportionately benefit commercial and industrial customers without adequately addressing the impact on residential ratepayers.

In conclusion, the committee's discussions underscored the complexities of the proposed bill, with significant implications for energy policy in New Hampshire. The meeting highlighted the need for further examination of the bill's provisions to ensure equitable outcomes for all stakeholders involved. The committee is expected to continue deliberations on the bill, weighing the benefits against potential drawbacks for the state's energy landscape.