New Hampshire energy project faces scrutiny over ownership and cost challenges

During a recent meeting of the New Hampshire Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, significant concerns were raised regarding a proposed data platform project aimed at enhancing energy management. The discussions highlighted doubts about the project's economic viability and operational structure, which could have far-reaching implications for residents and utility customers across the state.

One of the primary issues discussed was the lack of clear ownership and oversight for the project. Representative Kat McGee, a co-sponsor of the original bill, emphasized that without a designated state owner, the project faces substantial hurdles. The committee members echoed this sentiment, suggesting that a software company might be better suited to manage the complexities of the project rather than the New Hampshire Department of Energy, which lacks the resources of a tech startup.

The financial aspects of the project were also scrutinized. Estimates for the utility's integration with the platform range from $5 million to $7 million, while the overall cost of the platform is projected at $35 million. Concerns were raised about the potential for indefinite project delays if costs become unreasonable, which could leave taxpayers and ratepayers uncertain about their financial commitments.

Another critical point of discussion was the opt-in nature of the data platform for utility customers. Many committee members questioned the incentives for customers to participate, noting that without a compelling reason, most residents may choose not to share their data. This could undermine the platform's effectiveness, as a lack of participation would limit the data's value.

The meeting also touched on privacy concerns related to aggregated data, particularly how it could inadvertently reveal individual usage patterns. Additionally, the current metering infrastructure in New Hampshire primarily provides monthly usage totals, which may not meet the needs of a data-driven platform.

As the committee continues to evaluate the project, the discussions underscore the importance of clear ownership, financial transparency, and customer engagement in ensuring that any new initiatives truly benefit the community. The outcomes of this meeting may shape the future of energy management in New Hampshire, impacting both residential and business customers alike.