PUC discusses data platform governance amid bipartisan concerns over project delays

The New Hampshire Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee convened on April 22, 2025, to discuss the future of a significant data platform project aimed at enhancing energy management in the state. A key point of contention emerged regarding the role of the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) and the involvement of utilities in the project’s development.

During the meeting, a representative highlighted the initial proposal for the PUC to operate the platform, which was later revised to allow utilities to take the lead. This change was prompted by concerns about the PUC's capacity and the need for collaboration with the Department of Information Technology. The representative expressed skepticism about the utilities' commitment but noted their willingness to engage positively in the project.

The discussion took a partisan turn, with the representative lamenting that what was once a bipartisan initiative has now become a divisive issue. He emphasized that the project is fundamentally about customer freedom and should not be influenced by political affiliations. The representative drew a vivid analogy, comparing the potential cancellation of the project to undergoing preparation for a medical procedure but not following through, underscoring the importance of seeing the project to completion.

The committee also addressed the governance structure of the project, which allows various stakeholders, including the PUC and utilities, to halt progress. Despite frustrations over delays, no party has exercised this veto power, indicating a collective interest in moving forward. The representative urged the committee to consider the implications of abandoning the project at this critical juncture, suggesting that it would stifle potential benefits that could arise from the ongoing Request for Proposals (RFPs).

As the meeting concluded, the representative acknowledged the need for accountability, proposing that if the project fails to deliver tangible benefits, it should be subject to review and potential termination. This forward-looking approach aims to ensure that the project remains aligned with the interests of New Hampshire residents while navigating the complexities of energy policy and governance.