New Hampshire plans statewide energy data platform for grid modernization

New Hampshire is taking significant strides toward modernizing its energy data management system, following a recent Senate Energy and Natural Resources meeting. The state is set to implement a comprehensive data platform that will integrate all energy data—both electric and gas—into a centralized system. This ambitious project aims to enhance grid modernization efforts and improve overall energy efficiency across New Hampshire.

The initiative, which stems from a bill passed in 2019, mandates collaboration with utility companies to design and operate this statewide data platform. Key discussions during the meeting highlighted the importance of addressing data security and consumer privacy concerns as part of this project. The goal is to create a uniform method for collecting and utilizing energy data, which will ultimately facilitate better planning and decision-making in energy management.

James Brennan, a former Chief Technology Officer and advocate for consumer interests, played a pivotal role in shaping this vision. He drew on successful models from other states, such as Texas and New York, to inform New Hampshire's approach. The proposed system will utilize an "API of APIs," allowing utilities to securely feed their data into the platform while protecting it from unauthorized access.

This innovative framework aims to empower competitive suppliers by reducing their reliance on utilities for data access, thus fostering a more dynamic energy market. The first two meetings convened to discuss this project successfully engaged utility tech representatives, setting a collaborative tone for future discussions.

As New Hampshire moves forward with this project, the implications for energy management and consumer engagement are significant. The state is poised to leverage data in ways that enhance efficiency and innovation, marking a crucial step in its energy evolution.