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Delegation Defers Joining Community Power Coalition of New Hampshire
Summary
Belknap County Delegation voted to defer participation in the Community Power Coalition of New Hampshire after members raised cost and local-choice concerns; motion to defer passed following debate.
The Belknap County Delegation voted to defer participation in the Community Power Coalition of New Hampshire (Community Power), citing economic concerns and deference to local municipal choice.
A delegation member argued that Community Power’s lowest-renewables plan (25.2% renewables) nevertheless appeared more expensive per kilowatt-hour than existing suppliers, and urged caution. “If I am driving down the road and I see 2 gas stations side by side… I’m pulling into the gas station that’s $2.79 and not $2.89,” the delegate said to illustrate the price sensitivity behind the decision. Another delegate said local municipalities should retain authority to choose whether to join Community Power.
Representative Terry moved to defer participation “at this time,” and a colleague seconded. After debate about data and local opt‑in versus opt‑out structures, the delegation voted to defer participation. Delegates noted that individual towns — including Guilford and Laconia — have pursued different choices and that the county would reconsider if a future presentation demonstrated clear cost savings.
Ending: The delegation will not join Community Power now; members said they remain open to reconsideration if commissioners or proponents return with stronger economic comparisons and local-choice safeguards.
