New Hampshire Senate Bill SB4

New Hampshire 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 12/30/24
• Refer: 12/30/24
• Report Pass: 1/14/25
• Engrossed: 1/30/25
• Refer: 1/30/25
• Report Pass: 2/6/25
• Report DNP: 2/6/25
• Enrolled: 2/19/25
• Chaptered: 3/3/25
• Passed: 3/3/25

Caption

Relative to commercial property assessed clean energy and resiliency (C-PACER).

Impact

The introduction of the C-PACER program is expected to yield significant environmental and economic benefits throughout New Hampshire. By lowering barriers to accessing funding for energy and water efficiency improvements, the bill seeks to drive community resilience and reduce overall utility costs for property owners. This shift could ultimately lead to job creation within the renewable energy sector as demand for energy-efficient technologies increases. However, the effectiveness of this program will depend on the willingness of property owners to participate and the municipalities' ability to coordinate these efforts effectively.

Summary

Senate Bill 4 aims to establish a Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy and Resiliency (C-PACER) program in New Hampshire. This program is designed to replace the existing energy efficiency and clean energy districts statute, facilitating financing for energy-saving improvements, clean energy initiatives, and resiliency upgrades on commercial properties. Through the C-PACER program, municipalities will be empowered to implement special assessments that help property owners cover the costs of these improvements while also promoting energy conservation and addressing risks associated with climate change.

Contention

Noteworthy points of contention surrounding SB 4 include concerns over the financial implications for property owners who may not thoroughly understand the commitments involved in participating in a C-PACER program. While the bill encourages voluntary participation, questions remain regarding the potential for over-leverage, especially for those with existing mortgages. Additionally, local governments must be prepared to administer the program, which raises concerns about the adequacy of resources and administrative support required to implement these measures effectively.