New Hampshire House Bill HB385

New Hampshire 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/23
• Refer: 1/9/23
• Report Pass: 2/24/23
• Engrossed: 3/14/23
• Refer: 3/14/23
• Report Pass: 5/16/23
• Enrolled: 6/13/23
• Chaptered: 6/21/23
• Passed: 6/21/23

Caption

Relative to the approval of community electric aggregation plans by the department of energy.

Impact

The bill amends existing statutes concerning community electric aggregation by establishing clearer roles and procedures for the Department of Energy. It emphasizes the need to balance the interests of municipalities with those of electric distribution utilities and their customers. The adjustments aim to protect stakeholders involved in electric aggregation while ensuring that community aggregation efforts do not hamper utility operations. This could lead to improved customer satisfaction and more effective resolution of issues arising from community energy programs.

Summary

House Bill 385 is aimed at streamlining the process for the approval of community electric aggregation plans overseen by the Department of Energy in New Hampshire. This legislation arises from the need for greater clarity in addressing complaints related to municipal and county aggregators and electric distribution utilities. One of the critical changes this bill introduces is the specification of procedures that will allow for orderly processing of complaints regarding electric aggregation, potentially enhancing service reliability and accountability within the energy sector.

Contention

Key points of contention regarding HB 385 revolve around the appropriate level of oversight and the balance of power between local municipalities and state regulatory agencies. Proponents argue that the bill will provide necessary protections and clearer guidelines for community-based energy initiatives, which can enhance local energy solutions. However, critics may raise concerns about potential overreach by the state, arguing that too much regulation could stifle local innovation and flexibility in community energy efforts.