New Hampshire Senate Bill SB320

New Hampshire 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 12/8/23
• Refer: 12/8/23
• Refer: 2/6/24

Caption

Requiring the public utilities commission to establish a gas and electric performance incentive mechanism.

Impact

The implementation of SB320 is expected to initiate new processes within the PUC where it will open adjudicative proceedings to develop these performance metrics for each utility. This regulation will require utilities to demonstrate progress on a variety of performance indices, including customer engagement, service reliability, and the integration of distributed energy resources. The Commission is obligated to issue a final decision within 18 months after commencing this process, followed by evaluations every four years, ensuring that the metrics stay relevant and effective in promoting utility performance.

Summary

SB320 requires the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) to establish a performance incentive mechanism for electric and gas utilities. This mechanism aims to directly link electricity and gas utility revenues to the achievement of specific performance metrics. By moving away from the traditional cost of service regulation, which guarantees utilities a return on their investments, the bill focuses on outcomes that improve service quality and operational efficiency, thereby potentially leading to lower and more stable rates for consumers.

Contention

While proponents of SB320 argue that the bill will foster a more efficient and customer-centric utility environment, concerns have been raised regarding the potential impacts on utility revenues and the operational changes required from the PUC. Some legislators and stakeholders worry that transitioning to performance-based regulation may lead to increased complexity in rate-setting processes. Additionally, the bill prescribes substantial costs for the PUC to develop and implement the new mechanisms, with initial estimates suggesting a need for new staffing and consulting resources, raising questions about the funding and logistics of these changes.