New Hampshire Senate Bill SB540

New Hampshire 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 12/14/23
• Refer: 12/14/23
• Report Pass: 2/8/24
• Engrossed: 3/2/24
• Refer: 3/2/24
• Report Pass: 4/16/24

Caption

Requiring the department of energy to investigate behind the meter and utility scale energy storage.

Impact

If enacted, SB540 could significantly influence state laws by establishing frameworks for energy storage projects, thereby managing demand and promoting more efficient energy usage. The investigations led by the Department of Energy are expected to yield recommendations that may lead to statutory changes aimed at addressing regulatory hurdles. A key objective will be to develop strategies that ensure fair compensation for energy storage projects participating in wholesale electricity markets, ultimately benefiting ratepayers through minimized transmission and distribution costs.

Summary

Senate Bill 540 seeks to advance energy storage solutions in New Hampshire by mandating the Department of Energy to investigate both behind the meter and utility scale energy storage initiatives. The bill emphasizes the need for a thorough examination of measures that can facilitate energy storage, which is vital for enhancing the state's energy resilience and sustainability. The Department's investigations will include a comprehensive analysis of public policies, investment encouragement, and potential regulatory barriers impacting energy storage projects.

Contention

While the bill is generally seen as a positive step towards modernizing energy infrastructure, points of contention may arise around the regulatory changes that could be proposed. Stakeholders will need to advocate for a balance between facilitating energy storage investments and ensuring that the interests of local communities and existing energy providers are protected. The potential for increased energy storage capacity may also raise questions about market competition and pricing structures in the energy sector, which could be areas of debate as the bill progresses.