My Turn: New Hampshire must act to protect renewable energy
Published: 3/1/2021 6:00:07 AM
The N.H. House Science, Technology and Energy Committee will be voting on a measure to reduce New Hampshire’s Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) goals with House Bill 213 (HB 213). If passed, this bill would be a major hit for renewable energy in our state because it would ultimately hurt solar rebate programs.
A little policy background: The New Hampshire RPS states that electricity suppliers obtain a certain percentage of electricity from renewable sources, which are referred to as renewable energy certificates (RECs). These RECs can come from anyone who produces renewable energy, such as home or business owners with solar panels. Electricity suppliers that cannot obtain sufficient energy from these RECs, pay alternative compliance payments (ACPs) to the Public Utility Commission. This money funds the Renewable Energy Fund and ultimately pays for various rebate and grant programs.