The bill SB 166-FN seeks to advance the modernization of New Hampshire's electric grid by promoting the integration of distributed energy resources (DERs), transactive energy, and enhanced demand response, among other technologies. It is a response to the challenges posed by rising electricity costs and aligns with the New Hampshire 10-Year State Energy Strategy, which favors market-based solutions without imposing quotas or mandates. The bill proposes the creation of a Grid Modernization Advisory Group (GMAG) within the Department of Energy, comprising various stakeholders, to provide recommendations on grid modernization and related topics. It also introduces new definitions pertinent to grid modernization and outlines the responsibilities of the GMAG, including producing an annual report and the potential hiring of a consultant for technical assistance, with costs recoverable from participating utilities.

The bill amends existing laws by expanding the definition of "qualifying storage system" to encompass grid-integrated electric vehicles and increasing the size limit of pilot projects under the Limited Electrical Energy Producers Act from 2 megawatts to 5 megawatts. It also changes the timeline for delivering a study on consumer benefits from pilot projects and allows electric distribution utilities to propose up to two pilot projects. The bill addresses the allocation of credits for avoided transmission charges and mandates the commission to adopt rules or approve tariffs for customer energy storage systems. It updates the Energy Policy Act Standards to include new requirements and rate mechanisms for energy initiatives, such as electric vehicle charging programs, and recommends interstate coordination for offshore wind transmission infrastructure development. The act is set to take effect on October 7, 2023.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 374-F:2, 374-F:3, 374-F:4, 362-A:1-a, 362-A:2-b, 374-H:1, 378:7-a, 363:28
As Amended by the Senate: 374-F:2, 374-F:3, 362-A:1-a, 362-A:2-b, 378:7-a
As Amended by the House: 374-F:2, 374-F:3, 362-A:1-a, 362-A:2-b, 378:7-a
Version adopted by both bodies: 374-F:2, 362-A:1-a, 362-A:2-b, 378:7-a
CHAPTERED FINAL VERSION: 374-F:2, 362-A:1-a, 362-A:2-b, 378:7-a