This bill aims to enhance the authority and operational capacity of the Department of Energy in relation to the public utilities commission. Key provisions include amendments to RSA 12-P:2, IV, which now allows the department to investigate matters related to the statutes it administers and advocate for its position before the commission. Additionally, RSA 12-P:3, III is amended to grant the department full party status and the right to appeal in any proceedings before the commission, provided it files a notice of participation. The bill also mandates that any party initiating a proceeding must notify the department and share any confidential information exchanged during the process.

Further changes include the requirement for the department to provide necessary support to the public utilities commission and related entities, as specified in the amended RSA 12-P:5, VII. The bill also empowers the department to demand documents and specific answers from public utilities, as outlined in the revised RSA 12-P:10. Notably, the bill repeals RSA 12-P:2, III, which previously outlined certain duties of the department, streamlining its responsibilities. The act is set to take effect 60 days after passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 12-P:2, 12-P:3, 12-P:5, 12-P:10