This bill mandates the Department of Energy to conduct an investigation into New Hampshire's potential withdrawal from ISO-New England, as well as other strategic decisions that could affect ratepayers in relation to the region's environmental policies. A new section, 12-P:17, is added to RSA 12-P, outlining the scope of the investigation, which includes evaluating the current functions of ISO-New England, the implications of other utilities leaving their Regional Transmission Organization, and the costs and benefits associated with both remaining in and withdrawing from ISO-New England. The investigation will also explore necessary capabilities for New Hampshire's utilities, potential regulatory changes, and the impact of federal laws on the state's ability to operate independently.

The bill requires the Department of Energy to report its findings to the science, technology, and energy committee within one year of its passage. It does not allocate funding or authorize new positions, but it is estimated that the investigation will incur costs exceeding $200,000, which will be covered by a special utility assessment as per RSA 365:37. The bill emphasizes the need for external consulting expertise due to the complexity of the regional electricity markets, which the Department currently lacks the resources to navigate independently.