This bill mandates the Department of Energy to conduct a comprehensive investigation into New Hampshire's potential withdrawal from ISO-New England, as well as other strategic decisions that could impact ratepayers in relation to New England's environmental policies. The investigation will focus on various aspects, including the rights and obligations of ISO-New England, the implications of withdrawal on costs and benefits for New Hampshire, and the reliability of the state's power transmission system. The findings will address questions regarding the state's ability to manage its own energy needs, the potential economic impacts of leaving ISO-New England, and the governance of the organization itself.

To fund this investigation, the bill introduces a new section to RSA 12-P, specifically RSA 365:37, which allows for a special utility assessment to cover the costs associated with the investigation, estimated to be around $200,000. The report detailing the investigation's findings is required to be submitted to the relevant Senate and House committees within one year of the bill's passage. The bill aims to ensure that New Hampshire ratepayers are not unfairly burdened by the public policy initiatives of other states while exploring the state's options for maintaining reliable and affordable electricity.