This bill proposes a comprehensive overhaul of the existing energy efficiency and clean energy districts statute, replacing it with the Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy and Resiliency Program (C-PACER). It repeals and reenacts RSA 53-F:1, introducing new definitions and establishing a program administrator responsible for overseeing the program. Key insertions include the definitions of various types of improvements—energy conservation, clean energy, resiliency, and water conservation—and the introduction of financing agreements between property owners and capital providers. The bill also modifies existing language in RSA 53-F:2 and RSA 53-F:3, removing references to "energy efficiency and clean energy districts" and replacing them with "the district," thereby broadening the applicability of the program across municipalities.

Additionally, HB 450 outlines new provisions for municipalities to impose voluntary special assessments for financing energy efficiency projects, including requirements for property owner consent and the prohibition of assessments for non-permanently affixed products. The bill clarifies that obligations under assessment agreements will run with the property, and it mandates municipalities to execute and record notices of assessment and lien. It also establishes eligibility criteria for property owners, limits involuntary liens, and sets a maximum repayment term of 30 years. The bill aims to streamline the financing process while ensuring transparency and informed consent from property owners, with an effective date set for January 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 53-F:2, 53-F:3, 53-F:4, 53-F:5