This bill establishes a port electrification task force and mandates investigations into microgrid development and cybersecurity standards for energy and water systems in New Hampshire. It introduces a new definition of "microgrid" in RSA 162-R:1, describing it as a group of interconnected loads and distributed energy resources capable of operating independently or in conjunction with the grid. The bill creates a new section, RSA 162-R:7, which outlines the formation of the task force to report on port electrification, focusing on technologies for charging infrastructure and energy supply for hybrid and fuel cell electric ships, with a report due by June 30, 2027. Additionally, RSA 162-R:7 is set to be repealed effective July 1, 2027.

The bill also mandates the Department of Energy to investigate the potential benefits and risks of microgrid development and establish cybersecurity standards for distributed energy resources. Public water systems and wastewater treatment facilities are required to implement cybersecurity protection programs, with exemptions for those not using Internet-connected control systems. The bill specifies that cybersecurity standards will not apply to generation and related devices regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. The New Hampshire Municipal Association anticipates an indeterminable increase in municipal expenditures starting in FY 2027 due to necessary upgrades for cybersecurity measures, with costs estimated between $10,000 and $100,000 per facility. However, the Department of Energy and the Department of Environmental Services believe the bill's requirements can be managed with existing resources, resulting in no additional fiscal impact to state revenues or expenditures.

Statutes affected:
As Amended by the Senate: 162-R:1, 162-R:7
As Amended by the House: 162-R:1, 162-R:7
Version adopted by both bodies: 162-R:1, 162-R:7