This bill establishes a Port Electrification Task Force aimed at enhancing New Hampshire's energy resilience and supporting marine shipping through the development of microgrids and cybersecurity standards for energy and water systems. The task force will consist of key state officials and is tasked with identifying technologies and locations for charging infrastructure, assessing regulatory barriers, and evaluating costs and funding sources for hybrid electric and fuel cell electric ships. Additionally, the bill mandates the Department of Energy to investigate the potential benefits and risks of microgrid development, including financing options and cybersecurity standards, and to report findings to the legislature within a year of initiating the study.

Furthermore, the bill introduces cybersecurity protection programs for public water systems and wastewater treatment facilities, requiring them to implement measures commensurate with their size and complexity. Exemptions are provided for systems not using Internet-connected control systems. The bill also includes provisions for the adoption of rules by the commissioner to implement these cybersecurity programs. Notably, the existing RSA 162-R:7, which pertains to the port electrification task force, is set to be repealed, with the new provisions taking effect upon passage, while the repeal will take effect on July 1, 2027.

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
CHAPTERED FINAL VERSION: 162-R:1, 162-R:7