This bill aims to extend the net metering eligibility terms for municipal energy projects in New Hampshire, ensuring that certain customer-generators can receive net energy metering compensation under alternative tariffs approved by the public utilities commission. Specifically, it introduces a new paragraph to RSA 362-A:9, which states that eligible customer-generators who have submitted interconnection applications by the effective date of the act will remain eligible for a 20-year compensation term. This provision is particularly targeted at low-moderate income community solar projects and political subdivisions, addressing the backlog of municipal projects that have faced interconnection delays and are at risk of becoming economically unviable due to the impending termination of net metering in 2040.

The bill also outlines the fiscal implications, indicating that while it does not provide direct funding or authorize new positions, it is expected to increase state expenditures starting in FY 2027. The Department of Energy anticipates needing additional staffing to manage the increased workload from municipal group net metering and interconnection applications, estimating costs of $121,000 in FY 2027, $125,000 in FY 2028, and $126,000 in FY 2029, to be funded through the Renewable Energy Fund. The Public Utilities Commission has indicated that they can accommodate the new requirements within their existing budget.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 362-A:9
As Amended by the Senate: 362-A:9
As Amended by the House: 362-A:9
Version adopted by both bodies: 362-A:9
SB538 text: 362-A:9