Donna Reardon

HB 224 would rebate the balance of the Renewable Energy Fund (REF) to ratepayers—offering them a few dollars per year, at the cost of long-term investments in clean energy technologies that reduce energy costs, create jobs, and drive local economic growth. The bill would rebate funds “in excess of administrative costs and incentive payments” but is unclear what would be left to fund programs such as low-to-moderate income community solar, and the newly created municipal solar grant program, which provide access to clean energy for underserved populations. Additionally, HB224 risks increasing energy costs for NH residents and businesses, stalling job creation and economic growth in local industries, and undermining efforts to reduce harmful emissions.