Parker Beauchemin

I am writing in strong support of HB 1718-FN and urge the committee to recommend this bill as ought to pass. This legislation is an important and timely update to New Hampshire’s energy laws that recognizes the growing role of energy storage in a modern electric grid. HB 1718-FN allows customer-generators with renewable energy systems to add battery storage without affecting their eligibility for net metering, so long as the storage is charged solely from renewable sources. This is a common-sense policy change. Energy storage does not increase the size or output of a renewable generation system; instead, it allows customers to store excess energy and use it more efficiently. Without this clarification, customers may be discouraged from investing in storage, even though it benefits both the grid and ratepayers. Energy storage improves grid reliability, reduces strain during peak demand, and enhances energy resilience during outages. These benefits extend beyond individual customers to utilities and the broader public. Encouraging storage paired with renewable generation helps smooth energy supply, reduces the need for expensive peak power resources, and supports New Hampshire’s long-term energy goals. The bill also provides clear regulatory structure by assigning rule making authority over customer energy storage systems to the Department of Energy, while preserving the Public Utilities Commission’s role in determining fair compensation for energy exported to the grid. This division of responsibility improves regulatory clarity and ensures that policies are developed by the agencies best suited to handle them. Importantly, HB 1718-FN does not mandate new spending or require customers to adopt energy storage. Instead, it removes unnecessary barriers and allows innovation to move forward in a responsible, well-regulated manner. By doing so, it supports consumer choice, private investment, and a more efficient energy system. For these reasons, I strongly support HB 1718-FN and respectfully ask the committee to recommend its passage. This bill will help modernize New Hampshire’s energy framework while protecting ratepayers and strengthening the electric grid for the future.