When they convene on Thursday, Feb. 12, the New Hampshire House of Representatives will consider two proposals that could affect the future of renewable energy throughout the state.
House Bill 1542 and House Bill 1002 target programs designed to make it easier to finance renewable energy projects, including residential solar. Both bills were recommended for passage after lengthy hearings and largely partisan votes in the House Committee on Science, Technology, and Energy, reflecting a debate among House members over the impacts of investing in renewable energy on New Hampshire soil.
One proposal is HB 1002, which would eliminate a property tax exemption for solar equipment on homes and businesses.
The full House will also act Thursday on an amended version of HB 1542, which would create a new rebate for utility ratepayers by redirecting money from the Renewable Energy Fund.