Embedded Files
2026 Climate Science Update: January 21st at 5:00 PM with Dr. Mary Stampone, NH State Climatologist, and Dr. Stephen Young, Salem State University
Weekly Updates
Weekly Updates
Weekly Updates
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Follow Us on Facebook and Instagram
Contact newhampshirenetwork@gmail.com to get more information or to join us.
What’s Happening at the NH Network!
What’s Happening at the NH Network!
LEGISLATIVE EDITION - Week of January 18th
-WHILE THE LEGISLATURE IS IN SESSION, WEEKLY SUMMARIES WILL BE SENT IN TWO
PARTS: LEGISLATIVE AND MEETING/OPPORTUNITIES.
-Thank you to the many who have completed the survey. The site will be live until Monday at midnight, so if you haven't yet responded, now is your chance. The information you are providing helps guide our future actions and supplies potential funding sources with a vision of our work in New Hampshire.
Here's the link: NH Network Survey Please fill out and return by Jan 19, 2026.
NH Network Webinar: Our Future Climates: A 2026 Science Update for NH and NE
Wednesday, Jan. 21, 2026, 5:00-6:30 pm. This evening will explore how the climate is already changing in NH and in New England, what we can reasonably anticipate for the future, and how we know what we know.
We’ve invited two special guest speakers, both experts on the climate of our region and our state:
Dr Mary Stampone, NH State Climatologist (University of NH)
Dr Stephen Young, Department of Geography & Sustainability (Salem State College, MA)
Each has published recent research on local/regional climate changes and anticipated impacts. They’ll share results of their work, and there will be time for questions and comments.
Registration required: RSVP at bit.ly/2026-nh-climate-update.
Please share this invitation widely, especially with your legislators, business leaders, and climate skeptics.
-For those who want the most up to date energy legislation and information, consider becoming a subscriber to CENH and receive their weekly update.
~ ~ ~
-OVERVIEW:
HOW TO COMMENT OR TESTIFY FOR LEGISLATION.
2026 LEGISLATIVE LOCATION FOR HOUSE AND SENATE BILLS.
UPCOMING BILLS THROUGH JANUARY 23rd
MEETINGS: NETWORK AND BEYOND
DES GRANT AND CITIZEN INPUT SURVEYS
HOW TO COMMENT OR TESTIFY for legislation
Link to NH Network website: https://www.newhampshirenetwork.org/NH-bills (detailed information on how to testify, offer written comments or sign in to support/oppose a bill is offered.)
IMPORTANT: In order for your emails sent to representatives to be part of the record, you should either request this in your email or send a copy to the committee’s legislative aide. IF you email the entire committee via a group email, the aide will receive your email and your comments will be part of the record. An easy way to participate:
→ Use this link to sign in to Support/Oppose House bills
→ Use this list to email all members of a House Committee (member emails by committee)
→ Use this link to sign in to Support/Oppose Senate bills
https://www.gencourt.state.nh.us/Senate/committees/senate_committees.aspx
Testimony is most effective, a short written submission is “next” most effective, and signing in carries influence. Seek to contribute within your comfort zone.
When you are called to testify: greet and thank the committee for hearing you, state your name and town or city. Some committee chairs are NOT happy with verbatim reading from a script. Be prepared to speak from notes on the critical points, if you notice that's what others are doing.
When you are called to testify: greet and thank the committee for hearing you, state your name and town or city. Some committee chairs are NOT happy with verbatim reading from a script. Be prepared to speak from notes on the critical points, if you notice that's what others are doing.
Give written copies of your speech to the committee’s aide.
2026 LEGISLATIVE LOCATION FOR HOUSE BILLS
When you choose to testify in person, please note the legislative change of location for 2026:
Testifying at the Senate is in the State House, same as last year. The Legislative Building, however, is closed for renovations. These meetings will occur at Granite Place (GP) 1 Granite Place, Concord, NH.
PLEASE EMAIL THE COMMITTEE MEMBERS and cc the governor, whether or not you attend. Please try to use your own words and/or arguments. Letters that seem to be copied and pasted are dismissed.
The NH Network is a volunteer driven organization. At times, and particularly when the legislature is in session, the number of bills can be overwhelming. Choose to help where you can.
The NH Network is a volunteer driven organization. At times, and particularly when the legislature is in session, the number of bills can be overwhelming. Choose to help where you can.
You can click on the bill number (for example, SB XXX) to access further information from Fast Democracy.
This link will take you directly to Network Excel sheet for the following bills.
https://www.newhampshirenetwork.org/NH-bills#h.ouvlymurdh7y
Friends,
We KNOW this is alot. (Perhaps, this onslaught is intentional.) Please do what you can, For any email sent to legislators, please copy and paste ccs for Gov Ayotte & Exec Council:
governorAyotte@governor.nh.gov
Joseph.D.Kenney@nh.gov
karen.liothill@nh.gov
Janet.L.Stevens@nh.gov
John.A.Stephen@nh.gov
David.K.Wheeler@nh.gov
If you have the energy for energy-related bills - send also to the Dept of Energy Commissioner, Deputy Commissioner, and Directory of Policy and Programs:
Jared.S.Chicoine@energy.nh.gov
Christopher.J.Ellmsjr@energy.nh.gov
joshua.w.elliott@energy.nh.gov
TUESDAY, JANUARY 20
HB 1621 House Environment and Agriculture 10:00 AM, GP, Room 153, Requiring a baseline environmental impact study to be completed prior to development of certain manufacturing and storage facilities. SUPPORT
HB 1622 House Environment and Agriculture 10:00 AM, GP, Room 153, requiring the state to develop additional solid waste disposal capacity. SUPPORT
HB 1273 House Municipal and County Government 10:`15 am, GP, Room 154, enabling municipal support and incentives for residential flood resilience improvements.
HB 1468 House Municipal and County Government 10:25 am, GP, Room 154, relative to municipal flood resilience planning and the use of planning grants. PRIORITY SUPPORT
HB 1542 House Science, Technology, and Energy at 1:00pm in Granite Place Room 229. This bill would eliminate meaningful enforcement of NH’s Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) by setting the alternative compliance payment (ACP) for all RPS classes to $0. PRIORITY OPPOSE
HB 1602 House Environment and Agriculture 1:00 PM, GP 153, creating a safe battery recycling stewardship program. SUPPORT
SB 628 Senate Transportation 1:30 PM, SH 122-123, enabling curbside electric-vehicle charging. Do we have a position on this bill?
HB 1789 House and Environment and Agricultural 2:00 pm, GP 153, relative to extended producer responsibility. (Extended Producer Responsibility means producers and not the municipalities are responsible for the packaging waste they produce.) PRIORITY SUPPORT
HB 1002 House Science, Technology, and Energy 3:00pm, GP 229, repealing the solar energy systems tax exemption. PRIORITY OPPOSE
HB 1721 House Science, Technology, and Energy 2:00pm GP 229, relative to limiting new system enrollment and adjusting compliance payments under the renewable portfolio standard program. OPPOSE
SB 440 Senate Commerce 10:00am SH 100, relative to the adoption of energy efficient and clean energy districts by municipalities. SUPPORT
Wednesday, January 21
HB 1603 House Resources, Recreation and Development 9:30 AM GP 228, requiring state agencies to provide current and verifiable evidence of a species presence before imposing any land use restriction related to that species' habitat. PRIORITY OPPOSE
Thursday, January 22
HB 1114 House Legislative and Administration 10:15 am GP 234, relative to the documentation and preservation of public comment reports by standing legislative committees. In other words,encouraging committees to review and take into consideration public comment. PRIORITY SUPPORT
HB 1679 House Commerce and Consumer Affairs 11:00 am GP 229, establishing a beverage container redemption program. SUPPORT
UPDATES ON LEGISLATION PRESENTED IN PREVIOUS NETWORK SUMMARIES:
-HB 1301 which increases fees on lake moorings passed with no opposition from the committee. Proceeds are to combat cyanobacteria. The full house will vote on it in the coming weeks.
-The Senate passed another bill aimed at regulating waste: House Bill 451, establishing a drop-off paint can recycling program, passed 13-11.
-Senators also considered two more waste-related bills held over from last year on the consent calendar: House Bill 171, establishing a moratorium on new landfills, was voted inexpedient to legislate[ITL] while Senate Bill 226, which also called for a moratorium on new landfills as well as the study of incineration as a disposal method, was referred for interim study. (ITL means it is dead for this year. Interim study may be revived after further study.)
HB 221, a broadly focused bill, would have undermined the cost-benefit test that sits at the core of the NHSaves program. However, late in the 2025 session, the bill became something of a “Christmas tree” that included elements of HB710 (utility owned small nuclear; CENH was monitoring), SB112 (utility power-purchase agreements; CENH was opposed), and SB228 (low-income community solar; CENH supported). This bill has now been sent back to the House for a final vote. Another bill (SB447) has been introduced in 2026 which largely mirrors the language in the Omnibus that the Senate just approved. OPPOSE - UPDATE FORTHCOMING
-The summary and meeting recording of our Jan 15 Energy WG. https://www.newhampshirenetwork.org/working-groups/energy
NETWORK MEETINGS
NETWORK MEETINGS
The mission of the Network is environment, energy and climate, and working groups will have overlapping goals. Feel free to “sample” different groups. All welcome your participation. Minutes of previous meetings are posted on each WG’s webpage, available at https://www.newhampshirenetwork.org/working-groups/working-groups-overview
-The Steering Committee next meets Its mission is long range planning for the Network. Feel free to join a meeting and join in the discussion. TBA
-Plastics WG meets monthly on Sunday at 6 pm, although the next meeting will be Sunday, January 25th. The focus of the Plastics Working Group is to address the intersectionality of climate change, human health, environmental justice, waste management, and pollution aspects of plastics and the petrochemical industry. To this end, the Plastics Working Group engages in local, state, and federal initiatives. https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87209928697
-Plastics WG January 25h meeting will feature a presentation of "The Plastic Pollution Solution: No Plastic Bags Please!" https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87209928697
-The Climate WG meets the first Tuesday of each month at 7 pm, next meeting on February 3rd.
Are you concerned about climate change? Join us on the first Tuesday of each month at 7pm to connect and collaborate with like-minded groups and individuals. Our objective is to help groups, leaders, and citizens across New Hampshire share information and actions to help address climate pollution at the town, state, and federal levels.
https://citizensclimate.zoom.us/my/cclnhrizoom?pwd=MTRoSmtMQ3J3bksyc0xwVk9sbEJMdz09.
-Energy WG meets the 3rd Thursday of the month at 3 pm. The next meeting is January 15th. A monthly meeting of people who have town or city energy committees, to get together and learn from each other, strategize together, and build community. IF you are not on a town energy committee you are still welcome to attend. Specifically focus is on community power, EV charging stations in one’s town, solar discounts, etc.
https://us04web.zoom.us/j/3593768649?pwd=bXZmbHpoTXBram9DalhqZFBaWkprUT09
BEYOND NETWORK OPPORTUNITIES
BEYOND NETWORK OPPORTUNITIES
-Carsey’s Center for Impact Finance has launched two free, ten-week courses on solar development. Created for mission-driven developers, these courses are funded by the U.S. Department of Energy’s Community Power Accelerators, an initiative supporting community solar development in underserved communities.
From Beyond Plastics: Take (or Share) the Grassroots Advocacy Training Later This Month
Our grassroots organizing training helps folks learn how to create real, lasting change to protect our health and environment in their communities. The training is just one, two-hour session held over Zoom. It's free of charge and we're offering it at three times to make sure it's accessible to all. Pick the session below that works best for you, or, if you've already taken the training, help us spread the word!
-Green Energy Alliance has a series of webinars on heat pumps, EV cars, etc starting on January 13th and continuing through the spring
https://www.greenenergyconsumers.org/events
-From 350NH:
January 11th, 18th, and 25th, 8:00pm- 9:00pm: 350NH Youth Team Meetings
The youth team meets on Sunday evenings over zoom. Email pat@350nh.org to get involved with their campaign to hold polluters accountable.
January 21st, in the afternoon: tour of data center in Holyoke, MA
Mark your calendar and join us for a rare opportunity to see how a data center functions. Email Kendra@350nh.org for details.
January 31st, 1:00pm-5:30pm: Work That Reconnects in person
Join us for an afternoon at South Church in Portsmouth to hearten yourself for the work ahead. Questions: Kendra@350nh.org and Register here.
February 3rd - March 10th: Run for Climate Trainings for Candidates
Local elections are some of the best opportunities. Our friends at Lead Locally are hosting a free online candidate training for leaders who are running for office (or considering it!) Sign up here to attend the training series.
-If you are an organization then there are important opportunities to install Public Level 2 EV Chargers.
-If you are an organization then there are important opportunities to install Public Level 2 EV Chargers.
Request for Information: Support Program Design and Administration of a Potential Rebate Program for Public Level 2 Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment in New Hampshire
Request for Information: Support Program Design and Administration of a Potential Rebate Program for Public Level 2 Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment in New Hampshire
The New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (NHDES) is seeking to address electric vehicle (EV) charging needs in New Hampshire (NH) communities and travel and tourism areas that remain unresolved through private or prior grant investment.
The New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (NHDES) is seeking to address electric vehicle (EV) charging needs in New Hampshire (NH) communities and travel and tourism areas that remain unresolved through private or prior grant investment.
Using Volkswagen Mitigation Trust (VW Trust) funding, NHDES is considering a potential rebate program for entities to install public Level 2 electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE), also known as EV charging infrastructure, in NH. NHDES is also considering the possibility of soliciting a third-party entity to administer such a rebate program. Read more here.
Using Volkswagen Mitigation Trust (VW Trust) funding, NHDES is considering a potential rebate program for entities to install public Level 2 electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE), also known as EV charging infrastructure, in NH. NHDES is also considering the possibility of soliciting a third-party entity to administer such a rebate program. Read more here.
Responses to this RFI must be submitted electronically to the NHDES Mobile Sources Section Team at MS-grants@des.nh.gov, no later than January 31, 2026. Responses to this RFI must be provided as attachments to an email.
Responses to this RFI must be submitted electronically to the NHDES Mobile Sources Section Team at MS-grants@des.nh.gov, no later than January 31, 2026. Responses to this RFI must be provided as attachments to an email.
Rolling Requests for Proposals (RFPs) are Open
Rolling Requests for Proposals (RFPs) are Open
Granite State Clean Fleets Grant Program
NHDES is seeking proposals for eligible diesel vehicle, engine or equipment (unit) replacements or marine shore power installation projects utilizing approximately $7.5 million of VW Trust funds for this August 2025 RFP. Applications will be accepted on a rolling monthly basis until March 30, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. Eastern Time, or until all funds have been obligated, whichever comes first. Read the Request for Proposals and Amendment #1 to learn more.
New Hampshire Clean Diesel Grant Program
NHDES is making approximately $315,000 in remaining EPA DERA funding available for non-road vehicle, equipment or engine replacement projects, newer engine model year on-road vehicles if replacing with electric vehicles, and truck stop/parking space electrification projects. Projects must be completed by September 30, 2026. Read the Request for Proposals to learn more.
TAKE ACTION
-Plastics WG Presentation on January 25th meeting will feature a presentation of "The Plastic Pollution Solution: No Plastic Bags Please!" https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87209928697
-Lead Locally is running a free online training program for potential climate candidates and we would really love your help identifying climate champs who are ready to take the next step on the path from advocate to decision maker.
Folks can sign up directly here or you can nominate a colleague you think should participate and we'll follow up to encourage them to join.
Our jobs would all be easier if our electeds could stand up to the utilities and we would really appreciate your help identifying folks who can do this!
The training will take place weekly on Tues 6-8 (ET) from Feb 3rd- March 10th. Each session will cover topics like fundraising, field programs, campaign planning, messaging, and climate policy and finish with a panel of elected officials who can speak to the issue we covered. We need thousands of people to step up and run for local office so that we can make progress at the city and state level.
Feel free to email me here or @ lila@leadlocally.org with any questions. Share pack lives here for more details.
-
FEED YOUR BRAIN
FEED YOUR BRAIN
Educators Book Club: Bill McKibben & Here Comes the Sun
Educators Book Club: Bill McKibben & Here Comes the Sun
January 22, 2026 — 4pm PT/ 7pm ET
January 22, 2026 — 4pm PT/ 7pm ET
Kick off the year with Third Act Educators and Bill McKibben for a Book Club discussion of Here Comes the Sun—and a conversation about hope, solar power, and climate action. RSVP for Jan. 22
Informative articles from Indepth New Hampshire
https://indepthnh.org/2026/01/13/support-for-limiting-neonic-pesticide-use-heard-by-house-committee/
-RELIABLE AND USEFUL RESOURCES FOR CLIMATE, ENERGY AND THE ENVIRONMENT
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1XXUpTPQquoD-m317VM3zBlm_z1bp-2hj/edit
What’s Happening at the NH Network!
What’s Happening at the NH Network!
LEGISLATIVE EDITION - Updated Week of January 11th
LEGISLATIVE EDITION - Updated Week of January 11th
NH Network Webinar: Our Future Climates: A 2026 Science Update for NH and NE
NH Network Webinar: Our Future Climates: A 2026 Science Update for NH and NE
Wednesday, Jan. 21, 2026, 5:00-6:30 pm. This evening will explore how the climate is already changing in NH and in New England, what we can reasonably anticipate for the future, and how we know what we know.
We’ve invited two special guest speakers, both experts on the climate of our region and our state:
Dr Mary Stampone, NH State Climatologist (University of NH)
Dr Stephen Young, Department of Geography & Sustainability (Salem State College, MA)
Each has published recent research on local/regional climate changes and anticipated impacts. They’ll share results of their work, and there will be time for questions and comments.
Registration required: RSVP at bit.ly/2026-nh-climate-update.
OVERVIEW
OVERVIEW
NETWORK SURVEY: TO BE SUBMITTED BY JANUARY 15TH.
HOW TO COMMENT OR TESTIFY FOR LEGISLATION.
2026 LEGISLATIVE LOCATION FOR HOUSE AND SENATE BILLS.
UPCOMING BILLS THROUGH JANUARY 20TH.
MEETINGS: NETWORK AND BEYOND
DES GRANT AND CITIZEN INPUT SURVEYS
NETWORK SURVEY: We need your feedback! We want to improve...
Here's the link: NH Network Survey Please fill out and return by Jan 15, 2026.
Thank you from the NH Network Steering Committee
HOW TO COMMENT OR TESTIFY for legislation
Link to NH Network website: https://www.newhampshirenetwork.org/NH-bills (detailed information on how to testify, offer written comments or sign in to support/oppose a bill is offered.)
IMPORTANT: In order for your emails sent to representatives to be part of the record, you should either request this in your email or send a copy to the committee’s legislative aide. IF you email the entire committee via a group email, the aide will receive your email and your comments will be part of the record. An easy way to participate:
→ Use this link to sign in to Support/Oppose House bills
→ Use this list to email all members of a House Committee (member emails by committee)
→ Use this link to sign in to Support/Oppose Senate bills
https://www.gencourt.state.nh.us/Senate/committees/senate_committees.aspx
Testimony is most effective, a short written submission is “next” most effective, and signing in carries influence. Seek to contribute within your comfort zone.
When you are called to testify: greet and thank the committee for hearing you, state your Some committee chairs are NOT happy with verbatim reading from a script. Be prepared to speak from notes on the critical points, if you notice that's what others are doing.
When you are called to testify: greet and thank the committee for hearing you, state your Some committee chairs are NOT happy with verbatim reading from a script. Be prepared to speak from notes on the critical points, if you notice that's what others are doing.
2026 LEGISLATIVE LOCATION FOR HOUSE BILLS
When you choose to testify in person, please note the legislative change of location for 2026:
Testifying at the Senate is in the State House, same as last year. The Legislative Building, however, is closed for renovations. These meetings will occur at “GP,” or Granite Place. To get to Granite Place, navigate to 1 Granite Place, Concord, NH 03301. From I-93 N or S, take exit 15W. At the lights, take a right to head north on Route 3 / Bouton St. At the next set of lights, stay straight as the road turns into N. State St. At the next set of lights, take a left onto Penacook St. At the stop sign, take a right turn onto Rumford St. Granite Place is the next left turn. Navigate to 1 Granite Place, Concord, NH 03301. There is ample parking in front of the building, with easy access to the front entrance. Additional parking is available at the rear of the building, with direct access to Level 2. Legislators and the public may use either the front or rear parking lots.
PLEASE EMAIL THE COMMITTEE MEMBERS and cc the governor, whether or not you attend. Please try to use your own words and/or arguments. Letters that seem to be copied and pasted are dismissed.
The NH Network is a volunteer-driven organization. At times, and particularly when the legislature is in session, the number of bills can be overwhelming. Choose to help where you can.
The NH Network is a volunteer-driven organization. At times, and particularly when the legislature is in session, the number of bills can be overwhelming. Choose to help where you can.
You can click on the bill number (for example, SB 539) to access further information from Fast Democracy.
Monday, January 12
HB 1810 Ways and Means GP 159 11:30 am Road salt fee. SUPPORT
Tuesday, January 13
NH SB 449: Senate Energy and Natural Resources 09:10 AM, SH, Room 103, relative to the participation of customer generators in net energy SUPPORT
NH SB 538 -- Senate Energy and Natural Resources 09:20 AM, SH, Room 103, Relative extending net metering eligibility terms for municipal energy projects.SUPPORT
SB 590 FNSenate Energy and Natural Resources at 9:00am in State House Room 103. This bill would allow municipalities to use existing municipal revolving funds to support energy services delivered through an approved municipal electric aggregation plan.
CENH Position “Municipal electric aggregation is a proven tool for lowering energy costs and expanding consumer choice, but many communities lack flexible, low-risk ways to cover start-up and administrative costs. SB590 provides a practical, fiscally responsible solution by allowing municipalities to use existing revolving funds—without creating new mandates or programs—to facilitate energy services under an approved aggregation plan.” SUPPORT
HB 1068 Environment and Agriculture GP 103 10 am Limits neonicotinoids that can leach into lakes creating ripe conditions for cyanobacteria blooms. SUPPORT
NH SB 449: Senate Energy and Natural Resources 09:10 AM, SH, Room 103, relative to the participation of customer generators in net energy SUPPORT
NH SB 538 -- Senate Energy and Natural Resources 09:20 AM, SH, Room 103, Relative extending net metering eligibility terms for municipal energy projects.SUPPORT
HB 1607 House Public Works GP 228 10:30 am Relative to use and storage of road salt SUPPORT
Wednesday, January 14
NH HB 1301 House Resources, Recreation and Development Room 228, Hearing 11:30 AM) Increasing certain mooring fees and directing such funds to the cyanobacteria mitigation loan and grant fund. SUPPORT
NH HB 1477 House Resources, Recreation and Development, GP, Room 228, Hearing 2:30 PM. Establishes new regulations for anchored seasonal platforms on public waters, limiting use to legal owners of adjacent shorefront property, with specific exceptions for government and conservation agencies. Fees collected would go to the Navigation Safety Fund and Cyanobacteria Mitigation Fund. SUPPORT
Thursday, January 15
HB 1198 House Commerce Committee GP 229 1: 15 pm Establish paint product stewardship program SUPPORT
HB 1080 House Commerce Committee GP 229 1:30 pm Prohibit products from intentionally adding polyfluoroalkyl substances SUPPORT
TUESDAY, JANUARY 20
HB 1542-FN House Science, Technology, and Energy at 1:00pm in Granite Place Room 229.
This bill would eliminate meaningful enforcement of NH’s Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) by setting the alternative compliance payment (ACP) for all RPS classes to $0.
The ACP is the core backstop that ensures the Renewable Portfolio Standard functions as intended by encouraging real procurement of renewable energy. Setting the ACP to zero would effectively nullify the RPS by allowing electric suppliers to opt out of compliance at no cost, undermining long-standing state policy and destabilizing existing renewable energy markets. OPPOSE
HB 1221 FN House Science, Technology, and Energy at 2:00pm in Granite Place Room 229.
This bill would effectively close New Hampshire’s (RPS) to new renewable energy projects, cap REC eligibility for existing systems, and mandate ongoing reductions in compliance payments as eligible systems decline.
HB1721 would fundamentally unwind the state’s RPS by prohibiting new system enrollment after a brief transition period, limiting REC eligibility to a maximum of 20 years These provisions would eliminate the incentive structure that supports new renewable development, undermine long-standing investment expectations for existing projects, and steadily drain the REF. As the Department of Energy has noted, reduced ACP revenue would directly shrink or eliminate REF-funded programs and jeopardize staff capacity that supports RPS compliance, net metering administration, and low- and moderate-income energy initiatives. OPPOSE
HB 1002 House Science, Technology, and Energy at 3:00pm in Granite Place Room 229.– This bill would repeal New Hampshire’s longstanding property tax exemption for solar energy systems. The solar property tax exemption is a stable, widely understood policy that reduces barriers to private investment while preserving local control—municipalities retain full authority over tax rates and valuation practices. Repealing this exemption would increase costs for homeowners, businesses, and municipalities that have invested in solar in reliance on existing law, undermining policy certainty and discouraging future in-state energy investment. The change would be especially harmful to schools, nonprofits, and small businesses for whom predictable operating costs are essential OPPOSE
SB440–Senate Commerce at 10:00am in State House Room 100. This bill would clarify and strengthen municipalities’ ability to adopt energy efficient and clean energy districts, providing a clear local pathway to finance cost-saving energy and resilience improvements. Energy efficient and clean energy districts give cities and towns a voluntary, locally controlled tool to help property owners reduce energy costs, improve building performance, and invest in resilience without new taxes or mandates. SB440 removes uncertainty around district adoption and implementation, helping municipalities confidently use this authority to support private investment, lower operating costs, and strengthen local economies. SUPPORT
UPDATES ON RECENT LEGISLATION: ONCE KNOWN, HEARING DATES WILL BE SHARED
The House voted to send HB219 to the Senate. This bill makes a number of changes that would weaken the state’s already extremely modest RPS law, ultimately reducing the value of a Renewable Energy Certificate (REC) and reducing revenue for renewable energy generators. It allows wind energy to be exempt from government procurement mandates and clarifies the definition of solar energy to specify that it must produce electricity to qualify.
Moreover, the bill proposes changes to the Alternative Compliance Payment (ACP) structure for renewable energy credits. In fiscal years 2026 and 2027, after covering administrative costs and allocating $1 million for incentive projects, all remaining REF funds will be transferred to the General Fund, further impacting available funds for REF projects starting in FY 2028. OPPOSE
Tell the Senate Energy Committee that they should reject this harmful bill.
HB 221, a broadly focused bill, would have undermined the cost-benefit test that sits at the core of the NHSaves program. However, late in the 2025 session, the bill became something of a “Christmas tree” that included elements of HB710 (utility owned small nuclear; CENH was monitoring), SB112 (utility power-purchase agreements; CENH was opposed), and SB228 (low-income community solar; CENH supported). This bill has now been sent back to the House for a final vote. Another bill (SB447) has been introduced in 2026 which largely mirrors the language in the Omnibus that the Senate just approved. OPPOSE - UPDATE FORTHCOMING
SB 106 which would expand net metering to 5MW for groups of commercial customers, and stabilize the program by creating a rolling 20-year term for all new net metering customers was an ITL vote in the NH House of Representatives. This procedural maneuver was taken to ensure that a new version of the bill which was reintroduced in the Senate (SB449) cannot be accepted to be heard in the House. Hopefully, senators can find a path forward for SB449 and similar net metering legislation this session.
SB 540 received broad support from both parties for plug-in solar. Details need to be clarified, but it seems this bill will move forward.
MEETINGS January 11, 2025
MEETINGS January 11, 2025
-A LINK TO A RELIABLE LIST OF CLIMATE READING SOURCES (FROM NEWSPAPERS TO PODCASTS) IS OFFERED IN THE FEED YOUR BRAIN SECTION.
NETWORK MEETINGS
NETWORK MEETINGS
The mission of the Network is environment, energy and climate, and working groups will have overlapping goals. Feel free to “sample” different groups. All welcome your participation. Minutes of previous meetings are posted on each WG’s webpage, available at https://www.newhampshirenetwork.org/working-groups/working-groups-overview
-The Steering Committee next meets December 29th. Its mission is long range planning for the Network. Feel free to join a meeting and join in the discussion.
-Energy WG meets the 3rd Thursday of the month at 3 pm. The next meeting is January 15th. A monthly meeting of people who have town or city energy committees, to get together and learn from each other, strategize together, and build community. IF you are not on a town energy committee you are still welcome to attend. Specifically focus is on community power, EV charging stations in one’s town, solar discounts, etc.
https://us04web.zoom.us/j/3593768649?pwd=bXZmbHpoTXBram9DalhqZFBaWkprUT09
-Plastics WG meets monthly on Sunday at 6 pm, although the next meeting will be Sunday, January 25th. The focus of the Plastics Working Group is to address the intersectionality of climate change, human health, environmental justice, waste management, and pollution aspects of plastics and the petrochemical industry. To this end, the Plastics Working Group engages in local, state, and federal initiatives. https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87209928697
-Plastics WG January 26th meeting will feature a presentation of "The Plastic Pollution Solution: No Plastic Bags Please!" https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87209928697
-The Climate WG meets the first Tuesday of each month at 7 pm, next meeting on February 3rd.
Are you concerned about climate change? Join us on the first Tuesday of each month at 7pm to connect and collaborate with like-minded groups and individuals. Our objective is to help groups, leaders, and citizens across New Hampshire share information and actions to help address climate pollution at the town, state, and federal levels.
https://citizensclimate.zoom.us/my/cclnhrizoom?pwd=MTRoSmtMQ3J3bksyc0xwVk9sbEJMdz09.
BEYOND NETWORK OPPORTUNITIES
BEYOND NETWORK OPPORTUNITIES
Tuesday, January 13th 2 30 pm Regional Blueprint for For America’s Clean Energy Future
https://forum.canarymedia.com/canary-media1/regional-blueprints-for-america-s-clean-energy-future?utm_campaign=Newsletter&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz--n9DAc5Z50SBR6G-IZ-ZcMIlRcGdX2iU96h6bFs5n3sK2rtlcQbEIf_gBLegOAAEWgkmWYv0WXmdQ324SV2Iy9FOfOiw&_hsmi=397561585&utm_content=397561585&utm_source=hs_email
From NORTHEAST RECYCLING COUNCIL: U.S. Plastics Pact U.S. Plastics Pact Launches Next Phase of Reuse in Retail Initiative to Bring Scalable, Cost-Effective Real-World Implementation to U.S. Stores. Fill out the Expression of Interest (EOI) by January 16th, 2026 to let them know you would like to get involved with the Reuse in Retail Initiative (RRI).
Green Energy Alliance has a series of webinars on heat pumps, EV cars, etc starting on January 13th and continuing through the spring
https://www.greenenergyconsumers.org/events
-From 350NH:
January 11th, 18th, and 25th, 8:00pm- 9:00pm: 350NH Youth Team Meetings
The youth team meets on Sunday evenings over zoom. Email pat@350nh.org to get involved with their campaign to hold polluters accountable.
January 14th, 7:00pm-9:00pm: Work That Reconnects online
Joanna Macy’s practices to support activists and anyone facing the great struggles of our time. Join us for a short form of these practices for two hours. Register here.
January 15, 6:00pm-7:00pm: Salem Chapter meeting
Help us plan our next event! Email jennifer@350nh.org to get the Zoom link.
January 21st, in the afternoon: tour of data center in Holyoke, MA
Mark your calendar and join us for a rare opportunity to see how a data center functions. Email Kendra@350nh.org for details.
January 31st, 1:00pm-5:30pm: Work That Reconnects in person
Join us for an afternoon at South Church in Portsmouth to hearten yourself for the work ahead. Questions: Kendra@350nh.org and Register here.
February 3rd - March 10th: Run for Climate Trainings for Candidates
Local elections are some of the best opportunities. Our friends at Lead Locally are hosting a free online candidate training for leaders who are running for office (or considering it!) Sign up here to attend the training series.
-If you are a organization then here are important opportunities to install Public Level 2 EV Chargers.
Request for Information: Support Program Design and Administration of a Potential Rebate Program for Public Level 2 Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment in New Hampshire
The New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (NHDES) is seeking to address electric vehicle (EV) charging needs in New Hampshire (NH) communities and travel and tourism areas that remain unresolved through private or prior grant investment.
Using Volkswagen Mitigation Trust (VW Trust) funding, NHDES is considering a potential rebate program for entities to install public Level 2 electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE), also known as EV charging infrastructure, in NH. NHDES is also considering the possibility of soliciting a third-party entity to administer such a rebate program. Read more here.
Responses to this RFI must be submitted electronically to the NHDES Mobile Sources Section Team at MS-grants@des.nh.gov, no later than January 31, 2026. Responses to this RFI must be provided as attachments to an email.
Rolling Requests for Proposals (RFPs) are Open
Granite State Clean Fleets Grant Program
NHDES is seeking proposals for eligible diesel vehicle, engine or equipment (unit) replacements or marine shore power installation projects utilizing approximately $7.5 million of VW Trust funds for this August 2025 RFP. Applications will be accepted on a rolling monthly basis until March 30, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. Eastern Time, or until all funds have been obligated, whichever comes first. Read the Request for Proposals and Amendment #1 to learn more.
New Hampshire Clean Diesel Grant Program
NHDES is making approximately $315,000 in remaining EPA DERA funding available for non-road vehicle, equipment or engine replacement projects, newer engine model year on-road vehicles if replacing with electric vehicles, and truck stop/parking space electrification projects. Projects must be completed by September 30, 2026. Read the Request for Proposals to learn more.
Carsey’s Center for Impact Finance has launched two free, ten-week courses on solar development. Created for mission-driven developers, these courses are funded by the U.S. Department of Energy’s Community Power Accelerators, an initiative supporting community solar development in underserved communities.
TAKE ACTION
TAKE ACTION
-Plastics WG Presentation on January 26th meeting will feature a presentation of "The Plastic Pollution Solution: No Plastic Bags Please!" https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87209928697
-Lead Locally is running a free online training program for potential climate candidates and we would really love your help identifying climate champs who are ready to take the next step on the path from advocate to decision maker.
Folks can sign up directly here or you can nominate a colleague you think should participate and we'll follow up to encourage them to join.
Our jobs would all be easier if our elected could stand up to the utilities and we would really appreciate your help identifying folks who can do this!
The training will take place weekly on Tues 6-8 (ET) from Feb 3rd- March 10th. Each session will cover topics like fundraising, field programs, campaign planning, messaging, and climate policy and finish with a panel of elected officials who can speak to the issue we covered. We need thousands of people to step up and run for local office so that we can make progress at the city and state level.
Feel free to email me here or @ lila@leadlocally.org with any questions. Share pack lives here for more details.
-Sign Up Now: Beyond Plastics’ 2026 Grassroots Advocacy Trainings Begin in January!
We invite you to join us in the year ahead. New and returning advocates alike can deepen their skills, build confidence, and grow their grassroots advocacy within a caring community committed to ending plastic pollution. To help you plan, all of our quarterly 2026 training dates are now available to choose from!
Our free, two-hour online trainings will designed to guide you through:
From local action to lasting change: Learn how to start or support a group in your community to pass local laws or policy that informs, inspires, and drives meaningful change.
Bridge science with grassroots action: Turn scientific knowledge into effective local efforts that protect communities, influence state-level policy, and build momentum that contributes meaningfully to the broader national dialogue.
Discover how to join the Beyond Plastics Network: A community for ongoing learning and connection with others from all across the country doing the same work. Build relationships, share ideas, and get the support you need - when you need it - to take action in your community.
We encourage you to sign up for them all! Each quarter will feature a fresh science-to-action theme, along with highlights about local groups doing impactful work. Within each quarter, choose the date that works best for you and click below to register via Zoom. Once you register, keep an eye on your inbox for a confirmation email from Rebecca Martin (no-reply@zoom.us) and don’t forget to add it to your calendar.
January
Saturday, 1/24 - Volunteer Grassroots Training
Tuesday, 1/27 - Volunteer Grassroots Training
Thursday, 1/29 - Volunteer Grassroots Training
FEED YOUR BRAIN
FEED YOUR BRAIN
-RELIABLE AND USEFUL RESOURCES FOR CLIMATE, ENERGY AND THE ENVIRONMENT
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1uwR3ODIhs1EVGC83aezzEWa9OTwSgx7OgOcBtqNiuYw/edit?tab=t.0
January 6, 2026 - LEGISLATIVE EDITION
January 6, 2026 - LEGISLATIVE EDITION
What’s Happening at the NH Network!
What’s Happening at the NH Network!
-WHILE THE LEGISLATURE IS IN SESSION, WEEKLY SUMMARIES WILL BE SENT IN TWO PARTS: LEGISLATIVE AND MEETING/OPPORTUNITIES.
-OVERVIEW:
-OVERVIEW:
NETWORK SURVEY: TO BE SUBMITTED BY JANUARY 15TH.
HOW TO COMMENT OR TESTIFY FOR LEGISLATION.
2026 LEGISLATIVE LOCATION FOR HOUSE BILLS.
UPCOMING BILLS THROUGH JANUARY 15TH. (The week of the 12th will have updates.)
NETWORK SURVEY: We need your feedback! We want to improve...
Here's the link: NH Network Survey Please fill out and return by Jan 15, 2026.
Thank you from the The NH Network Steering Committee
HOW TO COMMENT OR TESTIFY for legislation
Link to NH Network website: https://www.newhampshirenetwork.org/NH-bills (detailed information on how to testify, offer written comments or sign in to support/oppose a bill is offered.)
IMPORTANT: In order for your emails sent to representatives to be part of the record, you should either request this in your email or send a copy to the committee’s legislative aide. IF you email the entire committee via a group email, the aide will receive your email and your comments will be part of the record. An easy way to participate:
→ Use this link to sign in to Support/Oppose House bills
→ Use this list to email all members of a House Committee (member emails by committee)
→ Use this link to sign in to Support/Oppose Senate bills
https://www.gencourt.state.nh.us/Senate/committees/senate_committees.aspx
Testimony is most effective, a short written submission is “next” most effective, and signing in carries influence. Seek to contribute within your comfort zone.
How to Testify in Person at a Committee Hearing: https://www.newhampshirenetwork.org/NH-bills
When you are called to testify: greet and thank the committee for hearing you, state your Some committee chairs are NOT happy with verbatim reading from a script. Be prepared to speak from notes on the critical points, if you notice that's what others are doing.
2026 LEGISLATIVE LOCATION FOR HOUSE BILLS
When you choose to testify in person, please note the legislative change of location for 2026:
Testifying at the Senate is in the State House, same as last year. The Legislative Building, however, is closed for renovations. These meetings will occur at “GP,” or Granite Place. To get to Granite Place, navigate to 1 Granite Place, Concord, NH 03301. From I-93 N or S, take exit 15W. At the lights, take a right to head north on Route 3 / Bouton St. At the next set of lights, stay straight as the road turns into N. State St. At the next set of lights, take a left onto Penacook St. At the stop sign, take a right turn onto Rumford St. Granite Place is the next left turn. Navigate to 1 Granite Place, Concord, NH 03301. There is ample parking in front of the building, with easy access to the front entrance. Additional parking is available at the rear of the building, with direct access to Level 2. Legislators and the public may use either the front or rear parking lots.
PLEASE EMAIL THE COMMITTEE MEMBERS and cc the governor, whether or not you attend. Please try to use your own words and/or arguments. Letters that seem to be copied and pasted are dismissed.
The NH Network is a volunteer driven organization. At times, and particularly when the legislature is in session, the number of bills can be overwhelming. Choose to help where you can.
You can click on the bill number (for example, SB 539) to access further information from Fast Democracy.
UPCOMING BILLS THROUGH JANUARY 15th.
HERE BELOW ARE THE BILLS YOU CAN TESTIFY ON, THE WEEK OF JANUARY 5.
Fuller explanations for each bill are on the Network website, www.newhampshirenetwork.org/NH-bills
Wednesday, January 7th - The following bills already had hearings, and are leftovers from the 2025 session. They are going to be voted up or down by the full Senate, so for these bills please contact your own senator to support or oppose bills.
SB 111 This bill incentivizes energy storage and will help stabilize the grid. But the actual motion on the Senate floor is to kill the bill - so we urge our Senators to OPPOSE the motion.
HB 171 This bill calls for a moratorium on landfill expansion. But the actual motion on the Senate floor would declare the bill ITL (Inexpedient To Legislate). We support a moratorium, so this motion should be denied. OPPOSE
HB 221 The system benefits charge helps pay for NH Saves energy efficiency and bill assistance for low-income households - but HB 221 would give the PUC (Public Utilities Commission) power to limit or cancel without input or oversight. OPPOSE
HB 707 Another confusing bill which seems to support a landfill moratorium, but forces Bethlehem to accept landfill expansion. The town has signed an agreement that promised no expansion. OPPOSE
HB 451 Bipartisan paint recycling program. SUPPORT
HB 723 Seeks to repeal statewide platform that would simplify customer use data collection. OPPOSE
HB 639 This bill seeks to enable crypto mining and to limit a town’s option to reject a facility. A medium sized center can use up to 3-5 million gallons of water a day, and produces noise pollution 24 hours a day. OPPOSE. Rep. David Preece wrote in October 2025: “HB 639’s nondiscrimination clause would bar towns and cities from even modestly restraining crypto activities that could destabilize local power grids, drive up electricity costs, or draw speculative capital away from productive uses. It’s not economic freedom — it’s freedom for speculators at the expense of workers and communities.”
Thursday, January 8th and after - Bills having their first hearings, please testify as described above.
SB 539 Senate Energy and Resources (E & R) 1 pm Room 103. This bill restructures how biomass is categorized into the Renewable Portfolio Standards. Biomass is not a renewable. OPPOSE
SB 592 Senate E & R 1:15 pm Room 103. Adds habitat strongholds and wildlife corridors to town inventories. SUPPORT
SB 540 Senate E & R 1:30 pm Room 103. Allows portable solar generation devices. SUPPORT
SB 599 Senate E & R 1:45 pm Room 103. Renewable Energy Fund. Information to follow.
SB 447 Senate E & R 2 pm Enables utility companies to develop and operate advanced nuclear resources Information to follow
Tuesday, January 13
NH SB 449: Senate Energy and Natural Resources 09:10 AM, SH, Room 103, relative to the participation of customer generators in net energy SUPPORT
NH SB 538 -- Senate Energy and Natural Resources 09:20 AM, SH, Room 103, Relative extending net metering eligibility terms for municipal energy projects. SUPPORT
Wednesday, January 14
NH HB 1301 House Resources, Recreation and Development Room 228, Hearing 11:30 AM) Increasing certain mooring fees and directing such funds to the cyanobacteria mitigation loan and grant fund. SUPPORT
NH HB 1477 House Resources, Recreation and Development, GP, Room 228, Hearing 2:30 PM. Establishes new regulations for anchored seasonal platforms on public waters, limiting use to legal owners of adjacent shorefront property, with specific exceptions for government and conservation agencies. Fees collected would go to the Navigation Safety Fund and Cyanobacteria Mitigation Fund. SUPPORT
-A LINK TO A RELIABLE LIST OF CLIMATE READING SOURCES (FROM NEWSPAPERS TO PODCASTS) IS OFFERED IN THE FEED YOUR BRAIN SECTION.
NETWORK MEETINGS
NETWORK MEETINGS
The mission of the Network is environment, energy and climate, and working groups will have overlapping goals. Feel free to “sample” different groups. All welcome your participation. Minutes of previous meetings are posted on each WG’s webpage, available at https://www.newhampshirenetwork.org/working-groups/working-groups-overview
-The Steering Committee next meets December 29th. Its mission is long range planning for the Network. Feel free to join a meeting and join in the discussion.
-The Climate WG meets the first Tuesday of each month at 7 pm, next meeting on January 6th,
Are you concerned about climate change? Join us on the first Tuesday of each month at 7pm to connect and collaborate with like-minded groups and individuals. Our objective is to help groups, leaders, and citizens across New Hampshire share information and actions to help address climate pollution at the town, state, and federal levels.
https://citizensclimate.zoom.us/my/cclnhrizoom?pwd=MTRoSmtMQ3J3bksyc0xwVk9sbEJMdz09.
-Energy WG meets the 3rd Thursday of the month at 3 pm. The next meeting is January 15th. A monthly meeting of people who have town or city energy committees, to get together and learn from each other, strategize together, and build community. IF you are not on a town energy committee you are still welcome to attend. Specifically focus is on community power, EV charging stations in one’s town, solar discounts, etc.
https://us04web.zoom.us/j/3593768649?pwd=bXZmbHpoTXBram9DalhqZFBaWkprUT09
-Plastics WG meets monthly on Sunday at 6 pm, although the next meeting will be Sunday, January 25th. The focus of the Plastics Working Group is to address the intersectionality of climate change, human health, environmental justice, waste management, and pollution aspects of plastics and the petrochemical industry. To this end, the Plastics Working Group engages in local, state, and federal initiatives. https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87209928697
BEYOND NETWORK OPPORTUNITIES
BEYOND NETWORK OPPORTUNITIES
-Balcony Solar: Bringing the Sun Home – Zoom event
-Balcony Solar: Bringing the Sun Home – Zoom event
Wednesday, January 7, 2026 @ 7:00 PM EST
In the 2025 legislative session, Utah became the first state to legalize balcony solar. On Wednesday, January 7, Stewardship UT is hosting a virtual event with the bill sponsor, Republican Representative Ray Ward, who will talk about what excited him about balcony solar, and what it took to get the bipartisan support necessary to pass the legislation. There will also be ample time for Q&A.
The New Hampshire version of a "balcony solar" bill (SB 540 - relative to portable solar generation devices) will be heard on January 8th 1:30 PM before the Senate Natural Resources Committee. Register HERE
KSC’s 8th Annual NH Legislative Overview Meeting
We will hold Kent Street Coalition’s 8th annual NH Legislative Overview on Thursday, January 8th, 6:30 to 8:30 pm, via Zoom.
From NORTHEAST RECYCLING COUNCIL: U.S. Plastics Pact
U.S. Plastics Pact Launches Next Phase of Reuse in Retail Initiative to Bring Scalable, Cost-Effective Real-World Implementation to U.S. Stores. Fill out the Expression of Interest (EOI) by January 16th, 2026 to let them know you would like to get involved with the Reuse in Retail Initiative (RRI).
TAKE ACTION
TAKE ACTION
-Lead Locally is running a free online training program for potential climate candidates and we would really love your help identifying climate champs who are ready to take the next step on the path from advocate to decision maker.
Folks can sign up directly here or you can nominate a colleague you think should participate and we'll follow up to encourage them to join.
Our jobs would all be easier if our electeds could stand up to the utilities and we would really appreciate your help identifying folks who can do this!
The training will take place weekly on Tues 6-8 (ET) from Feb 3rd- March 10th. Each session will cover topics like fundraising, field programs, campaign planning, messaging, and climate policy and finish with a panel of elected officials who can speak to the issue we covered. We need thousands of people to step up and run for local office so that we can make progress at the city and state level.
Feel free to email me here or @ lila@leadlocally.org with any questions. Share pack lives here for more details.
-Sign Up Now: Beyond Plastics’ 2026 Grassroots Advocacy Trainings Begin in January!
We invite you to join us in the year ahead. New and returning advocates alike can deepen their skills, build confidence, and grow their grassroots advocacy within a caring community committed to ending plastic pollution. To help you plan, all of our quarterly 2026 training dates are now available to choose from!
Our free, two-hour online trainings will designed to guide you through:
From local action to lasting change: Learn how to start or support a group in your community to pass local laws or policy that informs, inspires, and drives meaningful change.
Bridge science with grassroots action: Turn scientific knowledge into effective local efforts that protect communities, influence state-level policy, and build momentum that contributes meaningfully to the broader national dialogue.
Discover how to join the Beyond Plastics Network: A community for ongoing learning and connection with others from all across the country doing the same work. Build relationships, share ideas, and get the support you need - when you need it - to take action in your community.
We encourage you to sign up for them all! Each quarter will feature a fresh science-to-action theme, along with highlights about local groups doing impactful work. Within each quarter, choose the date that works best for you and click below to register via Zoom. Once you register, keep an eye on your inbox for a confirmation email from Rebecca Martin (no-reply@zoom.us) and don’t forget to add it to your calendar.
January
Saturday, 1/24 - Volunteer Grassroots Training
Tuesday, 1/27 - Volunteer Grassroots Training
Thursday, 1/29 - Volunteer Grassroots Training
FEED YOUR BRAIN
FEED YOUR BRAIN
-RELIABLE AND USEFUL RESOURCES FOR CLIMATE, ENERGY AND THE ENVIRONMENT
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1uwR3ODIhs1EVGC83aezzEWa9OTwSgx7OgOcBtqNiuYw/edit?tab=t.0
-The high cost of electricity in NH:
“New Hampshire clean energy program goes national with federal funds
In a rare federal win, Sen. Jeanne Shaheen secured $3M to expand the program, which helps towns and small businesses adopt clean energy and save money.”
Read how Clean Energy NH’s Circuit Rider program will be replicated nationally, with special kudos to Melissa Elander and Sarah Brock.
-https://www.canarymedia.com/articles/clean-energy/new-hampshire-circuit-riders-federal-funding
-Clean energy construction is dominating despite the president’s policies
-NH’s biggest solar array, but we are still behind
January 5, 2026 #1
January 5, 2026 #1
What’s Happening at the NH Network!
What’s Happening at the NH Network!
EVENTS: https://www.newhampshirenetwork.org/events
LEGISLATIVE EDITION Week of January 5th
LEGISLATIVE EDITION Week of January 5th
Have you noticed we're not asking for a donation, but we DO want and need your feedback!
Aside from attendance numbers, your answers to this survey are the only metric we currently have for how we serve your needs.
Let us know what you find valuable at NH Network - and what more we could be doing.
Help us assess the accomplishments and organization of our first 5 years, as we create a strategic plan for future goals and organizational structure. Thank you in advance!
Here's the link: NH Network Survey Please fill out and return by Jan 15, 2026.
~The NH Network Steering Committee
It has been a while since we have “exercised” our legislative muscles. To get back in shape, here is a review on how to testify. (Please note there are bills listed after this review.)
—>Link to NH Network website: https://www.newhampshirenetwork.org/NH-bills
IMPORTANT: In order for your emails sent to representatives to be part of the record, you should either request this in your email or send a copy to the committee’s legislative aide. IF you email the entire committee via a group email, the aide will receive your email and your comments will be part of the record. An easy way to participate:
—>Use this link to sign in to Support/Oppose House bills
—>Use this list to email all members of a House Committee (member emails by committee)
—>Use this link to sign in to Support/Oppose Senate bills
https://www.gencourt.state.nh.us/Senate/committees/senate_committees.aspx
Testimony is most effective, a short written submission is “next” most effective, and signing in carries influence. Seek to contribute within your comfort zone. (And seek to expand the boundaries of your CZ, when you feel like it.)
How to Testify on a Bill in Person at a Committee Hearing
How to Testify on a Bill in Person at a Committee Hearing
Show up before the hearing starts and prepare to give a 2-minute, concise talk. Sign up before the hearing on the sign-up sheet (also specify your position - support or oppose - there, in addition to having done so online before 8:00 am on the day of the hearing per step 2 above).
When you are called to testify: greet and thank the committee for hearing you, state your name, town, qualifications (e.g. member of your town's energy committee), your position on the bill, and the reasons. Try not to repeat what you've heard in previous testimony in the hearing, but you can mention you agree with specific previous points made.
You may deliver a hard copy. Best to provide a copy for each member of the committee.
After you speak for the time granted to you by the Committee Chair, committee members may ask you questions. It's better to be clear and brief in your statement and hope for more time to get to some details of interest in Q&A than it is to try to speed-talk your way through a lot of material in your statement or be cut off before you get to your main point.
Some committee chairs are NOT happy with verbatim reading from a script. Be prepared to speak from notes on the critical points, if you notice that's what others are doing.
When you choose to testify in person, please note the legislative change of location for 2026
Testifying at the Senate is in the State House, same as last year.. The Legislative Building, however, is closed for renovations. These meetings will occur at “GP,” or Granite Place. To get to Granite Place, navigate to 1 Granite Place, Concord, NH 03301. From I-93 N or S, take exit 15W. At the lights, take a right to head north on Route 3 / Bouton St. At the next set of lights, stay straight as the road turns into N. State St. At the next set of lights, take a left onto Penacook St. At the stop sign, take a right turn onto Rumford St. Granite Place is the next left turn. Navigate to 1 Granite Place, Concord, NH 03301. There is ample parking in front of the building, with easy access to the front entrance. Additional parking is available at the rear of the building, with direct access to Level 2. Legislators and the public may use either the front or rear parking lots.
PLEASE EMAIL THE COMMITTEE MEMBERS and cc the governor, whether or not you attend. Please try to use your own words and/or arguments. Letters that seem to be copied and pasted are dismissed.
How to Submit Your Position on a Bill Online
How to Submit Your Position on a Bill Online
Pick a bill from the "NH Bills of Interest" listed below. Information you'll need about the bill (committee name, hearing date, bill number) is provided there. Then browse to the appropriate Online Testimony Submission page:
House: gencourt.state.nh.us/house/committees/remotetestimony/default.aspx
Senate: gencourt.state.nh.us/remotecommittee/senate.aspx
Step 1. Personal Information: (Enter Your Name, Town, Email)
Step 2. Select Date of the Hearing: (choose from the calendar)
Step 3. Select Bill:
Select the Committee: (choose from the drop-down menu)
Choose the Bill: (choose from the drop-down menu)
I am: A Member of the Public
I'm Representing: Myself
Indicate Your Position on this Bill: I Support (or Oppose) this Bill
Step 4. For the House, you may optionally upload a PDF or type in additional written testimony. For the Senate, see sending testimony via email at https://www.gencourt.state.nh.us/Senate/committees/senate_committees.aspx
What happens to a bill after its public hearing and what can I do?
Once bills have had a public hearing, they move onto either work sessions or executive sessions. If you wish to continue to support a bill then your comments should be directed to the committee member’s email. In addition, once a bill is headed for a floor vote, it is important to contact your own reps or senator directly.
Review the Network’s “Bills of Interest” page to check the status of bills from the previous weeks.
The Network is a volunteer driven organization. At times, and particularly when the legislature is in session, the amount of bills can be overwhelming. Choose to help where you can.
HERE BELOW ARE THE BILLS YOU CAN TESTIFY ON, THE WEEK OF JANUARY 5:
HERE BELOW ARE THE BILLS YOU CAN TESTIFY ON, THE WEEK OF JANUARY 5:
The explanation for each bill is on the Network website, www.newhampshirenetwork.org/NH-bills
Thursday, January 8th - bills having their first hearings, please testify as described above.
SB 539 Senate Energy and Resources (E & R) 1 pm Room 103. This bill restructures how biomass is categorized into the Renewable Portfolio Standards. Biomass is not a renewable. OPPOSE
SB 592 Senate E & R 1:15 pm Room 103. Adds habitat strongholds and wildlife corridors to town inventories. SUPPORT
SB 540 Senate E & R 1:30 pm Room 103. Allows portable solar generation devices. SUPPORT
SB 599 Senate E & R 1:45 pm Room 103. Renewable Energy Fund. Information to follow.
SB 447 Senate E & R 2 pm Enables utility companies to develop and operate advanced nuclear resources Information to follow
The following bills for Wednesday, January 7th already had hearings, and are leftovers from the 2025 session. They are going to be voted up or down by the full Senate, so for these bills please contact your own senator to support or oppose bills.
SB 111 This bill incentivizes energy storage and will help stabilize the grid. SUPPORT
HB 117 There is a motion to support a moratorium on landfill expansion. This bill will deny this motion. We support a moratorium, so this bill should be ITL’ed (Inexpedient To Legislate). OPPOSE
HB 221 Limits further exploration of the system benefits charge. OPPOSE
HB 707 Another confusing bill which seems to support a landfill moratorium, but forces Bethlehem landfill to accept landfill expansion. The town has voted against expansion. OPPOSE
HB 451 Bipartisan paint recycling program. SUPPORT
HB 723 Seeks to repeal statewide platform that would simplify customer use data collection. OPPOSE
HB 639 This bill seeks to enable crypto mining and to limit a town’s option to reject a facility. A medium sized center can use up to 3-5 million gallons of water a day, and produces noise pollution 24 hours a day. OPPOSE. Rep. David Preece wrote in October 2025: “HB 639’s nondiscrimination clause would bar towns and cities from even modestly restraining crypto activities that could destabilize local power grids, drive up electricity costs, or draw speculative capital away from productive uses. It’s not economic freedom — it’s freedom for speculators at the expense of workers and communities.”
-A LINK TO A RELIABLE LIST OF CLIMATE READING SOURCES (FROM NEWSPAPERS TO PODCASTS) IS OFFERED IN THE FEED YOUR BRAIN SECTION.
-A LINK TO A RELIABLE LIST OF CLIMATE READING SOURCES (FROM NEWSPAPERS TO PODCASTS) IS OFFERED IN THE FEED YOUR BRAIN SECTION.
NETWORK MEETINGS
NETWORK MEETINGS
The mission of the Network is environment, energy and climate, and working groups will have overlapping goals. Feel free to “sample” different groups. All welcome your participation. Minutes of previous meetings are posted on each WG’s webpage, available at https://www.newhampshirenetwork.org/working-groups/working-groups-overview
-The Steering Committee next meets December 29th. Its mission is long range planning for the Network. Feel free to join a meeting and join in the discussion.
-The Climate WG meets the first Tuesday of each month at 7 pm, next meeting on January 6th,
Are you concerned about climate change? Join us on the first Tuesday of each month at 7pm to connect and collaborate with like-minded groups and individuals. Our objective is to help groups, leaders, and citizens across New Hampshire share information and actions to help address climate pollution at the town, state, and federal levels.
https://citizensclimate.zoom.us/my/cclnhrizoom?pwd=MTRoSmtMQ3J3bksyc0xwVk9sbEJMdz09.
-Energy WG meets the 3rd Thursday of the month at 3 pm. The next meeting is January 15th. A monthly meeting of people who have town or city energy committees, to get together and learn from each other, strategize together, and build community. IF you are not on a town energy committee you are still welcome to attend. Specifically focus is on community power, EV charging stations in one’s town, solar discounts, etc.
https://us04web.zoom.us/j/3593768649?pwd=bXZmbHpoTXBram9DalhqZFBaWkprUT09
-Plastics WG meets monthly on Sunday at 6 pm, although the next meeting will be Sunday, January 25th. The focus of the Plastics Working Group is to address the intersectionality of climate change, human health, environmental justice, waste management, and pollution aspects of plastics and the petrochemical industry. To this end, the Plastics Working Group engages in local, state, and federal initiatives. https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87209928697
BEYOND NETWORK OPPORTUNITIES
BEYOND NETWORK OPPORTUNITIES
Balcony Solar: Bringing the Sun Home – Zoom event Wednesday, January 7, 2026 @ 5:00 PM MST.
In the 2025 legislative session, Utah became the first state to legalize balcony solar. On Wednesday, January 7, Stewardship UT is hosting a virtual event with the bill sponsor, Republican Representative Ray Ward, who will talk about what excited him about balcony solar, and what it took to get the bipartisan support necessary to pass the legislation. There will also be ample time for Q&A.
Register HERE
From NORTHEAST RECYCLING COUNCIL: U.S. Plastics Pact
U.S. Plastics Pact Launches Next Phase of Reuse in Retail Initiative to Bring Scalable, Cost-Effective Real-World Implementation to U.S. Stores. Fill out the Expression of Interest (EOI) by January 16th, 2026, to let them know you would like to get involved with the Reuse in Retail Initiative (RRI).
TAKE ACTION
TAKE ACTION
-Lead Locally is running a free online training program for potential climate candidates and we would really love your help identifying climate champs who are ready to take the next step on the path from advocate to decision maker.
Folks can sign up directly here or you can nominate a colleague you think should participate and we'll follow up to encourage them to join.
Our jobs would all be easier if our electeds could stand up to the utilities and we would really appreciate your help identifying folks who can do this!
The training will take place weekly on Tues 6-8 (ET) from Feb 3rd- March 10th. Each session will cover topics like fundraising, field programs, campaign planning, messaging, and climate policy and finish with a panel of elected officials who can speak to the issue we covered. We need thousands of people to step up and run for local office so that we can make progress at the city and state level.
Feel free to email me here or @ lila@leadlocally.org with any questions. Share pack lives here for more details.
-Sign Up Now: Beyond Plastics’ 2026 Grassroots Advocacy Trainings Begin in January!
We invite you to join us in the year ahead. New and returning advocates alike can deepen their skills, build confidence, and grow their grassroots advocacy within a caring community committed to ending plastic pollution. To help you plan, all of our quarterly 2026 training dates are now available to choose from!
Our free, two-hour online trainings will designed to guide you through:
From local action to lasting change: Learn how to start or support a group in your community to pass local laws or policy that informs, inspires, and drives meaningful change.
Bridge science with grassroots action: Turn scientific knowledge into effective local efforts that protect communities, influence state-level policy, and build momentum that contributes meaningfully to the broader national dialogue.
Discover how to join the Beyond Plastics Network: A community for ongoing learning and connection with others from all across the country doing the same work. Build relationships, share ideas, and get the support you need - when you need it - to take action in your community.
We encourage you to sign up for them all! Each quarter will feature a fresh science-to-action theme, along with highlights about local groups doing impactful work. Within each quarter, choose the date that works best for you and click below to register via Zoom. Once you register, keep an eye on your inbox for a confirmation email from Rebecca Martin (no-reply@zoom.us) and don’t forget to add it to your calendar.
January
Saturday, 1/24 - Volunteer Grassroots Training
Tuesday, 1/27 - Volunteer Grassroots Training
Thursday, 1/29 - Volunteer Grassroots Training
FEED YOUR BRAIN
FEED YOUR BRAIN
-RELIABLE AND USEFUL RESOURCES FOR CLIMATE, ENERGY AND THE ENVIRONMENT >> (LINK)
-The high cost of electricity in NH:
Clean Energy NH’s Circuit Rider program will be replicated nationally
“New Hampshire clean energy program goes national with federal funds
In a rare federal win, Sen. Jeanne Shaheen secured $3M to expand the program, which helps towns and small businesses adopt clean energy and save money.”
Read how Clean Energy NH’s Circuit Rider program will be replicated nationally, with special kudos to Melissa Elander and Sarah Brock.
-https://www.canarymedia.com/articles/clean-energy/new-hampshire-circuit-riders-federal-funding
-Clean energy construction is dominating despite the president’s policies
-NH’s biggest solar array, but we are still behind
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