Sylvia Larsen for NH Senate

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Contact: Senator Sylvia Larsen
(603) 271-2111

CONCORD – In an effort to create new jobs as quickly as possible, Senate President Sylvia Larsen today presented a proposal that would allow Public Service of New Hampshire and other utilities to fast track their renewable energy projects.

Larsen presented an amendment this morning to a bill currently before the Senate’s Energy, Environment and Economic Development Committee.

The amendment to Senate Bill 334 would allow any electric utility owing payment to the state’s renewable energy fund to retain a portion of those funds if it can show the money would be used to create jobs through an immediate investment in renewable energy.

“This provides an important opportunity to move quickly to create jobs while building on our commitment to renewable energy,” Larsen said. “This isn’t about favorable treatment for utilities; it’s about favorable treatment for our work force.”

PSNH officials say they have several projects ready to go – including a plan to install solar panels at municipal landfills. Officials say they could move more quickly if they don’t have to make payment to the state and apply to get the money back for these projects. The bill’s amendment would allow for that but would still require any renewable energy projects to qualify under the terms of the existing law.

Larsen introduced the amendment this morning but encouraged the committee to continue a hearing on the proposal to March 4 so all interested parties would have an opportunity to weigh in.

“I look forward to a full debate on the concepts contained in this amendment and I encourage any of our energy producers to come forward with complimentary proposals toward the same end,” she said. “In this economy, getting people back to work has to be our number one priority.”

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