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The Lancaster Transfer Station sounds a little different these days. In April 2025, a new, fully electric wheel loader showed up for duty and has been hard at work ever since. The new machinery was paid for in part through a Diesel Emissions Reduction Act (DERA) grant from New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (NH DES). Lancaster is among a growing number of communities across the state using NH DES funding to purchase more efficient and all-electric heavy duty vehicles, including Lee, Farmington, Plaistow, Durham, Raymond and Bethlehem. Vehicles include plow trucks, fire trucks, refuse trucks, dump trucks, bucket trucks, wheel loaders, and more.  For Lancaster, the road to an all-electric wheel loader began in 2023, when Transfer Station Manager Rusty Scott and Assistant Manager Rob Blanchette first explored options to replace aging diesel equipment. The proposal reached Town Meeting in 2024 and Lancaster residents had plenty of questions, such as about how the batteries would perform in cold New Hampshire winters and how costly they might be to replace. Rusty came to the Annual Town Meeting prepared to answer questions. Having spent two weeks operating an electric wheel loader during a demo arranged by local equipment dealer Chadwick-BaRoss and a visiting engineer from Volvo Construction Equipment, he was able to provide clear, firsthand answers that reassured the voters and the warrant article passed.   A Smart Transition from Diesel to Electric The Lancaster Transfer Station had two aging diesel machines, a 20-year-old loader and an old Bobcat, both requiring expensive repairs totaling an estimated $28,000. Rather than sinking more funds into equipment nearing the end of its useful life, the town traded both machines in to meet DERA program requirements. Under the grant rules, the old diesel units were dismantled to permanently remove them from service. When NH DES approved the grant, the town received the new Volvo L20 Electric loader just three weeks later. The machine has a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $226,740. Thanks to a government entity discount, Lancaster paid just $136,000, and the DERA grant covered $61,470 of that amount. The remaining cost, roughly $60,000, was covered by the town. The charger, provided by Volvo at no additional cost, plugs into a standard 110-volt outlet. With a 2–4 hour charging time and an average operating window of 4–6 hours, the loader is charged every three days and fits seamlessly into the transfer station’s workflow. It’s also powered in part by the facility’s 16-kilowatt solar array, keeping operating costs low and emissions near zero. Cleaner, Quieter, and Cost-Effective The benefits of the electric loader are already evident. The town has eliminated approximately $4,000 per year in diesel fuel costs. Maintenance has been minimal -  a quick five-minute weekly greasing of the articulating joints replaces the complex engine maintenance diesel machines require. With no belts or exhaust systems, the loader is simpler to operate and service. Each of its seven main batteries is isolated for safety, and a small auxiliary battery powers the enclosed cab’s electronics. The machine comes with a six-year warranty, and Lancaster purchased an extended warranty for additional peace of mind. When the main batteries eventually degrade to 80% capacity, Volvo will buy them back, ensuring responsible battery lifecycle management.  Volvo estimates that each battery will cost $5,000 to replace at today’s costs.   The new loader also offers practical advantages for staff. Its enclosed cab provides warmth in the winter, unlike the open Bobcat it replaced. It’s quiet, allowing operators to communicate easily without shouting over a diesel engine, and can run indoors without any air quality concerns. Operationally, the electric wheel loader hits the sweet spot. The old loader was too large and cumbersome for some tasks, while the Bobcat was too small. The new unit is a “jack of all vehicles,” perfectly sized for pushing, loading, dumping, moving baled recyclables, and handling tires. Better yet, it’s compatible with the Bobcat front plate, meaning all existing attachments still work.  After 200 hours of runtime, staff are pleased with the vehicle’s performance.  A Model for Other Communities Lancaster’s experience highlights how state and federal programs can help small towns modernize essential services without breaking municipal budgets. By leveraging a DERA grant, doing thorough research, and leaning on existing solar infrastructure, Lancaster turned a daunting equipment replacement into a success story – acquiring cutting-edge equipment for only one-quarter of the listing price. The town’s leadership, paired with the proactive approach of its transfer station staff, has created a North Country example of how clean technology can solve multiple problems at once, from aging equipment to emissions reductions to operational costs. Rusty Scott is happy to talk about the town’s experience with the wheel loader. More information can be found in Clean Energy NH’s Diesel Vehicle Replacement 101  guide.and on the New Hampshire Clean Diesel Grant Program Website.    Transfer Station Manager Rusty Scott can be reached at transferstation@lancasternh.org .  Contact sarah@cleanenergynh.org  with any questions or to request a free support navigating your vehicle replacement project.

In a small town like Carroll, even modest energy projects can make a big difference. That’s why the town’s Energy Commission identified the transition to high-efficiency LED streetlights as their first major initiative. “This was the low-hanging fruit,” explained members of the Energy Commission. It was a relatively simple project with significant cost savings for the town. Support from Clean Energy NH , neighboring communities that had already made the switch, and guidance from the North Country Energy Circuit Rider  helped set the project in motion. The Circuit Rider provided sample warrant articles  and Affinity LED Lighting LLC walked the commission through the process, while Eversource incentives  added a strong financial motivation. With surrounding towns already operating with LED streetlights, it was clear the time had come for Carroll to act. Collaboration Across Town Departments From the start, the Energy Commission prioritized collaboration. They worked closely with Public Safety , including the Police and Fire Chiefs, to ensure that critical lighting needs and concerns were met and no essential streetlights were removed. The Public Works Director  was also brought into the process to provide insight on maintenance needs. Looking beyond Carroll, the commission met with the Administrative Assistant in Bethlehem  to learn from their recent streetlight and solar projects. Keeping the Select Board  informed was another priority, especially since they would need to approve moving forward with a contractor and approving the warrant article drafted by the commission. The Energy Commission, established in October 2023 , reached out to Affinity LED Lighting , a company experienced in municipal conversions. After careful consideration, the commission recommended working with Affinity LED Lighting but decided not to pursue more complex “networked” lighting systems. With a tight deadline  to finalize a warrant article before the end of December, the Energy Commission moved quickly to keep the project on track.  The effort aligned perfectly with the commission’s mission: “The Carroll Energy Commission’s mission is to advise, encourage, and facilitate energy conservation, energy efficiency, and clean energy solutions for public buildings and properties, businesses, and resident homes. The Committee shall provide leadership and direction for community education relating to energy and shall propose and explore funding for local energy projects.” Community Support and Voter Confidence Gaining public support was crucial. The Energy Commission hosted a public information session , spoke at the 2024 deliberative session , and even spent two freezing cold Saturdays in February at the transfer station  to answer questions and build trust with voters. Flyers were also distributed near the post office. At these events a demonstration LED streetlight , provided by Affinity LED Lighting, proved to be a valuable tool. It allowed residents to see firsthand the improved light quality and lower glare that LEDs provide.  This outreach paid off: the warrant article for the LED project passed with 84% voter approval , showing that Carroll residents cared about the savings, the better light quality, and the lower maintenance costs. Implementation and Challenges The project was approved by voters in March 2024 , and most of the lights were installed by December 2024 . The final five lights were completed in February 2025 , making it an 11-month process from approval to completion . While the project was considered “low-hanging fruit,” it wasn’t without challenges. The biggest hurdle was reconciling Eversource’s streetlight inventory with the actual fixtures in town . It took persistence and attention to detail from the Energy Commission to get everything aligned. Lessons Learned For towns considering similar projects, Carroll’s Energy Commission offers several key pieces of advice: Do your homework: Talk to other communities that have completed similar projects and ask for real data on cost savings. Join Clean Energy NH : Their resources and support were invaluable throughout the process. Keep stakeholders informed : Regular updates to the Select Board, town staff, and residents helped maintain transparency and trust. Engage the public early : Demonstration LED streetlight and public info session were critical for gaining voter support. Expect delays : Projects often take longer than expected, so plan for flexibility. Building Momentum for Future Projects The success of the LED streetlight project had ripple effects across the community. By demonstrating its ability to deliver meaningful results, the Energy Commission built credibility with both voters and the Select Board. This paved the way for future projects, including a new solar photovoltaic array at the Public Safety Building , which received 77% approval  at the 2025 Annual Meeting. The LED project showed residents that the commission’s work brings real savings and tangible benefits to the town.  It gave voters the confidence to support larger, more complex initiatives. Keys to Success Looking back, the Energy Commission credits their success to three main factors: Persistence  — Staying focused despite challenges. Communication  — Keeping everyone informed, from town officials to residents. Community engagement  — Meeting people where they are, whether at public meetings or the transfer station. Through this project, Carroll not only upgraded its streetlights but also laid the foundation for a brighter, more energy-efficient future.

Name: Marc E. Leménager Title: Supervisor, Energy Efficiency - Regulatory, Planning, and Evaluation Employer: Eversource Energy City/Town of Residence: Bow NH Education: Southern New Hampshire University / Master of Business Administration, Quantitative Analysis Southern New Hampshire University / Bachelor of Science, Economics and Finance Why did you decide to work in the renewable/clean/clean energy industry? I wanted to ensure my career was positively impacting people, and an opening within the Energy Efficiency department at Eversource presented a clear opportunity for me to produce tangible benefits for our customers and advance my career. What interested you in working at your current employer? I joined Eversource right around the time the Company merged and became Eversource, creating the largest utility provider in New England. The sheer scale and impact of electric utilities on our economy and daily lives has and continues to fascinate me. Describe the work you do in more detail. I help manage and oversee the Company's energy efficiency programs and initiatives in New Hampshire and Connecticut, including but not limited to NHSaves, Energize Connecticut, Eversource's New Hampshire Clean Energy Fund, and Connecticut's Innovative Energy Solutions Program. What do you believe is the most pressing challenge that lies ahead for the clean energy industry in the state? Balancing clean energy timelines with economics and climate impacts. What aspect of your job excites you most? Why?  I get excited about identifying and delivering program solutions that produce a win for the Company, our customers, and our state. What interested you most about being part of YPiE? (Young Professionals in Energy) I think my career path is a bit unique and therefore may offer a bit of a different perspective for a certain segment of the audience, as I did not study energy or clean energy in my formal schooling, did not start my career in energy, and did not start my energy career in energy efficiency. What advice would you give to someone that is new to the industry or fresh out of college? Learn as much as you can from those who are already doing the work, but also try to learn why things are done the way they are to help better understand if improvements can be made. What do you like to do when you aren't working? Read, cook, and/or play with my two sons. What's on your bucket list? It's many years away, but watching each of my sons graduate from their schooling. Tell us one thing most people don’t know about you. I do everything left handed but writing. Fun Facts: Coffee or Tea? And how do you take it? Coffee Black Fave NH Restaurant? El Viajero Tradicional Mexicano in Hooksett Fave Musician/Band/Music genre? Rock (from hair bands and through the decades to some of today's rock) Fav Recreational activity? Playing catch with my sons or playing golf (very poorly)

Some people study building science. Some stumble into it through construction. But Margaret Dillon? She feels  it. “It’s in my DNA to think about how buildings think,” she says with a laugh. Raised in a 150-year-old New Jersey farmhouse that her great-grandfather expanded, Dillon grew up exploring its nooks, crannies, and all the changes made as the family adapted the house through all the historic events of the 20th century adaptations. That early curiosity led her to a lifelong passion: helping buildings—and the people who depend on them—adapt for a more efficient, carbon neutral and more resilient future in the 21st century. Margaret Dillon, Founder of S.E.E.D.S From Farmhouse Roots to Founding S.E.E.D.S. Margaret Dillon is the founder and   sole proprietor of S.E.E.D.S. ( Sustainable Energy Education & Demonstration Services ) , a consulting practice she launched in 2006 to bridge the gap between building performance and energy efficiency across New Hampshire. With a master’s degree in environmental science and a deep interest in sustainable infrastructure, Dillon dove right into the work, serving as a carpenter and later as the Executive Director for a local nonprofit focused on affordable housing. In that role, she managed historic residential buildings and raised funds to improve their energy performance. What she saw, time and time again, was a fragmented approach: contractors focusing on quick fixes, not long-term impact. She knew there had to be a better way. “I wanted to look at the full picture,” she explains. So she stepped down from her ED role, retrained as a certified building and energy consultant, and founded S.E.E.D.S. to offer a more comprehensive, science-based strategy for improving buildings—from moisture management to energy upgrades and lowering their carbon footprint. Building for the Long Run  Headed into the heart of the building (photo credit: Margaret Dillon) Today, Dillon works with architects, engineers, municipal boards, and building owners across New Hampshire. Her specialty? Diagnosing inefficiencies in everything from schools and libraries to town halls and homes, and helping those buildings work better , for longer. At the heart of her work is a deep understanding of building science: how moisture travels, heat transfer, how air moves—and how to control it all. “Managing moisture is key to energy efficiency,” she says. “That’s the piece people used to ignore, but it’s foundational.” Her audits often recommend: Air-sealing ceilings  and insulating foundations  to stop heat loss at the source Managing moisture  through effective drainage, sealing dirt floors, and adding ventilation as necessary  Integrating efficient systems  like LED lighting and heat pumps after  improving the building envelope She works closely with NHSaves to help clients tap into available funding for these improvements. And while upfront costs can cause hesitation, especially for older or historic buildings, Dillon helps clients see the long-term value, and walks them through it step by step. Working Across Sectors  Dillon’s approach isn’t just technical, it’s collaborative. “Every audit is like a conversation,” she says. “Everyone brings their own perspective, and my goal is to help weave those into a plan that makes sense for that specific place.”  She spends hours emailing back and forth with selectboards, energy committees, and building managers—answering questions, clarifying cost-benefit breakdowns, and offering guidance. After sending completed reports with recommendations, she offers Zoom meetings to allow real-time dialogue and hands-on discussion of each building’s unique challenges and opportunities. Her favorite moment? When someone on the other side of the call starts to see their building in a new light. “Everyone lives or works in a building,” she says. “When you connect the dots between their own lived experience and building science, it clicks. That’s how change starts.” Over three decades, Dillon has seen real progress. Many architects are integrating energy efficiency into designs from day one. Heat pumps and LED lighting have become more accessible investments. Homeowners are starting to value long-term building health over short-term payback. But there’s still work to do, especially in making the language of energy accessible. “Energy reports can be overwhelming,” she says. “I spend a lot of time trying to help people understand the steps and how they can get from A to B. Laying out that roadmap matters.” That’s where her unique blend of technical precision, intuition, and deep empathy comes in. Whether mentoring a new building science professional or advising a small town on their library retrofit, Dillon brings the same commitment: making New Hampshire’s buildings more efficient, more resilient, and more livable—for the long haul. “We need to adapt our lifestyles and our buildings to meet the challenges ahead,” Dillon says. “That’s what I want to help people do. Create a path. Because even if they don’t know the destination yet, they need to know there’s a way forward.” ----- If you are interested in learning more about Margaret's work, please reach out to her at mdillon@myfairpoint.net . To speak with experts on energy audits and learn moreways you can save, head to nhsaves.com

In a town like Lee, every piece of equipment — every truck, plow, and spreader — plays an important role in keeping daily operations running smoothly. From clearing the roads during snowstorms to supporting construction projects and park maintenance, these vehicles are a pillar in the community’s operations.  For years, Lee’s Highway Department relied on two hard-working trucks dating back to 1996 and 2001, one of which had a 1998 motor. But after years of service, even the best equipment starts to wear out. Breakdowns became more common, repairs more expensive, and keeping up with the work, especially through the winter, got harder and harder. Dealing with the aging vehicles started to cause delays and headaches for staff and community members, and put public safety and basic town operations on hold.  Loading up the old trucks As one team member put it: "We got our money’s worth out of them, but you don’t realize how much you needed new trucks until you finally have them." Facing growing maintenance challenges and rising costs, town leaders began looking for a solution without putting extra strain on taxpayers. That solution came through the Granite State Clean Fleets Grant Program , a partnership that gave Lee the chance to replace two aging trucks with brand-new, fully-outfitted vehicles, saving the town thousands of dollars and breathing new life into their public works fleet. When the grant became available, Energy Circuit Rider Katrin Kasper leapt on the opportunity to assist the town in applying for the grant.  “Working as an Energy Circuit Rider, we know that small changes add up to big savings. When we take an old inefficient vehicle off the road and replace it with a newer, cleaner, and more efficient model, everyone wins.  Thanks to this grant, the town was able to purchase these essential trucks years earlier than expected. That not only lowered the upfront cost burden but also reduced long-term operational expenses, avoiding the high cost of maintaining aging trucks. For just a fraction of the usual cost, the town got a brand-new vehicle that’s cleaner, more efficient, and dependable—something employees and residents can count on when it matters most.” Lee’s grant journey officially began in September 2023 , when the town learned about the opportunity through Clean Energy NH’s Energy Circuit Rider program. With a tight deadline looming, the town quickly teamed up with CENH to complete the application. Lee’s DPW staff provided the needed information while Clean Energy NH supported the construction of the application, ensuring the town could put in a strong, competitive application without overwhelming its staff. Their work paid off. On December 11, 2023 , Lee was awarded funding for not just one, but two brand-new, fully outfitted trucks. Originally, the town had applied for two and hoped to receive funding for a single replacement vehicle; winning two was a major victory, saving Lee hundreds of thousands of dollars and strengthening their fleet for years to come. Click here to check out our video on the new trucks! By the end of December, the first truck had already been delivered, ready to tackle critical tasks like snow plowing, salting, and year-round public works projects. The trucks were fully equipped to go, with the necessary attachments that allow for greater versatility in town operations. And they did it all at a fraction of the cost: Instead of paying over $500,000 for two new trucks, Lee only needed to budget about $97,000 — with the grant covering the rest. As Ben Lyons, a truck driver for Lee’s Public Works Department explained: "It sure helps the budget out a lot. You don't have to save for years and years in capital reserve funds. You can get a vehicle right away — and save the taxpayers money." Peter Hoyt, a mechanic who has worked for the town for over 27 years commented:    "We live here in town, too. We’re taxpayers ourselves, so this directly affects us." How the NH Department of Environmental Services Helps Towns Like Lee Access Funding The New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (NHDES) works to make it easier for towns, businesses, and transit agencies to connect with funding for cleaner, more reliable vehicles. When the first round of this program opened in 2023, 14 projects across New Hampshire — including the town of Lee — were awarded grants to replace aging vehicles, improve air quality in their communities, and strengthen their operational capabilities. The process is designed to be clear and supportive. First, communities review the Request for Proposals (RFP)  to understand the rules, then submit an application. After that, the NHDES team reviews, scores, and works closely with successful applicants to create a grant agreement. It’s a multi-step process, but towns aren’t left on their own — NHDES is there to help every step of the way. Even if there’s no funding available at the moment, NHDES keeps past program information posted online. That way, towns can get a head start by learning the basics, checking eligibility, and being ready when the next round opens. (Tip: even if the program is closed, it’s smart to read through the RFP and start planning early! Receive updates on funding opportunities here .) NHDES also helps clear up common questions, like the difference between vehicle classes  or emissions tiers , and reminds towns about the benefits of working to have local funding approved before submitting a project. At the end of the day, this funding isn’t just about buying new trucks. It’s about improving the everyday lives of town employees, boosting reliability, saving taxpayer dollars, and making our air a little cleaner for everyone. Plus, these grants can even help fill funding gaps  when local or federal dollars don’t quite cover everything. Lee’s story shows what’s possible when small towns take advantage of well-designed grant programs with the right support. By upgrading its fleet through the Granite State Clean Fleets  program, Lee not only improved reliability and safety, it protected its budget and its residents. It's a clear reminder that cleaner, cost-saving solutions are within reach for communities across the Granite State.  Have Questions? Email Energy Circuit Rider Katrin Kasper at katrin@cleanenergynh.org .

Written by Jason Plant, Co-Founder of Green Lightning Energy Sometimes, the best business ideas come from solving the problems right in front of you. For us, it was watching our moms get quoted sky-high prices for solar panel installation. They believed in the benefits of clean energy, but the cost was a serious barrier. So, my friend Kadin Burns and I put our heads together and built a solution that saved them tens of thousands and sparked the beginning of Green Lightning Energy , a company born from the drive to make solar simple and accessible. Our  first media spotlight  came from Clean Energy NH’s Young Professionals in Energy (YPIE) program, which gave us a platform early on to connect with other clean energy advocates and members of the clean energy community.  Since then, we have expanded our business throughout New Hampshire, hired our first employee (shoutout to Miles Drum, our amazing Director of Sales!), expanded to commercial projects, and most recently, we have become a Certified B Corporation ! Certified B Corporations are leaders of a global movement of people using business as a force for good. By reaching the goals of the certification, these organizations have reached the highest standards of social and environmental performance, transparency, and accountability by implementing key sustainability initiatives that combat greenwashing. Becoming B Corp Certified offers a stamp of approval from a reliable and trustworthy third-party source. Perhaps most importantly, the certification also serves to catalyze the larger movement for the business community to shift its primary objective from maximizing shareholder value to providing value for all  stakeholders affected by business: workers, customers, suppliers, local communities, and the planet. Despite having taken a handful of companies through the certification process as a student consultant in the University of New Hampshire’s B Impact Clinic , it was a completely different challenge to navigate the certification for our own company. We had to come to terms with an obstacle I had seen many clients face before: we got very few points for each positive answer on the assessment. By design, this forced us to take a hard look at our entire business and find incremental ways to improve our impact in every functional area and for every stakeholder we touch. Luckily, we found that in many cases, instead of trading profitability for purpose, we were able to find win-win solutions that helped us grow the business and  helped us scale our impact.  My favorite example is our Solar Horizons Program , which gives a significant discount to Low Socioeconomic Status (SES) Individuals (as defined by making lower than a living wage according to the MIT Living Wage Calculator) and US Veterans. It solved a key problem for our business in that we often met with customers who, despite our affordable pricing model, still could not afford solar. This kind of initiative is especially timely as New Hampshire explores new approaches to broaden access to clean energy - like community power programs, ratepayer-funded incentives through NHSaves , and ongoing legislative discussions about solar access for low-income households. Programs like Solar Horizons help ensure that the benefits of solar aren’t just for the well-off - they’re for everyone. The Solar Horizons Program gave us a mechanism to support the customers who needed it the most, and justify why we gave them much lower pricing than we would normally allow. In addition to solving this problem in our business, the program also granted us several points on the B Impact Assessment in the Community section. This is just one of the many, many examples of how the B Corp Certification helped us brainstorm ways that we could improve our impact and  our underlying business at the same time! What’s Next? Our company became certified just before B Lab - the independent nonprofit that created and administers the B Corp Certification - released an entirely new framework. While we expect this framework to challenge us even more than their original assessment did as we prepare to recertify, we now know from experience that it will only inspire deeper, more innovative ideas for how to improve the outcomes our business creates for our stakeholders.  We are lucky to have amassed a small but mighty community around our venture that we know we can count on for valuable feedback and ideas on how we can improve. Chief among them are our moms, who have supported us not just since the beginning of our company, but the beginning of our lives! They continue to actively support our business and give us some of our best ideas. It is thanks to our mothers, and their belief in us from the very beginning, that we continue to make solar more affordable and pursue our dreams of being successful entrepreneurs. About the Author: Jason Plant is a serial social entrepreneur with ventures spanning from clean water to clean energy to semiconductor. His B Corp Certified solar installation company, Green Lightning Energy, has made high quality solar installations affordable for customers all across New England. He proudly serves his community as a nonprofit Board Member for the NH Toy Library and Ideas by Youth.

Tucked away in Milford, New Hampshire, Wilkins Lumber has been milling wood since the late 1700s, weathering generations of change in the industry. But recently, the family-run business made a bold leap: they went solar. And it all started with a simple motivation: reducing their carbon footprint and saving money. A Legacy of Innovation Wilkins Lumber’s story is steeped in history. Originally powered by water from a canal-fed pond, the mill eventually pivoted to steam, and then became one of the first corporate users of electricity in the region. But as energy costs began to skyrocket, the family realized it was time to innovate once again. Wilkins Lumber Mill (photo credit: Wilkins Lumber) “We wanted to relieve some of the financial burden before passing things on to the next generation,” explained Sally Wilkins. “Electricity had become an increasingly large expense,  and we saw solar as a way to take back control.” The idea wasn’t a new one for Wilkins. They first looked into solar back in 2010 but were deterred by the upfront costs. Then, years later, Andrea O’Brien  of the Small Business Development Center helped connect them with Scott Malansky and the Community Development Finance Authority (CDFA) team to set up an energy audit. That connection changed everything. Sally would go on herself to write and apply for the USDA’s Rural Energy for America Program (REAP)  program.  The REAP Grant: A Path Forward Applying for the REAP grant was no small feat. “There’s a lot of technical parts to the application,” Sally admits. “I had to bring in help; my daughter, who has a background in financial analysis, pulled together the projections and payback timelines. And we had great support in filling in the language we needed for the application.” Solar Carport at Wilkins Lumber Even with help, there were hurdles. Lost paperwork, confusing federal processes, and tangled communication with project implementers plagued the early months. Still, they pushed forward with a contractor who thought creatively about implementation, suggesting a solar carport  instead of a fenced-in array, which would house boards underneath and not take up additional space. The result? A system that integrates seamlessly into the millyard’s operations, with excess energy going back to the grid. When the system first went live, there was a small but powerful moment that Sally recounts: the saw hit the log—and the lights didn’t dim. In the lumber business, that’s the kind of progress you can feel. The project also supported the local economy, with local contractors being brought in to implement creative solutions while giving Wilkins Lumber more energy independence, creating a win-win situation.  Lessons Learned and Looking Ahead Wilkins Lumber’s journey into solar wasn’t without stress, but the rewards are ten-fold. Their advice to other businesses? Don’t assume you need all the money up front.  REAP grants and CDFA loans can make solar a reality. Find the right partners.  Wilkins mentions seeking technical assistance from organizations Clean Energy NH and forward-thinking contractors like Net Zero Renewable Resources . Get local officials on board early.  Especially in small towns, having buy-in from local stakeholders (and keeping extra physical documentation!) can save you headaches later. Start exploring.  Quotes, options, and conversations with experienced providers go a long way. Wilkins Lumber’s solar project proves that innovation doesn’t have to mean leaving the past behind. It can mean honoring it, building on it, while adapting to meet today’s challenges.

When Peterborough residents voted overwhelmingly (74%!) to adopt the town’s first Renewable Energy Plan in May of 2021, they voted for action, accountability, and a cleaner energy future for their town. Now, just a couple of years later, that vision is taking shape in the form of electric vehicles (EVs) rolling into town departments—and they’re only the beginning. The town’s Renewable Energy Plan  was spearheaded by the Peterborough Renewable Energy Planning (PREP) group, with critical support from the town’s Peterborough Energy Committee (PEC) and enthusiastic buy-in from voters and municipal leaders. The plan laid out clear steps to reach the goal of 100% renewable electricity by 2030, including hiring an energy coordinator, conducting energy audits, and electrifying town fleets. Now, two of Peterborough’s departments, the Wastewater Treatment Plant and Police Department, are leading the way with new EVs that are already proving their value. Town of Peterborough (Source: Peterborough Renewable Energy Plan) The town’s first electric work vehicle, a Ford Lightning F-150, was delivered to the Wastewater Treatment Plant in the winter of 2023. Despite some uncertainty by townsfolk, it survived (and thrived) through a New England winter. “It’s been a great success so far,” says Trisha Cheever, the town’s Energy & Community Coordinator. The vehicle has not only helped reduce emissions and idling pollution, its success has also eased any uncertainties among town employees. With many of the Peterborough’s staff not having experience with an EV before, there were some concerns about cold weather performance. Now that the Wastewater crew can speak from firsthand experience: the vehicle has become a great example for other departments as well as other towns on how EVs can benefit their work. The Wastewater superintendent is such a fan that he's actively helping Trisha advocate for similar upgrades in other departments. The town’s newest EV addition—a Chevy Blazer for the Police Department—serves as a transport vehicle for attending court and community meetings. This car isn't a patrol vehicle, but rather serves as a crucial part of day-to-day police operations. Police Chief Scott Guinard has conveyed positive feedback about the vehicle, and looks forward to finishing retrofitting the car with police equipment, and appropriate decals—including a “100% electric” graphic. In an effort to prolong its service for the town, the car is anticipated to eventually be handed down to the town’s Code Enforcement Officer once it ‘ages out’ at approximately 100,000 miles, extending its lifecycle and maximizing the town’s investment. One of the most exciting aspects in Peterborough’s approach is how resident input is guiding municipal decisions. Peterborough’s energy planning isn’t happening in a silo within the town offices. The town is supported by three major energy-focused groups : Peterborough Renewable Energy Project (PREP)  which focuses on residential engagement, Peterborough Energy Committee  which works with municipal data and planning, Peterborough   Community Power Committee , which oversees implementation and management of the town’s Community Power Plan, and its participation in the Community Power Coalition of New Hampshire. More recently they have begun to manage a program where a small energy adder builds a Discretionary Reserve Fund for Peterborough’s future energy efficiency upgrades. Thanks to efforts by Trisha, town officials, and community supporters and committees, there’s now a feedback loop where townsfolk can voice their clean energy priorities, which are then used to inform and shape departmental focus.  In addition to EVs being introduced to the town, there’s talk of adding more solar across the town, following the implementation of solar on both the Department of Public Works and Contoocook Valley Regional High School  roofs. Suggested sites include the new Fire Station, Peterborough Community Center, and pump stations in town. There’s also talk of pairing solar panels and battery storage at the new fire station building, an exciting sign of what’s to come. While fluctuating material costs might affect final decisions, the momentum and conversations are already underway, driven by the availability of state and federal funding, future community power revenue, and active monitoring from the Peterborough Energy Committee. Peterborough is proving that a community-led energy plan can drive real, tangible results. By investing in collaboration, economic efficiency, and long-term thinking, the town is powering a future that is cleaner, smarter, and aligned to residents’ values.

In the town of Randolph, a big idea began with a request. Yvonne Jenkins, a dedicated Randolph resident and Town Librarian, approached the selectboard with a vision: installing solar panels on the local library . The selectboard encouraged her to look into how it could be implemented, setting off a remarkable journey that would lead to significant energy savings. (photo credit: Randolph Public Library) The Power of Community Support Yvonne wasn’t alone in her pursuit. Fellow resident Rick Umiker shared her enthusiasm for solar energy. With determination and a little help from Clean Energy NH’s Energy Circuit Rider Melissa Elander , who provided examples and technical support, they drafted a warrant article to create and fund a Energy Efficiency Capital Reserve Fund — all within a single day.  The fund was created “for the purpose of covering costs or to seek matching grants related to increasing energy efficiency”. They quickly gathered signatures from neighbors, earning their spot in the town report. When the day of the vote arrived, the response was unanimous: The town would move forward on solar and energy efficiency.  "The CRF was a game changer," Rick explained. "Having a designated fund meant we could plan for the long-term, ensuring that our energy projects had financial backing. It also showed the town’s commitment to reducing energy costs and embracing sustainability." The CRF was approved with strong community support, giving the selectboard confidence to approve further projects. It also allowed the town to leverage additional funding and rebates, amplifying their impact.  That pivotal vote wasn’t just a win for clean energy projects in Randolph: it also sparked a wave of community involvement. Resident Howie Wemyss and two other residents eagerly joined Yvonne and Rick’s efforts to establish the Randolph Energy Committee. One major milestone was the establishment of a Capital Reserve Fund (CRF) through a petitioned warrant article. The CRF would serve as a dedicated financial resource to support energy efficiency and renewable energy projects within the town, controlled by the town rather than an outside funding source.  The Committee wrote a detailed description of the benefits of the CRF for the official town report, and connected with residents that already utilized solar within their households to garner support for establishing the fund. “We were learning on the go, but during the first town meeting we saw so many people who were receptive to the idea,” Yvonne said. “It was really heartening to see.”  Lessons in Efficiency Before diving into the solar project, the Energy Committee prioritized making town buildings as energy-efficient as possible. A lighting audit for the library and town hall revealed opportunities for significant savings. The results were undeniable: within the first year, the town saved 40% on its energy bill without dipping into reserves. The success of the lighting project built trust and further momentum for the solar initiative. Solar Installation (photo taken by Edith Tucker) The Energy Committee continued to learn more as they explored additional energy efficiency projects including energy audits, weatherization upgrades, and the installation of heat pumps. "Find the right people, like Clean Energy NH or a knowledgeable energy auditor. Don’t feel like you have to be an expert in energy — just plan to work with the right people," Yvonne advised. Keeping the Selectboard Informed The Energy Committee recognized that clear communication with the selectboard was essential to moving these projects forward. They sent meeting minutes, extended invitations, and sought approvals at every key decision point. Demonstrating the financial benefits was particularly effective, and the immediate savings from interior lighting and street lighting upgrades reinforced the value of these projects for the town. Facing Challenges and Adapting Not every step was easy. An application to the Northern Border Regional Commission grant program was unsuccessful, and progress sometimes felt frustratingly slow. Yet, the team stayed the course, and used it as a learning experience. They regrouped, identified other funding opportunities, and doubled down on community engagement. Their commitment paid off. A separate insulation project for the library, completed with town funding, a library grant, and rebates from Eversource was a major win for the Committee. As Rick reflected, "I thought we’d have solar panels in six months. But keeping our eyes on the prize, even when it felt distant, was worth it. Gaining the support of the community and selectboard made all the difference." Celebrating Success When the solar panels were finally installed, the town of Randolph didn’t just check it off the list: they celebrated. Residents gathered for a ribbon-cutting ceremony, and the local newspaper captured the moment. Celebrating the Solar Installment (photo taken by Yvonne Jenkins) The excitement over the possibilities for clean energy projects didn’t stop at Randolph’s town line. Neighboring towns, inspired by the success, began exploring their own clean energy projects. Calls poured in asking how they could replicate Randolph’s approach. The project’s success sparked conversations and action well beyond the town’s borders. Words of Wisdom The Randolph Energy Committee members offer simple but powerful advice for other communities: Document Your Results: Track your savings and milestones to demonstrate impact. Be Flexible: Plans will shift: make the most of unexpected opportunities that arise. Stay Consistent:  Even during slow months, keep the committee meetings on the books. New ideas often emerge in conversation, and regular meetings help advance progress! Celebrate Every Win:  Publicly acknowledge progress, big or small. Recognition fuels momentum.

Written by Grace Garvey, Former Chair of the Plymouth Energy Commission As of December 19th, 2024, the Quincy Road PV solar array is online and producing clean energy! For those of you who do not know the history, the initial idea of this type of local power plant was incubated by the Plymouth Energy Commission (PEC) a decade or so ago. After Covid and some inactivity, the PEC revisited this idea and decided to either permanently park the conversation or move it forward. Move it forward the PEC did!   After a lot of research and back and forth presentations to the Selectboard, the PEC wrote a 2022 warrant which passed and gave the PEC a green light to research options and funding for a municipal solar array project. The PEC wrote another warrant for the 2023 Town Meeting focused on funding and construction of the solar array. This 2023 warrant passed by over 90% of the votes. The town then signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Barrington Power (BP). The PEC worked with BP to nail down the location on Quincy Road and to plan an array large enough to generate power to offset 70% of municipal building electricity usage requirements. The Quincy Road site is ideal because it was already owned by the town, has excellent southern exposure and consists of an open field which required minimal site work before construction.   Modeling shows a 1st year revenue of $22,000 and over $1,000,000 revenue during the 35-year anticipated life of the solar PV array. This is a net revenue, above and beyond loan payments and any costs related to insurance, operation, and maintenance.   The Municipality of Plymouth is eligible for a 30% elective pay credit through the Inflation Reduction Act and possibly an additional 10% because Plymouth qualifies for a low-income bonus credit. The Town will also receive a $10,000 rebate from the Public Utilities Commission. Aerial Image of the Array On December 16, 2024, the town celebrated with warm beverages and snacks in the airport building. The celebration ended with a ribbon cutting and a tour of the array.  Representatives from the offices of Senator Maggie Hassan and US Representative Ann McLane Kuster attended, along with Executive Councilor Karen Liot Hill, NH State Representatives Peter Lovett and Janet Lucas, town employees, past and current members of the PEC, and many members of the public.   Summary of Benefits to the Town: Dependable financial gain for the town of Plymouth Renewable energy investment Decreased carbon footprint Federal support through Inflation Reduction Act Optimum utilization of town-owned land Alignment with the town’s ecotourism vision Alignment with Town declaration of a “Climate Emergency” Alignment with two sections of Plymouth’s Master Plan   Thanks to many – to name just a few supporters:   *Highway Department for plowing out the airport parking array for the December 16, 2024 ribbon cutting celebration *Colin McIver, Airport Manager for hosting us *Carol Niewola & Colin McIver who helped navigate the FAA clearance to construct across from the airport *Scott Weden Town Manager & Anne Abear Town Finance Director who tirelessly helped to see this project over the finish line *Ted Vansant and Jack Bingham from Barrington Power who helped work through all the details and GCed the build *All past and present Selectboard members, particularly Bill Bolton who was our rock star and our SB liaison *The Town Voters * New Hampshire Electric Cooperative who was open to the town connecting a PV array with a design that did not fit into a neat box * Clean Energy NH * Community Development Finance Authority , particularly Scott Maslansky *Those who negotiated the Build Back Better Act through which we will get elective pay funds to help pay for the project

When Josh Green took a six-week grant writing class in Keene, he had no idea it would lead to a historic moment for the Town of Hinsdale . Less than a year later, Hinsdale secured $200,000 for its first-ever solar project, bringing long-term energy savings and sustainability to the community. As Josh stepped into his role as Community Development Coordinator, he knew Hinsdale had untapped potential but understood that making a meaningful impact would require access to the right resources. In late 2023, he and newly appointed Town Administrator, Kathryn Lynch, enrolled in a six-week grant writing course. Having to choose a grant to focus on writing during the course, Josh sought to use his new skills to apply for the NH Department of Energy (NH DOE)’s Municipal Solar Grant . His project centered on proposing the implementation of a PV (photovoltaic) solar array at the Hinsdale transfer station.   Proposed placement of the Hinsdale solar array “I was fortunate because the request for proposals (RFP) for Municipal Solar kept getting delayed, which allowed me ample time to prepare a strong grant application,” he states. “The classes taught by Suzanne Bansley in Keene were excellent, and I highly recommend them.”  Josh is driven by a deep commitment to strengthening his community and paving the way for a more sustainable future. He explains how his interest in energy efficient projects that benefit the town, along with key support from others, helped bring the project to life: “As a Community Development Coordinator, my passion is to make Hinsdale as energy-efficient as possible. In my view, the town lacks a future vision for infrastructure. I received invaluable assistance from Clean Energy NH circuit riders John Kondos and Frank Richter. John initially helped me select a suitable location for the solar project, and after his retirement, Frank took over. I could not have completed the grant application without their support, and I am extremely grateful for all their hard work.” Their efforts paid off. After submitting their proposal in early August 2024, Hinsdale was awarded $200,000 by the NH DOE through the grant program on September 17, 2024. “When we received notification of the award, I was in disbelief—I was so excited! This is a historic moment for the Town of Hinsdale, as we will be receiving solar arrays for the first time.”   The arrays are projected to save approximately $20,000 to $25,000 annually in electricity costs over the next 25 to 30 years. This is a significant benefit for a small town of 4,000 residents. The impact will help Hinsdale become less reliant on the grid, resulting in lower energy bills and enhanced energy security—ensuring a stable and sustainable power source for residents. Solar energy is a renewable resource that does not emit any of the pollutants that traditional energy sources do, leading to cleaner air and water and improved public health.  The solar grant didn’t just bring funding, it also sparked teamwork across departments. Implementing cross-department collaboration, with the Highway Department and Transfer Station, for example, helped provide a different perspective and set of expertise that determined the best siting opportunities and rollout for the project’s implementation. Josh also cited the benefits of working with reliable solar companies such as Barrington Power , to help guide the town towards the best options for their proposal.  The momentum for other projects has already started. Conversations about solar and energy efficiency are spreading, from solar arrays on the sewer plant’s roof to implementing energy efficient lighting at the local school. Even the town hall is undergoing an energy efficiency audit with NHSaves . “There’s so much opportunity to improve on the existing structures we have,” Josh states.  The town is currently waiting, along with all other New Hampshire communities awarded Municipal Solar Grant money, for the grant to be administered through the NH DOE. When the time comes, the town will be ready to continue the momentum. “The town’s current administration has a passion to move this town forward,” says Josh. “The future vision hasn’t been here for many years, and projects like this spark possibilities for that future into life. We’re ready to continue moving forwards.”

The majority of the participants in the docket that will determine the future of the local renewable energy industry agree to leave net metering in place unchanged. Nearly all of the parties in the latest net metering docket  have come to agreement as to what the future of the policy that supports local distributed energy generation will be. For those interested in reading the complete settlement agreement, you can find it linked here , but here is the abbreviated version of what the settling parties are asking the Commission to do: The current net metering structure, which was established in 2017 , shall remain in place for a period of at least two years.  Two years after the release of the Commission’s order in this docket, the utilities shall propose new Net Metering Time of Use Rates.   New projects that take part in the net metering program shall be allowed to do so for a period of 20 years , after which point they will transition onto whatever new tariffs are available at that time.  The utilities shall create a new system of application fees  for net metered projects to reduce the administrative costs borne by non-net-metering customers. These fees range from $200 to $1,000 per project.  The utilities shall commence  an 18-month period of data collection,  which will gather more information regarding net metering generation profiles, customer consumption trends, and other necessary information to make wise decisions about the future of net metering in the next docket.  Why did the settling parties decide on these terms?  It’s valuable to consider the context. As a result of cuts to the net metering program in 2017 , New Hampshire already has the lowest net metering reimbursement rate in New England. Local solar in NH is credited at around 10 cents per kWh for large projects, and 14.7 cents per kWh for excess generation smaller ones. In Maine projects are paid between 13 and 25 cents per kWh, and in Vermont the rate is 16 cents per kWh. In Southern New England the reimbursement rates are even higher. Unlike the surrounding states, New Hampshire has a very “ thrifty and frugal ” net metering program. The settlement comes following the release of the Value of Distributed Energy Resources report in 2022 , which found that there is  no “unreasonable” cost-shifting occurring  as a result of net metering. CENH’s testimony  suggests that the reverse may actually be true, and local generation may be  decreasing electricity rates for all consumers . The utilities themselves agree  that net metering should be allowed to remain in place, a position that surprised  industry watchers across the country, and local renewable projects are helping to reinvest in the grid by paying for needed upgrades to distribution system as they interconnect.  The settling parties include almost all of the participants in the docket. The only participating parties that have remained outside of the settlement are doing so for slightly diverging points of view. The Community Power Coalition would like to see  a system that creates a time-varying net metering price signal put into place sooner rather than later, and the Department of Energy simply wants status quo . No party has argued for cuts to net metering. But perhaps most importantly, for the first time in decades, energy growth is forecast to grow rapidly in New England . We are going to need all of the electrons we can get our hands on, and for better or worse, smaller-scale distributed generation is much easier to get built  than large centralized power plants, which have a tendency to attract local pushback and litigation. The settlement agreement represents a common-sense approach to net metering policy that fits with New Hampshire’s history and context. This is not a state with large amounts of solar power already deployed, so there is no imminent need to move away from net metering towards a more administratively complicated tariff as of this time. However, in recognition of the fact that as variable renewable energy deployment increases, it will be increasingly important to move towards more flexible rate designs that differentiate the value of an electron based on when it is delivered, the settlement provides a date certain by which the utilities will submit a proposal to do just that. If adopted, this settlement would proactively move us towards that future, while at the same time not snuffing out the market for distributed generation. The settlement will only take effect if the PUC issues an order adopting the proposed recommendations. The PUC hearing in August regarding the docket is cruical in determining whether these recommendations are implemented. For a deeper dive into how NEM impacts you and your community , and how you can lend your voice to the effort to preserve and strengthen NEM in NH, explore our NEM webpage and factsheet .