Peter Laufenberg: Support MacLeod & Darcy in upcoming NHEC election

To The Daily Sun,

Recent letters regarding the New Hampshire Electric Cooperative Board election have emphasized renewable energy as the primary issue facing NHEC. While renewable energy is important, that single-issue approach overlooks the board’s broader responsibility: Ensuring affordability and reliability for NHEC’s 85,000 member-owners.

The board’s record on renewable energy is already strong. NHEC has been a leader among New Hampshire utilities in supporting local renewable projects through long-term contracts. Unlike other distribution utilities in the state, NHEC currently maintains long-term arrangements with two hydroelectric projects, three wind projects, and three solar projects, including NH Solar Shares community solar projects in Plymouth, Warren, and Center Harbor developed with the Plymouth Area Renewable Energy Initiative. NHEC also holds renewable energy certificate contracts with additional New Hampshire renewable projects, including municipal and school-based facilities.

NHEC has also established both 50% and 100% renewable energy rate options for members. Solar net metering has more than doubled since 2020, and NHEC invested in battery storage paired with its Moultonborough solar array. The Cooperative also supports plug-in solar legislation as a lower-cost way for members to expand renewable use and reduce electric bills.

At the same time, the board has maintained a focus on affordability and reliability. This year, it reduced the monthly member service charge by 16%. Since 2020, distribution rate increases have remained below inflation despite sharply rising equipment costs. Reliability also requires dispatchable power sources to balance intermittent solar and wind generation.

NHEC members deserve directors who already have a record of supporting renewable progress while also protecting affordability and reliability. That is why I encourage members to support incumbents Bob MacLeod and Bill Darcy in the upcoming election.

Peter Laufenberg

Thornton