Bedford Development News
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Development News from the latest meeting
CPACE Program Discussed as Potential Financial Tool for Commercial Energy Improvements
The Energy Commission discussed the CPACE program, which provides financing for energy improvements for commercial properties. The program allows debt to be placed on the tax bill, offering security to lenders. New Hampshire has expanded the program to include more towns, and legislation now allows town select boards to adopt CPACE without waiting for town meetings. While the program is currently for commercial entities, there is potential for it to include residential use in the future if successful. The program is seen as a competitive advantage for commercial developers and can be used for building envelope improvements, not just solar panels. There have been no formal letters of endorsement from Bedford businesses yet, but large commercial retailers are typically sophisticated users of such programs.
Chubbuck Road Solar Facility Update: Inverter Replacement Underway, Public Dashboard Clarity Needed
The Energy Commission received an update on the Chubbuck Road Solar Facility. Gene Walker reported that the system is operational but one inverter has been non-functional since installation. A replacement has been ordered and is expected to be installed within one to two weeks, which should increase production. The commission also discussed the online dashboard for monitoring energy production, with members expressing a desire for a simpler explanation for the public to understand the data, potentially through a guide or primer on the town's website. They also discussed the difficulty in tracking town-wide energy consumption across 53 meters due to manual data collection from Eversource bills.
New Hampshire Saves Program to Audit Historic Town Buildings; Balcony Solar and Battery Storage Legislation Noted
The commission received an update on New Hampshire Saves, a program that partners with Eversource and energy audit companies like SEADS to assess historic town buildings. The audits will take place during colder weather, with information expected by year-end. Improvements funded by NH Saves may also be identified during budget season. The commission also noted that the Local Energy Solutions Conference will be held on November 12th in Manchester. Additionally, legislation has passed allowing for 'balcony solar' systems (limited to 1,200 watts) which can be plugged directly into household outlets without utility interconnection, and a bill related to battery storage in net-metered systems is moving forward.
Community Power Aggregation Program Update: Rate Decisions Pending, Higher Costs Unlikely for Participation This Year
The Energy Commission discussed the Community Power Aggregation Program (CPACER). Eversource has proposed a rate increase of over three cents per kilowatt-hour, which is under review by the Public Utilities Commission (PUC). The Community Power Purchasing Group of New Hampshire (CPCNH) is set to announce its rate, which is expected to be slightly higher than Eversource's to rebuild reserves. It is currently unlikely that the town will join the CPACER program this year if CPCNH's rate remains higher than Eversource's. The commission will review the final rates in July to make a recommendation to the town council.
Future Solar Projects Explored for Town Facilities; School Solar Viability Under Review Amidst Technological Advances
The commission discussed future solar projects, including potential installations at the pool and highway garage, and noted the long lead times involved. They also considered solar projects for schools, acknowledging that while school roofs can support solar panels, past financial analyses showed long payback periods (around 20 years) which made them difficult to approve. However, with advancements in technology and rising electricity rates, payback periods may now be shorter (around 12 years). The commission stressed that while direct purchase might have meager returns, power purchase agreements could be explored, but the financial viability remains a key consideration. They also discussed the possibility of advertising NH Saves programs via banners at locations like the transfer station or schools.
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The Bedford News archive
Energy Commission Meeting Thursday June 25 2026 06/25/2026
Town Council Meeting Wednesday June 24 2026 06/24/2026
Town Manager Report with Rick Sawyer Wednesday June 24 2026 06/24/2026
June 23, 2026 Conservation Commission Agenda
Highway Safety Committee Meeting Tuesday June 23 2026 06/23/2026
Conservation Commission Meeting Tuesday June 23 2026 06/23/2026
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