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HB 1285

establishing a commission to study if New Hampshire may implement an R-PACER program.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Peggy Balboni and 4 co-sponsors

HB 1285 establishes a commission to study whether New Hampshire can implement residential property tax-based financing for energy efficiency and renewable energy improvements.

Refer to Interim Study, MA, VV; 05/07/2026; SJ 11
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Bill Summary · HB 1285

Legislative bill overview

HB 1285 establishes a commission to study the feasibility of implementing an R-PACER (Residential Property Assessed Clean Energy) program in New Hampshire. R-PACER programs allow property owners to finance energy efficiency, renewable energy, and water conservation improvements through assessments on their property tax bills. The bill creates a study group to evaluate whether and how such a program could work in the state.

Why is this important

R-PACER programs can help homeowners finance costly upgrades (solar panels, insulation, heat pumps) with repayment tied to the property rather than the individual, potentially increasing accessibility to clean energy investments. The outcome of this commission study will determine whether New Hampshire pursues a new financing mechanism that could accelerate residential energy transitions and property improvements. This touches on energy policy, property taxation, consumer finance, and climate goals.

Potential points of contention

  • Taxpayer burden: Critics may worry that property tax-based financing could shift costs to other taxpayers or create complications if properties are sold or foreclosed
  • Consumer protection: Questions about oversight, predatory lending risks, and whether homeowners fully understand long-term tax assessment obligations tied to their properties
  • Market role: Debate over whether government should facilitate private energy retrofit financing or if private markets adequately serve this need

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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