1. What is the main electricity provider in New Hampshire?

The main electricity provider in New Hampshire is Eversource Energy, formerly known as Public Service Company of New Hampshire (PSNH).

2. How does the electricity market work in New Hampshire?

The electricity market in New Hampshire operates on a competitive model, meaning that consumers have the ability to choose their own electricity provider. This competition between providers encourages lower prices and better customer service.

1. Generation: Electricity is created at power plants through various sources such as coal, natural gas, wind, and solar. These power plants then sell their electricity on the wholesale market.

2. Transmission: The electricity from the power plants is then transmitted through high-voltage transmission lines to local utilities.

3. Distribution: The local utilities are responsible for distributing the electricity to homes and businesses through a network of poles, wires, and transformers.

4. Retail Supply: Consumers in New Hampshire can choose their retail supplier of electricity. These suppliers purchase electricity from the wholesale market and sell it to customers at competitive rates.

5. Billing: Regardless of which supplier a consumer chooses, they will still receive one bill from their local utility company for all energy charges including generation and distribution costs.

6. Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS): In New Hampshire, there is an RPS program that requires a certain percentage of the state’s energy to come from renewable sources each year. This encourages the use of clean energy in the state.

7. Energy Efficiency Programs: The state also offers energy efficiency programs to help consumers reduce their energy consumption and save money on their bills.

8. Public Utilities Commission (PUC): The PUC oversees the regulation of electric utilities in New Hampshire to ensure fair prices and reliable service for consumers.

9. Supplier Switching: Consumers can switch their retail supplier at any time if they are not satisfied with their current one or if they find a better deal with another provider.

10. Default Service: If a consumer does not actively choose a retail supplier, they will automatically be enrolled in default service through their local utility company at a set rate determined by the PUC.

3. Can I choose my own electricity provider in New Hampshire?

Yes, residents and businesses in New Hampshire have the ability to choose their own electricity provider through a process called electric choice or customer choice.

4. How do I choose an electricity provider in New Hampshire?
To choose an electricity provider in New Hampshire, you can compare rates and plans from different providers online or by contacting them directly. You should also consider factors such as contract length, billing options, and customer service reputation when making your decision.

4. How are electricity rates determined in New Hampshire?

Electricity rates in New Hampshire are determined by a combination of factors including the cost of producing and delivering electricity, government regulations and policies, and market demand.

1. Production Costs: The cost of generating electricity is a major factor in determining rates. This includes the cost of fuel, maintenance, and upgrades for power plants, as well as renewable energy sources such as wind and solar.

2. Distribution Costs: Utilities must also cover the costs of distributing electricity to customers through transmission lines, substations, and other infrastructure. These costs can vary depending on the size and density of the utility’s service area.

3. Government Regulations: State and federal regulations can affect electricity rates by requiring utilities to invest in certain types of infrastructure or meet specific standards for renewable energy production.

4. Market Demand: In a deregulated market like New Hampshire, competitive suppliers purchase electricity at wholesale prices from generators and sell it to customers at retail prices. This means that market demand can also impact electricity rates as suppliers compete for customers.

5. Customer Base: The size and diverse needs of a utility’s customer base can also affect rates. For example, utilities with a larger percentage of commercial or industrial customers may have lower rates because these customers use more power during off-peak hours when electricity is cheaper.

6. Seasonal Variations: Weather patterns can influence electricity pricing in New Hampshire due to seasonal demands for heating during colder months or air conditioning during hotter months.

7. Long-Term Contracts: Some utilities enter into long-term contracts with power generators to secure fixed prices for their customers over an extended period of time.

8. Transmission Fees: Regional transmission organizations charge fees based on each utility’s usage of their transmission system. These fees are then passed on to customers through their electric bills.

9. Renewable Energy Mandates: In New Hampshire, there are state mandates that require utilities to produce a certain amount of their electricity from renewable sources like wind and solar. This can also impact electricity rates as these sources may be more expensive to produce.

10. Customer Choice: In New Hampshire, customers have the ability to choose their electricity supplier, so rates may vary between different suppliers. Customers can shop around and compare rates from different suppliers to find the best deal for their energy needs.

5. What factors can affect my monthly electricity bill in New Hampshire?

1. Consumption: The amount of electricity you use in a month will have a significant impact on your bill. Higher usage will result in a higher bill, while lower consumption will lead to a lower bill.

2. Seasonal Demand: The change in season can affect your electricity bill. In New Hampshire, winters tend to be colder and longer, resulting in higher heating costs. Summers can also be hot and humid, leading to higher cooling costs.

3. Rate Plan: The type of rate plan you are subscribed to can influence your electricity bill. Fixed-rate plans offer stability, as the rate remains the same throughout the year, while variable-rate plans may have fluctuating prices depending on market conditions.

4. Time of Use: Some utility companies offer time-of-use rates where the cost per unit of electricity varies depending on the time of day or day of the week. Using electricity during peak hours can result in a higher bill compared to off-peak hours.

5. Energy Efficiency: Energy-efficient homes use less electricity and can result in a lower monthly bill. Upgrading to energy-efficient appliances, using LED lights, and proper insulation can help reduce your overall energy consumption.

6. Local Taxes and Fees: Your electricity bill may include additional taxes and fees imposed by local or state governments.

7. Billing Errors: Sometimes errors can occur in billing due to inaccurate meter readings or incorrect data input by the utility company, resulting in an erroneous high or low bill.

8. Renewable Energy Programs: Your utility company may offer programs that allow you to purchase renewable energy from them at a premium price, which could increase your monthly bill.

9. Changes in Electricity Rates: Electricity rates may increase due to changes in regulations, increased demand for power, or inflation, leading to higher bills for consumers.

10 . Additional Services and Charges: Other charges such as installation fees for new connections or service calls made by technicians can also contribute to an increase in your monthly bill.

6. Are there renewable energy options available from electricity providers in New Hampshire?

Yes, there are renewable energy options available from electricity providers in New Hampshire. Some of the options include:

1. Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs): Many electricity providers offer customers the option to purchase RECs, which represent the environmental benefits of generating electricity from renewable sources.

2. Green Power Plans: Some providers offer green power plans, where a certain percentage of the electricity supplied to customers comes from renewable sources.

3. Community Solar: Some utilities also offer community solar programs, where customers can subscribe to a portion of a shared solar installation and receive credit on their bill for the energy produced by their share.

4. Net Metering: In New Hampshire, net metering allows customers with solar panels or other renewable energy systems to receive credit on their bill for any excess electricity they generate and send back to the grid.

5. Time-of-Use Rates: Some utilities offer time-of-use rates, where customers pay lower rates for using electricity during off-peak hours when renewable energy production is typically higher.

6. Direct Purchase Agreements: Some larger commercial or industrial customers may have the option to directly purchase renewable energy from a supplier or developer through a contract or power purchase agreement (PPA).

Overall, there are various options available for customers who want to support renewable energy development and reduce their carbon footprint in New Hampshire.

7. What is the process for switching electricity providers in New Hampshire?

1. Research: Before you switch electricity providers, research different providers in your area to compare prices, contract terms, and available plans.
2. Check current contract: If you are currently under a contract with your current provider, check the terms for early termination fees or expiration dates.
3. Contact new provider: Contact the new provider of your choice and inform them that you would like to switch to their service.
4. Provide necessary information: The new provider will ask for your personal information, including name, address, account number, and possibly social security number for identity verification.
5. Choose a plan: Work with the new provider to choose a plan that best fits your needs and budget.
6. Schedule switch date: The new provider will inform you of the date when your service will be switched over from the old provider to the new one.
7. Notify old provider: Contact your old provider to inform them that you are switching and request that they cancel your service on the specified date.
8. Final bill: Make sure to pay any remaining balance owed to your old provider before switching over to avoid any disruption in service.
9. Meter reading: On the day of the switch, a meter reading may be required by both providers to ensure accurate billing.
10. Enjoy services with new provider: Once everything is switched over, you can start enjoying services with your new electricity provider in New Hampshire.

8. Does deregulation of the electricity market apply to New Hampshire?

Yes, deregulation of the electricity market does apply to New Hampshire. The state enacted electric utility restructuring laws in 1996, allowing for competition in the retail electricity market. Customers have the option to choose their electricity supplier instead of being limited to one utility company.

9. How do I report an issue with my electricity provider in New Hampshire?

If you are having an issue with your electricity provider in New Hampshire, there are several steps you can take to report it and seek resolution:

1. Contact your electricity provider: The first step is to reach out to your electricity provider directly. You can find their contact information on your bill or on their website. Explain the issue you are having and ask for a resolution.

2. Submit a complaint to the New Hampshire Public Utilities Commission (PUC): If you are not satisfied with the response from your electricity provider, you can submit a complaint to the PUC. You can do this online, by phone, or by mail.

3. Contact the Office of Consumer Advocate: The Office of Consumer Advocate (OCA) is an independent state agency that represents the interests of residential and small business utility customers in New Hampshire. They may be able to provide guidance and assistance with resolving your issue.

4. File a complaint with the Better Business Bureau (BBB): You can also file a complaint with the BBB, which will attempt to mediate between you and your electricity provider.

5. Consider seeking legal help: If other avenues have been unsuccessful, you may want to consult with an attorney who specializes in energy law for further assistance.

It is important to keep records of all communications and documentation related to your issue in case it needs to be referenced later on.

10. Are there any government programs or incentives for choosing certain electricity providers in New Hampshire?

There are no specific government programs or incentives for choosing certain electricity providers in New Hampshire. However, the state does have a deregulated energy market, which allows customers to choose their own energy supplier from a variety of options. This competition can potentially lead to lower prices and better services for consumers. Additionally, some municipalities in New Hampshire have Community Choice Aggregation (CCA) programs that allow them to negotiate better rates for their residents with electricity suppliers. Customers may also be eligible for energy efficiency and renewable energy incentives through statewide programs such as the Residential Energy Efficiency Programs and the Commercial & Industrial Retrofit Program.

11. Can I negotiate my electricity rates with providers in New Hampshire?

Yes, you can negotiate your electricity rates with providers in New Hampshire. Many providers offer different plans and pricing options, so it is a good idea to compare rates and negotiate with multiple providers before making a decision. Some factors that may affect your negotiation power include your credit score, energy usage history, and the provider’s current promotions or incentives. It can also be helpful to research the average electricity rates in your area to have a baseline for negotiation.

12. Is there a maximum amount of time I can be without power from my chosen provider in New Hampshire during outages or emergencies?

There is no maximum amount of time specified by the state for power outages or emergencies. However, utility companies are required to restore power as quickly and safely as possible. The specific timeline for restoring power will depend on the severity of the outage and the resources available to the company.

13. Are there any penalties for cancelling service with an electricity provider in New Hampshire?

The details and penalties for cancelling service with an electricity provider in New Hampshire may vary depending on the specific terms of your contract with the provider. Generally, there may be early termination fees or other charges associated with cancelling service before the end of your contract term. It is important to carefully review your contract and contact your provider for more information about any potential penalties for cancelling service.

14. How are transmission and distribution charges factored into my bill from an electricity provider in New Hampshire?

Transmission and distribution charges are included in your bill from an electricity provider in New Hampshire as separate line items. These charges reflect the cost of delivering electricity from the sources of generation to your local utility, as well as the maintenance and operation of the power grid infrastructure. This portion of your bill is regulated by the New Hampshire Public Utilities Commission (PUC) and is subject to periodic reviews and adjustments.

15. What steps should I take if I have issues with my current electric provider in regards to reliability, safety, or customer service?

1. Contact your electric provider: The first step to resolving any issue is to contact your electric provider directly. You can reach out to their customer service department via phone, email, or through their website.

2. Document the issue: Make sure to keep a record of any communication you have with your electric provider and document the details of the issue you are experiencing.

3. Check for known outages: If you are experiencing a power outage or other issue, check your electric provider’s website or social media accounts for updates on any known outages in your area.

4. Report safety concerns: If you have any safety concerns such as downed power lines or exposed wires, do not hesitate to report them immediately to your electric provider and local authorities.

5. Consider filing a complaint: If your issue is not resolved after contacting your electric provider, you may consider filing a complaint with your state’s public utility commission or consumer protection agency.

6. Research other providers: If you are consistently dissatisfied with your current electric provider, research other providers in your area and consider switching.

7. Advocate for change: You can also get involved in advocacy efforts to voice your concerns about reliability, safety, or customer service with your local government and regulatory agencies.

8. Seek legal assistance: In extreme cases where safety is a concern or if you are facing issues over billing disputes, it may be necessary to seek legal assistance from a lawyer who specializes in utility law.

16. Is there a limit on how many times I can switch between different electric providers within a certain timeframe in New Hampshire?

No, there is no limit on how many times you can switch between different electric providers within a certain timeframe in New Hampshire. You are free to switch as often as you want to find the best plan and rate for your electricity needs. However, switching too frequently may result in early termination fees from your current provider. It is recommended that you carefully review the terms and conditions of your contract before switching to avoid any potential penalties.

17. Do all areas of New Hampshire have access to the same electric providers and services?

No, not all areas of New Hampshire have access to the same electric providers and services. The state is divided into service territories, and electric providers are only allowed to operate within their designated territories. This means that different parts of the state may have different electric providers and options for services. Additionally, some rural or remote areas may not have access to the same level of electric infrastructure and services as more urban areas.

18.To what extent does the state government regulate or oversee electric providers operating within its borders in New Hampshire?

The state government of New Hampshire regulates and oversees electric providers operating within its borders to a significant extent. The New Hampshire Public Utilities Commission (NHPUC) is responsible for regulating the rates, services, and practices of all electric providers in the state.

The NHPUC has the authority to approve or reject rate increases proposed by electric providers, ensure fair competition in the market, and enforce consumer protection laws. It also sets standards for service reliability, quality, and safety.

In addition, the state government has implemented policies and initiatives to promote clean energy and regulate utility companies’ carbon emissions. The Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) requires electric providers to obtain a certain percentage of their electricity from renewable sources each year. The Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI) also regulates carbon emissions from the electricity sector through a cap-and-trade system.

Furthermore, New Hampshire has a retail choice program that allows customers to choose their electricity supplier from a list of competitive providers. The NHPUC closely monitors this program to ensure fair pricing and prevent fraudulent or deceptive practices.

Overall, the state government plays a crucial role in overseeing and regulating electric providers in New Hampshire to protect consumers, promote clean energy, and maintain a competitive market.

19.How do municipalities and coop groups factor into the choice of electrical providers for residents of smaller towns and rural areas throughout New Hampshire?

In New Hampshire, residents in smaller towns and rural areas have a few options when it comes to choosing their electricity provider. They can either choose from a municipality-owned public utility or a cooperative group.

Municipality-owned public utilities are owned and operated by the local government. This means the town or city determines where the electricity comes from and how it is distributed to residents. The municipality may also set its own rates for electricity, which can sometimes be more affordable for residents.

Cooperative groups are owned by members of the community. Residents in rural areas can join together to form a cooperative group that buys electricity in bulk and distributes it to its members at discounted rates. These cooperatives often negotiate with energy suppliers on behalf of their members to secure lower prices.

The choice between a municipality-owned public utility or a cooperative group ultimately depends on the individual needs and preferences of each resident. In some cases, one option may be more cost-effective than the other, while other factors such as customer service and environmental impact may also play a role in decision-making.

Ultimately, both municipality-owned public utilities and cooperative groups offer viable alternatives for residents in smaller towns and rural areas who want more control over their electricity providers. It is important for individuals to research and compare different options to determine which will best meet their needs.

20.Can I request a copy of a detailed breakdown of all charges on my monthly utility bill from an electrical provider without penalty?

It depends on the policies of the specific electrical provider. Some providers may offer a detailed breakdown of charges upon request, while others may charge a fee for providing this information. It is best to contact your electrical provider directly to inquire about obtaining a copy of your billing details without penalty.