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  • Donate | Clean Energy NH

    Become a member of Clean Energy NH! Pay for your membership or donate here DONATE TO CLEAN ENERGY NH Support clean energy progress in the Granite State. With your contribution to Clean Energy NH, you are powering the technical assistance we provide to local communities, show support for smart policies that will help New Hampshire residents feel more comfortable in their homes while reducing energy waste, and protect Granite State clean energy businesses, their workforce and their interests at the State House in Concord. Power our work with your gift by donating today! Make a secure, online donation or set-up a sustaining monthly donation. DONATE HERE If you wish to pay via check, please make checks payable to "Clean Energy NH" and mail to: Clean Energy NH, 125 N. State Street, Concord, NH 03301 BECOME A MEMBER OR SHOW YOUR SUPPORT: RIGHT AWAY MONTHLY GIVING Monthly giving is a convenient way to show your support for our organization each month, while being easy on your budget and reducing our fundraising costs. Select 'Make this a monthly donation' via the online donation page . BE PART OF OUR LEADERSHIP CIRCLE Being part of the Leadership Circle provides us with the flexibility to place resources in our greatest area of need. Individuals that make a gift of $1,000 or more, and businesses that contribute $7,500 or more annually, receive special access to expert advocacy and policy support to energy questions, invitations to exclusive meetings, and special acknowledgement on our website. THROUGH A DONOR-ADVISED FUND A donor-advised fund (DAF) is like a charitable investment account that is set up for the sole purpose of supporting charities. Individuals can contribute cash, stocks, or other assets into the DAF and receive an immediate tax deduction. Those funds are invested for tax-free growth and the individual can recommend donations to charities of their choice over time. IN HONOR OR MEMORY OF Provide a gift in honor or memory of a family member or friend. This allows you to provide a gift that shares your commitment to sustainability, and a strong and healthy future for New Hampshire, in another person's name. COMPANY MATCH / WORKPLACE GIVING Many private-sector employers, and state/local/federal government employers offer company matches or workplace giving as an employee benefit. Inquire with your employer if it matches company donations. This may allow for you to double the impact of your gift! Ask a member of Human Resources if you can contribute to Clean Energy NH through a payroll deduction or as an end-of-year contribution. Donations submitted through this site are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law and are processed in U.S. dollars. The New Hampshire Sustainable Energy Association d/b/a Clean Energy NH is a U.S. nonprofit, tax-exempt charitable organization under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.

  • Become A Member | Clean Energy NH

    Become a Member of CENH Today and support clean energy in the Granite State! MEMBERSHIP OUR PROMISE We deliver value by providing the knowledge, skills, and network for all energy and clean tech solutions BUILDING RELATIONSHIPS TRANSFORMING THE CLEAN ENERGY ECONOMY. We build relationships among people and organizations using a fact-based approach that offers objective, balanced, and practical insights for transforming the Granite State’s clean energy economy and sustaining its citizens’ way of life. Support from our members enables us not only to continue our vital work, but to share their voices with those who need to hear them the most. Whatever drives you, be it high energy costs, the economy, jobs, expansion of renewable energy, or the impacts of climate change, membership with CENH is the best way to support clean energy in the Granite State. VISIT OUR LIST OF MEMBERS MEMBERSHIP LEVELS AND BENEFITS BUSINESS MEMBERSHIP From the Energy Industry & Beyond We’re addressing NH’s high energy rates by promoting innovation and the development of a long-term clean energy policy that will provide business opportunities, attract new industries, and inspire financial investments in the Granite State. Our members represent nearly 20 sectors of the economy, far beyond the energy industry. Learn more about how CENH is taking action for the business community. JOIN NOW JOIN NOW JOIN NOW JOIN NOW JOIN NOW JOIN NOW Nonprofits are eligible for a discounted rate. Membership - Business Membership - Individuals INDIVIDUAL MEMBERSHIP Across New England to Around the Country We’re dedicated to lowering energy costs for NH citizens by advocating for change in the way that energy is generated, stored, and used and using fact-based information to communicate the benefits if growing the state’s clean energy economy. We provide unbiased information on energy efficiency, clean energy generation, and policy options to empower individuals with knowledge and strengthen local decision making on where we get our energy and how we use it. Learn more about how CENH is fighting for NH's clean energy future. JOIN NOW JOIN NOW JOIN NOW JOIN NOW OR SHOW YOUR SUPPORT WITH A DONATION DONATE HERE MUNICIPAL MEMBERSHIP From the White Mountains to the Seacoast We're experienced in assisting local energy committees, municipal staff, school staff, and community leaders in the pursuit and successful completion of clean energy and energy efficiency projects so NH's municipalities can save money, become energy independent, and meet their sustainability goals. Learn more about our local energy solutions work. JOIN NOW JOIN NOW Membership - Municipality Have questions about Membership Levels? CONTACT OUR MEMBERSHIP COORDINATOR

  • Small Business Technical Assistance | Clean Energy NH

    The USDA Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) provides grants for small businesses and agricultural producers to invest in energy efficiency and renewable energy technology. REAP grants cover up to 50% of eligible project costs. Eligible technologies include solar, wind, geothermal, wood heat or power, anaerobic digesters, weatherization, the installation of energy efficient equipment, and more. SMALL BUSINESS AND AGRICULTURAL TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE AIDING NH SMALL BUSINESSES AND FARMS Small businesses and farmers are the backbone of New Hampshire communities. Rising energy costs are a significant burden for many business owners. Clean Energy NH (CENH) is ready to help small businesses and farms invest in energy efficiency and renewable energy generation to provide resiliency, stability, and energy savings for years to come. CENH’s team of Small Business Circuit Riders provides no-cost technical assistance to small business owners and farmers across the state. We help businesses create comprehensive plans for energy saving projects, secure grant funds to lower upfront cost, and find qualified contractors to get the work done. GET FREE ASSISTANCE NOW! Interested in energy-saving projects for your business or farm? Find out if you're eligible for REAP grant funding by clicking the button below and completing a brief questionnaire. We’ll follow up to discuss your options and next steps. CLICK HERE GRANT FUNDING AVAILABLE The USDA Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) provides grants for small businesses and agricultural producers to invest in energy efficiency and renewable energy technology. REAP grants cover up to 25% of eligible project costs . Eligible technologies include solar, wind, geothermal, wood heat or power, anaerobic digesters, weatherization, the installation of energy efficient equipment, and more. Clean Energy NH is an approved REAP Technical Assistance provider, meaning we have funding from USDA to help small businesses apply for a REAP grant. Let us help your business determine your REAP grant eligibility, identify the right energy-saving project for your business, apply for REAP grant funding, and complete your project. Application deadlines: March 31, 2025 September 30, 2025 December 31, 2025 Questions about the program and eligibility? Contact reap@cleanenergynh.org for more information. UPCOMING EVENTS No events at the moment FAQs Am I required to be a small business to apply for REAP and how does the USDA define a small business? You must be a for-profit small business to qualify for REAP funds. The Small Business Association (SBA) defines the size limits of small businesses through the corresponding NAICS code on your tax return. Are nonprofits eligible for REAP? No, only for-profit agricultural producers and small businesses are eligible. Can an application be submitted to install the same type of technology at multiple business locations? Each location would need to be owned by the exact same legal entity. If the technology to be installed at each location is the same, for example installing solar PV at each location, filing a single application is eligible. If solar will be installed at one location and wind installed at another location, the applicant would need to choose which application to file to compete within a fiscal year. An applicant can only complete one renewable energy system application and one energy efficiency application in a fiscal year. Are electric vehicle charging stations eligible under REAP? A stand alone electric vehicle charging station is not eligible under REAP. A charging station that is part of a renewable energy system, such as a solar powered EV charge station, would be eligible as long as the energy will not be dispensed for retail use, e.g. self-use by applicant entity only. What is classified as an energy efficiency project? An energy efficiency project is defined as improvements to or replacement of an existing building or systems or equipment, owned by the applicant, that reduces energy consumption on an annual basis. An energy audit or energy assessment is required which shows energy savings (kwh/btu) as a result of the proposed improvements. Examples include but are not limited to: lighting, refrigeration, heating, ventilation and cooling, automated controls, and insulation. Would the installation of new energy efficient equipment inside a newly built building with no historical energy use be eligible for REAP funds? No, energy efficiency REAP applications must show a reduction in historical energy use (kwh/btu). Strong REAP applications show that grant funds can help a business reduce their energy use and energy costs.

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  • Community-Driven Progress Powers Energy Savings in Randolph

    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.

  • Major Milestone for Plymouth: Town Flips the Switch on Solar Power

    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

  • A Historic First: Hinsdale’s Journey to Solar Power and Energy Savings

    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.”

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  • Small Business Membership

    Small Business Membership Benefits: Exclusive use of organizational resources Internal expertise on the NH industry & navigating policies & regulations Expert advocacy & policy support, including representation at the State House & state agencies (PUC, etc) Unsurpassed networking opportunities throughout the year Access to our members-only list for exclusive event invitations & discounts throughout NH & New England Exposure through our website, newsletter, & social media platforms & PR support Direct engagement with policymakers Exhibitor discount at the LES Conference Invitation to the members-only annual Holiday Dinner Listing as a valued member in our annual reports Opportunity to join our elite Speaker’s Bureau Opportunity to participate in our “Member Spotlight” program One (1) free registration for designated employee to the LES Conference Certificate to display the company’s commitment to clean energy Access to CENH”S weekly policy calls during the legislative session for two (2) emloyees Ability to post job openings on our website’s career platform

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