January 17, 2008

 

 

Hon. Naida Kaen, Chair

House Science, Technology & Energy Committee

New Hampshire General Court

Legislative Office Bldg., Rm. 304

Concord, NH

 

RE:          Testimony in support of HB 1434, an Act relative to the regional greenhouse gas initiative and authorizing cap-and-trade programs for controlling carbon dioxide emissions

 

 

Representative Kaen and Members of the Committee,

 

                 My name is Patrick Arnold. I currently serve as Executive Director of the Campaign for Ratepayers Rights, a New Hampshire nonprofit organization.

 

Since 1983, our organization has been advocating for responsible energy policies that serve the best interests of New Hampshire’s utility consumers and citizens. I am here today to convey CRR’s strong support for HB 1434.

 

Some legislators and pundits have commented that the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative may well be the most significant piece of legislation to be considered during this legislative session. Our organization could not agree more.

 

                 CRR supports the cap-and-trade auction system proposed in the bill. The auction system is the fairest and most transparent mechanism by which to accomplish the goals of this program. CRR also believes that revenues from such auctions should be allocated towards energy efficiency programs, which undoubtedly serve the interests of New Hampshire’s ratepayers.

 

                 The committee has heard testimony from a variety of organizations and constituencies. The varied support for HB 1434 evidences the many reasons to adopt this legislation. Whether one is primarily concerned with the environment, public health, or the financial interest of the State’s residents, adopting the RGGI bill in New Hampshire is the right thing to do.

 

                 On behalf of the Campaign for Ratepayers Rights, we strongly urge the Committee to pass HB 1434. Thank you for your consideration and for the opportunity to comment on this landmark legislation.

 

                                                                                     Respectfully,

 

 

 

                                                                                     Patrick J. Arnold

                                                                                     Executive Director