The New Hampshire House of Representatives passed a bill last week that would make the state part of the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI).
New Hampshire would be the 10th northeastern state to join the initiative, which is setting up a system of emissions allowances to reduce the emissions of greenhouse gasses.
Power plants in these states will be required to cut back emissions or purchase at auction allowances for their emissions overages. The initiative also aims to increase energy efficiency.
The house voted 214-107 to pass HG 1434, which authorizes the state to join the initiative. Opponents of the measure, note that electric rates are certain to rise in the state, if it joins, but proponents counter that rates will rise regardless. And as part of the RGGI, the state will benefit from funds generated by the auction of allowances for energy efficiency work.
The same argument is taking place nationally as the U.S. Congress prepares to take up legislation that would create a similar greenhouse gas initiative for the entire country.
New Hampshire Governor John Lynch is pushing for passage of the bill, which now must go to the state Senate.
"Our nine neighboring states are already committed to moving forward with RGGI. We must be a partner with them, or risk getting left behind," Lynch said after the House voted.
"Cutting our greenhouse gas pollution is the right thing to do for the long-term health of our citizens, the health of our environment and our economy," he said.
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