Bedford commission hears measured update from CPCNH; launch unlikely before 2026 window

Members of the Town of Bedford Energy Commission reviewed a recent Community Power Coalition of New Hampshire (CPCNH) board meeting and heard that the next rate-setting period, from Aug. 1 through Jan. 2026, is not expected to yield rates below Eversource’s for Bedford customers.

Commissioners said CPCNH is rebuilding reserves, which is a major factor in the higher proposed rates. The board is also unpacking how wholesale charges from ISO New England and distribution-area capacity calculations affect customers differently across utilities such as Eversource, Unitil and New Hampshire Electric Cooperative.

Commission members described CPCNH’s approach as measured and thorough, noting that earlier rate and data issues have been corrected as CPCNH aligns charges with factual utility data. The commission said a cost-of-service allocation is being considered so customers in different distribution areas pay amounts aligned with the underlying ISO New England capacity and demand charges.

Commissioners do not expect a municipal opt-in before early 2026 and agreed to delay substantive local discussion until later in the year, when CPCNH’s reserve rebuilding and rate decisions are clearer. No formal action to opt the town into CPCNH was taken at the meeting.