New Hampshire Electric Laws and Incentives

State Incentives

Alternative Fuel Vehicle (AFV) and Fueling Infrastructure Project Funding

The New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (DES) and the Granite State Clean Cities Coalition (GSCCC) provide competitive funding on a cost reimbursement basis for AFVs, advanced technology vehicles, and alternative fueling infrastructure. Only projects located in ozone non-attainment or maintenance areas in the state are eligible for funding. For more information see the GSCCC Web site.

State Laws and Regulations

Alternative Fuel Vehicle (AFV) Study

The Alternate Fuel Vehicle Study Commission (Commission) is established to study the existing road and taxation rules associated with AFVs, including, but not limited to, electric vehicles, hybrid electric vehicles, and any vehicles that are not powered totally by gasoline engines. Specifically, the Commission will evaluate whether operating restrictions for AFVs and methods of providing funds for their use on highways should be established. The Commission will report its findings and recommended legislative action to the Legislature by November 1, 2009. (Reference House Bill 515, 2009)

Idle Reduction and Fuel-Efficient, Low Emission Vehicle Acquisition Requirements

State agencies and departments are required to implement a Clean Fleets Program in accordance with the recommendations of the Energy Efficiency in State Government Steering Committee, including but not limited to the following components:

1. An anti-idling policy;
2. A highway fuel economy rating of at least 27.5 miles per gallon (mpg) for all new passenger and light-duty vehicles and at least 20 mpg for all new light-duty trucks except for emergency and law enforcement vehicles;
3. All new passenger and light-duty vehicles be certified as low emission vehicles in accordance with the recommendations of the Energy Efficiency in State Government Steering Committee;
4. A policy ensuring that the appropriate vehicle is selected for the intended use of the vehicle;
5. All vehicle purchases be in compliance with the Energy Policy Act of 1992 (EPAct) if applicable;
6. A waiver procedure for requesting vehicles not on the approved Department of Administrative Services vehicle list;
7. Additional measures to promote fuel conservation.

(Reference Executive Order 2005-4)

Neighborhood Electric Vehicle (NEV) Access to Roadways

An NEV is any four-wheel electric vehicle capable of achieving a top speed between 20 and 25 miles per hour (mph), and complies with the federal equipment and safety standards in Title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations, Section 571.500. NEVs may only operate on roads that have a posted speed limit of 35 mph or less, but are not restricted from crossing roadways with speeds limits greater than 35 mph. (Reference New Hampshire Revised Statutes 259:66-b; 265:158; and 266:114)