CONCORD — The House of Representatives voted today to uphold an inexpedient to legislate recommendation on HB 157, relative to the class rate for biomass. Rep. Peter Somssich (D-Portsmouth) released the following statement:
“House Bill 157 would lower the renewable energy credits earned by New Hampshire biomass plants in Class III of our Renewable Portfolio Standard. These biomass plants are indirectly responsible for the good health of the New Hampshire forests.
Like Gov. Sununu’s veto of SB 365 last year, this bill would endanger the viability of our biomass plants. These plants are currently supporting more than 1,000 jobs in the North Country and throughout New Hampshire, providing economic benefits from local business activities, property taxes and state fees. I am encouraged that my colleagues in the House once again voted to support the forest products industry by rejecting HB 157.”
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