I.       Introduction

Earlier this year, voters in 157 New Hampshire towns decided to make their concern about climate change official. They voted for an unprecedented Climate Change Resolution that calls on the federal government to prioritize climate change policy. It also recommends local action in the form of town energy committees and policy.

Why the recent support? People have become increasingly aware of how climate change will affect them personally. Scientists predict that by the end of the century, temperatures in New England will equal those of Virginia or Georgia, putting New Hampshire’s valued natural resources – including fall foliage, annual snowfall, forestry, and the maple syrup industry – at risk  People feel more uncomfortable than ever with high fuel prices, reliance on foreign oil, and dirty energy sources such as coal.

Given these concerns, many people want to take action now to reduce energy consumption, increase energy efficiency, and develop new sources of clean, renewable power.  The success of the Climate Change Resolution throughout the state indicates this commitment.

Local energy committees are an important way to help inform decision makers and voters on how to advance cost-effective strategies that save energy and reduce waste. Through new initiatives and strong policies, New Hampshire communities can set a course toward a sustainable energy future that others nationwide may follow.

Energy efficiency is not really a new concept; in fact, the vast majority of hot planning topics are so entwined into matters of energy efficiency that they have gone unrecognized:

            Smart Growth –

·         Mixed use development, local economies, and public transportation reduce inefficient commuting and economic patterns that result in lower fossil fuel dependence and encourage practices that lower energy costs, use, and emissions.

            CIPs –

·         Long range fiscal planning.  Consider the idea that energy no longer is considered a remote “service” but and integral infrastructure.  When combined with security concerns related to back-up power, you have an exciting new way to save money and achieve other municipal and planning goals.

            Transit Oriented Design -