Dear Chair Avard and Members of the Committee,
My name is Loreley Godfrey and I am 17 years old from Portsmouth, New Hampshire. Today I
am speaking on behalf of Seacoast Students for Sustainability, a student-led organization that
supports SB448-FN.
I’m here today because our organization finds it essential that our state government follows
through on previously-existing goals. In 2016, we wanted to reduce fossil fuel consumption by
25% by 2025 compared to a 2005 baseline. Today, we can still achieve that goal if we adopt the
measures recommended by this bill.
Firstly, this bill expands the individuals to which the annual report on state building’s energy
efficiency is sent. This requires no additional work or expenditures but only allows for increased
accountability. More individuals would be directly informed of this goal’s progress, and thus can
support and encourage its accomplishment. This would be an effective way of spreading
awareness & promoting action.
Secondly, this bill would have the State of New Hampshire prioritize economical energy
efficiency in terms of properties and vehicles leased or owned by the state. Furthermore, it would
encourage municipalities to adopt similar standards. Our State would demonstrate what it means
to value New Hampshire by showing local governments and citizens the economic and
environmental benefit of transitioning to renewable energy. This would not only have ripple
effects across New Hampshire, but it put us closer to achieving our 2016 goal of reduced fossil
fuel consumption.
And thirdly, this bill requires the use of zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) to minimize carbon
reduction. This would be an effective mechanism through which to achieve our goal. It is
undeniable that accommodating this aspect of the bill requires indeterminable funds, charging
stations, and new vehicles – but all these concerns can be offset by the forthcoming benefits to
our environment and our populace.
This bill does a couple other things as well, namely reaffirming the already-established State
Government Energy Committee and redefining a “state-owned vehicle.” But at its core is the
intention of reducing our carbon footprint and protecting our environment.
This bill would minimize our government’s negative impact on the beautiful New Hampshire
environment we call home while ultimately saving expenditures in the long-run. It encourages
and sets an example for other municipalities and states to adopt green, renewable, &
energy-efficient methods for powering government functions. And finally, it establishes a system
of accountability and follow-through to ensure we actually achieve this. For these reasons,
Seacoast Students for Sustainability urges you to vote OTP.
I will take any questions.
Written by Loreley Godfrey, Legislation Director of SS4S
February 6, 2022