The Rockingham County Board of Commissioners convened on May 22, 2025, to address several pressing issues, particularly surrounding utility requirements and project management challenges faced by local municipalities. The meeting highlighted frustrations regarding the complexities of utility regulations that hinder progress on renewable energy projects.

A Kingston resident, who also identified as a Rockingham County resident, expressed concerns about the lengthy timelines and burdensome requirements imposed by utility companies. The resident noted that a similar project had been completed in half the time, attributing the delays to the stringent utility regulations that many municipalities are currently grappling with. This sentiment echoed a broader desire among local leaders to emulate the county's successful renewable energy initiatives, which have garnered state recognition.

The discussion then shifted to the technical aspects of the county's energy infrastructure, specifically the grounding transformers and protective systems in place. A representative raised questions about the necessity and effectiveness of these systems, particularly in scenarios where multiple protective measures might fail simultaneously. The representative pointed out that Eversource's own previous studies indicated that adding a grounding transformer bank would not enhance protection, raising doubts about the current recommendations from the utility.

Concerns were also voiced regarding potential financial implications, with estimates suggesting that the county could face significant losses—up to $3 million—if project delays continued. The commissioners acknowledged the need for further discussion on this matter, indicating plans to convene in a non-public session to explore possible actions moving forward.

Overall, the meeting underscored the ongoing challenges faced by Rockingham County in navigating utility regulations while striving to advance renewable energy projects. The commissioners are expected to deliberate on the next steps to address these issues and mitigate potential financial risks.