Congresswoman Maggie Goodlander (D-NH) during her tour of the Jackson Mills Hydroelectric Plant on Aug. 20. She is shown with Robert Werner, state director of the League of Conservation Voters Action Fund. Courtesy photo

NASHUA – Congresswoman Maggie Goodlander (D-NH) recently toured the Jackson Mills Hydroelectric Plant as part of her ongoing push to lower utility costs and expand the use of clean energy.

According to the Low Impact Hydropower Institute, the 1.1-MW run-of-river plant has been in operation since 1984. Located off Canal Street, it generates enough energy for 663 homes.

“Here in New Hampshire, protecting our forests, clean air, clean water and outdoor way of life is part of who we are and I’ll always fight to defend them,” said Goodlander. “In Congress, I’ve voted consistently to crack down on polluters, protect our natural resources, lower energy costs and expand access to clean, affordable energy for Granite State families. We can grow our economy, protect our environment and leave our kids a healthier future.”

On Capitol Hill, Goodlander took part in the effort to launch the Congressional Lowering Utility Bills Caucus and helped bring the Lowering Utility Bills Act to the House floor. The legislation is intended to prevent utility and transmission providers from overcharging ratepayers. Goodlander has also asked the state Public Utilities Commission to reconsider approving Eversource’s 43.4 percent rate increase.

In addition, Goodlander cosponsored the Weatherization Enhancement and Readiness Act intended to help low-income families save money with home energy-efficiency and safety improvements.

The League of Conservation Voters Action Fund has also endorsed Goodlander as she runs for re-election in the state’s Second Congressional District. The group has also pledged its support to former Portsmouth City Councilor Stefany Shaheen, who is running to represent the First Congressional District.

“Stefany Shaheen and Maggie Goodlander have proven records of community involvement and commitment to Granite State environmental values,” said Robert Werner, state director of the LCV Action Fund. “The League of Conservation Voters Action Fund is proud to endorse these environmental champions for Congress in New Hampshire, and we look forward to working with them as members of Congress to continue to protect clean air and water and expand a clean energy economy that will lower costs for consumers and create jobs for our citizens.”

Sara Chieffo, a senior vice president with the LCV Action Fund, said New Hampshire’s energy bills have climbed by 11 percent resulting from “disastrous policies” under President Donald Trump.

“We are proud to endorse Stefany Shaheen and Maggie Goodlander for Congress,” she said. “They will work tirelessly to lower families’ energy costs, speed clean energy solutions, address toxic (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) contamination and protect our air, land and water.”