Warmington Doubles Down on Net-Zero Emissions Goal Despite Criticism

Democratic candidate for governor Cinde Warmington remains committed to her net-zero emissions goal, despite facing criticism over its feasibility and cost. In an interview with WMUR's Adam Sexton, Warmington reiterated that she believes New Hampshire needs a clean energy economy and investment in renewable energy.

Warmington's stance echoes her 2024 platform, which proposed creating standards to lead the state to net-zero emissions by 2040. This is a more aggressive timetable than neighboring states like Massachusetts and New York have set.

Ayotte, who has supported Trump administration efforts to increase natural gas supply in New England, argues that this would lower electric bills. However, Warmington believes that solar energy is the cheapest and quickest option available, citing its ability to shield the state from global price shocks.

Despite Ayotte's claims that more solar power would not provide sufficient baseload power, data suggests that natural gas prices in New England are significantly higher than those in neighboring states due to pipeline capacity constraints. Warmington's opposition to natural gas expansion has been criticized by opponents, who argue that it could drive up energy costs for residents.