New Hampshire Code of Administrative Rules Stra - Director, Office of Strategic Initiatives (Formerly Office of Energy and Planning (Pln), with change of name pursuant to 2017, 156:63 (effective 7-1-17.)
The New Hampshire Code of Administrative Rules (NHCR) Stra – Director, Office of Strategic Initiatives (formerly the Office of Energy and Planning) outlines the role, responsibilities, and organizational structure of the Office of Strategic Initiatives (OSI). This office, which was formerly known as the Office of Energy and Planning (Pln), underwent a name change in accordance with 2017, 156:63 (effective July 1, 2017).
The office serves as the central state agency for providing strategic planning, data analysis, and policy recommendations that impact various sectors of New Hampshire’s economy and environment. Its responsibilities also extend to energy policy, land use planning, and infrastructure development, ensuring that the state’s long-term growth and sustainability are effectively coordinated.
Here is an overview of the Director's role and the Office of Strategic Initiatives:
1. Director’s Role and Authority
The Director of the Office of Strategic Initiatives (OSI) is responsible for overseeing the agency's operations and ensuring that it fulfills its statutory duties as outlined by state law. The Director’s responsibilities include:
Policy Guidance and Leadership:
Providing leadership in developing and implementing the state’s strategic plans and policies, particularly in the areas of energy, economic development, land use, and infrastructure.
Data Analysis and Reporting:
The Director ensures that the office performs data analysis related to the state's energy usage, economic trends, land use patterns, and environmental considerations. This data helps inform decisions and guide future strategic initiatives.
Inter-Agency Coordination:
The Director facilitates coordination among state agencies, local governments, and other stakeholders to implement energy and planning policies that promote sustainable growth.
Advisory Role to the Governor and Legislature:
As a primary advisory body, the OSI provides guidance to the Governor’s office and the New Hampshire State Legislature on matters of economic and infrastructure development, energy policy, and planning initiatives.
2. Responsibilities of the Office of Strategic Initiatives
The OSI plays a key role in several areas of state governance, particularly related to energy, economic development, land use, and sustainability.
A. Energy Policy and Planning
Energy Efficiency Programs:
OSI oversees programs aimed at improving energy efficiency across various sectors of the state, including residential, commercial, and industrial energy usage.
Renewable Energy Initiatives:
The office helps develop and implement policies that promote the adoption of renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind, and biomass, ensuring that New Hampshire transitions toward cleaner energy options.
Energy Infrastructure Planning:
The OSI is responsible for assessing and planning the future energy infrastructure needs of the state, including transmission systems and energy storage solutions.
Public Outreach and Education:
OSI conducts outreach and education programs to help residents and businesses understand energy efficiency measures, renewable energy options, and available incentives.
B. Economic Development and Planning
Statewide Economic Plans:
OSI is involved in the development of long-term economic development plans that address issues such as workforce development, business growth, and infrastructure improvements.
Grants and Funding:
The office manages various funding programs and grants aimed at promoting economic growth, including infrastructure projects, community development, and innovation in technology and energy sectors.
Economic Resilience and Sustainability:
The Director oversees efforts to build economic resilience in the face of challenges such as climate change, economic shifts, and evolving industries.
C. Land Use and Infrastructure Planning
Land Use Policies:
OSI helps state and local governments create land use policies that balance development with environmental preservation. This includes managing growth, zoning, and land conservation strategies.
Transportation and Infrastructure:
The office provides strategic recommendations for the development of transportation systems, including roads, bridges, and public transit, with a focus on sustainability and minimizing environmental impact.
Community Planning:
The office also works with communities on local planning efforts, helping municipalities incorporate energy-efficient and sustainable practices into their growth and development plans.
D. Coordination and Public Engagement
Inter-Governmental Coordination:
The OSI fosters coordination between state agencies, local governments, and private stakeholders to implement energy and planning policies across New Hampshire. The Director plays a key role in leading collaborative efforts.
Public Participation:
OSI ensures that public input is considered in the planning process, particularly on issues such as energy policy, land use planning, and economic development. Public hearings, stakeholder meetings, and surveys are conducted to gather feedback.
3. Name Change from Office of Energy and Planning (Pln)
In 2017, the Office of Energy and Planning (Pln) was officially renamed to the Office of Strategic Initiatives (OSI) under 2017, 156:63, which was implemented on July 1, 2017. The name change was part of an effort to expand the office’s role beyond energy and planning and to include broader strategic initiatives for New Hampshire’s growth and sustainability.
Expanded Mission:
The rebranding of the office to OSI reflects its broadened mandate to cover not only energy and land use planning but also strategic initiatives in economic development, infrastructure, and environmental resilience.
Integration of New Functions:
Under the new name, OSI began integrating functions related to business development, workforce development, and infrastructure planning, while still maintaining its core focus on energy efficiency and land use planning.
4. Impact of the Office of Strategic Initiatives
The Office of Strategic Initiatives is integral to shaping New Hampshire's long-term sustainability, both economically and environmentally. Through its strategic oversight of energy policies, economic development programs, and infrastructure planning, OSI helps ensure that the state can adapt to new challenges, innovate in the face of technological advances, and plan for a more sustainable and prosperous future.
Energy Transition:
OSI plays a pivotal role in leading the state’s transition to a cleaner energy future, balancing the need for economic growth with environmental sustainability.
Economic Resilience:
By fostering growth in various sectors and promoting resilience strategies, OSI helps New Hampshire navigate economic challenges and build a more diverse and robust economy.
Public Engagement:
The office ensures that the public is involved in key decisions, helping to create policies that reflect the needs and concerns of the community.
Summary of Key Roles for the Director of OSI
Overseeing energy, land use, and economic development planning.
Advising the Governor and Legislature on strategic planning and policy.
Managing programs related to energy efficiency, renewable energy, and sustainable development.
Ensuring collaboration among stakeholders in both the public and private sectors.
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