NH economist lowers forecast for 2026
A key New Hampshire economist has trimmed down to 2.2% his forecast for the growth in the state's economy this for 2026, citing lackluster consumer confidence and the uncertainty of the U.S. war against Iran.
Sections
Extras
Connect With Us
North Country Growers’ 20-acre commercial hydroponic greenhouse project in Berlin has reached its initial funding goal, putting it on a path to begin growing vegetables by the end of the year.
Once complete, the $37.5 million project will grow tomatoes and lettuce in self-contained, sustainable greenhouses. Rainwater collected off the roof and snow melt will be recycled for irrigation. Waste heat is recycled to heat greenhouses, and the project will use the C02 emissions to generate power. A generation plant would tap into the natural gas pipeline, producing an estimated 8.8 megawatts of electrical power primarily to be used by the facility.
Construction of the project began in 2022. Since then site preparation has been completed and foundations for the steel substructure have been installed, said Jack Daley, project manager. Work is set to resume in the spring.
A key New Hampshire economist has trimmed down to 2.2% his forecast for the growth in the state's economy this for 2026, citing lackluster consumer confidence and the uncertainty of the U.S. war against Iran.
The U.S. Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) earlier this month released its latest Outdoor Recreation Satellite Account data, reaffirming outdoor recreation as a major driver of New Hampshire’s economy and a significant contributor nationwide.
The NH Executive Council paused the approval of $773 million in federal spending contracts for the “GO NORTH” rural health program Wednesday, March 4, putting the brakes on a major initiative of Gov. Kelly Ayotte after councilors said the contracts were rushed and needed more scrutiny.
Employer health benefits costs are rising faster than inflation and wage growth, putting continued pressure on employer-sponsored plans. According to KFF’s 2025 Employer Health Benefits Survey, per-employee benefit costs increased 6% in 2025, with another 6.5% increase projected for 2026.
Christopher Ellms Jr. received a 4-1 vote from the executive council on Wednesday, March 4, to become the next chair of the state’s Public Utilities Commission.
The Jaffrey Zoning Board approved a request on March 3 allowing grading and earthwork within wetland setbacks on Prescott Road as part of MilliporeSigma’s plan to improve wastewater treatment capacity at its facility.
New Hampshire Media Teachers and Media Power Youth (MPY) have announced a strategic partnership for the 2026 NH High School Short Film Festival (NHHSSFF). This collaboration introduces a new category designed to celebrate the students, educators and community members who help New Hampshire’s schools and neighborhoods thrive.
New U.S. Census Bureau data offer a detailed look at how New Hampshire residents have fared during and following the COVID-19 pandemic. This data, covering the five years of 2020-24, provides insight into long-term trends in income and poverty across different regions and demographic groups.
Orion Entrance Control launches new security screening system