N.H. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 228:84

The department shall have no power to authorize the capitalization, directly or indirectly, of any franchise to be a corporation, or of any franchise or any right to own, operate or enjoy any franchise whatever in excess of the amount (exclusive of any tax or annual charge) actually paid to the state or to a political subdivision thereof as a consideration for the grant of such franchise or right, all such franchises, rights and privileges being granted in the public interest only, and not justly subject to capitalization against the public.