New Jersey Assembly Bill A1479

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/11/22
• Refer: 1/11/22

Caption

Establishes Office of Clean Energy Equity in BPU; directs establishment of certain clean energy and energy efficiency programs for overburdened communities.

Impact

Through the provisions of this bill, significant changes are anticipated in state laws relating to energy and community support. The legislation requires the integration of workforce development training into these clean energy initiatives, thus fostering job creation and economic opportunities within disadvantaged communities. Additionally, it ensures that all new constructions in these communities are 'solar-ready', broadening access to renewable resources and potentially reducing energy burdens for residents. The bill underscores a commitment to providing outreach and recruitment grants to community organizations, thus empowering local voices in the clean energy transition.

Summary

Assembly Bill A1479 establishes the Office of Clean Energy Equity within the Board of Public Utilities. This office is responsible for ensuring the equitable deployment of clean energy and energy efficiency programs, specifically targeting overburdened communities, where the aim is to mitigate energy costs and enhance energy accessibility for low-income households. The bill sets ambitious goals for the office, including the establishment of onsite solar programs aimed at benefitting at least 250,000 low-income households by the year 2030, or a minimum of 35% of low-income households in the state, along with a mandate for 400 megawatts of energy storage capacity within the same timeframe.

Contention

While the bill's provisions aim to address systemic inequities, there may be points of contention regarding funding allocation and the execution of energy policies. The requirement for the Board of Public Utilities to dedicate at least 10% of its total clean energy budget—or a minimum annual budget of $50 million—to the Office of Clean Energy Equity could be scrutinized, especially if economic priorities shift. Moreover, the mandate for new buildings to be solar-ready raises questions about feasibility and the speed of implementation, particularly in economically constrained areas.