Codifies certain energy goals related to 2019 Energy Master Plan.
Impact
This legislation's implementation will have a significant impact on state laws governing energy production and consumption. The bill calls for focused efforts from various state agencies, like the Board of Public Utilities and the Department of Environmental Protection, to ensure progress toward these goals. It represents a shift toward enhanced regulation of energy sources and a commitment to clean energy that aligns with broader environmental objectives. By establishing these benchmarks, the state aims to transition more effectively to a sustainable energy future.
Summary
Assembly Bill A2879 aims to codify specific energy goals established in the 2019 New Jersey Energy Master Plan. The bill mandates the registration of at least 330,000 light-duty electric vehicles in New Jersey by 2025, requires that 50% of light-duty vehicles purchased by the Department of Treasury are electric, and mandates that New Jersey Transit Corporation operates battery electric trains. It also sets aggressive targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and increasing the percentage of energy produced from renewable sources, targeting 35% by 2025 and 50% by 2030.
Contention
While the bill enjoys support for its ambitious targets, there are points of contention regarding the feasibility and funding of such initiatives. Critics worry about the pace of infrastructure development necessary to support the influx of electric vehicles and energy production from renewables, particularly as some of these goals depend on significant investments in technology and public resources. Additionally, there may be concerns regarding how the mandates will affect public utilities and their existing operations, given the pressure to transition quickly to cleaner energy sources.
"Energy Security and Affordability Act"; requires BPU to consider energy security, diversity, and affordability when preparing Energy Master Plan and perform economic and ratepayer impact analysis of energy generation projects and Energy Master Plan.
"Energy Security and Affordability Act"; requires BPU to consider energy security, diversity, and affordability when preparing Energy Master Plan and perform economic and ratepayer impact analysis of energy generation projects and Energy Master Plan.
"Energy Security and Affordability Act"; requires BPU to consider energy security, diversity, and affordability when preparing Energy Master Plan and perform economic and ratepayer impact analysis of energy generation projects and Energy Master Plan.
Requires study of ocean energy potential; directs BPU to establish wave and tidal energy generation goals and take other action to establish NJ as nationwide leader in ocean energy.
"Energy Security and Affordability Act"; requires BPU to consider energy security, diversity, and affordability when preparing Energy Master Plan and perform economic and ratepayer impact analysis of energy generation projects and Energy Master Plan.
Requires study of ocean energy potential; directs BPU to establish wave and tidal energy generation goals and take other action to establish NJ as nationwide leader in ocean energy.
Requires study of ocean energy potential; directs BPU to establish wave and tidal energy generation goals and take other action to establish NJ as nationwide leader in ocean energy.